Program Overview

BSc Computer Science

The BSc Computer Science degree at the University of Reading is a three-year program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of computer science and its applications. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to pursue a wide range of careers in the field of computing.

Overview

The program covers a broad range of topics, including complex computing systems, big data analytics, computer vision, blockchain computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their programming skills in languages such as C, C++, Java, Python, and JavaScript.

Learning Structure

The program is structured to provide students with a strong foundation in computer science, as well as the opportunity to specialize in areas of interest. The first year of the program covers the fundamentals of computer science, including computer systems architecture, databases, mathematics, and computation, and imperative programming. In the second year, students will study data structures and algorithms, operating systems and computer networking, artificial intelligence, and programming in Python. The third year of the program allows students to specialize in areas such as virtual reality, games and graphics, data integration and information visualization, machine learning, and blockchain and security.

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for the program is ABB at A level, with no specific subjects required. International students must have 32 points overall in the International Baccalaureate, and GCSE maths at grade B (6). Students who do not meet the standard entry requirements may be considered for the International Foundation Programme.

Fees

The tuition fee for new UK/Republic of Ireland students is ｣9,790 for the 2026 entry, while the fee for new international students is ｣30,650 for the 2026/27 academic year.

Careers

The program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the field of computing, including software engineering, data science, and cyber security. Graduates from the program have gone on to work for employers such as Amazon, IBM, and Sophos.

Studying Computer Science at the University of Reading

The University of Reading has a strong reputation for computer science, with 91% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months of graduation. The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute for IT, and students have access to a wide range of resources, including state-of-the-art computer labs and dedicated technical support.

Research Areas

The program covers a wide range of research areas, including:

• Complex computing systems
• Big data analytics
• Computer vision
• Blockchain computing
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Software systems development
• Networking
• Data security
• Ethics

Specialist Computer Science Tools and Expertise

The program provides students with access to a wide range of specialist computer science tools and expertise, including:

• Tools for software/apps development
• Data analytics algorithms
• System modelling languages
• Cloud and parallel computing platforms
• Mathematical manipulation (e.g., MatLab)

Study Abroad

Students on the program have the opportunity to spend an academic year abroad, with potential destinations including Australia, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, South Korea, Sweden, and the United States.

Modules

The program consists of a range of compulsory and optional modules, including:

Compulsory Modules

• Computer Systems Architecture
• Databases
• Mathematics and Computation
• Imperative Programming
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Operating Systems and Computer Networking
• Artificial Intelligence
• Programming in Python
• Software Systems Design
• Software Engineering and Professional Development
• Degree Project

Optional Modules

• Applications of Computer Science
• Optional Language or University-Wide Modules
• Virtual Reality, Games and Graphics
• Data Integration and Information Visualization
• Machine Learning
• Image Analysis and Visual Intelligence
• Blockchain and Security
• Text Mining and Natural Language Processing
• Cloud-based AI Solutions

Additional Costs

Some courses may require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. Students will also need to budget for accommodation and living costs.

Financial Support

Students may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for their study. UK students may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs.

Global Sustainability Leaders Scholar

The University of Reading offers a Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship scheme, which provides up to ｣6,000 per year for maintenance and living costs for high-achieving students.