Qualification: A-level

Exam Board: OCR

Entry Requirements: Grade 5 or above in a GCSE Computer Science and Grade 5 or above in Maths (ECDL is NOT sufficient).

 

Introduction

A-level Computer Science splits learning into three sections: Computer Fundamentals, Programming Techniques and Logical Methods, and a Programming Project. It provides the perfect springboard for students looking at specialising in a computing-based career. Within the course, students study a range of theory topics, which include the principles and understanding linked to programming, topics such as hardware and software, networks, systems development life cycles and implications of computer use.

 

The course

The course includes:

• Characteristics of contemporary systems architecture: Operating systems
• Software and software development: Introduction to programming
• Exchanging data: Databases, networks and web technologies
• Data types, representation and structures: Using Boolean algebra
• Legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues: Computing-related laws
• Elements of computational thinking: Understanding computational thinking
• Problem solving and programming: Programming techniques, Software development methodologies
• Algorithms: Analysis and design

 

Progression

Following successful completion of this course, there are many routes which can be utilised. University, employment and level 4 Higher Apprenticeships are the main options but each one has a wide range of potential options. Typical career paths can include:

• Application analyst
• Applications developer
• Cyber security analyst
• Data analyst
• Database administrator
• Forensic computer analyst
• Game designer
• Games developer
• Information systems manager
• IT consultant
• Software engineer
• Systems analyst
• UX designer
• Web designer
• Web developer

This course will give you a deeper understanding and allow you to gain valuable knowledge explore potential career choices.