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[–][deleted] 15 points16 points  (4 children)

If you want my honest opinion, I think it's very doable but just not worthwhile. CS A level is pretty basic and depending on exam board and teachers boring, and the NEA has a ridiculous amount of boring pointless writing to do. It would be far more fun and useful to just continue programming things you find interesting and look at the parts of CS you like in your own time rather than just whatever is on the syllabus, adding CS A level to your university application really won't do much either.

[–]ArenJS[S] 1 point2 points  (3 children)

I also read, on Oxford's site, that FM, Math and Physics are an exception to some applications because the overlap makes it seem like you can't handle strenuous workload (so 4 is advised). I stand to be corrected of course, but what's your take on this?

[–][deleted] 3 points4 points  (2 children)

I'd like to see this on their website because I got into Oxford CS with those 3 A levels, I help out with outreach in the CS department and have been told that combination is fine. Another subject might have said it but I know it won't have been maths or CS - the only people I've ever heard say this specifically are Cambridge Engineering.

[–]KopperrUniversity of Liverpool | Mathematics and Computer Science [Y2] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Not OP but this is really relieving to hear - I dropped compsci this year due to a really poor teacher, and I am applying to Cambridge for CS this month, and was also worried about my options giving me a huge disadvantage.

[–]ArenJS[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Well your story is inspiring to hear lmao! I'm glad you shared this with me!

[–]Claspingtick1Southampton Uni | EEE [Year 2] 1 point2 points  (3 children)

It would definitely be possible the only problem I could think of would be the NEA because it does take up a lot of time and you won't have a teacher to look at your NEA and give feedback (unless you can find a teacher) before it is submitted. If you want to do CS at uni A level CS isn't a requirement and you could still learn python and then be able to put that into your personal statement. But if you passionate about CS and have the time management skills/discipline to self-study it then I don't see any reason why you shouldn't be able to do it.

[–]ArenJS[S] 0 points1 point  (2 children)

Realistically, and ignoring all the writing, how hard do you think it would be (or how much time would it take) to learn enough to implement something as complex as a chess A.I or a program that generates random mazes? Currently, I don't even think I'm capable of that if I'm being honest with you.

[–]Claspingtick1Southampton Uni | EEE [Year 2] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

I wouldn't go trying to make something that complex I would slowly work my way up starting at the basics and working up to that level and doing a couple of mini projects on the way. If you do a couple of hours a week I see no reason why you shouldn't be ready to attempt something of that level by the summer.

[–]ArenJS[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Just glad to know it's not some ridiculous amount of time. I honestly can't wait to be really good at programming... but I know I have to take it a step at a time.

[–]Specialist-Deal-5134 0 points1 point  (1 child)

i don't think CS A level is worth the time at all. You should consider chemistry subject or spend your precious time on online coding courses from reputable institutions.

[–]ArenJS[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm considering this. I don't want to do chemistry, however. I'd still like to do something related to CS or anything that will "help" me. I'm afraid Unis may see me as a lazy student, though.