IGCSE Computer Science
Enrol Anytime | Enrolment Fee £345
Start your journey towards a career in computing and technology. Gain a solid foundation in how components are built and programmed. The course will help you progress to further education, an apprenticeship or seek employment inside or outside of the UK.
- Awarding Bodies: Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
- Learning Hours: 130 Recommended Study Hours
- Flexible Fast Track Available
- Full IGCSE Qualification
Overview
Would you like to progress your education through distance learning? An online International GCSE Computer Science course can open doors to a rewarding career in computing. The programme with Learn Now provides the same fully recognised qualification you would achieve if attending mainstream college but giving you the flexibility to learn at your own pace.
If you are an adult learner, a student resitting exams, or someone juggling studies with work and family, this could work perfectly. The course is designed to suit many lifestyles and provides at least two exam series per year.
Choose Your Specification
Whether you are based inside or outside the UK, we can offer a variety of internationally recognised examination boards to suit your specific needs:
- Cambridge International CIE 0478 (A*-G) or 0984 (9-1)
- Pearson Edexcel 4CP0 (9-1)
Get 10% discount when ordering multiple IGCSE courses. Use the coupon code: IGCSE10 at checkout
Enrol Anytime | Enrolment Fee £345
Select your course awarding body from the dropdown below.
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science
Specification Code: 0478 (A*-G) or 0984 (9-1)
This specification will allow you to study the principles and practices of computing and gain confidence in computational thinking and programming.
Learners will apply their understanding to develop computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high- level programming language. You will also develop a range of technical skills, as well as the ability to test effectively and to evaluate computing solutions.
This qualification helps students appreciate current and emerging computing technologies and the benefits of their use. You will learn to recognise the ethical issues and potential risks when using computers.
The course has eight modules you will need to cover.
Course Content
Unit 1: Data representation
- Number systems
- Text, sound and images
- Data storage and compression
Unit 2: Data transmission
- Types and methods of data transmission
- Methods of error detection
- Encryption
Unit 3: Hardware
- Computer architecture
- Input and output devices
- Data storage
- Network hardware
Unit 4: Software
- Types of software and interrupts
- Types of programming language, translators and integrated development environments (IDEs)
Unit 5: The internet and its uses
- The internet and the world wide web
- Digital currency
- Cyber security
Unit 6: Automated and emerging technologies
- Automated systems
- Robotics
- Artificial intelligence
Unit 7: Algorithm design and problem-solving
- Problem-solving and design
- Pseudocode and flowcharts
Unit 8: Programming
- Programming concepts
- Arrays
- File handling
Unit 9: Databases
- What databases are used for
- Database structure
- Practical uses of a database
Unit 10: Boolean logic
- Understand the standard symbols and functions of logic gates
- Use logic gates to create logic circuits
- Complete a truth table
- Write logic expressions
Learners will need to learn a high-level programming language. Learn Now provide the resources and assessments for Python which is accepted by Cambridge.
Students will be required to arrange and pay for their examinations at a CIE approved centre. We can provide an extensive list of these centres for you.
IGCSE Exams
There are two exams for the full qualification. The length of each exam is as follows:Paper 1 (written) – 1 hour 45 min
Paper 2 (written) – 1 hour 45 min
Course Outcome
On successful completion of all your exams, you will be awarded the following qualification:
International GCSE Computer Science with CIE
Click here for more information on CIE and to be taken to their official website
Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science
Specification Code: 4CP0
The Edexcel specification will help you to understand and apply fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation.
You will be able to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs.
You will also gain an understanding of the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society. For this specification, grades 9-1 are available.
The programme has six modules you will need to cover.
Course Content
Problem Solving
- Algorithms
- Decomposition and abstraction
Programming
- Develop code
- Constructs
- Data types and structures
- Input/output
- Operators
- Subprograms
Data
- Binary
- Data representation
- Data storage and compression
- Encryption
Computers
- Machines and computational modelling
- Hardware
- Logic
- Software
- Programming languages
Communication and the Internet
- Networks
- Network security
- The internet and the world wide web
The Bigger Picture
- Emerging trends, issues and impact
Students will be required to arrange and pay for their examinations / practicals at an Edexcel approved centre. We can provide an extensive list of these centres for you.
IGCSE Exams
There are two exams for the full qualification. The length of each exam is as follows:Paper 1 – 2 hour
Paper 2 – 3 hour Practical Exam
Paper 2 is a practical assessment carried out on a computer system using a programming language of choice. For this course, we will teach you Python. You will need to ensure that your centre is able to cater for this examination.Course Outcome
On successful completion of all your exams, you will be awarded the following qualification:
International GCSE Computer Science with Edexcel
Click here for more information about Pearson Edexcel and to be taken to their official website
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.
- Assignment marking and feedback
- Marked and graded practise examination papers
- Fast Track available 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.
Request More Information about IGCSE Computer Science
FAQs
Will I find this course hard?
Initially, learners may find topics such as programming and binary/hexadecimal calculations challenging. However, previous programming experience isn’t required with the course and we will provide full resources and videos to help you tackle all topics.
If you are someone who enjoys maths, puzzles and logical thinking, you are likely to enjoy the course as you will be required to understand algorithms, programming and problem-solve.
Will I need to buy any books?
You will not be required to purchase any books with this course. We automatically include logins to our online e-Library, which provides access to the following premium eBooks depending on your selected course specification:
Cambridge IGCSE and O Level Computer Science (Hodder Education)– David Watson
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) Computer Science Student Book (Pearson) – Graham Hill, David Waller
Don’t see the specific book you are looking for? Ask us, and we will let you know if we have it!
Which subjects should I study alongside this course?
Mathematics is a strong combination as it will help develop logical reasoning, algebra and pattern recognition. When programming, you will need to use mathematical concepts such as variables, percentages, averages and coordinates.
Physics will help you to understand things like electronic systems. Logic circuits and hardware. In Computer Science, you will be required to learn about the architecture of the CPU and Physics will help make this easier to understand.
Where can the subject take me?
Computer Science will open doors to a variety of subjects. You may want to progress onto A Levels in subjects such as Computer Science, Mathematics and Physics.
After A Levels, degree options include Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Game Development.
If you don’t want to progress onto A Levels, you might want to consider a level 3 apprenticeship which would allow you to earn whilst you learn. A popular apprenticeship choice is Software Development Technician.
Overall the subject will develop valuable skills in logical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and programming.
Can I study this course from outside the UK?
Pearson Edexcel and Cambridge (CIE) qualifications can be taken inside and outside the UK. Content within the specification is adapted for international learners and the qualification is comparable to UK GCSE standards.
How long does the course take?
You will receive access and support for two years, however you can complete the course much sooner if you need to. Exams for this subject fall in May/June or October/Novembereach year and therefore you are able to choose which exam sitting you want to apply for. We have more information on exam timetables here.
You will receive access and support for two years, however you can complete the course much sooner if you need to. Exams for this subject fall in May/June or 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.
The International GCSE is taken worldwide rather than just the UK. It is equivalent to a GCSE but is often 100% exam based. See our article IGCSE vs GCSE for more information.
What can I do with IGCSE Computer Science
This specification gives students a solid foundation for further study. Learners who achieve grades 4 to 9 are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science.
Career
I think it is obvious that technology is here to stay and is forever advancing. For this reason, the choices of career paths are endless.
You might enjoy the programming aspect and consider areas such as software development, web or app design. Alternatively, you might also enjoy science and/or mathematics and consider data science or data analyst. Other routes include things such as game developer, IT consultant, network architect or working for the local government.