Overview
The study of computer science requires an ability to organize and to think both creatively and logically. This subject is becoming more multifaceted, with an increasing number of interdisciplinary studies involving computer science being offered and in its applications in the wider world, such as the modelling of climate change.
Board: AQA
As computer science provides training in analytical thinking, it can also be used as a foundation for careers in other areas such as management, law and medicine. There is a long-term requirement by small and large companies for programmers in different areas.
Course Structure
Teaching begins in September (January for 18 month courses). The following topics are covered at both AS and A levels:
- Fundamentals of programming
- Fundamentals of data structures
- Systematic approach to problem solving
- Theory of computation
- Fundamentals of data representation
- Fundamentals of computer systems
- Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture
- Consequences of uses of computing
- Fundamentals of communication and networking
Students may take the AS exam at the end of the first year. In addition, students on the A level course will prepare their final project and cover the following topics:
- Fundamentals of algorithms
- Fundamentals of databases
- Big Data
- Fundamentals of functional programming
- Non-exam assessment – the computing practical project
Exam Structure
A level Exam Format
| Paper 1 | Paper 2 | Non-exam assessment |
|---|---|---|
| On-screen exam 2 hours and 30 minutes |
Written exam 2 hours and 30 minutes |
Internally assessed, externally moderated 20% of A level |
Computer Science One-Year A level
The board, format and content are the same as the two-year programme, but the course is covered in the space of one year.
Programme Requirements
Students should have at least grade 5 at GCSE Physics, or equivalent.
Related Further Study and Careers
Computer Science prepares students for a wide variety of course and careers in computing, technology and engineering. Computer scientists have internationally recognized qualifications which open up great career opportunities around the world. In many cases, international students can master the computer languages used in computer science prior to mastering the English language.
