Why study Computer Science?

Computing influences every aspect of our lives, whether we realise it or not. Although there may be many who can use computers and understand their impact on society, there continues to be a shortage of professionals who understand how computers actually work.

How does a computer work internally? How is data represented in a computer? How do computers communicate with each other? What algorithms should be used to solve a problem? How do you design a computer program? If you are intrigued by these questions then Computer Science may be the course for you.

What will I study over the two years?

Unit 01: Computer Systems

• The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
• Data types, data structures and algorithms
• Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
• Software and software development
• Exchanging data

Unit 02: Algorithms and Programming

• Elements of computational thinking
• Problem solving and programming
• Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms

Unit 03: Programming Project

• You will choose a computing problem to work through whereby you create a solution for a client of your choice

What makes a good Computer Science student?

Individuals who are interested in the way things work and feel a need to understand how technology helps in achieving effective and efficient solutions. You should have a sense of curiosity about the world around you and not be afraid to investigate the why or how of something. Your will need a strong sense of resilience as code rarely works properly first time and can always be improved!

Where could Computer Science take me?

Programmers end up in a variety of different careers as a result of their problem solving abilities; from Games Developer to Cyber Security Tester, Data Analyst to White Hat Hacker, Visual Artist to Producer & Director. The skills you gain from being a Computer Scientist are applicable to many different industries.

What are the entrance requirements?

• Grade 5 or above in Computing
• 5 or more grades 5-9; including equivalents across at least 5 subjects
• Maths grade 6 and English Language Grade 4 or above
• Average GCSE GRADE of at least 4.0 (average of ALL GCSE full courses taken)

If you have any questions about our Computer Science A Level please chat with your Computing teacher or email Mr F Salle –  fsalle@oriel.w-sussex.sch.uk We would be very happy to answer any questions.