The digital world is continuously evolving and the need for computer scientists grows with it. Our IGCSE Computer Science course equips you with a number of powerful skills to help you progress into further education and expand your career goals. Could computer science be your calling?

Our IGCSE Computer Science course is ideal for you if you:

• want to dive beyond the realm of basic computer uses in everyday life
• have the desire to understand the complexities of computer processes and the impact they create
• enjoy problem solving, analytical thinking and taking a data-driven approach to new challenges
• are keen to expand your knowledge and grow your confidence within the computing industry.

Future Opportunities

• studying Computer Science, Programming and other computer-related fields at college and university
• employers value candidates with a sound understanding of computers and technology
• a range of future career opportunities including Software Developer, Web Developer, UX Designer, App Developer and more.

Section 1 Computer Science
● Topic 1 Computers in everyday life
● Topic 2 Computing as a career
● Topic 3 Computational thinking
● Assignment 1

Section 2 Problem solving
● Topic 1 Algorithms
● Topic 2 Solving problems
● Topic 3 Searching algorithms
● Topic 4 Sorting algorithms
● Assignment 2

Section 3 Programming – learning to code
● Topic 1 Simple programs in Python
● Topic 2 Input/Output and type conversions
● Topic 3 Selection and iteration
● Topic 4 Data structures
● Topic 5 Reading and writing files
● Topic 6 Bringing it all together
● Assignment 3

Section 4 Programming – improving your code
● Topic 1 Debugging and handling errors
● Topic 2 Testing
● Topic 3 Subprograms
● Topic 4 Good practice
● Assignment 4

Section 5 Data
● Topic 1 Binary
● Topic 2 Data representation
● Topic 3 Data storage and compression
● Topic 4 Encryption
● Assignment 5

Section 6 Computer systems
● Topic 1 Computational models
● Topic 2 The CPU
● Topic 3 Secondary storage
● Topic 4 Embedded systems
● Topic 5 Logic
● Topic 6 Software
● Topic 7 Programming languages
● Assignment 6

Section 7 Computer networks
● Topic 1 Networks
● Topic 2 Network protocols
● Topic 3 Network security
● Topic 4 The internet
● Assignment 7

Section 8 The wider picture (ethics, trends etc…)

Section 9 Revision

You’ll have access to 1:1 support from one of our tutors. All NEC tutors are subject experts, with experience in supporting online learners.

Exam board

• Edexcel 4CP0

Format

• Online learning with support from a personal tutor

Hours

• Complete at your own pace
• Approx. 150 hours plus time for completing assignments

Assignments

• 10 assignments including past paper practice

Resources

• No additional set texts required

Requirements

• Internet access
• Computer operating system and browser to support learn@nec

Our course fees are clear and transparent to help you plan for any additional costs.

Your course fee includes:

• 24/7 access to learn@nec platform and resources
• Expertly designed online course materials (including ebook versions of textbooks where specified) that you need to complete the course
• Support from our Student Services team
• Structured assignments carefully designed to prepare you for exams
• Guidance from your tutor for up to 24 months from your date of enrolment
• Extensive feedback to all assignments that will support your learning
• NEA (coursework) marking and authentication
• Marking for one examination paper (from a previous year)
• Guaranteed exam place
• NEC’s guide to study skills: How to Succeed as an Independent Learner
• Spelling, punctuation and grammar guide
• Time planner template to help you plan your study timetable
• Information on how to apply for exams

Your course fee does not cover:

• Any fees in relation to exam entries or assessments
• Centre Assessment Grades (CAG) in the event of exam cancellation
• Recommended textbooks for additional reading or set texts

If you need more support, you can purchase:

• Online tutorials – if you need help with a specific topic you can arrange a 30 minute or 1 hour tutorial
• Additional past paper marking – to help with your exam preparation
• Revision tutorial –  to plan your revision and explore revision techniques
• Help with your UCAS application service

For further information on additional/optional support you can purchase, please visit our additional services page.

Exams (two):

• 50% of marks  (2 hours)
• 50% of marks  (3 hours)

The exams consist of multiple choice, open-response and a practical exam. Throughout the exams, you will be expected to demonstrate your level of understanding of basic principles of computer science and the practical application of computational thinking.

We know that our younger students often need an extra helping hand with their studies. In our experience learning online works best when either a parent or guardian are involved. This is why NEC has developed our unique Progress Tracker to help you to support your child.

NEC’s Progress Tracker will allow you to easily track your child’s progress across their subjects and gain insight to how well they are doing through access to their assignment grades and tutor feedback.

Read more about how we work with young students who are studying at home or through a school.

Would you like to talk to our Course Advice Team about the best route for you? Visit our Contact Us page, fill in the form and a member of the team will get back to you!