Computer Science A-level
90980
- Start:
- September
- Duration:
- 2 years
- Level:
- 3

Course Details
Computer Science is a practical subject where you can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems.
It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism.
It is excellent preparation if you were looking to take Computer Science at degree level, or for anyone considering any kind of career in computing. Computer Science also complements subjects such as Physics and Mathematics.
- Characteristics of contemporary processors
- Software and development
- Exchanging data
- Data types
- Data structures
- Algorithms
- The legal, moral and ethical issues around computing
- Computational thinking
- Problem solving
- Programming
You will need a minimum or five GCSEs, including Grade 5 in English Language together with four other subjects at Grade 4 or above (one of the four subjects must include Maths).
Additional entry requirements:
- You must also have achieved at least a grade 6 in GCSE Maths.
The College will always treat each applicant as an individual. Should you not have or not expect to obtain the grades stated above, or not have relevant industry-related experience, the College would still welcome your application for this course as this will enable us to identify whether this course is, in fact, the right course for you or whether another course may be more appropriate.
- Examination – Paper 1 (Computing Systems)
- A-level (40%) 2.5 hours
- Examination – Paper 2 (Algorithms and Programming)
- A-level (40%) 2.5 hours
- Programming Project
- A-level (20%)
- University
- Higher/Degree Apprenticeship
- Employment
Computer Science offers a wide range of employment and higher education possibilities in careers, such as, Software Design and Software Engineering or you could become a Computer Analyst, Computer Programmer, IT Technician, Web Developer, IT Consultant or Games Designer.
University Guarantee
Every Sefton Sixth Form College student who successfully achieves a Level 3 qualification and meets attendance and entry requirements, is guaranteed a place on a course at the Hugh Baird University Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions that we are often asked:
You will take three subjects over two years.
We offer a small number of BTEC courses at Sefton Sixth Form College. You can study one BTEC course alongside your two A-levels.
It is not expected that a student would attend both sites, but the feasibility of this would be discussed on an individual basis. Potential timetable clashes and workload would need to be considered in detail for this to be a possibility.