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A level Computer Science

2 year Course / AQA

The world of Computer Science is developing at an amazing rate and no one knows where the next ten years will take us. This challenging subject will help students respond to this ever-changing world and develop the knowledge and skills to help understand technology which has not yet been invented!

More on this course

There are close links between Computer Science, Mathematics and Physics, and students will study the underlying principles of solving problems using computation, understanding algorithms and computer code, how data is stored, how data is transmitted around networks and how hardware and software works.

Topics studied over the two-year linear course will include:

  • Fundamentals of programming
  • Data structures
  • Algorithms
  • Data representation
  • Computer systems
  • Computer organisation and architecture
  • Communication and networking
  • Functional programming
  • Theory of computation
  • Consequences of uses of computing
  • Big Data and a systematic approach to problem solving.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Need info

Assessment

The Computer Science A-level is a linear course which is assessed through a mixture of examination and coursework.

Paper 1 – 2 hours 30 mins, 40% of the A-level: Students will answer a series of short questions and write, adapt and extend computer programs. A preliminary skeleton program is issued by AQA in preparation for this exam. Contempory languages are used including Java and Python.

Paper 2 – 2 hours 30 mins, 40% of the A-level: This written exam involves short answer and extended answer questions which test students on their knowledge of the theoretical aspects of Computer Science including logic gates, Boolean algebra and cultural and ethical issues.

Non-examined assessment: 20% of the A-level comes from coursework in the form of a project which assesses the ability to use the knowledge and programming skills gained throughout the course to solve or investigate a practical problem.

Non-examined assessment: A further 20% of the A-level comes from coursework in the form of a project which assesses the student’s ability to use the knowledge or skills gained through the course to solve or investigate a practical problem.

Careers Insight

There are few jobs which do not involve the use of computers and having a good understanding of the science behind them will effectively prepare students for further study or employment.

Student Testimonials

“Education is our collective investment in understanding the world and securing the future. Education is the great social and economic equalizer. It lowers the barriers to opportunity and drives social mobility and positive life outcomes. It offers everyone the chance to develop knowledge and learn skills to transform themselves and their communities. It helps us adapt to new demands and challenges.”

Dr. Fiona Hill CMG

Chancellor of Durham University, defence advisor to the UK government and Senior Fellow at The Brookings Institution, Washington DC

“communities in the North have a strong sense of place and purpose.  For regional development to succeed, we need to develop and retain the talent of young people.   Durham Mathematics School has a crucial part to play in that process.”

Ed Twiddy

Co-founder of Atom Bank and former Director of the North East LEP

“the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Durham University has a longstanding commitment to outreach and widening participation…[and] is eager to engage in a very practical way”

Peter Bowcock

Associate Professor, Mathematical and Theoretical Particle Physics 

“Durham and the wider North East have made significant economic strides in recent years with important growth sectors including Space and Satellite, Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences. These are sectors that rely on us nurturing talent through our education system and ensuring that we offer the very best possible learning opportunities to our children and young people. Education is an ecosystem and have a Maths School in our Region is critical to that ecosystem optimising. A Maths School will provide the opportunity for young people from across the region who have a fascination for the subject to be stretched and challenged. From there they can go on to study at the very best Universities and on to make significant contributions to the Region and to global society.”

Cllr Elizabeth Scott

Portfolio Holder for Economy and Partnerships, Durham County Council