Computing
A-level
One-year AS/two-year A-level
From small businesses to global corporations, software development is at the heart of the commercial world. If you want to learn about computer programming and the development of computer systems as well as their organisation, you will enjoy this subject.
Required qualifications
Five or more A*–C grades at GCSE including English language and a minimum of a grade B for mathematics. Your college programme must include AS-level mathematics and should be engineering or science focused. This is a challenging A-level which you are strongly advised to research well before choosing as one of your subject options.
What will I study?
The course will focus on topics such as:
- analysing business requirements, design and implementation of solutions
- gaining an in-depth knowledge of computing and ICT concepts
- developing knowledge of programming theory
- building practical skills in developing software programs
- using high level and fourth generation programming languages.
On the course you will:
- analyse, design, create and test computer programs
- research and understand computing and ICT concepts
- enhance your ability to work with numbers
- build on your analytical and evaluative skills.
Method of assessment
You will be assessed by one practical programming skills examination and one written examination in the first year. In the second year you will undertake a major project and sit an examination on computer theory.
What will I be able to progress to?
This subject is ideal if you intend to go on to study computing, computer science or computer engineering at degree level. You could also pursue career options including software development and new media production.
Please note that it is not necessary to take A-level computing in order to study computing at university but it can be an advantage. Where relevant, we encourage students to study both ICT and computing at A-level because of their unique focus on technology.