Course summary

Computing is a creative and wide-ranging subject that focuses on using sound underlying principles and logical thinking to design and build systems that really work. This course gives you the opportunity to spend your fourth year studying abroad at a leading European university, or the first two terms of your third year at the University of California. In this course, you will learn how modern computer and communications systems function, and how they can be used and adapted to build the next generation of computing applications. The core of this programme has been designed to give you an overview of computing.This includes an understanding of basic concepts and principles, the ability to appreciate and to adapt to changes in technology, and practical experience in applied computing. A special emphasis of your studies will be on the fundamental principles underlying computing and on the engineering considerations involved in computing system design, implementation and usage. You will be introduced to computing architecture and hardware, and the software used to exploit them. This course will also equip you with a strong background in discrete mathematics (logic, sets, relations and grammars), classical mathematics and statistics relevant to applications engineering and management. Throughout the programme, you will attend laboratory and problem-solving classes, as well as completing project and design work. As the course progresses, you will study advanced techniques and modules – many of which draw on current research taking place in the Department. At the end of your third year, you will gain valuable skills and experience by completing an industrial placement. Your study reaches Master's level in the final year, with a wide choice of optional modules and a substantial individual project on a subject of your choice. You also have the chance to complete an integrated year abroad in your final year at one of our partner universities where you can challenge yourself in a different academic and cultural environment. The high level of shared content between our courses for the first two years means that transfer to a different Computing course within the Department is usually possible during this time. If you are an international student, transferring to a different course could have an impact on your visa, but our International Student Support team are here to help and advise you.