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A Level Information Technology CIE

Cambridge International AS & A Level Information Technology is a course that provides students with an in-depth understanding of information technology’s fundamental concepts and principles. This course is designed for both UK and international students who are interested in pursuing a career in the field of information technology.

The curriculum covers various topics, including computer hardware and software, programming, system analysis, database management, and networking.

For UK students, the International A Level Information Technology is an excellent opportunity to gain knowledge and skills that are highly sought after in the IT industry.

The course provides a robust foundation that enables students to pursue careers in various fields, such as software development, network administration, and system analysis. Moreover, the course provides a competitive edge to UK students applying for university courses in IT-related subjects.

  • Awarding Body: Cambridge
  • Specification Code: 9626
  • Learning Hours: 360hrs Full A Level
  • Fast Track Available
  • Full A Level Qualification

Enrol Anytime | Enrolment Fee £395

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Syllabus

Information Technology is all around us and will only improve as time goes on.  This course will explore the key areas of IT by relating theoretical concepts to practical, real-life applications used by individuals and businesses.

IAS Modules

(1) Data processing and information

This topic will focus on how raw data is collected, processed and transformed into information users will understand.

Real-world examples include online websites selling products or services, payroll systems and utility billing.

(2) Hardware and software

Hardware is the physical components of a computer system such as the central processing unit (CPU), hard disk, monitor and keyboard.

Software is the programs that run on a computer.  Examples include word processors, databases and photo editing software.

(3) Monitoring and control

Sensors are devices that detect a physical quantity and converts it into a signal.  Sensors are at the heard of monitoring and control technologies as they allow us to observe, control and respond to changes.

(4) Algorithms and flowcharts

A flowchart is a graphical representation of the steps a program takes to process data.  An algorithm is a set of rules (procedure) that defines how a program is to be executed.  Algorithms and flowcharts are used to represent solutions before a problem is tackled.  For example, validate user input in an online form.

(5) eSecurity

If we use technology to login to our online banking, eSecurity helps to protect our data from threats by using authentication methods such as passwords and biometrics.  eSecurity protects data, system and threats from unauthorised access.

(6) The digital divide

The digital divide considers inequality with regards to technology and its accessibility.  For example, people who live in rural areas may struggle with slow or no internet at all whereas individuals living within cities generally have access to super-fast internet.  Another example could be the availability of devices in developed and developing countries.  These differences can impact education, employment and access to online services.

(7) Expert systems

An expert system is a computer system that makes decisions with an ability similar to a human expert.  It will store knowledge and rules producing advice, diagnoses or decisions.  Examples include medical diagnoses systems, vehicle fault diagnoses tools and credit approval systems.

(8) Spreadsheets

Spreadsheets are used by individuals and businesses to organise and analyse data.  Examples include budgeting and forecasting, calculating learner grades and performing what-if analysis to support decisions.

(9) Modelling

We create a model to simulate and understand how a real-world system would work.   It allows us to test ideas safely and predict outcomes.  Examples include weather forecasting, scientific models used to predict the spread of diseases and financial models for business planning.

(10) Database and file concepts

Databases store, organise and manage data efficiently. Examples include customer databases within a hotel, supermarket or insurance company.

(11) Video and audio editing

This topic will cover video and audio editing involving modifying digital media so that it is suitable for its purpose, audience and deliver platform.  Editing videos and audios requires specialist software that involve decisions surrounding export formats, compression and containers.  We will consider the advantage and disadvantages.

IA2 Modules

(1) IT in society

This topic will look at the effect of technology in everyday life, work and socially.  For example, online banking, remote working, social media and increased reliance on these systems.

(2) New and emerging technologies

This topic will look at technologies that are changing how we all operate.  Examples include artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous transport systems and wearable technology.  New technology is improving people’s daily lives, medicine, healthcare and scientific research but there are also ethical concerns to consider.

(3) Communications technology

Communications technology includes email, video conferencing, cloud-based tools and wireless networks.  This topic explores how data is transmitted between these devices.

(4) Project management

Project management involves planning, organising, monitoring and controlling resources and tasks.  In turn, these achieve a specific objective within defined constraints.  For example, time, cost and quality.  A range of tools and techniques are used to manage project tasks including Gantt charts, PERT charts and Critical Path Method (CPM).

(5) System life cycle

When you use software such as a database to store user requirements for a booking system, this must be designed, implemented and maintained.  The system life cycle describes the stages in developing and maintaining the system.

(6) Data analysis and visualisation

This topic is about extracting meaning from data and presenting it clearly.  Examples include data using charts and graphs, survey results and dashboards.

(7) Mail merge

Mail merge saves time by combining data with a standard document to produce a personalised output on a large scale.  Examples of where this is used include letters to customers, invoices, payslips and marketing.

(8) Graphics creation

Graphics creation will focus on designing content for digital use.  Examples include logos, posters, website graphics and infographics.

(9) Animation

Animation will focus on creating moving images to communicate ideas.  Examples include advertisements and simple games or simulations.

(10) Programming for the web

This topic explores websites including the use of HTML, CSS and scripting languages.

What can you do with an A Level in Information Technology?

With the world becoming increasingly digital and reliant on technology, the demand for IT professionals is higher than ever. Pursuing an International A Level in Information Technology can benefit those looking to enter this exciting career field.

Not only does it provide a comprehensive understanding of fundamental concepts in IT, but it also allows for developing crucial skills such as problem-solving, programming, and data analysis.

Additionally, an International A Level in Information Technology can make individuals more competitive in the job market, leading to higher salaries and greater job security.

For more information about the Cambridge Exam board, please click here. 

Previous Knowledge Required

There are no previous entry requirements for this course, however students are expected to have a reasonable standard of literacy. 

You have the freedom to start the course at any time and continue your studies at your own pace for a period of up to 24 months from initial registration with the full support of your Tutor.

Enrolment Fees

Our Enrolment fee for this course is noted at the top of this page where you can enrol directly onto the course.  This fee includes access to your course including tutor support for 2 years.

Our enrolment fee includes:

  • All study materials covering the full specification.
  • Full support where you can also message your tutor as many times as you need to.
  • Access to our online Library with a full range of eBooks.
  • Help completing university applications including UCAS and The Common Application.
  • Reference and predicted grade for University.
  • Assignment marking and feedback
  • Marked and graded practise examination papers
  • Eligibility for a Totum Card if you reside within the UK
  • Fast Track A Level if required and flexible learning from home 24/7.

The only other fee you will need to pay is for your exams which is due approximately six months prior and this will be paid directly to the exam centre.

Assessments

Students will be required to arrange and pay for their examinations / practicals at a CIE approved centre. We can provide an extensive list of these centres for you.

A Level Exams
There are four exams for the full A Level qualification. The length of each exam is as follows:

Paper 1 – 1 hour 45 min (Theory)
Paper 2 – 2 hours 30 min (Practical)
Paper 3 – 1 hour 45 min (Advanced Theory)
Paper 4 – 2 hours 30 min (Advanced Practical)

Paper 1 Paper 1 Paper 1 Exam Paper 4 A Level Qualification

AS Level Exams
There are two exams for the AS Level qualification. The length of each exam is as follows:

Paper 1 – 1 hour 30 min
Paper 2 – 2 hours

Paper 1 Paper 1 IAS Exams

For Cambridge International AS & A Level Information Technology learners can:

  • take Papers 1 and 2 only (for the Cambridge International AS Level qualification) or
  • follow a staged assessment route by taking Papers 1 and 2 (for the Cambridge International AS Level qualification) in one series, then Papers 3 and 4 (for the Cambridge International A Level qualification) in a later series or
  • take Papers 1, 2, 3 and 4 in the same examination series, leading to the full Cambridge International A Level.

A Level Information Technology Online Course Outcome

On successful completion of all your exams for the A Level Information Technology Online Course, you will be awarded one of the following qualifications:

International A Level in Information Technology with CIE | International AS Level in Information Technology with CIE

Click here for more information on CIE and to be taken to their official website

FAQs

You can enrol online right now by Card or PayPal (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro and American Express). Alternatively, we also accept BACS transfer or we can send you a payment link.

Your A Level course will be online.  You will access it via our online portal.  

With our courses, we have learners from all over the world enrolled.  Therefore, if we restricted your learning to certain times, not everyone would be available.  All our courses are accessible 24/7 via our online secure portal.  Any videos on your portal would be pre-recorded meaning you can work through your course at your own pace.

By opting for our International A Level, you can study the course from anywhere and exam centres are located all over the world.  With our UK A Levels (AQA), you can study them from outside of the UK, however you would need to sit the actual exams for these within the UK.

You will be provided with eBooks for this course. If you want to purchase physical books in addition, then we can provide you with the book ISBN numbers.

The Guided learning hours for A Levels are as follows:-

AS Level: 180 hours

A Level:  360 hours

These figures are for guidance only. The number of hours needed to gain the qualification may vary depending on your previous experience of the subject.

Yes you will gain UCAS points and these depend on your final grade once you have completed your exams. 

If you are referring to A Levels at college then yes!

You will sit the same exam as thousands of students across the world in an exam centre, and achieve the same qualification as everyone else.

Provided you have completed enough work on the course within a reasonable amount of time, we will be able to provide a predicted grade / reference for university. 

Please provide at least 3 months notice for this, otherwise this will incur a small fee.

We want exams to be as competitively priced for our learners as possible and therefore that is why we direct them to the examination centres rather than charge upfront fees.

Request More Information about this course…

 

Still unsure? See below for more information on A Level IT

The A Level IT course has a large syllabus, however it all relates to each other giving you an overall picture of IT.  If you have an interest in IT or you have studied it at GCSE, you should have no problems with the course itself.  It is important to learn and gain an understanding of this subject as a whole rather than memorising.

You will not be required to purchase any books with this course.  We automatically include logins to our online e-Library which includes access to following eBook(s):

Cambridge International A Level Information Technology – Brian Gillinder (Hodder Education)

Not see the book you are looking for? Ask us and we will let you know if we have it!

Good subject combinations to take alongside IT include:

A Level Mathematics and Computer Science – If you are aiming to complete a degree within Computer Science, IT, Data or Tech, these combinations work well.  Maths will build on logical thinking and problem solving whereas IT leans more on databases, modelling and algorithms.

A Level Business – If you would prefer a route into Business or Management, this A Level would work well with IT. 

Cambridge International A Level IT can be taken outside the UK as well as within the UK.  Cambridge provide global recognition for their A Level qualifications and are recognised by universities.

At the end of this course you will receive an Internationally recognised qualification which will allow you to apply a university situated anywhere in the world.

AS and A levels are standalone qualifications, however the Full A Level carries more UCAS points than the AS Level.  It also requires more study hours as follows:

  • AS Level = 180 hours
  • A Level = 360 hours

You will see the difference in the content above under ‘syllabus’ but you can also refer to our article on ‘what is as level’ for more information.

You will receive access and support for two years, however you can complete it much sooner if you want to.  Exams for this subject fall in May/June and October/November each year and therefore you are able to choose which exam sitting you want to apply for.  We have more information on exam timetables here.

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Fill in the form below or call us on 0800 160 1556, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. Also don’t forget to let us know which course it is that you are interested in…