OCR A-Level Computer Science – H446
Course contact: Jaspal Singh – jaspalsingh@kba.uk
Qualification number: 601/4911/5
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Students should have achieved passes in their GCSE qualifications and demonstrate a genuine interest in Computer Science. A willingness to develop programming, problem-solving and computational thinking skills is essential. All applications will be considered on their individual merits.
WHAT WILL I DO?
Discover how computers work, how software is developed and how computational thinking can be used to solve complex problems. OCR A Level Computer Science combines theoretical knowledge with practical programming, helping you understand the technology that shapes our modern world.
You will explore computer systems, processors, data representation, networks, databases, algorithms, programming techniques and the legal, ethical and environmental issues surrounding computing. You will develop your ability to analyse problems, design efficient solutions and write, test and improve computer programs.
As part of the course, you will complete an independent programming project, taking a problem through analysis, design, development, testing and evaluation. This gives you the opportunity to apply your skills to a project that interests you.
WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?
Computer Science is ideal for students who are curious about technology and enjoy logical thinking, solving problems and understanding how things work. You should be willing to develop your programming skills, think creatively and tackle challenging problems.
You do not need to be an expert programmer before starting, but enthusiasm, determination and a willingness to learn are essential.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
The course is divided into three components:
- Computer Systems: The internal workings of computers, including processors, memory, storage devices, software, data representation, networks and the legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues surrounding computing.
- Algorithms and Programming: Computational thinking, problem-solving, programming techniques, data structures and algorithms used to develop efficient solutions.
- Programming Project: An independent practical project in which you identify a problem, analyse requirements, design and develop a solution, test your program and evaluate its effectiveness.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
The qualification is assessed through two written examinations and one independent programming project:
- Component 1 – Computer Systems: Written examination, 2 hours 30 minutes – 40%.
- Component 2 – Algorithms and Programming: Written examination, 2 hours 30 minutes – 40%.
- Component 3 – Programming Project: Non-exam assessment – 20%.
The programming project is internally assessed and externally moderated. It allows students to demonstrate their ability to apply programming and problem-solving skills to a practical task.
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
A-Level Computer Science provides a strong foundation for further study and careers in the technology sector and beyond.
Possible degree courses include:
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cyber Security
- Data Science
- Games Development
- Computer Systems Engineering
- Information Technology
Career opportunities include software development, systems engineering, cyber security, data analysis, artificial intelligence, network engineering and other technology-focused roles.
The analytical, logical and problem-solving skills developed through the course are highly valued by universities and employers across many industries.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Students should have achieved passes in their GCSE qualifications and demonstrate a genuine interest in Computer Science. A willingness to develop programming, problem-solving and computational thinking skills is essential. All applications will be considered on their individual merits.