What do I need to study Computer Science?

• The course is taught by subject specialists
• You will require a Grade 5 in Mathematics and Grade 5 in Sciences (Physics in particular)
• Candidates will have been assessed in Computer Science skills at Key Stage 3 and many will have followed a course in Computer Science at Key Stage 4. Whilst not assuming the full knowledge and understanding of the subject at Key Stage 4, these specifications assume that all candidates will have a basic understanding and knowledge of computer systems, algorithms and binary logic
• There are two examinations in Year 13 and a programming project to complete
• Students are expected to use at least an equal amount of their own time to complete independent work, programming and research

What will I study?

Advanced GCE in Computer Science 

• A Level unit 01: Computer systems – externally assessed 40%
• A Level unit 02: Algorithms and programming – externally assessed 40%
• A Level unit 03: Programming project – internally assessed (coursework) 20%

The qualification encourages candidates to develop their knowledge and understanding of computer systems, the principles of computing (including programming) and how these are applied to the solution of problems. 

Additionally, the specification encourages candidates to gain an understanding of systematic methods such as the use of algorithms and test strategies, the maintenance of computer systems and the skills associated with documenting solutions and encourages candidates to further develop skills associated with applying this knowledge and understanding to producing computer-based solutions to real problems.

GCE in Computer Science

Unit 01 – areas of study

• The characteristics of contemporary computer systems: Input, output, process and the components of a computer system
• Software and software development: Types of software and the methodologies used to develop them
• Exchanging data: How data is exchanged between different systems
• Data types, data structures and algorithms How data is represented and stored in different structures and the use of different algorithms
• Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues: Laws surrounding the use and ethical issues that can arise from the use of computers

Unit 02 – areas of study

• Elements of computational thinking: What is meant by computational thinking; abstractly, logically, procedurally and concurrently 
• Problem solving and programming: How computers are used to solve problems and programs can be written to solve them
• Algorithms: The use of algorithms to describe problems and standard algorithms

Unit 03 – programming project

• Candidates select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve. This will enable them to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the assessment objectives, analysis of the problem, design of the solution, implementation of the solution and testing and evaluation of the solution
• The project will be completed using an iterative (Agile) process to mimic as close as possible real life problems and solutions