Level 3
Computer Science A Level
Computer Science is the study of processes that interact with data and that can be represented as data in the form of programs. It enables the use of algorithms to manipulate, store and communicate digital…
Quick info
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Course overview
Computer Science is the study of processes that interact with data and that can be represented as data in the form of programs. It enables the use of algorithms to manipulate, store and communicate digital information.
You will learn Python and cover the fundamentals of programming, data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programme design.
In addition, you will learn the theory of computer science. You will study the internal workings of computers, right down to how data is stored using binary, whether that be numbers, text, pictures or even music.
How to apply
Find out more about our A Level pathways and how to apply
Who is this course for?
This course is for 16-18 year olds with an interest in computers, coding and programming. It’s not essential to have studied Computer Science previously, although it’s advisable to have had some practise of programming. The two-year course has a significant programming element and can be challenging for those who have no previous experience of programming, but you can discuss this further in your course meeting.
What you’ll learn
As well as covering programming, the course explores best practice such as avoiding global variables, sensible variable naming, structured programming, good re-use of code through procedures and functions, and proper commenting of code.
It also covers higher-level concepts such as the social and legal impact of computers, and how to go about breaking down a big problem into individual programmable steps.
You must have at least a Grade 6 in Maths, because there are several topics that require the ability to reason logically and apply mathematical and logical processes to solutions.
Entry requirements
5 x GCSEs at grade 4 and above including GCSE English at grade 4 and above plus a grade 6 in Maths.
We will invite you to a course information meeting event where you will receive information, advice and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other this will include attendance. This is to ensure we can support to be able to achieve well on the course. Applicants with 85% or below attendance will have been deemed not to have met this criteria. All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference / school report.
At the course information meeting you will be able to discuss the Pathways for A Levels and look at combinations. We will ensure you are of the specific entry requirements at GCSE grade per A Level subject as some subjects will require higher than grade 5.
Future career and study
After studying A Level Computer Science, you may progress to studying a similar subject at degree level or go straight into a career. Possible areas include robotics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, big data processing, networking, ethical hacking, computer game development, home automation or even teaching.
Additional costs
This course is free to anyone aged 16-18. There is no formal list of additional costs. However, if you are on a limited income, you may be eligible to receive help with these costs from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.