Computer Science

Entry requirements

Computer Science GCSE grade 6, maths grade 6

What will I study

The A-Level course expands upon the knowledge gained at GCSE level, and introduces System Architecture, Assembly Language and Binary Arithmetic. The course also gives students an introduction to the features of various generations/levels of programming languages. A lot of emphasis is placed upon practical skills in Year 12, and the coursework assignment in Year 13.

In the A-Level coursework assignment students are required to produce a data-driven software package to solve a real-life 'problem'. Students are required to seek out a real-life problem rather than create a problem for themselves, often drawing on outside interests or links with real businesses. It is up to the students to produce a computerized solution. Students are required to pay attention to User Interface Design, System Testing and System Maintenance considerations, and typically develop their software using a suitable high level programming language, such as Java, Microsoft VB.NET, C#, Python or PHP.

How will I be assessed?

Two papers at the end of Year 13

1) On-screen exam with written theory questions about programming and programming tasks, 40%

2) A written paper requiring longer answers, 40%

Coursework 20%

Is this subject for me?

Computer science has strong links to mathematics and logic. It also involves solving difficult problems. A large portion of the course involves programming but it is also very theoretical. If these are the things you enjoy, then computer science is a course for you.

Where can this lead me?

This A level will prepare you for a degree in Computer Science or a related subject. It can also lead to an apprenticeship in this filed.

Career options include:

Application analyst.

Applications developer.

Cyber security analyst.

Data analyst.

Forensic computer analyst.

Game designer.

Games developer.

Machine learning engineer

Software engineer.

What else is there?