EuraStudy
UKSubject guide
A-Level Computer Science (AQA 7517), against the DfE/Ofqual subject content.
Overview
A-Level Computer Science (AQA 7517), against the DfE/Ofqual subject content.
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.
Core programming constructs and techniques including data types, variables, sequence/selection/iteration, subroutines, object-oriented programming and exception handling.
Abstract and concrete data structures such as arrays, records, lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs and hash tables, with their representation and operations.
Standard algorithms for traversing, searching and sorting data, plus optimisation methods like Dijkstra's shortest path, and reasoning about their behaviour.
Computational thinking, abstraction and problem decomposition, finite state machines, Turing machines, regular and context-free languages, and measuring algorithmic complexity.
Number systems and bases, binary arithmetic, character and image/sound encoding, data compression, encryption and error-checking techniques.
Hardware and software components, classification of programming languages and translators, Boolean algebra, logic gates and the software development lifecycle.
Internal processor structure, the fetch-execute cycle, addressing modes, factors affecting performance, types of storage, and external/embedded systems.
The moral, ethical, legal, cultural and social impacts and risks of digital technology on individuals and society.
Communication principles, networking topologies, protocols and the TCP/IP stack, network security, and client-server and web technologies.
Conceptual data modelling and entity relationships, relational database design, normalisation, SQL querying and transaction processing.
The characteristics and challenges of very large, fast and varied data sets, including distributed/functional processing approaches and machine learning context.
Functional programming concepts such as functions as first-class objects, function application and composition, and list processing operations.
Applying a structured, analytical methodology to solving problems, including writing specifications and designing, developing and testing solutions.
An independently developed practical programming project covering analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation of a substantial solution.
Where this subject applies
These pathways and regions are explicitly connected to the subject in the curriculum.
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.
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.
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Public references
UK · EuraStudy Guides
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