Computer Science (with a Year in Industry) BSc (Hons)
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UCAS Code: I102|Duration: 4 years|Full Time|Hope Park
UCAS Campus Code: L46
Work placement opportunities|International students can apply|Study Abroad opportunities
About the course
Computer Science is all about new ideas, new opportunities and fresh thinking. There is no other discipline that can be applied to so many different areas and have such a profound impact on all aspects of society. The dynamism of this exciting subject is reflected in this degree through the study of a range of topics including networks, robotics, the Internet, and mobile and embedded computing and cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality.
Study this degree with us and you will acquire practical skills that are highly sought after by industry, such as programming in C, C++, Java, Lua, Python, JavaScript and C#.
Computer science-related jobs are not only appealing in their versatility, earning potential and demand, computer science has a wide-reaching social impact, posing many ethical questions, and these issues are examined at various points during the three years of study.
Computer Science is not only intellectually challenging, it is also THE most creative of subjects. As such the staff in the department will provide you with close academic and practical support. All staff in the Department are research active and have a varied background in a diverse range of interests, and this enhances your experience by providing a rich curriculum with exposure to multiple approaches and areas of research. If you are enthusiastic, inventive and looking to shape the future, or if you’re looking to leverage your love of technology to make a difference this degree is for you.
Rest assured. Computer Science is an incredible career choice for someone who wants
to change the world.
Course structure
Teaching on this degree is structured into lectures, where all students are taught together, seminars which are smaller groups of around 15-20 students, and tutorials which typically have no more than 10 students. You will also have the opportunity to have a one-to-one meeting with your tutor each week, and your third year is spent on placement in industry.
In your first year of study you will have approximately 12 teaching hours per week, which reduces to approximately 11 hours in your second and third years. On top of teaching hours, you are also expected to spend a number of hours studying independently each week, as well as working in groups to prepare for any group assessments you may have.
Assessment and feedback
During your degree, there are a variety of assessment types to ensure you are given a range of opportunities to demonstrate your knowledge, skills and understanding of the academic and professional components of the degree. These include written exams, portfolios of tasks and activities, and practical coursework. In your final year, there is also a dissertation or extended research project to complete.
You will be given written feedback on your assessments, and you will have the opportunity to discuss this with your tutor in more detail.
Year One
The first year provides a broad introduction to foundational computer science concepts across theoretical knowledge, problem solving, and practical skills. Students will get hands-on experience programming in Python and web development environments to build programs, applications, and websites. This develops computational thinking abilities.
Course topics cover:
- Professional Skills to prepare for computer science learning and expectations.
- Structured Problem Solving methodologies, with a focus on Python programming.
- Database Technology fundamentals, from theory to practice.
- Python Programming principles and practical application.
- Website Development basics.
- Computer Systems foundations.
Through this diverse first year curriculum, students gain well-rounded exposure to key computer science areas. They apply theoretical knowledge in practical Python and web programming projects. Hands-on skills in these coding languages and environments equip them with computational problem solving abilities. The courses provide a strong base for computer science mastery in later years, whether on the computer systems or data engineering track.
Year Two
In your second year, you will go deeper into Computer Science, expanding into both its theoretical and practical dimensions. This year will see a focus on specialized areas within the discipline, with each topic explored in detail.
- Object-oriented Programming with C++: Dive into the intricacies of the C++ programming language, using it not just as a tool, but as a medium to master the overarching principles of object-oriented coding and design. The Unified Modelling Language (UML) will be a component, aiding in the design and management of large-scale industry projects.
- Professional Skills: This topic equips you with a diverse set of skills essential for the professional realm. From communication to problem-solving, you'll be prepared to navigate the challenges of industry.
- Software Engineering: While Java is the language of choice here, this course is about more than just coding. It emphasizes teamwork, diverse project management approaches, and acquaints you with the cutting-edge technologies prevalent in the industry.
- Website Development: Building on your software engineering foundation, this topic looks into client- to server-side coding. You'll learn to integrate databases with websites, creating robust registration, login, and logout systems. Dynamic server interactions using AJAX and enhancing user experiences will also be key components.
- Algorithm Analysis and Design: Understand the heart of computational problem-solving. This course will introduce you to the design, analysis, and implementation of algorithms, ensuring you can develop efficient and effective solutions to complex problems.
- Networks: Dive into the world of computer network infrastructure and protocols. From understanding the roles of clients and servers to exploring physical media and the various types of networks, you'll gain insights into how data seamlessly travels across the digital realm.
- Human-computer Interaction: This course will immerse you in the study of how users interact with computer systems. You'll explore design principles, user experience, and the psychological aspects of user interfaces, ensuring the systems you design are both functional and user-friendly.
- Graphics with C++: Unlock the potential of visual computing. Using C++, you'll explore the principles of computer graphics, from basic rendering to animations, ensuring your applications are not only functional but visually captivating.
Year Three
You spend your third year on compulsory placement in industry.
Year Four
This year, your largest focus will be on your dissertation, centred around a topic of your interest. Alongside this, you'll explore several advanced subjects:
- Immersive Technologies (VR/AR and MR): You'll get hands-on with platforms like Unity and Unreal Engine, exploring both virtual and augmented realities. Additionally, you'll touch on browser-based VR, using our up-to-date facilities to test your projects.
- Internet of Things (IoT): This module introduces you to the interconnected world of IoT. You'll learn how everyday objects can communicate over the internet and will have access to modern tools to develop and test your ideas.
- Web Innovations: With a focus on advanced aspects of Javascript. You'll work with client-side applications using current libraries and explore server-side technologies like Node.JS and React.
- Intelligent Systems: This course delves into artificial intelligence, starting with foundational machine learning models. You'll progress to topics like genetic algorithms, different learning types (including reinforcement learning), and onto more advanced topics such as natural language processing, semi-supervised learning and meta-learning.
- Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing: Here, you'll focus on mobile application development, primarily for Android. Using tools like Android Studio and the Java programming language, you'll create and refine mobile applications.
During the course of the year, you will blend theory with practical application, preparing you for a future in computer science.
Entry requirements
| A-Levels | BCC |
|---|---|
| UCAS Tariff Points | 104 UCAS Tariff points must come from a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent). Additional points can be made up from a range of alternative qualifications |
| BTEC | DMM |
| Access to HE | 104 Tariff Points |
| IB | 24 |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | 104 Tariff Points from Higher Level qualifications only |
| Welsh Baccalaureate | This qualification can only be accepted in conjunction with other relevant qualifications |
| T-Levels | Merit |
| Subject Requirements | No specific subject requirements |
International entry requirements
| Specific Country Requirements | Select your country |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 overall (with reading and writing at 6.0) and no individual score lower than 5.5. We also accept a wide range of International Qualifications. For more information, please visit our English Language Requirements page. |
Careers
A degree in Computer Science will make you highly employable having developed practical skills as well as having studied the theoretical aspects of the subject. This degree will enable you to consider a range of careers such as software engineering, systems development and networking, as well as roles that involve the innovative application of computer technology to areas such as computer security or robotics.
Our recent graduates have found posts working as Technical and Systems Engineers, software analysts and software engineers in organisations such as Airbus, Barclays, Oracle and Microsoft.
Many of our graduates also go on to further study. There are opportunities to study taught Masters as well as Doctoral based qualifications at Liverpool Hope, working with staff on cutting-edge research projects.
Enhancement opportunities
Work Placement Opportunities
This degree includes a compulsory year in industry placement, giving you the opportunity to gain real workplace skills highly sought after by employers.
SALA
The Service and Leadership Award (SALA) is offered as an extra-curricular programme involving service-based experiences, development of leadership potential and equipping you for a career in a rapidly changing world. It enhances your degree, it is something which is complimentary but different and which has a distinct ‘value-added’ component. Find out more on our Service and Leadership Award page.
Study Abroad
As part of your degree, you can choose to spend either a semester or a full year of study at one of our partner universities as part of our Study Abroad programme. Find out more on our Study Abroad page.
Tuition fees
The tuition fees for the 2024/25 academic year are £9,250 for full-time undergraduate courses.
If you are a student from the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, your tuition fees will also be £9,250.
The University reserves the right to increase Home and EU Undergraduate and PGCE tuition fees in line with any inflationary or other increase authorised by the Secretary of State for future years of study.
Additional costs
As well as tuition fees, you need to consider additional costs such as books, hardware and software for your own personal computer/laptop, general computer consumables such as discs, USBs and printing, which will be approximately £500.
You will also need to consider the cost of your accommodation each year whilst you study at university. Visit our accommodation webpages for further details about our Halls of Residence.
Scholarships
We have a range of scholarships to help with the cost of your studies. Visit our scholarships page to find out more.
International tuition fees
The International Tuition fees for 2024/25 are £12,500.
Visit our International fees page for more information.