Advanced - Computer Science

EXAM BOARD: OCR

AIM OF THE COURSE
The aim of this course to instil students with the theoretical and practical skills to advance their computing understanding and application. The areas of study within this course will provide students the perfect building blocks to progress into higher education and industry; both areas where computer science is in demand.

COURSE SUMMARY
Students will complete 2 paper-based exams and a NEA programming project; the exams are worth 80% with the practical programming project making up the last 20%.

Paper 1 content introduces students to the theoretical aspects of computer science. Here they will study and gain a solid understanding of: CPU architecture, system software, networking, compression technologies, software development methodologies, databases, web technologies, and computing related legislation and ethical considerations.

Paper 2 content introduces students to practical aspects of computer science, with a strong focus on programming skills. Here students will engage with: data types, data structures, programming techniques including modular processes and object orientated design, and algorithms including those used to sort and search.

The programming project will see students apply their programming and software development skills to a project of their choosing. Within this piece of work students will analyse, design, implement, and then test and evaluate their own project.

CAREER PROSPECTS
The significance of computer science in today’s world is hard to overstate, and its importance will only grow with time. There will be careers in this field in 10 years that don’t even exist today; virtual reality, once considered science fiction, is now a reality.

The OCR A Level is an outstanding qualification that offers a comprehensive yet detailed exploration of the most current and relevant topics in the field. Whether it’s legislation concerning emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles or the fundamentals of machine learning and artificial intelligence, the course provides a strong foundation for future technological breakthroughs. This course is ideal for students who are certain they want to pursue computer science in higher education. Many university degree programmes now require Computer Science A Level, rather than considering it optional.

The career opportunities are arguably endless.

BACK