Course Overview
This qualification is part of a full-time programme, studying 3 or 4 A-Level subjects and/or AAQs.
Computer Science is about understanding computer systems and networks at a deep level. It is a rich and diverse discipline in its own right, like Physics and Mathematics. It explores foundational principles and ideas, rather than training students in skills related to particular software. Computer Science aspects of theory and experimentation are drawn from Maths and Science respectively and it is an excellent supplementary A-Level for a range of subjects.
This A-Level is awarded by AQA.
You will develop:
- an understanding of, and the ability to apply, the fundamental principles of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation
- the ability to analyse problems in computational terms and writing programs to solve them
- the capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
- the capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science
- mathematical skills related to Boolean algebra, comparison and complexity of algorithms and number representations and bases.
The course is offered as part of a study programme with another two or three A Levels (full-time package). Alternatively, it can be studied as a part time programme or added to some other full time programmes.
If you would like to study a full-time programme of A-levels, please complete a full-time application form.
Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above, which must include Maths and Computing/IT.
After Your Course
Many students go on to study subjects such as mathematics, physics, computing, computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, robotics and computer games programming at university, while others use this course to improve their career opportunities generally. On a more straightforward level, there are still huge opportunities in the many IT fields, including mobile technologies, games, project management, systems analysis and all the technical areas such as networking, databases and computer security. Few modern careers do not involve a degree of IT capability and there is still much scope for those with a higher level of skills to move forward quickly in a wide range of professions.
Fees
£2583.00
The current fee information is related to the 2025/26 academic year.
The fee displayed is the course fee. Course fees are charged per course for part-time students. You can pay in full or spread the cost by paying 25% on enrolment and setting up a direct debit mandate for 3 further equal payments. An Advanced loan is available to students enrolling on this course.You may qualify for financial support to cover the cost of this government-funded qualification if any of the below apply to you:
- You are aged 16 to 18 on 31st August of the relevant academic year and are not studying at another school or college
- If you do not already have a Level 3 qualification and are under 24 on 31st August of the relevant academic year
- Have a gross annual income of less than GBP25,000 (means-tested benefit or salary)
If your employer is paying the course fee and would like to be invoiced, please let us know.
