UK · Subject guide
Computer Science
A-Level Computer Science (AQA 7517), against the DfE/Ofqual subject content.
01 · Overview
Computer Science
A-Level Computer Science (AQA 7517), against the DfE/Ofqual subject content.
- Subject guide
- A-Levels
- Topics mapped
- 14
02 · Complete topic map
Complete topic map
Every topic recorded for this subject in the curriculum is reproduced below in its full hierarchy. The descriptions reflect the mapped scope without implying additional exam rules.
- 01
Fundamentals of programming
Core programming constructs and techniques including data types, variables, sequence/selection/iteration, subroutines, object-oriented programming and exception handling.
- 02
Fundamentals of data structures
Abstract and concrete data structures such as arrays, records, lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs and hash tables, with their representation and operations.
- 03
Fundamentals of algorithms
Standard algorithms for traversing, searching and sorting data, plus optimisation methods like Dijkstra's shortest path, and reasoning about their behaviour.
- 04
Theory of computation
Computational thinking, abstraction and problem decomposition, finite state machines, Turing machines, regular and context-free languages, and measuring algorithmic complexity.
- 05
Fundamentals of data representation
Number systems and bases, binary arithmetic, character and image/sound encoding, data compression, encryption and error-checking techniques.
- 06
Fundamentals of computer systems
Hardware and software components, classification of programming languages and translators, Boolean algebra, logic gates and the software development lifecycle.
- 07
Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture
Internal processor structure, the fetch-execute cycle, addressing modes, factors affecting performance, types of storage, and external/embedded systems.
- 08
Consequences of uses of computing
The moral, ethical, legal, cultural and social impacts and risks of digital technology on individuals and society.
- 09
Fundamentals of communication and networking
Communication principles, networking topologies, protocols and the TCP/IP stack, network security, and client-server and web technologies.
- 10
Fundamentals of databases
Conceptual data modelling and entity relationships, relational database design, normalisation, SQL querying and transaction processing.
- 11
Big Data
The characteristics and challenges of very large, fast and varied data sets, including distributed/functional processing approaches and machine learning context.
- 12
Fundamentals of functional programming
Functional programming concepts such as functions as first-class objects, function application and composition, and list processing operations.
- 13
Systematic approach to problem solving
Applying a structured, analytical methodology to solving problems, including writing specifications and designing, developing and testing solutions.
- 14
Non-exam assessment – the computing practical project
An independently developed practical programming project covering analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation of a substantial solution.
03 · Where this subject applies
Where this subject applies
These pathways and regions are explicitly connected to the subject in the curriculum.
Pathways and specifications
AS-Level
Advanced Subsidiary — the first year of A-Level study (standalone or first half of the full A-Level).
A-Level (A2)
The full Advanced Level — AS content plus the second-year A2 content.
Nations and regions
All registered regions
04 · Official sources
Official sources
The public sources below are referenced directly by this subject or by one of its topics.
This editorial selection points to the relevant official bodies. Always confirm current requirements, dates and amendments with your school or college and the appropriate awarding organisation.
2
Public references
UK · EuraStudy Guides
Place this subject inside the complete curriculum.
Open the curriculum guide to see every subject and topic, or continue to EuraStudy Summa to begin working with the material.