Computer Science A Level [Y1]

You can only apply for one course type on an application.

Applying for A-Levels and/or V-Levels? You can choose to study three A-Levels or create a mixed programme combining A-Levels with other qualifications, including the new V-Levels. You will select the courses from a list of relevant subjects when you apply.

Applying for T-Levels? T-Levels are full-time courses that allow you to focus on one subject.

Applying for Vocational courses? Our technical and professional vocational courses are full-time programmes focusing on one subject. You can apply for up to two courses in the same application.

We accept applications to more than one campus; however once you have attended an interview session and received an offer from us, you will need to confirm your first-choice course and the campus you want to study at.

During the first year of this course, you will gain a solid foundation in the art of programming. This is more than learning a specific language – it is a new way of thinking that requires a creative and precise problem-solving approach.

Technology has revolutionised how we live today. From social networks to augmented reality. Self-driving cars to wearable technology. All of these are made possible through Computer Science. During the first year of this two-year course, you will gain a solid foundation in the art of programming. This is more than learning a specific language – it is a new way of thinking that requires a creative and precise approach to problem-solving. You will learn the key data structures and techniques required for program design. In addition to programming, you will cover computer science fundamentals, including computational theory, computer architecture, standard algorithms, logic, and binary representation for images, sound, and video. In the second year, you will deepen your learning and gain practical skills in server-side scripting, database design, object-oriented and functional programming and ‘big data’. You will then use these skills to go through the agile software development lifecycle, including identifying your own real client, designing and developing a bespoke solution, to implementation.

At the end of the second year, you will be assessed by a 2 hour 30 minute onscreen exam worth 40%, a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 40%, and a practical coursework project worth 20%.

Our general entry criteria to study 3 A-Levels is: Minimum five GCSEs grade 4-9 with English Language or Maths at grade 5. For a mixed Level 3 programme the criteria are: Minimum five GCSEs grade 4-9 with English Language or Maths at grade 4. Subject specific entry criteria apply:A GCSE grade 6 in Maths.

Once you have finished this course, you could continue to university to study Computer Science, Software Engineering, or more specialist fields, such as artificial intelligence, robotics or games development.