Computer Science BSc (Hons) – 2024 entry
Key information
Start date: September 2024
| Award | UCAS code | Course duration |
|---|---|---|
| BSc (Hons) | UCAS: G400 | 3 years View KIS data set |
| BSc (Hons) | UCAS: G406 | 4 years with foundation year View KIS data set |
| BSc (Hons) | UCAS: G401 | 4 years with professional training View KIS data set |
| BSc (Hons) | 5 years with foundation year and professional training |
Apply for your chosen course online through UCAS, with the following course and institution codes.
| Course | UCAS code | Institution code |
|---|---|---|
| BSc (Hons) with professional training | G401 | S85 |
| BSc (Hons) | G400 | S85 |
| BSc (Hons) with foundation year | G406 | S85 |
| BSc (Hons) with foundation year and professional training | S85 |
Why choose this course
1st
In the UK for information technology systems in the Complete University Guide 2023
3rd
In the UK for information technology in the National Student Survey 2022
Surrey is one of the UK’s leading universities for computer science, with an excellent record for graduate employability: 100 per cent of our computer science undergraduate students go on to employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes survey 2022, HESA).
We also run an award-winning Professional Training placements scheme, which gives students industry experience and prepares them for roles in various sectors.
Our BSc in Computer Science provides you with a solid foundation for designing the next generation of computational systems. It will also enable you to analyse and resolve issues with the latest software programs.
You’ll be taught by academics at the forefront of their field and you’ll have opportunities to attend lectures from industry experts.
What you will study
This course will develop your understanding of the concepts and principles that form the basis of computing systems.
We’ll provide you with the balance of knowledge and skills you need to design, implement and troubleshoot software and complex systems to a professional standard.
You may choose to complete a Professional Training placement, which will give you invaluable industry experience and opportunities to apply theory to real-world scenarios.
You’ll explore a wide range of topics, including:
- Artificial intelligence
- Computational mathematics
- Computer security
- Object-oriented programming.
This will involve using languages and tools such as Java, C++, Android, SQL, Python, MATLAB and assembler, plus specialist hardware such as Raspberry Pi computers.
Professional recognition
BSc (Hons) - BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT
Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.
BSc (Hons) - BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT
Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer.
Careers and graduate prospects
We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.
Computing skills are the foundation of numerous professional careers in many dynamic sectors, such as technology, business, finance, health and gaming.
Our course is designed to prepare you to work at the cutting edge of computing and its applications. It combines technology, industry relevance and professional training to produce highly employable people.
Our graduates are sought after in the software, consumer electronics, telecommunications and security industries, among others. They’re involved in many different fields, from software development and building simulation systems; to devising IT strategies and managing organisations.
Recent graduates are employed as:
- Analyst Programmer, Avco Systems Ltd
- Computer Programmer, Stanhope-Seta
- Forensic Data Analyst, PwC
- Software Developer, ID Business Solution
- Software Engineer, Xceptor
- Technology Associate, Morgan Stanley
- Technical Architecture Consultant, Accenture UK Ltd
- Testing and Continuous Delivery Architecture, Vodafone.
Staff
This course is taught by academic staff from the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering.
Accreditation
Academic year structure
The academic year is divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. Each semester consists of a period of teaching, revision/directed learning and assessment.
Modules
Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that modules may be subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.
The University operates a credit framework for all taught programmes based on a 15-credit tariff. Modules usually can be either 15, 30, 45 or 60, 75 and 120 credits, and additionally for some masters dissertations, 90 credits.
The structure of our programmes follow clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes.
Please note: The full module listing for the optional Professional Training placement part of your course can be viewed on the relevant programme specification.
Optional modules for Foundation - FHEQ Level 3
Students must choose one optional module in Semester 1 and one optional module in Semester 2
Optional modules for Year 3 - FHEQ Level 6
A total of 4 optional modules must be chosen. With selections, the resulting pattern shall result in a total, including the compulsory module, of EITHER 2 modules in semester 1 and 3 in semester 2, OR 3 modules in semester 1 and 2 in semester 2.
Note that in order to maintain BCS accreditation, 2 of the optional modules need to be chosen from the available COM3XXX modules, so only 2 modules can carry MAN3XXX codes.
| Module title | Status | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| PROFESSIONAL TRAINING YEAR MODULE (FULL-YEAR WORK) | Core | Year-long |
Optional modules for Year 3 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 6
A total of 4 optional modules must be chosen. With selections, the resulting pattern shall result in a total, including the compulsory module, of EITHER 2 modules in semester 1 and 3 in semester 2, OR 3 modules in semester 1 and 2 in semester 2.
Note that in order to maintain BCS accreditation, 2 of the optional modules need to be chosen from the available COM3XXX modules, so only 2 modules can carry MAN3XXX codes.
Timetables
Course timetables are normally available one month before the start of the semester. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week (Monday – Friday). Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities. View our Code of practice for the scheduling of teaching and assessment (PDF).
Teaching
Teaching includes large group lectures, small group tutorials, classes in our new computer science laboratory and drop-in sessions for programming.
You’ll benefit from an integrated range of learning methods ranging from tutorials, case studies, projects and coursework, to practical and discussion classes, including the use of interactive voting handsets.
In the early stages of your course, the methods of teaching and assessment aim to ensure you gain the relevant knowledge and skills.
The methods used in your final year broaden and deepen the knowledge you’ve already gained, and help you develop the specialist skills you’ll need as a professional.
Year coordinators are also available throughout your studies at Surrey to help with matters concerning your course or personal life.
There may be occasions when the delivery of your teaching is supported by graduate teaching assistants. The University has a set of procedures that govern the use of postgraduate research students in this way.
Assessment
We use a variety of methods to assess you, including:
- Coursework
- Essays
- Examinations
- Practical sessions
- Presentations.
Contact hours
Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the University of Surrey's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.
Entry requirements
Do I meet the requirements for this course?
We require you to submit a full application so that we can formally assess whether you meet the criteria published. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide an outcome based on an enquiry (via email, webform enquiry, phone or live chat).
International entry requirements by country
Other international qualifications
If you are an international student and you don’t meet the entry requirements to this degree, we offer the International Foundation Year at the Surrey International Study Centre. Upon successful completion, you can progress to this degree course.
English language requirements
IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each element.
View the other English language qualifications that we accept.
If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.
Selection process
We normally make offers in terms of grades.
If you are a suitable candidate you will be invited to an offer holder event. During your visit to the University you can find out more about the course and meet staff and students.
Foundation
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, you might still be able to apply for this course with a foundation year. A course with a foundation year includes an extra year of study to prepare you for a full degree course. Find out more about our degrees with foundation year.
Recognition of prior learning
We recognise that many students enter their higher education course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of professional, vocational and community contexts.
If this applies to you, the recognition of prior learning (RPL) process may allow you to join a course without the formal entry requirements or enter your course at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience.
There are restrictions on RPL a for some courses and fees may be payable for certain claims. Please see the code of practice for recognition of prior learning and prior credit: taught programmes (PDF) for further information.
Please contact Admissions on +44 (0)1483 682222 with any queries.
Fees
The annual tuition fees for courses starting in September 2024
BSc (Hons)
- UK
- To be confirmed
- Overseas
- To be confirmed
BSc (Hons) (with foundation year)
- UK
- To be confirmed
BSc (Hons) (with professional training year)
- UK
- To be confirmed
- Overseas
- To be confirmed
- Professional training
- To be confirmed
BSc (Hons) (with foundation and professional training year)
- UK
- To be confirmed
- Professional training
- To be confirmed
View a complete listing of all ongoing fees for our undergraduate courses.
- Fees for UK students: The University will apply annual regulated increases in the fee rates as set by Government each year, in order to maintain the same value in real terms.
- Fees for EU students: The UK is now no longer part of the EU, we are awaiting further instruction from the UK government and we will publish this as soon as it is provided. Find out more information about Studying in the UK and the Scholarships for EU students.
- Fees for international students: Annual fees will increase by 4% for each subsequent year of study, rounded up to the nearest £100, subject to any overriding applicable legislative requirements.
- Fees for international students with an integrated foundation year: The programme fee for Year 0 will match the lowest Year 1 overseas fee rate from across the substantive programmes for that year of entry. Students subsequently progressing into Year 1 will be liable for the same fee as overseas students joining at Year 1 for the same programme in that year. Annual fees after Year 1 will increase by 4% for each subsequent year of study, rounded up to the nearest £100, subject to any overriding applicable legislative requirements.
The University will assess your fee status. If you are unsure whether you are likely to be considered a home, EU or overseas student for fees purposes, the UKCISA website offers more information.
Payment schedule
- Students in receipt of a Tuition Fee Loan: will have their fees paid by the Student Loans Company in line with their schedule.
- International students, or UK/EU students who have not taken out a Tuition Fee Loan: are required to pay their fees either in full at the beginning of the programme or in two instalments as follows:
- 50% payable 10 days after the invoice date (expected to be early October of each academic year)
- 50% in January of the same academic year.
The exact date(s) will be detailed on invoices. Students on certain part-time programmes, where fees are paid on a modular or stage basis, are not eligible to pay their fees by instalment.
If you are sponsored: you will provide us with valid sponsorship information that covers the period of your study.
Professional Training placement fees
If you are studying on a programme which contains a Professional Training placement year there will be a reduced fee for the academic year in which you undertake your placement. This is normally confirmed 12 to 18 months in advance, or once Government policy is determined.
See the information about 2023/24 academic year Professional Training placement fees.
Additional costs
There are associated costs with this course:
- Books/stationery/admin: Costs may be incurred associated with the purchase of writing paper and associated stationary
- Commuting (local travel expenses): Depending on placement, students can incur travel, visa and accommodation costs.
These additional costs are accurate as of September 2022 and apply to the 2023 year of entry. Costs for 2024 entry will be published in September 2023.
Placements
Our award-winning Professional Training programme offers you the option to spend a career-enhancing year in industry, either in the UK or abroad. We have thousands of placement providers to choose from or you can source your own placement.
Most placements are paid, and we will support you every step of the way.
Find out more about Professional Training placements and discover how these have transformed our students’ lives and career choices.
Computer science placements
Many computer science students continue working with their placement employers by basing their final-year project on work related to that company. This results in a project with a strong industrial focus that demonstrates their ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world problems.
The Professional Training placement counts towards the experience required for professional membership of the British Computer Society (BCS). Our students take up placements at a wide range of companies. Recent examples include:
- Accenture
- Avco Systems Ltd
- BAE Systems
- Cisco Systems Ltd
- IBM
- Microsoft
- Nintendo
- Sky TV
- Sony Europe Ltd
- Xceptor.
Applying for placements
Students are generally not placed by the University, however we offer support and guidance throughout the process alongside access to a vacancy portal representing thousands of placement opportunities each year. We also provide support if you wish to source your own placement.
Find out more about the application process.
Please be aware there may be travel costs incurred when attending interviews and assessment centres at the placement provider’s premises.
Find out how students at Surrey developed their skills in industry by undertaking a placement year.
Study and work abroad
Studying at Surry opens up a world of opportunity. We want you to take advantage of our international partnerships, explore the world and expand your skills for the graduate job market.
Perhaps you would like to volunteer in India or learn about Brazilian business and culture in São Paulo during your summer holidays? With more than 200 partnerships, from 50 different countries worldwide, there is something for everyone.
View our study and work abroad information to find out more and see where you can go.
Partner institutions
In your second year, you’ll have the option of spending a semester abroad at one of our partner universities. Students have studied in:
- America
- Australia
- Canada
- China.
Find out more about our international partner institutions. You may wish to spend your Professional Training placement working in another country. Students have worked at Movilitas in Germany, Pfizer in the US and Yokogawa Europe in the Netherlands.
Students share their experiences of going on an international exchange to Hong Kong.
Terms and conditions
When you accept an offer of a place at the University of Surrey, you are agreeing to comply with our policies and procedures, the student regulations , and our terms and conditions. These terms and conditions are provided in two stages: first when we make an offer and second when students who have accepted their offers register to study at the University. View our offer terms and conditions for the 2023/24 academic year and our registration terms and conditions (PDF) for the 2022/23 academic year as a guide as to what to expect.
Please note: our offer terms and conditions will generally be available in the September of the calendar year prior to the year in which you begin your studies. Our registration terms and conditions will vary to take into account specifics of your course and changes for the specific academic year.
Disclaimer
This online prospectus has been prepared and published in advance of the academic year to which it applies. The University of Surrey has used its reasonable efforts to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content or additional costs) may occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us and before you accept an offer. Read our full disclaimer.
Course location and contact details
Campus location
Stag HillStag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught.
Placement location
As part of this course you have the option to complete a Professional Training placement which would require attendance off campus, depending on where you secure your placement.
University of Surrey Admissions
- Phone: +44 (0)1483 682222
Address
University of Surrey
Guildford
Surrey GU2 7XH