Computer Science
A LEVEL (AQA)
From Facebook to running nuclear power stations, software development is at the heart of modern living. If you want to learn about computer programming and enjoy solving problems, you will enjoy this subject.
The course is split into two complementary sections, programming and theory. On the programming side of the course, students can learn a programming language (chosen by your teachers from C#, Java, Pascal/Delphi, Python and VB.Net). You will cover the fundamentals of programming, data structures, algorithms, and object-orientated programme design.
The theory side of computer science teaches about the internal workings of a computer, right down the basics of how all data is stored using binary, whether that data consists of numbers, text, pictures or even music. It goes on from there to cover aspects of computer architecture, showing exactly how data is accessed from main memory using assembly language instructions and the fetch-execute cycle.
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Key topics
learning Java, C# and .Net
Software Design and Development
developing skills for industry
You will
use state of the art, industry-standard software
work with a university on developing your software
learn the art of designing software
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A minimum of 5 GCSEs (average score of 5)
These must include:
Maths at grade 7
English Language at grade 5
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Assessment methods include:
Coursework
Exams
Controlled Assessments
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Description text goes here
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This course can be taken as part of an A Level programme.
We recommend that students choose three A Levels or a combination of Level 3 Extended Certificates and A Levels. Depending on your GCSE grades and long-term destination, some students may be able to take up to four A Levels.
If you are planning on progressing to university, the majority of university courses do not require specific subjects. Most universities prefer that you are able to demonstrate skills and competence via the successful completion of related courses. Therefore we recommend that the most important thing when choosing course combinations is that you choose a range of subjects that your enjoy and excel in.
We do not recommend that your take two courses that are similar to each other in content.
Some courses and universities require that you take specific A Levels for entry onto their courses. Please visit: UCAS.com and explore individual university entry requirements for more information.
If you are planning on studying Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry or other competitive science based courses, most universities require you to take Biology, Chemistry and either Maths, Statistics or Physics.
If you want more information on choosing your A Levels, please speak to your schools career advisor or chat to us at any of our careers or open day events.
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NewVIc has over 1000 PCs and technical devices dedicated to students. There has also been heavy investment in our technical infrastructure to keep up-to-date with the latest technological advances. We are on track to becoming completely wireless across the whole campus to allow students to work from any location.
BEST IN THE COUNTRY
Our Computer Science programme is in the top 10% for all providers across the UK. Our Networking and System support has been in the top 15% for the past six years, improving continuously in teaching and professional experiences.
DEVELOP IN DEMAND SKILLS
IT is at the forefront of all future careers.
The development of IT has reached all industries and your skills can be transferred to almost all job roles.
Learn computerised languages for programming, coding and software development including Java, C# and .net
UNIQUE LINKS AND PARTNERSHIPS
IBM
London South Bank University
EXPERT PRACTITIONERS
The IT team has over 100 years of teaching experience, supporting students with university applications, apprenticeships and employment. Over 40% of the IT team are also external verifiers for BTEC programmes, providing expertise and knowledge to the subject.
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Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college.
We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
Our specialist teams can help with:
Learning difficulties
Physical and sensory disabilities
Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD, Aspergers or other specific learning difficulties
Mental health, counselling and wellbeing
Exam access arrangements
Money, finance and bursary advice
Careers advice, job and university applications
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A level Computer Science is naturally a strong subject to take if you wish to go on to do computer science at degree level, and although most computing-based degree courses don't require Computer Science A level there are a number of software engineering courses which do. There are also other degree courses such as information technology and information systems which will be served well by a Computer Science A level.
After university, there are numerous interesting fields of study and professions that you can go in to. Computer Science will lead on to robotics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, big data processing, networking, ethical hacking, computer game development, home automation or even teaching. So much of the world uses computers nowadays that having a good understanding of how computers work and how to program them will set you up for success in many strands of life.
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The Complete University Guide give university rankings each year. If you are planning on progressing to university, find out which universities are ranked most highly for Computer Science.