A Level results day 2026: social science subjects remain a popular choice

The Academy of Social Sciences congratulates everyone receiving their A Level results today.

This year’s results show that social science subjects continue to be a popular choice of study for A Level students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with psychology, economics, business studies and sociology ranked in the top 10 most studied subjects at A Level. The number of students studying A Level law and political studies has also seen an increase in entries compared to last year too.

Dr Rita Gardner, Chief Executive of the Academy, said, “Studying social science subjects at A Level and beyond provides students with the knowledge to understand more about the societies we live in, about people’s behaviour and the nature of our changing human world, and about business and economics. They also equip students with many of the transferable skills valued by employers across a wide range of sectors. The social sciences open up a fantastic range of opportunities for both careers and further study – many congratulations to everyone receiving their results today.”

Interested in taking your social science studies to the next level? Whether you go to university or take an apprenticeship to further build and enhance the skills and knowledge you have gained so far, studying the social sciences can lead to opportunities across a range of sectors leading to a variety of interesting and rewarding careers. From being a forensic anthropologist, political risk analyst or corporate social responsibility manager to transport planner, youth and community care worker, government researcher, sports statistician or geographic information specialist, studying the social sciences gives you the skills to shape the career you want.

 

Find out more about where careers with social science could take you