A Level Computer Science

Information and Communication Technology

We are only accepting one application per candidate.

What will you be working towards?

Alternative Title	Computer Science A Level
Code	CG
Qualification Type	GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent
Qualification Level	Level 3
Course type	Full Time

Overview

Ever wondered how the web works or how to develop a computer game?
Computer Science is an exciting and challenging subject in which you will develop valuable skills in problem-solving as well as learning how computers work.

Many of our students take Computer Science at university. You will gain skills and knowledge which will prove useful in a wide range of other courses and careers, particularly in maths, science and engineering.

The A level course is strongly focused on problem-solving and programming. You will learn how to analyse issues, design algorithms and write programs. Some students have no previous experience of programming, and we assume none. We offer excellent support in the form of online resources and one-to-one help. However, we also provide adequate challenges for the increasing number of students who have taken a GCSE in Computing or Computer Science.

“Studying computer science at Hills allows you to develop effective problem-solving skills and to become a more independent thinker. The course covers an enjoyable range of programming and theory topics; the teachers are very knowledgeable and friendly.” MATTHEW, Computer Science student.

Details

First year

Topics include: the fundamentals of procedural & object-oriented programming; data structures: arrays, records and files; finite state machines & regular expressions; data representation: numbers, characters, sounds and graphics; computer systems: languages, translators, Boolean algebra and logic gates; computer organisation & architecture: the processor, assembly and language; communications & networking; encryption; consequences of uses of computing.

Second year

Topics include: advanced programming techniques, including object-oriented programming; recursion; data structures: lists, stacks, queues, trees and hash tables; fundamentals of functional programming; advanced theory of computation: asymmetric encryption; algorithm complexity; Turing machines; the internet: protocols and security; database design and SQL.

How will it be delivered?

Entry requirements

GCSE grade 6 in Mathematics. Must also have minimum grade 4 in Computing/Computer Science, if studied

Science Adjusted Admissions Score applies

Your next steps...

Many of our students go on to higher education courses in computer science but you will gain skills and knowledge which will prove useful in a wide range of other courses and careers, particularly in maths, science and engineering.

Hills Road Sixth Form College

Would you like to ask a question?

Hills Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB2 8PE

Available dates

01/09/2021 to 31/08/2022
Hills Road Sixth Form College
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours More info