A Level Computer Science
Course summary
Why should I study it? A Level Computer Science develops an understanding of computer architecture and organisation in terms of software, data, hardware and communications. Students develop the skills necessary to apply their understanding to the development of computer-based programming solutions focusing on computational and algorithmic skills. Students will gain a good introduction to programming methodologies and the creative process of coding. Programming skills are in demand and are being encouraged by recent Government initiatives. A Level Computer Science will also appeal to those students who are interested in the science behind how computers are structured rather than the applications emphasis of traditional ICT courses. Career possibilities An A Level in Computer Science will provide a direct path into careers in programming and IT. However, the logical and analytical skills developed are transferrable to a range of careers such as finance, business and engineering.
Entry Requirements
Checked against your grades — every rule traces to the school's published source.
| Requirement | Rule | You |
|---|---|---|
BTEC / GCSE / Cambridge National / i GCSE qualifications | 5 btec / gcse / cambridge national / i gcse qualifications at grade 5.0 or above | — |
Mathematics | Grade 6 in Mathematics | — |
As published by the school
Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics
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Assessment
Course Content and Assessment Computing Principles The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices Written Paper – 2hr 30mins 40% of A-Level Software and software development Exchanging data Data types, data structures and algorithms Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues. Elements of computational thinking Algorithm and Programming Programming and problem solving Pattern recognition, abstraction and decomposition Algorithm design and efficiency Standard algorithms Written Paper – 2hr 30mins 40% of A-Level Computing Project Programming project in a high level language Project – internally assessed & externally moderated 20% of A-Level
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