What are the best A Level combinations and subjects for a Computer Science degree?

Choosing the right A Level combinations matters! The good news is that in this article we give you all the information to help you make the right choices, guaranteeing you the best opportunity to bag one of those in-demand, top-program university places.

Considered one of the most influential computer scientists of the 20th century, Donald Knuth once said, “In computer science, the algorithm is the heart of the matter.” An algorithm is a mathematical formula applied to solve a problem and process data. So, underpinning everything in computer science and one subject we just can’t avoid if we want to excel in this field, is Mathematics. 

It’s Mathematics, Mathematics, and Further Mathematics!

Overview of A Levels for Computer Science

It is important to emphasise here that A Level combination choices can have a huge impact on:

• University application success

• Academic preparation

• Potential career paths

Every university has entry requirements for courses they offer, which means that specific A Levels might be mandatory. For example, If you have already decided you want to study the number one computer science degree course in the UK, BA (Hons) Computer Science (The Complete University Guide 2024) at Cambridge University, then entry requirements include A Levels in Mathematics and Further Mathematics. So, perhaps looking at university options first might help make your decision a lot easier.

When you experience the academic jump from GCSE to A Level, most students will find the subjects studied at GCSE level have prepared them for what A Level demands. GCSE builds the core knowledge, the foundation for the A Level experience.

If you already have a potential career path in mind, certain A Level combinations can be particularly beneficial. In computer science, for example, someone who wants to become a cryptographer usually focuses on mathematics and physics. Aligning the right A Levels with desired career goals can give you a head start in developing the skill set required to achieve them.

Best A Level combinations for Computer Science degree

There are three A Level combinations worth mentioning for a computer science degree, but there is only one standout combination I would recommend.

• Mathematics, Further Mathematics & Computer Science

  • By far and away the A Level combination I would recommend is Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Computer Science. If you have aspirations of attending the top universities, then this should be your top choice.

  • Mathematics and Further Mathematics are essential A Level subjects. Mathematics underpins so many aspects of computer science, from algorithms and data structures to logic and problem-solving. To be successful in university, a strong grasp of mathematical concepts is crucial.

  • Further Mathematics studies complex mathematical concepts such as mechanics, vectors, and statistics. An A Level in Further Mathematics demonstrates your exceptional ability in mathematics and would offer a significant advantage for competitive university courses.

  • Perhaps the more obvious, but not necessarily a prerequisite to many university requirements, is A Level Computer Science. Providing a strong foundation in programming languages, computational thinking, and problem-solving techniques, this option can be highly beneficial for university applications.

• Physics, Mathematics & Computer Science

  • If Further Mathematics is not an option for you, or if you have a strong interest in computer hardware, then A Level Physics could be the answer. Physics offers an insight into the physical principles that underpin computer hardware and systems and can prepare you for topics such as computer architecture, digital logic, and cryptography. All of these topics would be valuable when studying computer science at university.

• Mathematics, Economics & Computer Science

  • If your passion lies in the business application of computer science or the financial technology sector then A Level Economics could make a solid choice for you. A Level Economics focuses on concepts such as market analysis, data modelling, and resource allocation, all of which would complement a computer science degree.

What are the benefits of choosing specific A Level combinations ahead of taking a Computer Science degree?

Choosing the right A Level combinations can have huge benefits when it comes to choosing the right university course. It is very important to spend time researching what courses are available and make sure you know the entry requirements as early as possible so that everything you do during your A Levels is building evidence to support your application.

In computer science, choosing the right combination of A Levels will allow you to demonstrate your:

• Preparation for higher education in computer science

  • Meeting the demands of a computer science degree requires effective time management and organisation skills. Juggling multiple A Levels is a perfect way to demonstrate those skills.

  • Presenting technical concepts and collaborating with peers is an undervalued skill that is required to be successful in a computer science degree. A Level research projects and presentations, allow you to enhance your communication and research skills.

  • An ability to critically analyse information, identify challenges, and develop solutions is a highly sought-after skill in computer science and goes hand in hand when tackling complex problems.

• Enhanced problem-solving skills

  • The common denominator in all A Level combinations for computer science is Mathematics. A Level Mathematics emphasises logical reasoning and algorithmic thinking, crucial for breaking down complex problems into manageable steps. A fundamental core concept for designing algorithms in computer science.

• Improved understanding of algorithms and data structures

  • A deep understanding of algorithms and data structures requires time and experience, A Levels in Computer Science, Physics, and Mathematics can offer you both. 

  • An A Level in Computer Science offers you a direct impact as it is designed to introduce you to programming languages, data structures, and basic algorithms. Tackling coding challenges and forcing yourself to apply your understanding is highly effective in demonstrating your progress.

  • Mathematics and Physics offer a more indirect impact, while not directly teaching algorithms and data structures, they strengthen the foundational skills crucial for their understanding. Mathematics from a logical reasoning perspective and Physics from a physical processes perspective.

Make the choice that suits your career goals

Ultimately, your choice of A Level combinations should come down to your career goals. Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into considerations when you make your choices. We have looked at some of the best combinations available and tried to demonstrate the benefits of making those important choices.

If I can offer one piece of advice, as an educator for nearly 20 years with a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science, it would be to always work to improve your mathematical knowledge and understanding. A strong foundation in mathematics is essential for success in computer science, especially for high-performing students who want to push boundaries.

You’ve made your decision, and you’ve got a clear rationale for the A Level combinations you are going to take, what next? Well thankfully, that’s the easy part, sign up to Save My Exams and get access to high-quality A Level revision materials, created by industry experts to support your classroom learning.

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