Computer Science at Durham University - UCAS

Course options

Course summary

In a fast-moving world, computer science is the force behind the technological breakthroughs that have changed our lives for the better. The BSc (Hons) Computer Science has been designed to develop the fundamental knowledge and practical skills that are in demand across the sector. You’ll explore a wide range of innovative technological applications such as machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, virtual and augmented reality and cybersecurity among others. Our close links with local high-technology industries along with national and international employers keep us up to date with changing priorities in the sector. This insight allows us to introduce new topics into the curriculum to keep in step with developments. The course emphasises programming and mathematical skills from the start. The first year provides an introduction into the fundamentals of computer science and gives you a glimpse into some of the research that has enabled major technological advances in society. As well as equipping you with academic knowledge, the curriculum develops the skills you’ll need to boost your career prospects. The Software Engineering module in Year 2 includes a team project in which you gain practical software development experience working with an external organisation. You will be taught by passionate researchers with diverse areas of expertise such as artificial intelligence, data science, bioinformatics, high performance computing, graphics and fundamental algorithms. The Year 3 Individual Project is an opportunity to fully engage with the cutting-edge research being carried out in the department. The BSc also offers the chance to apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your degree, increasing the course from three years to four.

Modules

Year 1 Core modules: Algorithms and Data Structures introduces the theory and practice of problem-solving in computing through the development of algorithms, and their associated data structures, for common computer science problems. Computational Thinking explores the breadth of Computer Science and the ways in which different topics relate to one another. You will learn the importance of computation and computational thinking in the modern world and the impact it has on technology advances in different settings. Computer Systems provides an understanding of the way in which modern computer systems (both hardware and software) can effectively represent, transport and manipulate data. Mathematics for Computer Science introduces key concepts from linear algebra, calculus and mathematics, and explains their importance in the field of computer science. Plus either Programming (Black) or Programming (Gold). Year 2 Core modules: Networks and Systems extends your understanding of the principles and practices of programming and using different computer systems. This module looks at distributed systems, networks, security and databases. Programming Paradigms will broaden your view of programming and programming languages as well as aiding your understanding of the systems and procedures related to computer programming. Theory of Computation introduces you to different models of computation and how they are related. You will learn the fundamental notions of computation such as ‘computable’ and ‘efficiently computable’ and the design and analysis of efficient algorithms. Artificial Intelligence provides an understanding of some of the core problem-solving principles of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the role of AI in the real world. Data Science introduces the techniques used for capturing, analysing, and cleaning data and explores the ways in which different types of information can be represented and processed. The techniques covered include probability and statistics, graphics and visualisation, and image processing. Software Engineering provides a detailed understanding of the phases of the software development lifecycle, including the problems associated with each phase and how to identify best practice for their solution. This module includes a team software development project where you can work with an external organisation to gain practical software development experience. Year 3 (Year 4 if undertaking a placement or year abroad) The Individual Project is a substantial piece of research based on an area of computer science chosen in conjunction with a project supervisor. You research the subject independently and write a technical paper describing your findings. Examples of optional modules: Advanced Computer Systems Algorithmic Game Theory Bioinformatics Compiler Design Computational Complexity Computational Modelling in the Humanities and Social Sciences Computer Science into Schools Computer Vision Cryptography Deep Learning Design of Algorithms and Data Structures Human–AI Interaction Design Multimedia and Game Development Natural Computing Algorithms Parallel Scientific Computing Project Management Recommender Systems Reinforcement Learning Virtual and Augmented Reality. Additional pathways Students on the BSc Computer Science can apply to be transferred onto either the ‘with Year Abroad’ or ‘with Placement’ pathway during the second year. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen your studies will extend from three years to four. Placement You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more.


How to apply

This course has limited vacancies, and is no longer accepting applications from some students. See the list below for where you normally live, to check if you’re eligible to apply.

EU

Wales

England

International

Scotland

Northern Ireland

Republic of Ireland

Application codes

Course code:
G400
Institution code:
D86
Campus name:
Durham City
Campus code:
O

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

Our contextual offer for this programme is A level AA including Mathematics and B (or equivalent). To find out if you’re eligible, please visit: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/how-to-apply/what-happens-to-your-application/contextual-offers/

Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course

https://www.dur.ac.uk/study/ug/apply/entry/


English language requirements

Durham University welcomes applications from all students irrespective of background. We encourage the recruitment of academically well-qualified and highly motivated students, who are non-native speakers of English, whose full potential can be realised with a limited amount of English Language training either prior to entry or through pre-sessional and/or in-sessional courses. It is the normal expectation that candidates for admission should be able to demonstrate satisfactory English proficiency before the start of a programme of study, whether via the submission of an appropriate English language qualification or by attendance on an appropriate pre-sessional course. Acceptable evidence and levels required can be viewed by following the link provided.

English language requirements

https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/


Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students
65%
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
80%
Go onto work and study

The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Republic of Ireland £9250 Year 1
Channel Islands £9250 Year 1
EU £32500 Year 1
England £9250 Year 1
Northern Ireland £9250 Year 1
Scotland £9250 Year 1
Wales £9250 Year 1
International £32500 Year 1

Additional fee information

There may also be additional course costs for things like books (if you want to purchase them), field trips etc.
Computer Science at Durham University - UCAS