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Computer Science A Level

Overview

IMPORTANT
Applications are now open for academic year 2026/2027, but our full-time courses are still being finalised. If your chosen course changes, we'll contact you to offer a suitable alternative that matches your goals. For more information, call our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626.

This course can be studied alongside 2 A Levels or 1 A Level and 1 vocational course (as part of our 2+1 offer).

You will learn the technical aspects of computer science. This A Level has an emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, programming, and the inner workings of computer technologies.

You will gain the knowledge, understanding and skills required to progress your learning to a higher level or enter the workplace. If you wish to study Computer Science at university, we highly recommend also selecting A Level Maths as it complements the subject matter.

What does it combine with?

What our students say

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What will I study?

You will explore the fundamentals of programming concepts and how to problem solve using computational thinking. You will also learn about computer systems, organisations, architecture and networking.

In your second year, there is coursework where you will solve a practical problem following a systematic approach to problem solving. You can choose your own project, see some examples below:

  • Mobile app
  • Game
  • Website with dynamic content
  • Control system (Arduino)
  • Database.
  • Entry requirements
    • GCSE Maths grade 6-9
    • Four GCSEs grade 4-9 including GCSE English Language
    • An overall average of a grade 4*.

    *To work out your grade average, add all of your grades together and divide by the number of GCSEs you've taken. If you need help, please contact our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

  • Assessment

    A combination of exams and coursework in your second year.

  • Progression

    This programme can lead to university* study with degrees in computer science, games programming, artificial intelligence, cyber security and many other areas. If university is not for you, West Nottinghamshire College offer digital apprenticeships in Digital Marketing, Cyber Security and Infrastructure Technician.

    *As we are a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), you may qualify for various benefits should you choose to apply to NTU after completing your college course. This could include a Progress NTU offer, where you would receive an offer one grade below their standard offer. For instance, a typical offer for one of their courses might require 128 UCAS tariff points. With Progress NTU, your requirements would be 120 UCAS tariff points. For further details, please call us on 0808 100 3626.

  • Careers

    Careers are often pursued as a Software Developer, Hardware and Networking Technician, Games Technologist, and Digital Marketer.

  • Qualifications gained
    • GCE A Level in Computer Science
    • AQA
  • Studying A Levels at WNC

    Discover what it is really like to study with us. Explore the full range of courses available, hear from our students, see the facilities you will train in, and discover the employer partners you could work with.

    You can also browse galleries and get a real feel for college life before you apply.

    Visit the subject area page

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

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