Entry requirements

A minimum score of 5 from 7 GCSEs to include English, Maths, and science along with four other GCSE grades or equivalent (not including short courses or Citizenship). See Subject Requirements Guide for details.

GCSE Maths score 6 and Computer Science or ICT at score of 6 or above.

How much does it cost?

Free to those aged 16-18

There is a range of financial support that you may be entitled to, including: Learner Support funds, grants and bursaries and employer support.

You will be expected to pay for stationery and textbooks

Why study?

We all use computers on a daily basis, but on this course we will explore exactly how they do what they do. Computer systems will be broken down into key components and we will model these, often in electronic form. We will code web pages, work with databases, examine networks, and discuss the social issues brought about by our use of computers. Starting with algorithmic models we will develop our ability to write well-structured, efficient programming code.

Where will this course take me?

You could progress to further study in IT related subjects or go directly into the workplace.

• Network manager
• Software developer
• Communications engineer
• Computer trainer
• Sales in computing/communications area

Core modules

AS Level

• Unit 1 - Computing principles. Includes computer hardware, operating systems, data types and structures, databases, networks and legal, moral ethical aspects.
• Unit 2 - Algorithms and problem solving. Programming techniques and problem solving.

A Level

• Unit 1 - Computer systems. Includes entirety of AS Unit 1, but developed and extended
• Unit 2 - Algorithms and programming. Includes entirety of AS Unit 2, but developed and extended.
• Unit 3 - Programming project. Individual programming project coursework

How will I be assessed?

Two written exams each year for both AS and A level, individual programming project coursework for A level only.

Will I have to provide anything?

Stationery, memory stick, textbook.