Computer Science – BSc (Honours)

At a glance

Learn to build high-quality software applications which solve real problems. Understand the fundamental principles which underpin software development and gain in-depth knowledge of both the theoretical advances and practical techniques required of modern programmers. You can apply and extend your knowledge and skills with a paid, year-long industrial placement.

Key points
• Study in well-resourced IT laboratories with the latest industry tools.• Get the latest industry perspectives from employers like ZOO Digital, IBM and Citrix.
• Gain real professional experience with a paid one-year placement in industry.

What is computer science?
Computer science is the academic discipline which examines the basic principles of computation and applies those principles to the development of software and systems. Subjects studied within the discipline range from theories of programming to cutting-edge development techniques. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories • designing and building software • developing effective ways to solve computing problems • devising new and better ways of using computers.

This course

Learn how to develop complex software and systems using analytical and mathematical approaches. This course is ideal for you if you want to become a programmer and learn the fundamental principles that support and strengthen the software which powers our world.

On the course you learn how to apply the theoretical ideas in computing and computation to solving complex, real-world problems. You also learn about industry perspectives with seminars and workshops from the Institution of Engineering and Technology and employers, such as IBM, BT and Eli Lilly.

The course emphasises the balance between theory and practice as you learn how to specify, design, implement and analyse software applications.

Once you’ve studied and worked on projects in the University, you can then put what you’ve learnt into practice in the real world with a one-year paid work placement at one of our national or international partner institutions. Thanks to our department’s reputation, students choose from placement partners that include • BT • HSBC • the British Standards Institute • GCHQ • the police. Work placements offer you valuable experience, and let you apply your knowledge and skills to the industry.

An important part of your academic study is based on professional development. You gain interview and presentation skills, CV and application writing skills and learn how to set up a small business or enterprise.

You also benefit from our investment in excellent digital facilities including the Digital Design Centre, which is home to six specialist IT laboratories.

Key areas of study
You develop your skills in • programming • software design • analysis of algorithms and data structures • the design and implementation of computer languages • creative and critical thinking.

Alongside the specialised computer science topics, you study the general computing topics that are also needed in the jobs market. These include • computer architecture • design and development of database systems • computer networking • project management.