BSc Computer Science

Develop valuable, sought-after computing knowledge and skills to pursue a wide range of professions, with our three-year BSc Computer Science degree.

Computer science – with the application of data science – has a colossal impact on modern society and is the cornerstone of every digital technology used in our daily lives.

You'll join the University of Reading’s Department of Computer Science, where 100% of our research impact has been classed outstanding or very considerable (REF 2021, combining 4* and 3* submissions – Computer Science and Informatics).

Reading has the fourth highest number of digital tech organisations in the UK ("UK’s Top Digital Tech Cities", March 2020, The Data City) and in 2023 ranked 2nd in The Data City’s list of UK AI hotspots. Companies such as Microsoft, Oracle, Cisco Systems, and Intel have their UK headquarters nearby, and often employ our students after graduation.

Our BSc Computer Science degree is accredited by the British Computer Society – the Chartered Institute for IT.

What you’ll learn

You’ll study on our parkland campus at Whiteknights, which has been voted among the best and most popular green spaces in the UK for 14 consecutive years in the Green Flag awards. Reading is located in the heart of the 'UK's Silicon Valley', a hub for the computer science industry.

During this degree, you will explore a wide range of topics that include:

complex computing systems
big data analytics
computer vision
blockchain computing
artificial intelligence and machine learning
software systems development
networking
data security
ethics.

Get to grips with several programming/scripting languages including:

C
C++
Java
Python
JavaScript.

Our teaching approach

You’ll be taught by lecturers with expertise across a broad range of areas, with extensive experience in both academic and industrial applications, who will help you to develop and apply your technical skills. 94% of our students said teaching staff are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2024, 94.44% of responders from the Department of Computer Science).

This degree has a strong focus on career management. A series of skills development opportunities allow you to develop valuable, transferable skills – such as teamwork and communication – aiming to enhance your employability and set you apart from other graduates.

You also have the option to further your knowledge and skills with hands-on experience in industry with our four-year BSc Computer Science with Industrial Year. This pathway gives you the opportunity to apply for a year-long paid placement as part of your degree.

Specialist computer science tools and expertise

We use a wide range of software packages to support your learning. These include:

tools for software/apps development
data analytics algorithms
system modelling languages
cloud and parallel computing platforms
mathematical manipulation (eg MatLab).

Additionally, we offer free access to commercial software and servers, and our dedicated computer laboratories are available to students Monday to Friday, 08:00-18:00. 94% of our students said it has been easy to access subject-specific resources (eg, equipment, facilities, software, collection) when they needed to (National Student Survey 2024, 94.44% of responders from the Department of Computer Science).

Study Abroad

As part of your degree, you can choose to spend an academic year abroad. Potential destinations include Australia, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, South Korea, Sweden, and the United States.

We'll help you to decide where to go and for how long, guide you through the application process, and support you while you're abroad.

To find out more about the benefits of studying abroad, and discover where you could go, visit the Study Abroad website.

Overview

Develop valuable, sought-after computing knowledge and skills to pursue a wide range of professions, with our three-year BSc Computer Science degree.

Computer science – with the application of data science – has a colossal impact on modern society and is the cornerstone of every digital technology used in our daily lives.

Our BSc Computer Science degree is accredited by the British Computer Society – the Chartered Institute for IT.

Learning

What you’ll learn

During this degree, you will explore a wide range of topics that include:

complex computing systems
big data analytics
computer vision
blockchain computing
artificial intelligence and machine learning
software systems development
networking
data security
ethics.

Get to grips with several programming/scripting languages including:

C
C++
Java
Python
JavaScript.

Our teaching approach

Specialist computer science tools and expertise

We use a wide range of software packages to support your learning. These include:

tools for software/apps development
data analytics algorithms
system modelling languages
cloud and parallel computing platforms
mathematical manipulation (eg MatLab).

Study Abroad

As part of your degree, you can choose to spend an academic year abroad. Potential destinations include Australia, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, South Korea, Sweden, and the United States.

We'll help you to decide where to go and for how long, guide you through the application process, and support you while you're abroad.

To find out more about the benefits of studying abroad, and discover where you could go, visit the Study Abroad website.

Entry requirements A Level ABB

Select Reading as your firm choice on UCAS and we'll guarantee you a place even if you don't quite meet your offer. For details, see our firm choice scheme.

Our typical offers are expressed in terms of A level, BTEC and International Baccalaureate requirements. However, we also accept many other qualifications. No specific subjects are required at A level or equivalent.

Typical offer

ABB

International Baccalaureate

32 points overall

GCSE

Maths at grade B (6)

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDM

Extended Project Qualification

In recognition of the excellent preparation that the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) provides to students for University study, we can now include achievement in the EPQ as part of a formal offer.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5

For information on other English language qualifications, please visit our international student pages.

Alternative entry requirements for International and EU students

For country specific entry requirements look at entry requirements by country.

International Foundation Programme

If you are an international or EU student and do not meet the requirements for direct entry to your chosen degree you can join the University of Reading’s International Foundation Programme. Successful completion of this 1 year programme guarantees you a place on your chosen undergraduate degree. English language requirements start as low as IELTS 4.5 depending on progression degree and start date.

Learn more about our International Foundation programme

Pre-sessional English language programme

If you need to improve your English language score you can take a pre-sessional English course prior to entry onto your degree.

Find out the English language requirements for our courses and our pre-sessional English programme

Compulsory modules

Computer Systems Architecture

Develop foundational knowledge of computer system architecture, including binary representation, machine language, processors, and memory, and understand the joint forces of hardware and software interaction.

Databases

Implement and manage a database to structure, store, access and retrieve data by taking methodological steps. You’ll develop your problem-solving, critical thinking and teamworking abilities, alongside awareness of end-user needs and testing.

Mathematics and Computation

Consider the application of mathematics and algorithms to computer and data science. You’ll be presented with relevant mathematics in linear algebra and data analysis and apply these through implementations in MATLAB.

Imperative Programming

Learn how to write small programs using Java, as well as basic algorithms and fundamental software development practices such as version control, specification and testing.

Object-Oriented Programming

Collaborate as a team to develop a program and use it to share and merge source code. As well as developing key programming skills, you’ll increase your abilities in complex problem solving.

Optional modules

Applications of Computer Science

Explore the applications of computer science by selecting and applying techniques in computing problem contexts. You’ll employ relevant aspects in the systems of artificial intelligence, computer vision and robotics.

Institution Wide Language Programme

These are the modules that we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Data Structures and Algorithms

Explore these two essentials of computer programming and develop your teamwork abilities, critical thinking and professional writing skills. You’ll solve a large problem that integrates components of data structures, algorithm development and implementation.

Operating Systems and Networking

Develop your understanding of modern operating systems, basic concepts and theories of computer networks. You’ll review the history and development of operating systems and apply theories in computer communications to real world networks.

Artificial Intelligence

Apply fundamental methods in artificial intelligence to various real-world problems. You’ll expand your critical thinking skills to solve large problems, together with your writing skills for algorithm development and software implementation.

Programming in Python

Using Python programming languages, develop your skills and knowledge to use current tools in general program designs, development and data science. You’ll also develop transferable professional skills for a variety of fields that use programming.

Software Systems Design

Explore object-oriented analyses and design (OOAD) skills, concepts and principles. You’ll learn unified modelling language (UML) techniques to design software systems and gain understanding of methodology.

Software Engineering and Professional Development

Discover software engineering as a systematic approach to software development. You’ll study and apply paradigm and methodology to inform software development, innovation, management and sustainability in response to the fast-changing digital era.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Degree Project

Conduct a professional project within a specific area of computer science, demonstrating initiative and creativity and applying the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired throughout your studies.

Optional modules

Image Analysis and Visual Intelligence

Gain theoretical and practical knowledge of image analysis and computer vision by using real-world applications. You’ll develop professional skills such as problem solving, team-working, critical analysis, creativity and technical report writing for various audiences.

Distributed and Parallel Computing

Understand concepts and principles that underpin distributed systems and industry standard processes. You’ll learn advanced programming in C++ that allows you to specialise in the field, for example in big data analytics or as a scientific programmer.

Virtual Reality, Games and Graphics

Study virtual reality in terms of scientific issues, application areas and strengths and weaknesses of the technology. You’ll use software to design virtual worlds and/or games and learn techniques for their creation using computer graphics.

Blockchain and Security

Deploy blockchain for various applications, gaining a theoretical and practical understanding that develops your critical thinking, writing and design skills. You’ll reflect on rationale, benefits and potential societal and environmental impacts, specifically carbon emissions.

Data Integration and Information Visualisation

Transform raw data into visual insights to develop your understanding of data integration. You’ll work with peers to critically reflect on design process and outcomes, using commercial software tools and writing professionally for software design documents.

Machine Learning

Examine concepts in machine learning such as shallow/conventional, ensemble and deep learning methods. You’ll apply these to problems including classification, regression and language modelling and write for algorithm development and software implementation.

Text Mining and Natural Language Processing

Study the field of text mining and natural language processing, focusing on the theories and practice of processing text data from the aspects of lexicons, syntactics and semantics.

HCI and Web Applications Development

Study the interaction between computers and humans, using Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) methodologies to enhance useability of web applications. You’ll learn scripting languages, such as JavaScript, to develop web application interface.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250

New international students: £29,950

* UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government's guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

Careers

Our BSc Computer Science degree will prepare you for a wide range of careers in the constantly evolving field of computing, whether you wish to join big multinational companies, small start-ups, or develop your own business.

As well as embedding skills development into your learning, we regularly organise for employers to come in and talk with our students about CVs, interviews and the recruitment process. As a student at Reading, you will also benefit from one-to-one sessions which help you create your CV, practice interviews and mock assessment centres.

You will be ideally placed to take advantage of the high density of tech businesses in the area by making connections with like-minded industry people at local tech and developer meetups. You can raise your own professional profile while solving real-world problems and talking through the latest discoveries and innovations.

Our graduates are well placed to progress to careers in areas including:

software engineer
software development
systems analyst
data scientist
development operations engineer
cyber security.

Various companies we work with visit the University of Reading in order to recruit our best graduates directly. Many of our graduates join employers ranging from small start-up companies to multinationals such as:

Amazon
CGI
IBM
Sophos
SureCloud.

Alternatively, our graduates also go on to pursue MSc and PhD degrees.

Read BSc Computer Science graduate Ross Beale's story about career opportunities.

BSc Computer Science

What you’ll learn

Our teaching approach

Specialist computer science tools and expertise

Study Abroad

* UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

EU student fees

Additional costs

Financial support for your studies

Ready for more?