engineering, or mathematics, is causing annual grade rise in the United Kingdom. A-level subjects and "soft options" The A-level in General Studies is seen as a Mickey Mouse subject, as well as A-level Critical Thinking, with many universities not accepting it as part of the requirements for an offer. Additionally, although not considered Mickey Mouse subjects as such, some qualifications are not preferred by top universities and are regarded as "soft options". A 2007 report stated that the sciences were more challenging than subjects such as Media Studies, which might be taken by students to get higher grades for university applications. An American example is a degree in physical education. These have been issued to members of the college's athletics teams, to make them eligible to play; otherwise they would fail to pass traditional subjects. See also Academic inflation Diploma mill Jodeldiplom List of Advanced Level subjects MRS Degree Scholarly method Underwater basket weaving References Academic degrees Academic scandals Criticism of academia Dysphemisms Mickey Mouse Pejorative terms