COMPUTER SCIENCE By the Ahmadiyya MuslimWomens’ Student Association Computing and Computer Science is one of the fastest growing disciplines in universities, and includes exciting developments such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality and mobile computing. It’s strongly oriented towards giving you the capability to use computer and information systems technology to solve real-world practical problems. Strong emphasis is placed on developing skills in software engineering, analysis, programming and the design of software and algorithms. A-level subjects Mathematics: Maths is used heavily throughout the course, so a strong foundation in maths is important. Technology based A-Level (IT/Computing):You need to have a strong interest in ICT and technology as this is in essence is what the degree is based on. Science Related Subject: Any other science related subject is preferred by most universities, as it shows development of logical thinking, but in many cases any A-Level is accepted. Electronics, Physics or Statistics are recommended. Grade requirements The main requirements for the grades are: GCSE: N/A Usually Grade B at GCSE Maths A levels: (including mathematics) Most likely AAB and a pass in another, or AAC and pass Rare A*AA Top 5 universities (From Times online) Cambridge Oxford Imperial College of Science,Technology & Medicine University of Southampton University of Edinburgh Duration BSC: 3 years Structure Compulsory topics: Programming and Software Engineering (Software): Software lifecycle, project management, system analysis, design using UML, Java, SQL. Mathematics and Logic (Theory): Mathematical logic, functions, set theory, induction, graphs, probability, number theory, Artificial Intelligence. Computer Systems: Physical organisation of computers, representation of data, digital circuits, memory organisation, peripherals, operating systems Extra Topics: Functional and logical programming (Prolog), imperative programming (C), programming semantics Work experience / Extra-curricular activities Programming: Practice your programming from books such as Java in Easy Steps, Java Concepts, Java Demystified and books on other programming languages Learn about the structure of a computer Join recognised computer organisations such as The British Computer Society and The IET Work experience in IT/Computing environment Read the news and journals Write articles in Al-Nusrat Career opportunities Teaching Research Consultancy (Technical) Business Analyst Programming Software Engineering Web Developer IT department of any organisation Finance Ways to serve the Jama’at Jamaat work related to technology could include: Working with Lajna Imaillah on projects MTA Teach a skill (IT) with Humanity First Helping other in your Halqa to understand and use computers, ICT teacher (waqfs), and many more exciting opportunities. Personal Statement Examples WE CAN HELP!! Contact AMWSA at amwsa@hotmail.com Please include the following details: Name & Majlis The subject your interested in. Contacts To contact Ahmadi, female Mathematics graduates and gain further advice contact amwsa@hotmail.com Please include the following details: Name & Majlis The subject your interested in. Additional recommendations If you enjoy the combination of Maths and ICT/Computing, then Computer With pioneering developments being made in the field of technology every day, you too could be part of an industry that is growing at a vast rate. Go to open days, participate in Taster Sessions, and Student Buddying Schemes run at Universities. This will give you an idea of what is included in Computer Science. Although you will find that Computer Science is a male-dominated degree, don’t let this put you off. Within the realms of Purdah, all girls can obtain an education in a subject that motivates them. If you have not programmed prior to your degree, practice in the summer. This will help a great deal when you begin a Computer Science Degree. Remember to send a letter to Beloved Huzur-e-Aqdas (aba) on a regular basis to seek his invaluable prayers and guidance. Some helpful websites! BCS website: www.bcs.org/ The IET: www.theiet.org/ A website for a chartered institute with a lot of help on IT qualifications and contact building. Includes general IT information and news “Institute for Engineering and Technology” - A website for help with careers, news and other general information. It also has a list of events all over the UK relating to IT Any questions, comments or feedback... email us at.... amwsa@hotmail.co.uk