Select Level
Computer Science
Cambridge Upper Secondary
Why Study Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science?
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science helps you to develop an interest in computational thinking and an understanding of the principles of problem-solving using computers. You will apply this understanding to create computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language. You will also develop a range of technical skills, and
the ability to effectively test and evaluate computing solutions.
Studying Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science helps you appreciate current and emerging computing technologies, the benefits of their use and recognise their potential risks. It provides an ideal foundation for progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level and is valuable for other areas of study and everyday life. (Cambridge Assessment International Education, n.d.)
Key concepts covered in the course
- Data representation
- Communication and Internet technologies
- Hardware and software
- Security
- Algorithm design and problem solving
- Programming
- Databases
Prior requirements and hours of study
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science requires about 130 hours of study. The number of hours needed may vary depending on your previous experience of the subject.
We recommend that students who are beginning this course should have previously completed a Computer Science curriculum such as the Cambridge Lower Secondary programme or equivalent national educational framework.
IGCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE
Examinations
Students studying Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science take two papers in a single examination series.
| Paper 1 | Duration | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Theory | 1 hour 45 minutes | 60% |
| Paper 2 | Duration | Weighting |
| Problem-solving and Programming | 1 hour 45 minutes | 40% |
Examination Entry
All students who complete the appropriate courses at Cambridge Online Academy are eligible to sit exams like the International GCSEs or A/AS Levels through Cambridge International. But while students can do all of their learning online at home, we cannot administer exams online. To sit exams, students must travel in person to one of 10,000 Cambridge International Exam Centres located in 160 countries around the globe.
But we’re here to help. We’ll provide you with all the necessary exam codes you need to present to the exam centre, and any other pertinent information you need to know to get your child signed up correctly.
Also, as part of the initial information, we provide during the pre-enrolment process, you’ll receive contact information for all the Cambridge International Exam Centres in your area. Once you’ve ensured that the exam centre of your choice offers the specific exam level your child needs, the exam centre will arrange accommodations for your child and give you detailed information on obtaining the results.
Course Fee
The fee for Cambridge International GCSE Computer Science can be paid in monthly or termly instalments.
For more information about Fees and Scholarships, please click here.
For more information about Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science, please click here.
For the full list of references, please click here.
Computer Science
Cambridge Advanced
Why Study Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science?
The aim of the Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science course is to encourage you to develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of computer science and how computer programs work in a range of contexts.
You will study topics including information representation, communication and Internet technologies, hardware, software development, and relational database modelling. As you progress, you will develop your computational thinking and use problem solving to develop computer-based solutions using algorithms and programming languages. Studying Cambridge International AS and A Level Computer Science will help you develop a range of skills such as thinking creatively, analytically, logically and critically. You will also be able to appreciate the ethical issues that arise with current and emerging computing technologies. (Cambridge Assessment International Education, n.d.)
Key concepts covered in the course
- Compression techniques
- Networks
- IP addressing
- Logic gates and logic circuits
- CPU architecture
- Assembly language
- Operating system
- Data security
- Database Management System
Prior requirements and hours of study
Cambridge International AS Level Computer Science requires about 180 hours of study, and Cambridge International A Level Computer Science requires about 360 hours of study. These figures are for guidance only. The number of hours needed may vary depending on your previous experience of the subject.
We recommend that students who are beginning this course should have previously completed a Cambridge International GCSE course in Computer Science.
Grade B/6 or above in Computer Science at IGCSE (or equivalent) is required before starting Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science. It is also necessary that all A-Level students have IGCSE English Language or the equivalent at Grade C/4 or above.
AS & A LEVEL COMPUTER SCIENCE
Examinations
Students studying AS Level Computer Science only take two papers out of four in a single examination series.
Students studying A Level Computer Science take all four papers.
| Paper 1 | Duration | AS Level | A Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theory Fundamentals | 1 hour 30 minutes | 50% | 25% |
| Paper 2 | Duration | AS Level | A Level |
| Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills | 2 hours | 50% | 25% |
| Paper 3 | Duration | AS Level | A Level |
| Advanced Theory | 1 hour 30 minutes | - | 25% |
| Paper 4 | Duration | AS Level | A Level |
| Further Problem-solving and Programming Skills | 2 hours | - | 25% |
Examination Entry
All students who complete the appropriate courses at Cambridge Online Academy are eligible to sit exams like the International GCSEs or A/AS Levels through Cambridge International. But while students can do all of their learning online at home, we cannot administer exams online. To sit exams, students must travel in person to one of 10,000 Cambridge International Exam Centres located in 160 countries around the globe.
But we’re here to help. We’ll provide you with all the necessary exam codes you need to present to the exam centre, and any other pertinent information you need to know to get your child signed up correctly.
Also, as part of the initial information, we provide during the pre-enrolment process, you’ll receive contact information for all the Cambridge International Exam Centres in your area. Once you’ve ensured that the exam centre of your choice offers the specific exam level your child needs, the exam centre will arrange accommodations for your child and give you detailed information on obtaining the results.
Course Fee
The fee for Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science can be paid in monthly or termly instalments.
For more information about Fees and Scholarships, please click here.
For more information about Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science, please click here.
For the full list of references, please click here.