A week in the life of a computer science undergraduate
From lectures and practical sessions to group projects and independent study, no two days are necessarily the same. Discover what a typical week looks like as a first-year undergraduate computer science student at Surrey.
What will I study?
If you choose to study Computer Science, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, or Computer Science and Cyber Security at Surrey, you'll start with a shared first year designed to give you a strong foundation in computer science. You'll then decide whether you'd like to specialise in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence or Cyber Security from Year 2.
You'll study topics including, Foundations of Computing, Computer Logic, Data and Database Systems, Software Engineering and Object-Oriented Programming and much more. This means you'll develop knowledge across areas such as programming, algorithms, databases, software engineering, computer systems and the mathematical foundations of computing.
How will I be taught?
You'll experience a mixture of teaching and learning activities, including lectures, practical and laboratory sessions, tutorials, group work and independent study.
You'll have opportunities to put what you learn into practice rather than simply learning theory. Your contact hours vary between modules, so there isn't a single number of hours that applies to every week. Alongside scheduled teaching, you'll be expected to spend time working independently on activities such as preparation, reading, coursework, programming and projects.
Outside of these, you’ll be expected to carry out independent study, including reading, coursework and project work.
Where will I be taught?
We have a range of study spaces available, including our library, open 24/7, during semester, MySurrey Hive, MySurrey Dots, specialist rooms, computer labs and other more relaxed spaces like our Hillside Coffee café or the Hideout. And best of all, as a computer science undergraduate, you will have access to our purpose-built, 200-seater Computer Science Laboratory.
Will I be in lectures all the time?
You'll be busy, but it isn't a case of sitting in lectures from 9am to 5pm every day. Your timetable will vary depending on your modules. Some parts of the week may involve scheduled teaching, while others give you time to work independently, complete assignments, prepare for practical sessions or work with your project team.
Will I have time for other interests?
Absolutely. Your degree is only one part of university life. Students have access to more than 170 student clubs and societies, with interests ranging from mixed martial arts to mah jong, and poker to politics. For Computer Science students, CompSoc is a natural place to start. The society provides opportunities to meet other students, take part in social activities and engage with the wider computing community. You can also get involved with HackSurrey and take part in hackathons and other technology-focused activities.
Surrey Sports Park, on the University's Manor Park campus, offers a wide range of sporting facilities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool and climbing walls. Whether you're a competitive athlete or simply want to try something new, there are plenty of ways to stay active alongside your studies.
What’s life like outside lectures?
Many of the facilities you’ll use regularly are within a short walk of the main Stag Hill campus including the Students’ Union building, grocery shopping, wellbeing and support services, the launderette and the medical centre.
Guildford’s picturesque cobbled high street boasts a wide range of shops and restaurants, plus an excellent range of pubs and a busy nightlife. The town is also only a 35-minute train journey to London.
Read more about our undergraduate computer science courses.
Disclaimer: The modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication and may be subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.