Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
A Level Computer Science is for students who have a passion for technology and want to pursue a career in this exciting and rapidly developing global industry. The subject will appeal to you if you would like to become a games developer, programmer, web developer, or technical support assistant.
The skills developed on this course are transferable to future employment in various roles. Computer Science sits well alongside all other A Level subjects but is often chosen to complement mathematics and science subjects.
University courses in many other disciplines often require an understanding of computational theory, and undergraduate students in many subjects often find themselves programming their own bespoke systems for analysing final year projects and dissertations.
Topics may include:
- Fundamentals of programming, data structures, and algorithms
- Theory of computation
- Fundamentals of data representation and computer systems
- Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture
- Consequences of uses of computing
- Fundamentals of communication, networking, and databases
- Big data
- Fundamentals of functional programming
- Systemic approach to problem-solving.
Assessment Methods
Formal summative assessments are in the form of one practical programming exam and one written exam at the end of the second year. There is a NEA (non-examined assessment)coursework which you start working towards in your first year.
Formative assessments will be carried out throughout the year in a variety of ways including coursework and homework.
You will be required to learn to program in both first and second year, and your non-exam assessment coursework will involve an extensive investigation and programmed solution.
Progression Options
Most students progress to a Higher Education course at a UK university or remain at the College to study a degree at University Centre Somerset (UCS).
Students who study computer science at university often have a year in industry during their third year then return to university for the final fourth year. Some students wish to progress to a Degree Apprenticeship, which is an equally sensible option.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range, including maths and English. You may find this subject challenging if you achieve lower than a 5 in maths.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.