Computing Science BSc (Hons)

Undergraduate

Two Computing Science students working at computers

Develop practical computing skills to solve real-world technology challenges.

Year of entry

2026-27 2027-28

Location

CU Scarborough (Scarborough)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

Course code

I102

Start date

September 2027

How to apply

Book an Open Event

Download a prospectus

Course overview

Computing science is about understanding how digital technologies work, how systems are built and how software, data and connected devices can be used to solve problems. This course is designed to help you develop practical skills in programming, systems, data, web technologies and software development, alongside the professional skills needed for a fast-moving technology sector.

On this course, you’ll explore core areas of computing science, including programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, networking, computer hardware, web development, data science, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and information security.

You’ll develop practical and analytical skills by working with computing problems, software solutions, technical reports and project-based activities. This course is designed to help you connect computing theory with practical application, from understanding how systems operate to designing, developing and evaluating technology solutions.

Why you should study this course

Develop practical programming skills
Build confidence in problem-solving, algorithmic thinking and programming using a high-level language such as Python.
Understand how computing systems work
Explore operating systems, networking, computer hardware, data structures and connected technologies to understand how modern digital systems are designed and supported.
Design and develop technology solutions
Use practical tasks, case studies and project-based work to design, develop, test and evaluate computing solutions.
Build knowledge of data and emerging technologies
Study areas such as data science, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and contemporary issues shaping the future of computing.
Explore user-focused web and interface design
Develop understanding of human-computer interaction, usability and web development to support the design of effective digital systems.
Develop professional and transferable skills
Strengthen communication, teamwork, research, critical thinking, project management and technical reporting skills alongside your computing knowledge.
Study one module at a time
Focus on one 30-credit module over a six-week block. This approach uses practical, exam-free assessments to build your knowledge step by step with regular feedback.

What you'll study

Modules

Networking Principles – 30 credits

Gain foundational knowledge of computer networks and cybersecurity by exploring how modern networked systems operate, how devices communicate, and how data flows securely across local- and wide-area networks.

This module covers essential networking concepts including network topologies, protocols, IP addressing, switching, routing and wireless communication. You will be introduced to core security principles, including threats, vulnerabilities, secure configurations, access control and basic defensive techniques.

By the end of this module, you should understand how networks are built and secured, and how to apply best practices in both network operations and security.

Compulsory

Operating Systems – 30 credits

Information Security – 30 credits

This module examines the critical issues of IT security and risk management. You will critically analyse the diverse threats computers face, ranging from malware and viruses to sophisticated hacking techniques.

As you develop your knowledge of the legal, social, ethical and professional issues associated with cybersecurity, you will evaluate the complexities of ethical hacking and internet security. By exploring the advantages and drawbacks of various security protocols, you should gain a comprehensive understanding of how to protect systems in a contemporary digital landscape.

Compulsory

Problem Solving and Programming – 30 credits

This module introduces you to basic problem-solving, algorithm design techniques and the core concepts of data structures. You will study these alongside fundamental programming principles and language concepts to build a strong technical foundation.

As you gain an understanding of the syntax and semantics of a high-level programming language, such as Python, you will explore the essential principles of developing well-engineered software. By applying supporting tools and techniques, you should transition from writing basic code to creating robust, professional-standard applications.

Compulsory

Modules

Computer Hardware – 30 credits

This module focuses on computer architecture and operations, particularly how these affect the support of operating systems and applications.

You will investigate the impact of computer architecture on performance and examine advanced topics such as uniprocessor design, storage system design and parallel architectures. You will also learn how to develop software that can interact directly with computer hardware, whether physical or virtual.

Compulsory

Human Computer Interaction and Web Development – 30 credits

In this technical module, you will respond to challenging communication, interface and application design problems commonly faced in modern society.

You will be encouraged to respond creatively through participatory design, rapid prototype evaluation and contextual, task and user interaction modelling. You will explore Human Computer Interaction and usability engineering theory to support the design of high-quality interfaces for computer and web systems.

Compulsory

Artificial Intelligence Concepts – 30 credits

Data is one of the most valuable commodities of the 21st century, and the ability to understand and work with it is essential across modern computing disciplines. Learn how to analyse, validate and interpret data to support effective decision-making, and explore how artificial intelligence (AI) techniques can be implemented to solve real-world problems.

This module introduces core AI concepts, including problem-solving strategies, knowledge representation and machine learning. Investigate how these techniques can be adapted to identify unusual patterns, detect potential threats and enhance system resilience. Through practical activities, you will apply AI methods to realistic scenarios, gaining hands-on experience using data-driven solutions to address the needs of contemporary computing environments.

Compulsory

Internet of Things – 30 credits

This module introduces the principles, technologies and architectures that enable connected and intelligent systems. Explore how modern smart technologies such as sensors, embedded systems, communication devices, automation tools and cloud-based platforms work together to create connected environments. Examine key concepts such as device integration, data acquisition, connectivity, edge intelligence and smart automation, and evaluate security solutions.

Compulsory

To help you explore a potential career path and apply your learning in a professional setting, you may have the opportunity to undertake a work placement2 between your second and final years of study. Work placements can help you gain practical experience, develop transferable skills and better understand the type of work you may want to do in the future.

Placements are optional and are not guaranteed. You will need to apply for opportunities, and each placement must be approved before it can count towards your placement year. Employers or host organisations make the final selection decisions, and you may need to meet academic, conduct, right-to-work, visa or other eligibility requirements.

Key opportunities:

Complete an approved work placement: apply for practical experience related to your course and career ambitions, typically lasting at least 26 weeks.
Reflect on professional development: recognise and document the skills, knowledge and experience you gain during your time in industry.
Broaden your global perspective: where available, you may be able to apply for an international work or study opportunity. These opportunities may depend on availability, academic approval, eligibility, visa and travel requirements, and additional costs.

This optional year is non-credit-bearing. If you successfully complete it, your experience will be formally recognised on your final degree certificate.

If you are sponsored by the University and choose to apply for an international work placement, you must comply with UKVI immigration regulations. You can contact us for guidance before making arrangements.

Modules

Data Science – 30 credits

In this module, you will work with databases and datasets of varying sizes and levels of complexity, from small-scale use to enterprise-level implementations.

You will use technical skills to understand the big data ecosystem and carry out data analytics tasks on large-volume datasets. You will explore how to extract meaningful information from data, evaluate algorithms and big data analytics techniques, and apply data visualisation to support business decision-making while considering legal, ethical and professional issues.

Compulsory

Individual Computing Science Project – 30 credits

This module allows you to focus on an area of interest within computing science, which may align with your future career interests.

Throughout the project, you will be asked to demonstrate research, problem-solving, design and development skills through practical implementation, investigation and evaluation. This may include gathering and analysing secondary evidence, developing a system or artefact to investigate a defined computing science issue, and communicating findings in report form.

Compulsory

Professional Communication and Project Management – 30 credits

Improve your ability to work effectively across cultures and distributed teams in ways that reflect real industry practice. Deepen your critical thinking, research and professional documentation skills to support effective project scoping, decision-making and evaluation.

Learn how to enhance your communication and collaboration abilities to coordinate tasks, engage with stakeholders and manage project workflows effectively. These integrated capabilities should equip you to plan, manage and deliver a final-year project with confidence and in alignment with industry expectations.

Compulsory

Contemporary Issues in Computing – 30 credits

This module examines contemporary and emerging technologies, applications and professional issues in computing. You will engage with research and advanced practice literature to extend and broaden your subject knowledge. The curriculum focuses on professional, ethical, business and societal issues through an international lens.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content to keep it relevant and current for our students. Consequently, we may update modules to reflect the latest industry standards.

How you'll learn

Teaching and learning methods may include:

lectures: gain expert insights and a structured overview of key computing concepts, technologies and current research
seminars: engage in discussion and debate, deepening your understanding of computing issues, professional practice and emerging technologies
tutorials: receive personalised guidance to solve technical problems, consolidate learning and develop confidence with computing concepts
presentations: develop communication skills and the ability to explain technical ideas, project outcomes and computing solutions clearly
group projects: build teamwork and collaboration skills while working on practical computing challenges and technology-focused tasks
workshops: apply knowledge hands-on, enhancing practical skills in programming, systems, data, web development or technical problem-solving
online learning: access flexible resources for self-paced study and reinforcement of key concepts
problem-solving tasks: apply computing concepts to practical challenges, strengthening analytical thinking and technical decision-making
simulations: explore realistic computing scenarios, helping you test ideas and apply technical concepts in context
computer-based activities: develop practical digital skills through programming, data tasks, software tools and computing-related applications
technical reports: develop your ability to document, explain and evaluate technical work clearly for academic and professional audiences.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 30-credit module requires 300 hours of study. Study hours are made up of teaching contact hours and guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary, depending on where you are in your studies, but on average, you will have between 10 and 12 teaching and learning hours each week. You will also have the option to attend additional sessions, including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You will be digging deeper into topics, reviewing what you’ve learnt and completing assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress to the end of your studies, you’ll spend more time on independent learning.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods, including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary by module and may include:

coursework
technical reports
essays
projects
practical tasks
portfolios
group work
presentations
peer review
system development tasks
scenario exercises
time-constrained assessments
individual project work.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures fair assessment and supports student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

What we're looking for
104 UCAS tariff points, Minimum one A level or equivalent, BTEC National Certificate or Diploma in a relevant subject, IB Diploma to be confirmed, GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards, Access to HE: Appropriate Foundation/Access qualification where the standard achieved is deemed equivalent, T Level: Overall Merit in Science.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Offer, you could automatically receive a contextual offer which is 16 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Offer.

What we're looking for
104 UCAS tariff points, Minimum one A level or equivalent, BTEC National Certificate or Diploma in a relevant subject, IB Diploma to be confirmed, GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards, Access to HE: Appropriate Foundation/Access qualification where the standard achieved is deemed equivalent, T Level: Overall Merit in Science.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on how to apply and travelling to and living in the UK.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 overall (with no component part lower than 5.5)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	2027/28 fees TBC 2026/27 fees: £9,790 per year	Not available
EU	2027/28 fees TBC 2026/27 fees: £9,790 per year with EU Support Bursary 2027/28 fees TBC 2026/27 fees: £15,500 per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	2027/28 fees TBC 2026/27 fees: £15,500 per year	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2028/29 will pay £1,575 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,900 if they are paying international fees.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Fees and Funding page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the table above for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI), a UK measure of inflation that tracks changes in the cost of living.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement or study abroad year, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2028/29. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above RPI.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) you may be charged the tuition fees in force at the time you take that additional period of study, and/or in line with any legislative changes that apply at that time.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad) which may include costs of travel, accommodation, equipment or uniform required for the placement and any visa-related costs.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We assess your fee status using the information in your application. This status determines your tuition fees and the scholarships or financial support you can get. The Department for Education sets the rules for who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees in England.

The regulations list which students can pay the home fee rate. Because these rules are complex, the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides fee status guidance to help you find the right category. If you meet all the criteria for one category, your institution must charge you the home rate.

Facilities

Our Cyber Lab is a dedicated space designed to provide you with a practical learning environment for conducting research, testing and experimentation.

Our purpose-built campus provides a modern, open-plan environment designed for both group work and quiet study. You can use the ground-floor library, IT suites and laptop loan scheme to get your work done whenever it suits you. Between classes, grab a coffee in the on-site café or catch up with friends in the central social spaces.

You’ll use facilities through timetabled teaching, practical activities and relevant independent study. Access may vary by module, activity, capacity, supervision or safety requirements. Access may change or be limited where the University needs to follow public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

Computing skills are needed across almost every sector, from technology and business to public services, finance, healthcare, education, manufacturing and the creative industries. As organisations continue to rely on software, data, connected systems and digital platforms, there is demand for people who can understand technology, solve problems and support the development of effective digital solutions.

This course is designed to support possible future routes in software development, web development, data, IT, systems analysis, technical support, technology consultancy and related computing fields. You may also choose to progress to further training or postgraduate study in computing or a related area.

Possible career paths may include:

software developer
web developer
mobile application development roles
systems analyst
IT support or technical support roles
data analyst or data support roles
database or systems administration roles
software testing roles
technology consultant
project support roles
cyber security-related roles
video game designing roles
network and computer systems administration
postgraduate study in computing or related areas.

These are examples of possible career paths. Some roles may require further training, professional accreditation or experience.

How to apply

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time UK undergraduate students can apply through UCAS. Otherwise, you will need to apply to CU Scarborough directly. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 6565

ukadmissions.cu@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
CUGU015

International students should apply to CU Scarborough directly. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International pages or Coventry University Group's International hub.

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 6565

cus@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Coventry University, Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations, partnerships and memberships

Some of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply. See the relevant body website for more details). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships are subject to successful renewal in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the University maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. If the accreditation, recognition or membership of this course changes, we will notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. Before seeking an overseas placement, read our visa advice page.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first academic year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year.

For UK (home) students, if the Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees annually but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (for example to repeat a year or resit examinations) you may be charged the tuition fees in force at the time you take that additional period of study, and/or in line with any legislative changes that apply at that time.

⁴Facilities

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised. Availability and access may be reduced or restricted when the University is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders or internal health and safety requirements.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the University. A copy of the current 2026/2027 contract is available for information purposes only. The 2027/28 contract will apply to the 2027/28 intakes and may differ from the current version. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the University will owe to you. You should read the applicable Student Contract carefully before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the University.

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Student life

Accommodation

Fees and funding

Computing Science BSc (Hons)

Year of entry

Location

Study mode

Duration

Course code

Start date

Course overview

Why you should study this course

What you'll study

Modules

Modules

Modules

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours

Guided and independent study

Online learning

Assessment

Entry requirements

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

English language requirements

Fees and funding

*Irish student fees

**EU Support Bursary

Facilities

Careers and opportunities

How to apply

¹Accreditations, partnerships and memberships

²UK and international opportunities

³Tuition fees

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

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Computing Science BSc (Hons)

Course features

Year of entry

Location

Study mode

Duration

Course code

Start date

Course overview

Why you should study this course

What you'll study

Modules

Modules

Modules

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours

Guided and independent study

Online learning

Assessment

Entry requirements

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

English language requirements

Fees and funding

*Irish student fees

**EU Support Bursary

Facilities

Careers and opportunities

How to apply

You may also like

Cyber Security BSc (Hons)

Your next steps

Discover Uni stats