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IT BTEC or ALEVEL computer science

Help I want to study software programming but I can’t study a levels maths because I did maths foundation in high school so I have to pick either a level computer science or level 3 extended IT BTEC and also what’s the best combination of subjects to study computer programming
Original post by Kjlbioo
Help I want to study software programming but I can’t study a levels maths because I did maths foundation in high school so I have to pick either a level computer science or level 3 extended IT BTEC and also what’s the best combination of subjects to study computer programming

I would pick A Level CS should you wish to do a degree. I would then either resit GCSE Maths and pick the higher paper with hopes of doing A Level Maths or do A Level Maths privately. Should the uni that you want to apply to require a higher grade at GCSE, you would still need to resit GCSE Maths.

The BTEC is OK if you want to get a job right after college, even though I would recommend the professional IT certificate for the specific role.

If you want to apply to uni with the BTEC, note that some unis might not accept BTECs. If they do, they tend to prefer a BTEC in IT.

The best combination for CS degrees would be in A Levels in Maths + CS (physics and FM are optional).
Reply 2
Original post by MindMax2000
I would pick A Level CS should you wish to do a degree. I would then either resit GCSE Maths and pick the higher paper with hopes of doing A Level Maths or do A Level Maths privately. Should the uni that you want to apply to require a higher grade at GCSE, you would still need to resit GCSE Maths.
The BTEC is OK if you want to get a job right after college, even though I would recommend the professional IT certificate for the specific role.
If you want to apply to uni with the BTEC, note that some unis might not accept BTECs. If they do, they tend to prefer a BTEC in IT.
The best combination for CS degrees would be in A Levels in Maths + CS (physics and FM are optional).

Okay thank you you have been very helpful
Reply 3
Original post by MindMax2000
I would pick A Level CS should you wish to do a degree. I would then either resit GCSE Maths and pick the higher paper with hopes of doing A Level Maths or do A Level Maths privately. Should the uni that you want to apply to require a higher grade at GCSE, you would still need to resit GCSE Maths.
The BTEC is OK if you want to get a job right after college, even though I would recommend the professional IT certificate for the specific role.
If you want to apply to uni with the BTEC, note that some unis might not accept BTECs. If they do, they tend to prefer a BTEC in IT.
The best combination for CS degrees would be in A Levels in Maths + CS (physics and FM are optional).
I studied BTEC Level 3 in Cyber Security, which is part of the BTEC IT curriculum. Whether you're focusing on Mobile App Development or any other IT-related subject, the core of the BTEC IT qualification remains consistent across courses. Your certificate will indicate 'BTEC Information Technology' rather than specifying Cyber Security or Mobile Application Development.

Regardless of the specific IT course you choose, you will receive a BTEC Information Technology certification.
Regarding concerns about BTEC Level 3 not being accepted by universities, rest assured it is still recognised and accepted. Many students from my college have successfully progressed to university with three passes.

It's worth noting that the BTEC IT course is being replaced by an Advanced Certificate, which offers a more skills-based qualification. This new certificate focuses on practical learning, including coding, website design, and website development, providing a more hands-on educational experience.

I believe the units will be similar to those in the BTEC IT degree. Whether you pursue BTEC or A Levels, you'll be well-prepared. Don't worry, you'll do great!

To support you in your studies, I will create YouTube videos that will help with the qualification you are pursuing. There aren't many videos available that cover the components of these courses, so my videos will be a valuable resource throughout your qualification.

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