This specification has been designed for students who wish to go on to higher education courses or employment where knowledge of Computing would be beneficial.
Facilities
Location
Start date
Hampshire
(Cambridgeshire )
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Boundary Road, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 6SB
Start date
Different dates availableEnrolment now open
About this course
GCSEs grade A*-C, including English Language; grade B or above in Maths. References will be required.
Ideally you should have achieved a C or above in GCSE Computer Science, or have some prior programming experience.
A good level of computer literacy is required, a general interest in how computer and computer systems work, and a fondness for problem solving.
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Subjects
Systems
Computing
Algorithms
Programming
Course programme
Subjects covered
AS Subject Content
The AS specification develops a broad understanding of the key principles of computer systems, including programming, data structures, algorithms, computation, data representation, computer systems, organisation and architecture of computers, uses of computing, communication and networking.
Assessment
Paper 1: Tests the ability to program, as well as theoretical knowledge of computer science.
On-screen exam – 1 hour 30 minutes – 50% of AS
A series of short questions and write/adapt/extend programs
Paper 2: Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes – 50% of AS
A series of short answer and extended answer questions.
A Level Subject Content
The A Level specification develops a broad understanding of the key principles of computer systems, including programming, data structures, algorithms, computation, data representation, computer systems, organization and architecture of computers, uses of computing, communication and networking, databases, big data, functional programming, problem solving and a practical computer project.
Assessment
Paper 1: Answer a series of short questions and be able to write/adapt/extend programs in an electronic answer document.
On screen examination – 2 hours 30 minutes – 40% of A Level
Paper 2: Compulsory short answer and extended answer questions from the subject content of the course.
Written examination – 2 hours 30 minutes – 40% of A Level
Non-exam assessment: Using the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve or investigate a practical problem.
20% of A Level.
Careers
AS Computer Science is suited to those who want to extend their general interest in computers, or to develop skills in computer science such as abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation.
A Level Computer Science extends on the above and is suited to those who want to apply knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of computer science, including analysis and computational terms; design, program and evaluate computer systems that solve problems, making reasoned judgements and presenting conclusions.