A-level Computer Science

The study of Computer Science has completely transformed the modern-day world as we know it and you can be a part of how it will shape our future.

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  • Overview
  • What you'll learn
  • Extra info
  • FAQs

Are you ready to change your world?

Due to high capacity this course is currently unavailable. Check back soon.

We sincerely apologise for this inconvenience. We’ve experienced a high level of interest this year. We hope you will consider joining us in the future!

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All Oxbridge home learning courses are delivered to a high-quality standard with full access to course materials. If you prefer a printed copy of your course material, choose our print option. Note: extra charges will apply.

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Course material - printed copy

Overview

Computer Science has rational thinking at its core; combining human and computer intelligence to provide intelligent solutions to problems. Choosing to study International A-level Computer Science can open doors to various career opportunities in data science, web development, product management and software development, or prepare you for higher education at university. 

In this engaging online computer science course, you'll study communication and Internet technologies, software development, artificial intelligence, data representation and much more. As you study, you'll develop key skills such as abstraction, decomposition and algorithmic thinking.

What you'll learn

Unit 1 - Theory fundamental

In this unit, you’ll study:

  • Information representation
  • Communication and Internet technologies
  • Hardware
  • Processor fundamentals
  • System software
  • Security, privacy and data integrity
  • Ethics and ownership
  • Databases
Unit 2 - Fundamental problem solving and programming skills

In this unit, you’ll study:

  • Algorithm design and problem-solving
  • Data types and structures
  • Programming
  • Software development
Unit 3 - Advanced theory

In this unit, you’ll study:

  • Data representation
  • Communication and Internet technologies
  • Hardware and virtual machines
  • System software
  • Security
  • Artificial intelligence
Unit 4 - Computational thinking and problem solving

In this unit, you’ll study:

  • Algorithms
  • Recursion
  • Further programming
  • Programming paradigms

Extra info

Calendar
Fast Track - In a rush? You'll have the option to complete this course within a year.
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Guaranteed Exam Venue - Finding exam spaces can be tough, so with Oxbridge, you'll get guaranteed access to our network of exam centres around the UK
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Exam Pass Guarantee - We're so confident, that if you don't pass the first time, we'll support you to the next exam for free

Awarding Body

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Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) is the world’s largest provider of A-level courses and GCSE courses, qualifications and exams, delivering assessments to over 8 million learners in over 170 countries.

Recognised through UCAS

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This course carries UCAS points. This means that it can be used to gain direct access to University courses and other Higher Education, through the UCAS system.

Course Outcome

After completing the course, you will be awarded the qualification: A-level Computer Science, issued by CAIE (Cambridge Assessment International Education. This syllabus (9618) has been selected specifically because it is best suited to distance learning. Your certificate will be identical to that issued in any other school, college or university.

How is this course assessed or examined?

You can enrol now for A-level Computer Science examinations for Summer 2024.

You will be expected to complete three standard A-level Computer Science written exams and one practical exam:

Written exams:

  • Paper 1: 1 hour 30 minutes, 25% of A-level, 75 marks.
  • Paper 2: 1 hour 30 minutes, 25% of A-level, 75 marks.
  • Paper 3: 2 hours 30 minutes, 25% of A-level, 75 marks.

Practical exam:

  •  2 hours 30 minutes, 25% of A-level, 75 marks.

As part of the practical exam, you will submit complete program code and evidence of testing and will be required to use either Java, VB.NET or Python programming languages.

Entry requirements

In order to study this course, you will need to have achieved a maths GCSE or the equivalent. If you wish to study computer science at a degree level, then you'll need to combine this qualification with A-level maths, as this is a requirement at many universities. It is a difficulty level three: the equivalent difficulty of an A-level or BTEC, usually suitable for most learners of all ages.

FAQs

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How much do exams cost?

Many of our courses do not require exams however, A-levels, GCSEs and some other courses do require exams to complete the qualification. Exam fees are additional to the cost of the course and prices vary depending on the course and where you sit them – find out more.

Planning on studying A-levels or GCSEs with us? We can add your exams during enrolment and blend them into your monthly payment plan if you wish. If you’re not ready to book your exam(s) yet, you can book them at a later date – all of the information is available on MyOxbridge under NEAS and Exams.

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Can I sign up for a Student Beans account and get Student Discounts?

Yes! One of the many benefits of being an Oxbridge student is that you get access to great discounts with a Student Beans account! Eligibility criteria apply and acceptance is made at the discretion of Student Beans. Find out how to sign up.

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Can you provide a reference for my UCAS application?

Oxbridge is able to provide an academic reference for you however, we cannot provide a personal reference as this needs to be someone who knows you personally.

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Can I get predicted grades for my UCAS application?

Absolutely! We can process a predicted grade for you once you have completed a total of four assignments – this can be sent over to you via email or letter which can then be passed on to UCAS for your application.

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Exam Results: I need to resit my exams, can I enrol with Oxbridge?

At Oxbridge, we take enrolments all year round. Once you’re enrolled, you’ll be able to get started right away. Studying online means your work and revision fit around you and your lifestyle. For example, if you have a part-time job or need to study alongside other subjects, you’ll be able to find time to fit our online courses into your schedule.

Enjoy flexible, convenient, affordable learning, fully supported by expert tutors who are passionate about their subjects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our course tutors and know that they hold the key to success. Whatever your goals, dreams or aspirations, Oxbridge is here to help you facilitate them.

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Exam Results: I didn't pass English or Maths, what do I do next?

First of all, don’t worry – everything will be okay. Unfortunately, if you didn’t get a grade 4 or higher (equivalent to a C or above) in your English and Maths, you will have to re-take it in order to pass. Oxbridge is ready and available to support you with this. Get in touch via live chat, phone or email.

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Exam Results: When will I receive my certificate?

Oxbridge students who sat their exams through our partnership exam centres will usually receive their certificates in November. Certificates will be sent out by recorded delivery.

Wondering what to do next? There are so many options available, it’s important to get the right advice. Whether your choice is to continue onto further education, go into job training or get an apprenticeship and whether your grades are high or low – there are always options! Speak to an adviser today to see how we can support you on your next steps…

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What can I do with my A-levels?

A-levels are a universal way to demonstrate academic competency in a multitude of disciplines. A-levels are subject-based qualifications that lead to either university, further study, training, or work. A-levels serve as a standardised way to demonstrate your academic ability and are very common entry requirements to most higher-level courses.

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Exam Results: I haven't done as well as I expected in my exams. Is there anything I can do?

Yes! There are a number of post-result services available. Your entering centre will be able to provide you with further information and will process any requests for you. If you’re not sure where to turn, our friendly learning advisers are on hand and ready to help you.

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Exam Results: I have individual unit marks, but no overall grade. What should I do?

Check for a cash-in code on your statement of entry. If there isn’t one, cash-in may not have been applied for. Cash-in can be applied for retrospectively from your exam centre and once entered you can expect an overall grade in one week.

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Why study an online A-level course from home?

A-levels can be studied from home with Oxbridge, using our online platform. On average we find that students receive 20% higher grades and pass around 30% more quickly than in a traditional college.

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How long does it take to study an A-level?

It’s possible to study an A-level course both full-time and part-time. Normally students would study for two years, but with Oxbridge, you can also fast-track your course to complete it in one year.

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What A-Level courses should I take?

If you’re planning on going on to a degree, your chosen university will usually publish their entry requirements for each course on their website. See how these subjects feel and decide if you would enjoy them as they will form much of the base knowledge for your degree.

If you’re not entirely sure what to study, there are some standard subjects that many students choose to help them secure a place at a prestigious university, such as one of the Russell Group universities. These courses are known as the ‘facilitating courses’ and include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Literature, Geography, History, Maths, Further Maths, Modern Languages and Classical Languages.

Generally speaking, taking two facilitating subjects will allow you to keep your progression options open. For further help and guidance, we have written a detailed guide on How to Choose A-Levels.

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How many UCAS points is an A-level course?

A-levels are the most common way to access university in the UK. The system in which this is done is called UCAS. This stands for: “the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service”. See the A-level UCAS tariff points breakdown below:

  • A* – 56
  • A – 48
  • B – 40
  • C – 32
  • D – 24
  • E – 16
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What programming language is involved?

You get to choose to submit your work in one of three object-oriented programming languages: Java, VB.NET or Python.

Python is a general-purpose language, this means that it can be used to create a variety of different programs and isn’t specialised for specific problems.

VB.NET is a simple, modern, programming language developed by Microsoft.

JAVA is one of the most popular programming languages in the world and works across a variety of platforms. It’s probably even running inside your microwave.

This course teaches computer science, and although you will be expected to do some coding, this is just a small part of the course. “Computer science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes” – Edsger Dijkstra

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What are A-Levels?

A-levels (also known as Advanced level qualifications) entail in-depth study of a chosen subject in order to open doors to further study including University, training, and work.

A-levels courses tend to focus on specific academic subjects such as Mathematics, English and the Sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The course material and the exams you take will be the same everywhere.

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Does this A-level Computer Science course have assignments?

During your course, you’ll be required to complete various assignments. These do not contribute to your final grade but provide you with an opportunity to submit work to your tutor for marking and feedback. This will help you to monitor your progress and will be used to produce predicted grades if needed.

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Why study A-level Computer Science online?

This CAIE accredited A-level Computer Science is designed specifically to be studied in your own time and space online, at home. You’ll receive unlimited tutor support, a clear induction and well-structured assignments to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to prepare you for the exam.

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What are the benefits of studying A-level Computer Science?

Studying computer science at A-level will open up a broad range of opportunities. You’ll develop transferable skills, including problem-solving and critical thinking. If you choose to continue your studies, you will find that programming, IT and computer science jobs are lucrative and rewarding.

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Are you ready to change your world?

We appreciate being bold is easier said than done. This is why the team at Oxbridge aim to help you feel confident and rest assured in taking your next steps. Our friendly, knowledgeable Learning advisers are always on hand to offer you the best guidance.