A Level Computer Science

Key Facts

Level: 3

Attendance: Full Time (FT)

Duration: 2 Years

Course Code: A1OCSC

Start Date: September 2027

Awarding Body: Oxford Cambridge & RSA Examinations

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Code: A1OCSC
Please note, course costs shown are per year.

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With computers used in virtually every aspect of modern life, this course is an excellent choice for those who see their eventual careers in Computing.

Students of Computing will develop an understanding of, and the ability to apply, the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation; the ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including writing programs to do so; the capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically; and the capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science.

Features and Benefits

Opportunities to program in multiple programming languages such as Python, C++ and C#.

Course Content

Component 1: Programming and System Development

Data Structures
Logical Operations
Algorithms and Programming
Principles of Programming
Systems Analysis
System Design
Software Engineering
Program Construction
Economic, moral, legal, ethical and cultural issues relating to Computer Science.

Component 2: Computer Architecture, Data, Communication and Applications

Hardware and Communication
Data Transmission
Data Representation and Data Types
Organisation and Structure of Data
Databases and Distributed Systems
Operating Systems
The need for different types of Software and their Attributes
Data Security and Integrity Processes

Component 3: Programmed Solution to a Problem

Discussion
Investigation
Design
Prototype
Post-Prototype Refinement
Software Development
Testing
Evaluation

Entry Requirements

Minimum Entry Requirements:
All Loughborough College Sixth Form courses have minimum entry requirements of at least five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English Language and Maths.

Subject Specific Entry Requirements:
GCSE English Language grade 5 and Maths at grade 6.

Progression Opportunities

Whilst this is the obvious choice for those students who are planning to have a career in Computing related industries, the widespread use of computers in all vocations makes this course valuable alongside other subjects and careers, particularly, though not exclusively, in science and engineering.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information contained on this website is correct, the College accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Please note that details are subject to change without notice with regard to the provision of courses, course times and dates and the fees and charges levied.