Computer Science A Level
Qualification: GCE A Level in Computer Science
Exam Board & Specification Code: OCR; H446; Specification
Course Entry Requirements: 6 in Maths GCSE. You do not need to have studied Computer Science or IT at GCSE/Level 2.
Please make sure that you have understood 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 Study Programmes at the college.
Length and size of qualification: 2 year single course
Timetable hours: 4.5 hours per week
Assessment method: 2 x 2.5 hour exams plus a programming project
BHASVIC Department: Computing and I.T.
What will I study?
Are you fascinated by the ever-evolving world of technology? A Level Computer Science is a course that's tailor-made for ambitious and creative students, creating a space for you to explore the dynamic and innovative field of computing from both a theoretical and practical perspective. You'll delve into the fascinating world of algorithms, learn a range of programming languages and data structures, all while gaining a deep understanding of how computers work their magic.
What makes A Level Computer Science particularly exciting is its potential to empower you as a problem solver and a creator. You'll learn to design software, develop applications, and code your own projects from scratch. This hands-on experience will not only boost your confidence but also open doors to countless career opportunities in technology, where people from a range of backgrounds are increasingly in demand and celebrated for their unique perspectives and skills.
Beyond the technical aspects, A Level Computer Science encourages critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. You'll tackle real-world challenges, collaborating with peers to find innovative solutions. This cooperative approach not only enhances your problem-solving abilities but also builds a supportive community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for technology.
Is this course right for me?
Even if you haven't studied Computer Science before, if you enjoy problem solving and are logical and good at Maths then this is the right course for you. Studying CS will give you a great head start if you want to go on and study a technology-based subject at a higher level. Many of our students study Maths and Physics alongside, our BTEC courses in either Computing or IT also work well with this course, as well as other science A Levels. 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 tough and limit some options for Higher Education.
Frequently asked questions
Years of experience and analysis of BHASVIC data have shown it doesn't make a difference to the final grade you will achieve.
You don't have to but it will help and it could limit your options of where to study it later at university if you don't. You don't need to take Double Maths though!
You will do lots of coding in both but the BTEC is more specialist and focused on a few large topics, whereas with Computer Science you study a wider-breadth of areas.
At BHASVIC we create some mixed gender groups so that less represented groups e.g. female and non-binary students, won't be one of only a few in the class.
We currently have two classes in Y12 which are mixed and 50:50 male to other students.
None. If you have some, great, but you don't need any. We have a number of pathways into the Y1 part of the course depending on the experience you come in with.
Where next?
A vast array of jobs exists within the field of Computer Science including Analyst, Programmer and Developer roles. There are opportunities within many sectors such as telecommunications, aerospace and defence, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, public and third sectors. This course enables progression into higher education in a wide range of degree areas such as computing, engineering and mathematics. Equally, the course supports direct entry into the computing industry e.g. apprenticeships in Digital Cyber Security. A Degree Apprenticeship in Software Engineering (where you earn a salary and have your university fees paid) is another possible progression route from this course. Useful websites to research careers and wider progression options could include The Tech Partnership, Target Careers, BCS The Chartered Institute for IT, All About Careers and The Apprenticeship Guide.
View our Virtual Open Evening Computer Science, Computing & IT Presentation
ApplyHigher Education – Computing & IT
Last year, 64 BHASVIC students went onto study Computing and IT related degrees at 38 different universities.
Computer Science degrees often combine with other subjects including Maths, Physics, Engineering, Biology, Graphics, Animation. Students can study one or more Computer Science, Computing and IT qualifications at BHASVIC. Popular universities for our students included Leeds, Exeter, Warwick, Bath, Brighton, Manchester, Sussex, UWE and York. 50% of A level Computing students went onto study a Computing related degree.
Should I study Computing or IT at degree level?
Computer science and IT are by no means your only options when choosing a course. Look at the modules as there is a lot of crossover between course content and a really wide variety of degrees to choose from. It’s worth checking whether a degree course is accredited by IT professional bodies, such as the BCS (the British Computer Society) or the IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology). Topics can include: aspects of mathematics, science and engineering, programming, software design, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cyber security, mobile app development, graphics. Find out whether the universities you are interested in have links with relevant IT employers or there is an option of doing an industrial placement or studying abroad.
There is a huge range of Computing / IT related degrees including:
- Computer science
- Software engineering
- Computer networks
- Artificial intelligence
- Cyber security
- Games development
Entry Requirements
For computing some courses require you to have Maths A level or even Double Maths at the most competitive universities. However, there is such a range of courses available entry requirements can be varied.
Top Universities for Computing/IT
Cambridge, Imperial, Oxford, St Andrews, Warwick
Durham, Southampton, Birmingham, Leeds – all very high student satisfaction scores
UCL, Glasgow, York, Sheffield - all with top graduate prospects
Many of our students choose a combined degree - applications from our students have included:
- Business Computing with Cyber Security
- Computer Science for Games
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Science & Mathematics with Industrial Experience (4 years)
Example entry requirements (please check):
A-Level/BTEC equivalents:
Kent ABB (A level)/DDM (BTEC)
Nott Trent BCC (A level)/DMM (BTEC)
Brighton Met (HND with top up) DD (A level)/MM (BTEC)
Some examples of Maths-related degrees that our BHASVIC students have gone onto study in the past few years are:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Computing with Cyber Security
- Business Information Systems
- Computer Character Animation
- Computer Science & Mathematics with Industrial Experience (4 years)
- Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) with a Year-in-Industry
- Computer Science (Cyber Security) with a Year in Industry
- Computer Science with Innovation
- Computer Science and Electronics
- Cyber Security and Forensic Computing
- Data Science
- Games Art & Design
- Games Arts
- Information Technology Management
- Robotics
- Software Engineering for Business
How BHASVIC helps: We have a wide range of information and resources to support students applying for university including subject area guides, personal statement and UCAS resources, super-curricular activity guides, open day and bursary information. We also cover university research, careers, art foundation and all other destinations in depth in tutorial and students can choose an appropriate pathway for them in the second year from UCAS, Employability & Enterprise, Visual Arts, Oxbridge and Medics. Our Spring Futures Fair brings in a huge number of university visitors with workshops and information stands and departments will bring speakers in wherever possible.
Careers – Computing and IT
From games developer to manager of communications services, studying computing & IT is extremely useful. Possible careers include:
- Applications developer
- Games Designer
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Multimedia Programmer
- Forensic computer analyst
- Systems analyst
- Computational linguist
- Data scientist
- Nano technologist
- Software Engineer
- Web Developer
- Network engineer
- Bioanalysis
- Software tester
Career Prospects
Most businesses rely on computers to function effectively and there are opportunities within the IT departments of major organisations in many sectors. It's also possible to set up your own business providing IT services such as web design and consultancy. 2/5ths of graduates in employment in the UK six months after graduation are working as programmers and software development professionals. Six of the top ten jobs held by graduates are related to computer sciences and include web design and IT operations technician. The UK is very short of programmers and Cyber Security specialists.
Degree Apprenticeships
In recent years a number of our students gained places on higher & degree apprenticeship schemes at companies such as:
- Amazon
- American Express
- Thales
- National Air Traffic Services
- Capgemini
These courses offer a fully-paid higher level qualification, often to degree or Masters level, as well as wage between £13 to £30k per year. They are offered in conjunction with many universities such as Leeds, Queen Marys, Loughborough and Exeter.
Local Market Information
Working in the Cyber Sector – a look at KPMG. For anyone interested in a career in Cyber, the KPMG website is worth a visit. In addition to their current vacancies in Risk Consulting there are some videos on the diverse projects within the industry and the advancement of women at KPMG. The KPMG apprenticeship programme is also open.
Examples of apprenticeships and opportunities include:
- Web Developer Brighton
- Apprentice IT Technician Burgess Hill
- Apprentice Software Developer
How BHASVIC helps: We have an excellent Careers Hub and careers advisors who are available for appointments through student services. Local jobs are advertised and they will advise on skills and specialist areas such as degree apprenticeships. Students can choose an appropriate pathway for them in the second year from UCAS, Employability & Enterprise, Visual Arts, Oxbridge and Medics. Our Spring Futures Fair brings in a huge number of careers & apprenticeship visitors with workshops and information stands and departments will bring speakers in around the subject area.
Skills - Computing and IT
You will gain many transferable skills studying Maths & Engineering that will be valued in the workplace including:
Teamwork, IT & Technology, Problem solving, Social Skills, Organisation, Numeracy, Communication, Attention to detail, Creative thinking, Analytics, Project Management
Local Skills
The Local Skills agenda considers job prospects and employment in our local area of Sussex. Many of our students will contribute to the National Skills agenda and go onto find a career in a wide range of sectors. For students in Sussex our local skills are identified as the following sectors:
- Construction
- Creative & Cultural
- Digital (includes IT and Technology)
- Engineering & Manufacturing
- Healthcare (includes Bio Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical)
- Visitor & Hospitality
- Land-based (includes Agriculture and Viticulture)
- Green Skills
Degree choices that match the Local Skills agenda our BHASVIC students went onto study for Digital Skills include:
- Computer Games Design (with a Placement Year)
- Computer Science (Cyber Security) with a Year in Industry
- Data Science
- Information Technology Management
- Mechatronics and Robotics
Career choices that match the Local Skills agenda our BHASVIC students went onto study for Digital Skills include:
- Applications developer
- Multimedia Programmer
- Forensic computer analyst
- Software Engineer
- Web Developer
How BHASVIC helps: Skills Week in A1 helps students build skills in the workplace and a focus on developing skills through tutorial in A1 and A2 supports students in writing outstanding Personal Statements and CVs. We know our students have already gained a wide variety of skills at home and with extra-curricular activities and will increasingly take up jobs. Our focus is on supporting them to evidence skills already gained, identify gaps and ensure that they transfer that to CVs and applications. This is in partnership with every curriculum area.