Computer Science
Back to Key InformationOCR H446
This A level focuses on programming, building on the GCSE OCR Computing and emphasising the importance of computational thinking as a discipline. It will have an expanded maths focus, much of which will be embedded within the course and will put computational thinking at its core, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence. The course allows students to apply academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems in an exciting and engaging manner. It will give students a clear progression into higher education, as the course was designed after consultation with members of BCS, CAS and top universities.
Course content
Component 1
- Structure and function of processor
- Types of processor
- Input, output and storage
- Systems software (A Level)
- Operating systems (AS Level)
- Applications generation
- Software development
- Types of programming language
- Compression, encryption and hashing
- Databases
- Networks
- Web technologies
- Data types
- Boolean algebra
- Computing-related legislation
- Moral and ethical issues
Component 2
- Thinking abstractly
- Thinking ahead
- Thinking procedurally
- Thinking logically
- Thinking concurrently
- Programming techniques
- Software development
- Computational methods
Assessment
All exams are sat at the end of Year 13.
Paper 1 – 2.5 hrs Algorithms and Programming – externally assessed written exam worth 40%
Paper 2 - 2.5 hrs Computer Systems – externally assessed written exam worth 40%
Unit 3 Coursework - Programming Project – internally assessed and externally moderated coursework 20%
Entry requirements
Due to the extensive critical analytical skills required and the need to engage with computing we require a least 6 in GCSE computing and maths. Coding skills are also needed as the project uses python or similar high-level language.
Further Education and Career Paths
A Level Computer Science provides a strong foundation for a wide range of further education options and career pathways in the rapidly evolving tech industry. Students who complete this course often progress to university degrees in subjects such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology. Vocational routes, such as apprenticeships in IT support, programming, or digital marketing, are also available and offer hands-on experience in the field.
Career opportunities include roles such as software developer, systems analyst, data analyst, network engineer, cybersecurity specialist, and more. The subject also builds key transferable skills—problem-solving, logical thinking, and analytical reasoning—that are highly valued across many industries. With the growing demand for digital skills globally, A Level Computer Science is a strategic choice for students looking to enter innovative, high-growth sectors.
