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Home > Courses > Computer Science A Level

Computer Science A Level

Level A-level


What will I study?

You will spend two years becoming a strong programmer who is able to use a range of different languages and programming styles. Through this, you will learn how different algorithms are used to solve different types of problem. You will also cover a wide range of computing theory topics, learning more about how computer systems use logic, Boolean algebra, binary and hexadecimal number systems, how IDEs translate code & run it, different types of and uses for today’s processors, how operating systems manage a computer, networks and how they direct traffic, web technologies and the databases behind them. As part of the course you will undertake a complex project worth 20% of your A Level. The project allows you to pursue something of personal interest. Many students choose to develop a game or app for mobile platforms / PCs, a website with a back-end database, or use Raspberry Pi’s for hardware related ideas e.g. remote-controlled home management systems.

Is this course right for me?

If you enjoy problem solving and are good at Maths as well as taking a logical approach to tasks then this is the right course for you. The course will give you a great head start if you want to go on and study it at a higher level. Most students study Maths and Physics alongside, our new BTEC courses in either Computing or IT would work well with this course, also other science A Levels. There are two exams at the end of the course worth 80% of your total marks. The course has a lot of mathematical content, from the decision-type maths area. If you choose not to study Maths A Level it may make understanding some of the theoretical aspects very tough and limit your options for HE.

Where next?

This course provides a strong core study of computer science to enable progression into higher education into a wide range of degree areas, although many of our students choose to study computing, engineering and mathematics degrees. Equally, the course supports direct entry into a range of careers in the computing industry. A degree apprenticeship (where you earn a salary and have your university fees paid for) is another possible progression route from this course.

Minimum entry requirements

B/6 in Maths GCSE. Please make sure that you have also looked at and understand the overall entry requirements to study at BHASVIC. These are available here and outline the GCSE grades you need to take up one of the Programmes of Study at the college.

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