A Level Computer Science

Course Code: Q100109

Key Information

  • Course type

    A Levels

  • Campus:

    Sixth Form Campus

  • Start Date:

    09 Sept 2024

  • Duration:

    2 years

  • Attendance:

    Full-time

  • Fees:

    Free

A Level Computer Science

An underpinning subject for science and engineering fields, computer science is also key for anyone looking to go into the mobile and gaming industries.

Units include:

  • how to design, write and test programs
  • how a computer system deals with data
  • developing skills such as problem solving, as well as thinking creatively, innovatively, logically and critically
  • developing computer science knowledge alongside practical programming
  • application of computer science principles, such as abstraction, decomposition, logic algorithms and data representation
  • working with binary and boolean algebra.

A primary skill that will be developed is the ability to think logically. As with mathematics, in computer science the answer is either correct or incorrect. Using logic to achieve the answer is a key skill; however, we will also look at artificial intelligence where it is possible to achieve an answer that is not quite correct.

You can take part in a work experience placement and workshops in areas such as CV writing, creating an online professional image and interview skills. Volunteering through the National Citizen Service or participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award can set you apart from the rest.

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Did you know?

This course can be combined with additional A Levels or a Sixth Form vocational course.

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 5 or above in GCSE maths, and grade 5 or above in computer science if taken at GCSE.

You will have a 9.55am start, one lesson in the morning, one in the afternoon and a guaranteed 4pm finish. You will also have at least one morning and one afternoon per week free for private study.

Two written examinations at the end of year 2 and a piece of coursework.

School Leavers under the age of 19 do not have to pay fees on any full time courses, though may have to pay for their second year if turning 19 during their studies. If you’re aged 19 or over you might qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. It’s easy to apply for and you won’t have to pay anything back until you’re earning over £25,000. If you are studying a part-time course and you receive one of the following benefits, or you depend financially on someone who does, you may be entitled to have your tuition fees waived: Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support. You will, however, have to pay any awarding body/assessment fees (unless you are on a first full level 2 course). * If you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit or receive other allowances, you may be eligible to claim concessionary rates. If you are entitled to a fee concession you will be asked to provide proof of your entitlement. It is essential that you inform us if your entitlement changes at any time during your course.

You can progress to university with some of the directly related progression courses including software engineering, computer science, forensic computing, and computer games technology. Other courses are physics and maths-based disciplines. Apprenticeships in computer science and IT are also available, including higher apprenticeships.

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