What A-Levels should i do if i wanna do a Bsc in Computer Science

I'm a year 11 student who wants to do computer science. Currently, I am doing computer science, accounting, business, psychology, math (H), and chemistry (H). I haven't taken GCSE physics. I'm not too keen on taking it as an A-level unless I have to, because I'm not planning on doing engineering.

I'm not really interested in any STEM fields other than CS, so I'm scared that if I take sciences for A-Levels, I'd be stranded if I changed my mind about majoring in CS.

Initially, I planned on taking Maths, CS and some easy subject, but I recently found out that my school doesn't offer CS as an A-Level, and now I have no idea what to do.

(edited 1 year ago)

Reply 1

AnaaaElec

The typical A level combo is maths, further maths, CS and physics. However, many people have got on CS courses with just maths and CS before alongside other a levels. I know someone at Southampton who studied maths CS and psychology.

Really, the only NECESSARY a level for studying CS is maths, as many universities understand that CS isn’t as widely offered yet in schools. I would recommend taking further maths for an easier time getting into top universities however - it’s still possible without it, but FM makes offers significantly easier to get as it displays a high mathematical calibre. Physics is not necessary - I did chemistry instead and got offers from 4 Russell groups. Whilst I would recommend taking a science, it is really just maths that is a requirement - so I wouldn’t worry. Check admissions requirements for prospective courses and see if you’re interested in what those courses have to offer, in terms of their balance between practical knowledge and theory, and try to adjust your choices accordingly.

Reply 2

mesub

Volunteer Team, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Original post by chair19

I'm a year 11 student who wants to do computer science. Currently, I am doing computer science, accounting, business, psychology, math (H), and chemistry (H). I haven't taken GCSE physics. I'm not too keen on taking it as an A-level unless I have to, because I'm not planning on doing engineering.
I'm not really interested in any STEM fields other than CS, so I'm scared that if I take sciences for A-Levels, I'd be stranded if I changed my mind about majoring in CS.
Initially, I planned on taking Maths, CS and some easy subject, but I recently found out that my school doesn't offer CS as an A-Level, and now I have no idea what to do.

Maths is a must. Further Maths is strongly recommended for top top universities. Lots of people do physics (and/or CS) but you don't need it.

Look at your schools subject booklet for A'level. Are there any other subjects that may tickle your fancy?

Reply 3

Admit-One

Universities Forum Helper

Maths and any other two subjects you think you’ll get decent grades in.

I’d only look at Further Maths if you’re very strong in the subject or targeting the highest ranked courses.

Reply 4

cherrycosmos

Original post by chair19

I'm a year 11 student who wants to do computer science. Currently, I am doing computer science, accounting, business, psychology, math (H), and chemistry (H). I haven't taken GCSE physics. I'm not too keen on taking it as an A-level unless I have to, because I'm not planning on doing engineering.
I'm not really interested in any STEM fields other than CS, so I'm scared that if I take sciences for A-Levels, I'd be stranded if I changed my mind about majoring in CS.
Initially, I planned on taking Maths, CS and some easy subject, but I recently found out that my school doesn't offer CS as an A-Level, and now I have no idea what to do.

I'm confused, so you want to take computer science for alevel but you cant because your school doesn't offer it? Why not move? I took maths, computer science and business.

Reply 5

Lancaster Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post by chair19

I'm a year 11 student who wants to do computer science. Currently, I am doing computer science, accounting, business, psychology, math (H), and chemistry (H). I haven't taken GCSE physics. I'm not too keen on taking it as an A-level unless I have to, because I'm not planning on doing engineering.
I'm not really interested in any STEM fields other than CS, so I'm scared that if I take sciences for A-Levels, I'd be stranded if I changed my mind about majoring in CS.
Initially, I planned on taking Maths, CS and some easy subject, but I recently found out that my school doesn't offer CS as an A-Level, and now I have no idea what to do.

Hey @chair19

I'm a final year computer science student here at Lancaster University and I did Further Maths, Business and Physics for my a levels and got into many computer science programs with my predicted grades of these 3. Many universities don't require a CS A-Level but if you have it then the course will be slightly less challenging for you in the first couple month of uni.

Generally for a science course like CS it is recommended atleast 1 science subject, maths and then a subject of choice (Considering you are not doing CS A-level). Many opt for physics because it is the closest related science for CS, as compared to biology, chemistry etc.

I suggest you look into the requirements for the universities you are planning to attend and see if they REQUIRE a CS A-Level. Many good universities don't so this will not drastically limit your options.

I hope this helps :smile:

Vyomika
LU Student Ambassador

Reply 6

aspir0r

Maths is necessary, Further maths if you want top unis like Oxford, Cambridge etc. You do not need to study computer science but you may enjoy it :smile: