Degree choice: Is IT and Science just too hard to even bother?

AI Thread Summary
Choosing a degree course can be daunting, especially when considering fields like IT and Science, which often require strong math skills. Concerns about failing in these subjects are common, particularly for those who find math challenging. While a solid interest in the subject is important, hard work can significantly contribute to success in these areas. A B in A Level Maths is a positive indicator, suggesting that pursuing an IT degree could be feasible. It's noted that IT may not require extensive math, whereas computer science does. Those with humanities backgrounds have successfully transitioned into IT fields, indicating that a strong math background is not always necessary. Ultimately, the decision should align with personal interests and willingness to put in the effort, as success in any field often comes down to dedication rather than innate intelligence.
MeredithWolfe
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Hello ..
I'm currently trying to choose my degree course and I'm having difficulty in knowing what to do. I know this will sound stupid but I'm terrified of taking IT and/or Science in University and failing in it. Technology in particular because Maths is hard to me and many if not all IT courses requires one to actually have at least a strong interest in the subject.

Should I just stick with humanities? Is it even worth attempting to take any of those subjects when the chance of failure is high? No offence to anyone but my Maths teacher made a career in IT and Science sound like something only for really really smart people

Thank you for any and all answers/information you provide.

Edit: I realize I should have included my subjects in A Level.
History, Government and Politics and Maths with an AS in Business
 
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Welcome to the forums!

MeredithWolfe said:
Should I just stick with humanities? Is it even worth attempting to take any of those subjects when the chance of failure is high?

I don't know what you're expecting people to say..? It's a personal thing. How much work would you be willing to put in? Success in science needs some smarts, but you don't need to be a genius. Hard work can go a long way in the sciences.

MeredithWolfe said:
History, Government and Politics and Maths with an AS in Business

How did your maths A level go? No AS levels in any sciences?
 
How bad do you want it?
 
fasterthanjoao said:
How did your maths A level go? No AS levels in any sciences?

Thanks.

Sorry, I was sort of talking to myself there rather than it being an actual question.

ABB.
B in Maths
 
MeredithWolfe said:
Hello ..
I'm currently trying to choose my degree course and I'm having difficulty in knowing what to do. I know this will sound stupid but I'm terrified of taking IT and/or Science in University and failing in it. Technology in particular because Maths is hard to me and many if not all IT courses requires one to actually have at least a strong interest in the subject.

Should I just stick with humanities? Is it even worth attempting to take any of those subjects when the chance of failure is high? No offence to anyone but my Maths teacher made a career in IT and Science sound like something only for really really smart people

Thank you for any and all answers/information you provide.

Edit: I realize I should have included my subjects in A Level.
History, Government and Politics and Maths with an AS in Business
I don't think IT requires much math. But computer science does.

Although I must admit I've never done IT.

Anyway, if you're not good at math, I would avoid the physical sciences. And I think most life and social science program require you to take stats. Which probably isn't as bad.
 
B in Maths is good! You would have to try very hard to fail an IT degree with that set of marks. In any case - do what you're interested in. You only live once! I used to teach History graduates on an MSc IT conversion course and they didn't suffer much through lack of Maths skills (and I doubt any had a B at A level!) I've spent most of my career working in, or near, IT, and they certainly aren't, in general, the brightest people I've ever met. Some are. But most aren't - it doesn't take a genius IQ to nurse a UNIX server...
 

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