Swansea University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational computer science subjects with applied modules and project work. In early stages you study programming, discrete mathematics, data structures and algorithms, computer architecture and introductory software engineering to build a solid theoretical and practical base.

• Core topics: programming (typically using languages such as Python and Java), algorithms and data structures, operating systems, databases, computer networks, and software engineering principles.
• Mathematics and theory: discrete mathematics, logic, probability and statistics for computing, and formal methods where relevant.
• Optional and advanced topics: artificial intelligence and machine learning, human–computer interaction, cybersecurity, cloud and distributed systems, web and mobile application development, computer graphics and visualisation, and data science.
• Practical experience: lab-based modules, team software projects and a substantial individual project or dissertation in the final year, which gives experience of designing, implementing and evaluating a substantial software system or research investigation.
• Placement and professional development: there is often the opportunity to take an optional placement or industrial year between second and final year to gain workplace experience, as well as modules on professional skills, ethics and employability.

The degree is structured to allow progression from core concepts to specialist choices. Assessment is typically a mix of coursework, lab exercises, practical programming assignments, exams and the final-year project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to demonstrate academic achievement in subjects relevant to computing and mathematics and to show practical evidence of aptitude for programming and problem-solving.

• Typical qualifications: A-levels or equivalent, with Mathematics commonly required or strongly preferred. Universities commonly expect grades within the A–B range at A-level; applicants with other qualifications (BTEC, Scottish Highers, Irish Leaving Certificate) should check equivalent requirements.
• International students: equivalent secondary school qualifications are accepted; English language proficiency is required where the first language is not English.
• Alternative entry: mature students and applicants with relevant work experience or vocational qualifications are encouraged to apply and may be considered on an individual basis.
• Additional evidence: some applicants strengthen their application with programming examples, personal projects, open-source contributions, or by undertaking short online courses in programming and computer science fundamentals.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme enter a broad range of roles across the technology sector and beyond. The degree emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical skills valued by employers.

• Common graduate roles include software developer, web developer, systems analyst, database administrator, and test engineer.
• Specialist pathways support careers as data scientists, machine learning engineers, cyber security analysts, network engineers and cloud engineers.
• Other opportunities include IT consultancy, product management, technical roles in finance and healthcare, and roles in research and development.
• Graduates may also continue to postgraduate study (MSc or PhD) in specialised areas of computer science, robotics, artificial intelligence or data science.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University’s School of Computer Science offers a balance of teaching and hands-on practical work, with computing labs, project supervision and opportunities to collaborate with research groups. The university maintains links with industry in Wales and the wider UK, which helps with placement and graduate employment opportunities.

• Teaching and facilities: modern labs, access to cloud and high-performance computing resources, and supervised final-year projects that let you work on realistic software or research problems.
• Industry engagement: partnerships with local and national employers, guest lectures, employability support and optional placement opportunities to gain real-world experience.
• Research environment: opportunities to engage with active research areas in AI, cybersecurity, networks and software engineering if you choose a research-oriented final project or a postgraduate follow-on.
• Student support: academic tutoring, careers services and student societies related to computing that provide networking, hackathons and peer learning.

Overall, the BSc Computer Science at Swansea provides a practical, flexible degree that prepares students for diverse careers in technology or for further specialist study.