VCE Algorithmics Units 3 and 4
A guide for prospective students
Interested in Maths and/or Computing? Continue reading...
What is Algorithmics?Algorithmics is a new VCE subject developed by the University of Melbourne and Monash University, implemented into the Victorian Certificate of Education as a Higher Education Scored Study (HESS) subject. Algorithmics examines the fundamentals of computer science and is
highly recommended for students interested in the Computer Science, Software Development or Information Technology areas (as a potential career path).
Unit BreakdownUnit 3: Algorithmic problem solving
Unit 4: Principles of algorithmics
Assessment BreakdownUnit 3 SAT: 20%
Unit 4 SAT: 20%
External Examination: 60%
Prerequisites and Assumed KnowledgeWhilst there are no formal restrictions on entry to this study, it is assumed that you will have successfully passed Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2, as knowledge gained in MM is extremely valuable.
The following knowledge is assumed upon entry to Algorithmics Units 3 and 4:
Assumed Knowledge
* matrix addition, subtraction and multiplication
* sets and set operations (UNION, INTERSECT, power sets)
* substitution and transposition in linear and non-linear relations
* the construction of tables of values given in a formula
* development of formulas from word descriptions
* sequences and linear relations generated by recursion
* logarithms and exponents
* the ability to produce and interpret numerical plots
* propositions, connectives and truth tables
This subject is suited for...Those interested in Computer Science and/or Mathematics. Algorithmics is less about the 'programming' side and more about the computational logic, the mathematics behind Computer Science and algorithms.
Do not underestimate the difficulty of this subject, however. It scales up for a reason!
Benefits:* Challenging, problem-driven subject
* Scales
up by around 4-5 (in 2015)
* Provides you with an advantage if you do happen to pursue a computing degree later on.
* Subject developed by two of the top universities, and is relatively new!
* Credit towards your degree at either Melbourne or Monash (see below).
Scaling.... what we all really want to know!Spoiler
2015 Scaling:
RAW ---> SCALED
20 --> 24
25 --> 30
30 --> 36
35 --> 40
40 --> 45
45 --> 48
50 --> 50
2016 Scaling:
RAW --> SCALED
20 --> 22
25 --> 29
30 --> 35
35 --> 40
40 --> 45
45 --> 48
50 --> 50
You may see the full VTAC Scaling report via
this link (2015) or
this link (2016).
But my school doesn't offer Algorithmics?As Algorithmics is a relatively new study (first year in 2015), your school may not offer Algorithmics for quite some time. Last year, approximately 95 students completed this subject (compare this to a subject like Maths Methods or even Informatics, it is relatively small). If you are really keen to give Algorithmics a go, Distance Education Victoria offer this subject.
You can view the details here.
Credit Available for University StudyIf you are seriously considering going on and completing a Computer Science or related degree at university level (particularly at either Monash or Melbourne), then you should read up on this section:
Monash University Credit Scheme:Spoiler
At Monash University Students who have successfully completed VCE Algorithmics will receive credit for 2 first year units when they enrol with the Faculty of Information Technology:
Credit for FIT1045 Introduction to Algorithms and Programming
Credit for one Information Technology 1st year Elective
This credit effectively amounts to 50% of one semester load. With overloading students may be able to accelerate their degree by 1/2 year (1 unit overload for 2 semesters).
On the basis of this credit students can enter straight into some Level 2 units.
From 2016 the Faculty of IT will additional consider giving ATAR increments for successful completion of VCE Algorithmics.
Melbourne University Credit SchemeSpoiler
Students who satisfactorily complete VCE Algorithmics are offered 25 points of first year credit towards the Bachelor of Science and the Bachelor of Biomedicine, and pre-requisite waivers to permit enrolment in the following subjects during their first year, with concurrent enrolment in 25 points of first year mathematics.
Semester 1: One of the following:
COMP20007 Design of Algorithms; students must pass a C programming proficiency test at the start of semester (and optionally attend a 1-2 week intensive C programming course immediately before semester begins)
COMP20005 Engineering Computation; this subject covers C programming and does not presume prior knowledge of C
Semester 2: One of the following:
COMP20003 Algorithms and Data Structures; not permitted following COMP20007
SWEN20003 Object Oriented Software Development
INFO20002 Foundations of Informatics
INFO20003 Database Systems
Getting involved with this thread:Incorrect or Outdated InformationIf you believe there is something that is incorrect or outdated in this post, please feel free to send me a private message.
ResourcesIf you believe that there is a resource that cannot be ignored and should be added here, feel free to let me know and i'll add it!
Review of the SubjectI am keen to hear from students who have completed VCE Algorithmics. I would be happy to post in this thread your review, with your permission. Either PM me or post your review in the Algorithmics forum.
This thread will remain locked as it serves for information purposes only