Computing AS - A2 Level

Computing AS and A2

Subject category:
Technology

What will I study?
The exciting new specification introduces a fresh approach, shifting the emphasis towards computer science and computation. Your focus throughout the two years will be on the study of programming, problem solving and mathematical and logical concepts.

Duration:
One year for AS Level followed by a further year to complete A Level.

Do I need any additional qualifications/ skills?
You will need to have an interest in learning how to write programs well. A fascination with problems and how to solve them will help as you will need to be prepared to apply what you learn in a practical context as well as in the exam room. Physics, Mathematics and Science subjects are the obvious subjects to combine with Computing but you can study Computing with any subject.

How will I be assessed?
Unit 1 is assessed by a two hour practical on-screen exam covering fundamental principles and programming. Programming is assessed through a problem-solving scenario using pre-release material. For Unit 2 there is a one hour written paper covering hardware and software aspects of computing along with social and economic consequences. For the A2, Unit 3 is assessed by a two and a half hour exam, and Unit 4 by a written report, marked at the college and externally moderated by the exam board.

What can I do afterwards?
Computing A Level can lead to degree level courses in Computer Science, Computing, Computer Studies , Software Engineering and Networking. Alternatively, you will have the foundation to follow careers in software support, web site design, systems development and software design. The problem-solving skills gained during the course will stand you in good stead for studying any scientific or technology-based degree.

Are there any additional costs involved?
You will need to buy a course text book and a book on programming language at the start of the course. The approximate cost of these will be £30. All other resources are provided. It is an advantage having a computer with appropriate software.

Location:
Lewes 6th Form College

Entry Requirements
You should have grade C or above in GCSE English and in GCSE Mathematics. The course is also available to adult and international students. International students should have a minimum IELTS score of 6 (or equivalent). This is in addition to the standard college entry requirements for the programme you have chosen. You need not have studied ICT before but you need to be enthusiastic about computers and especially programming. Contact with a programming language of any description is useful. The ability to master a challenging technical vocabulary in order to interpret and answer the exam questions will be needed.