Computer Science BSc

Course overview

Do you want to be at the forefront of new technological developments to create the solutions of tomorrow? Then computer science could be for you.

Computer science is a constantly evolving field. In an age where artificial intelligence (AI) is developing by the day – and almost everything we do involves a smart device or a system – there's no better time to get into this field.

This course will train you to become a skilled programmer and algorithm designer.

We also encourage creative thinking and problem solving so you can tackle the current and emerging challenges in this fast-changing area.

As a computer science student at Leeds, you’ll study in our purpose-built hub for students and academics – the Sir William Henry Bragg Building. It’s home to world-leading research and specialist teaching facilities right here on campus.

This degree is the ideal foundation for a career in AI, machine learning (ML), cybersecurity, software engineering (full-stack development), blockchain development, augmented/virtual reality or data science.

From commerce to healthcare, AgriTech to government – computer science touches every industry, everywhere – and you could be a part of it.

Computers are powerful, and as a computer scientist, this inspires me as we have the ability to harness these machines to improve people’s day-to-day lives.

Chasjeevan Ladhar, Computer Science BSc

Why study at Leeds

• Globally-renowned research: This feeds directly into your course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in everything from AI to biomedicine, algorithms to computational engineering – and beyond.
• Benefit from specialist facilities: Study in our purpose-built hub, the William Henry Bragg Building, with custom teaching labs containing high-spec Linux machines and a range of collaborative and quiet study spaces. Take a virtual tour.
• Get access to industry experts: Gain insights from experts and graduates who are shaping the future of the tech sector. Our programme of talks gives you the chance to ask questions, make connections and get inspiration for your future career.
• Gain real-world experience: Give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with our industrial work placement opportunities. Our close industry links have given previous students the chance to work at — and build professional relationships with — organisations such as Arm, Mercedes-Benz and Lloyds Banking Group.
• Study abroad: Gain invaluable life experience and advance your personal development with our exciting study abroad programmes, spanning across universities worldwide.
• Bring your skills to life outside the classroom: Our extra-curricular activities include a 24-hour hackathon backed by industry sponsors and CompSoc, a hands-on integrated design project, the UKIEPC national programming competition hosted on campus, building a rocket with the Leeds University Rocketry Association or attending the British Computing Society’s Women Lovelace Colloquium.

Related course

Want to give your CV that competitive edge? Take a look at our degree that includes an industrial placement year, giving you the opportunity to build key professional skills and gain invaluable work experience that could set you apart in the jobs market when you graduate.

Accreditation

British Computing Society (BCS)

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students.

The School of Computer Science at Leeds has a successful history of delivering courses accredited by the British Computing Society (BCS). This means our computer science courses have consistently met the quality standards set by the British Computer Society (BCS).

As we are reviewing our curriculum, we are currently seeking reaccreditation from the BCS for accreditation of full Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partial Chartered Engineer (partial CEng).

Course details and modules

In this course, you'll develop the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue exciting careers across the rapidly evolving technology sector. You'll build a strong foundation in computer hardware, software engineering, and the mathematical principles that underpin modern computing, while developing critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities valued by employers.

Throughout the course, we work closely with you to support your progress and help you develop the skills required to become a confident, industry-ready computer science graduate. By combining theoretical understanding with practical experience, you'll be prepared to apply your knowledge to real-world challenges and emerging technologies.

You’ll also explore the ethical and societal implications of computing through real-world case studies, encouraging thoughtful discussion around issues such as ethical hacking, open-source software, and the responsible use of personal data.

Whether you aspire to work in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, or Blockchain technologies, this course will equip you with the foundations, practical expertise, and adaptable skillset needed to build a successful and rewarding career in computing.

Each academic year consists of 120 credits of study.

Course Structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read Computer Sciences BSc in the course catalogue.

The modules listed below represent typical content and may change over time. Most courses include both compulsory and optional modules, with full details confirmed before the start of each academic year.

Years 1 and 2 focus on developing the fundamental knowledge that underpins all areas of modern computer science. Core topics such as programming, computer systems, algorithms, mathematics and software engineering provide the essential theoretical and practical foundations required to understand and build advanced technologies. While areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing and other emerging fields are highly visible in today’s technology landscape, they rely heavily on these underlying principles. By first establishing strong foundations, students are better prepared to engage with specialist and rapidly evolving topics in their final year and throughout their careers.

Each academic year consists of 120 credits.

Year 1 – Foundations

Programming (40 credits)

Develop core programming and problem-solving skills that form the foundation of modern software development. This module introduces key programming concepts used across industry and prepares you for advanced topics such as software engineering, artificial intelligence and cloud systems.

Topics included:

• Introduction to programming (Python)
• Object-oriented programming and common libraries
• Databases and SQL
• Low-level programming in C

Building our Digital World: Computer Systems and Architecture (40 credits)

Gain a practical understanding of how computers work at the hardware and system level. By exploring how processors, memory and instructions interact, you’ll develop the system-level knowledge required for careers in software engineering, systems programming and high-performance computing.

Topics included:

• Foundations of computer architecture
• Architecture design (building a 16-bit computer from logic gates)
• System programming (machine code and assembly)
• Modern processor architectures and hardware trends

Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science I (40 credits)

Build the mathematical foundations that underpin modern computer science. These concepts support advanced areas such as algorithms, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data science, and develop rigorous analytical and problem-solving skills valued across the technology sector.

Topics included:

• Discrete mathematics
• Graph theory and linear algebra
• Calculus
• Algorithms

Year 2 – Developing knowledge and skills

Software Engineering (40 credits)

Develop the practical skills required to design and build large-scale software systems. Through modern programming languages, web technologies and collaborative projects, you’ll gain experience working in development teams and producing software aligned with current industry practices.

Topics included:

• Kotlin programming
• Web-based systems development
• Human–computer interaction and user experience
• Collaborative software engineering projects

Advanced Hardware, Operating Systems and Parallelism (40 credits)

Explore the core technologies that underpin modern computing infrastructure, including operating systems, networks and secure system design. This module develops the systems-level expertise required for careers in cloud computing, cybersecurity, infrastructure engineering and distributed systems.

Topics included:

• Operating systems
• Security and practical cryptography
• Computer networks
• Network and parallel programming

Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science II (40 credits)

Deepen your understanding of algorithms, computation and mathematical modelling. These concepts underpin areas such as machine learning, large-scale data processing and complex software systems, strengthening the analytical and optimisation skills needed in advanced computing roles.

Topics included:

• Algorithm design paradigms
• Further calculus and probability
• Formal languages and theory of computation
• Algorithms and data structures

Year 3 – Specialisation and advanced study

In your final year, you’ll apply the knowledge and skills developed throughout the course to independent and advanced study. You’ll complete a major individual project and explore specialist areas of computer science aligned with current research and industry trends, helping you prepare for careers in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, high-performance computing and distributed systems.

Compulsory modules

Professional Innovation and Enterprise (20 credits)

Develop an understanding of professional practice in the technology sector, including ethics, legal responsibilities and commercial awareness. This module prepares you for graduate careers by exploring the wider social, organisational and ethical context of modern computing.

Individual Project (40 credits)

Undertake a substantial independent project under academic supervision, allowing you to investigate a topic aligned with your interests and career goals. You’ll apply research, engineering and analytical skills to design and implement an innovative solution to a real-world computing problem.

Optional modules

You’ll choose from a range of advanced topics that reflect emerging technologies and research strengths within the School. Typical options include:

• High Performance Computing – programming large-scale and accelerated computing systems used in scientific computing and AI.
• Artificial Intelligence and Robotics – design and implementation of intelligent systems and autonomous technologies.
• Neural Networks and Deep Learning – modern machine learning techniques used in areas such as computer vision and natural language processing.
• Optimisation with Applications in Artificial Intelligence – mathematical optimisation techniques used in AI, data science and engineering systems.
• Computer Graphics – techniques used in games, film production, visualisation and interactive applications.
• Resilient Distributed Systems – designing scalable cloud and distributed computing systems.
• Cryptography and Secure Systems – foundations of secure communication, digital security and privacy technologies.
• Algorithms and Complexity – advanced algorithm design and computational problem solving.
• Compiler Design and Optimisation – building compilers and improving the performance of software systems.

Project work

You'll develop your commercial and industrial awareness by completing real-world problem-solving project work, building up a portfolio of work to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in analysis, communication and teamwork to prospective employers.

Summer internships

During your time at Leeds, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a paid summer internship, giving you the chance to get involved in research projects to advance your professional skills in research and experimentation.

Want to find out more? Check out what our recent students got up to on their summer internships.

One-year optional work placement or study abroad

During your course, you’ll be given the opportunity to advance your skill set and experience further. You can apply to either undertake a one-year work placement or study abroad for a year, choosing from a selection of universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.

Learning and teaching

In the School of Computer Science, you'll be part of a large and welcoming learning community where academic staff and your fellow students work collaboratively together. Our expert academic staff bring a wealth of industrial and research experience meaning you'll have awareness of the forefront of developments when you graduate.

You'll be joining a diverse community of computer scientists from a range of backgrounds, where you'll be encouraged to share your experiences with and to learn from others in order to develop a university culture where our differences are our strengths. Our research feeds directly into our teaching, meaning you'll learn about the very latest developments in your subject while gaining the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of your graduate job.

To help you benefit from our expertise, you'll be engaged in a mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars and practical labs, complemented by online learning resources and project-based learning. This mix of activities will develop you into a flexible and agile learner, suitable for keeping up with the fast pace of development in graduate careers. The approach is inclusive by design, and you'll be supported to develop the skills to best benefit from each type of activity.

Our personal tutorial system will provide you with academic and pastoral support. You'll be assigned to an academic personal tutor who will mentor you throughout your studies at Leeds. Everyone will have a different set of experience, interests and motivations for studying the subject, and your personal tutor will help you to understand what these are and how you can best leverage your experiences to make the most of your time at Leeds.

Specialist facilities

You’ll study in the Sir William Henry Bragg Building which offers a wealth of facilities to support your learning. It has two custom-built teaching laboratories containing high-specification Linux machines – sufficient to complete all work asked of you on our programmes. In addition, the Sir William Henry Bragg Building houses our state-of-the-art research laboratories which are used by our internationally leading researchers and postgraduate students – and are available to students as part of their final year individual project.

There's also a number of social and collaborative study spaces which are available for you to use whenever the building is open. Whether you require a quiet place to work, or you thrive being in a busy stimulating environment there is a space suitable for you.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

You'll be assessed using a variety of methods which are chosen to emulate real-life tasks or activities you are likely to encounter in a graduate career. This may include time-constrained assessments, laboratory practicals, reports, problem-solving worksheets, projects and presentations.

Where possible, assessment is designed to be contemporary with recent events and developments in computer science – making them interesting and relevant.

We use summative assessment, which contributes to your degree outcome, as well as formative assessment, which does not contribute to your degree outcome but provides an indication of performance. This combination allows you to become comfortable with the style of assessment and allows us to provide targeted additional support where it is required. Your work will be assessed by a member of academic staff who’ll provide feedback on what you did well, areas of improvement and stretch goals. This feedback may be in written or verbal form.

Our assessment approach is designed to be inclusive by default, however, we also make reasonable adjustments where required.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA including Mathematics.

Where an A-level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

GCSE: English Language grade 4 (C) or higher, or an equivalent English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English instead of GCSE English.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), International Project Qualification (IPQ) and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate(ASCC): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers an A in the EPQ/IPQ/ASCC we may make an offer of AAB at A-Level including A in Mathematics.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: ABB, including an A in Mathematics and a pass in the Access to Leeds scheme.

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Applicants

If you are a mature applicant and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and Math qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Further information on the support available for mature students can be found at https://www.leeds.ac.uk/mature-students.

For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.

Foundation years

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a Foundation Year. A Foundation Year is the first year of an extended degree. We’ve designed these courses for applicants whose backgrounds mean they are less likely to attend university and who don’t meet the typical entry requirements for an undergraduate degree.

We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without science and mathematics qualifications.

You could also study our Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc which is for applicants whose background is less represented at university.

On successful completion of your Foundation Year, you'll be able to progress onto your chosen course.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each section. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: To be confirmed

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2027/28 are £10,050.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

• Scholarships for International students
• Scholarships for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Applying

Apply to this course and check the deadline for applications through the UCAS website.

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Admissions guidance

Read our admissions guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

What happens after you’ve applied

You can keep up to date with the progress of your application through UCAS.

UCAS will notify you when we make a decision on your application. If you receive an offer, you can inform us of your decision to accept or decline your place through UCAS.

How long will it take to receive a decision

We typically receive a high number of applications to our courses. For applications submitted by the January UCAS deadline, UCAS asks universities to make decisions by mid-May at the latest.

Offer holder days

If you receive an offer from us, you’ll be invited to an offer holder day. This event is more in-depth than an open day. It gives you the chance to learn more about your course and get your questions answered by academic staff and students. Plus, you can explore our campus, facilities and accommodation.

International applicants

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students.

We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Read about visas, immigration and other information here.

If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

School of Computer Science

Contact us

School of Computer Science Undergraduate Admissions

Email: ugcomp@leeds.ac.uk

Career opportunities

Computer science is integral to so many aspects of our lives. Companies are always on the lookout for computer science graduates to realise the next opportunity and solve the technological challenges of tomorrow.

And the skills you’ll learn throughout this course are industry-relevant and hugely transferable into so many different industries and job roles. From software engineering to cybersecurity, game development to AI and machine learning – you'll have so many opportunities open to you as a computer science graduate.

Plus, our graduates are sought after for their technical knowledge, industrial and commercial awareness, independence and proactiveness.

Our graduates find employment across a range of sectors, including:

• Non-governmental organisations
• Government agencies
• Education
• Media
• Technology
• Consultancies
• Finance (& Finance Technologies)
• Public Authority
• Retail
• Research & Development

Where this degree could take you

Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our computer science graduates have obtained:

• Game Developer, PlayGen
• Engineer, Honda
• Edison Graduate Engineer, GE Aerospace
• Software Engineer, Bluesmith Information Systems
• Database Engineer, PebblePad
• Graduate Trainee, NHS Digital
• Software Consultant, Netcompany
• Chief Technical Officer, Chooz-Pics
• Software Engineering Consultant, BJSS
• PhD Computer Science Student, University of Bath

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.

Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.

• Dedicated Employability Team – meet with our qualified careers consultants and specialist employability and placements officers, on hand to help you choose the right path and develop the skills to get there. They can support with CV and cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile building, mock interviews and navigating AI: get confident with tailored advice and techniques.
• Employability and networking events – get involved in a full range of events, including careers fairs and specialist industry talks with employers who are actively recruiting. You’ll also benefit from mentoring and a supportive careers community, helping you make connections, build your network, and shape your journey as a future professional.
• Skills training – we embed transferable skills training in all our programmes to support your transition to the workplace. Gain expertise employers value, such as communication, problem-solving and research and data analysis.
• MyCareer system —– access a dedicated portal where you can book careers appointments, view helpful resources and browse vacancies and events. Access digital tools, including LinkedIn support, video‑interview preparation, plus global job market and visa guidance. We also offer pre‑arrival support to help you prepare for career planning in the UK and make the most of your time with us.
• Exclusive opportunities – bring your enterprise to market with our award-winning business advice service, Spark. Apply for vacancies only available to our students. And hone your skills further with Leeds University Union, home to volunteering opportunities and over 300 clubs and societies.

Explore more about your employability opportunities at the University of Leeds.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.

From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.

This course offers you the chance to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year, which will extend your studies by 12 months.

Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title which demonstrates your added experience to future employers.

Work placements

Make connections, practice skills and build future confidence in your future with an industrial placement year as part of your course.

A work placement can be a great investment in your future:

• Choose from 100+ organisations in the UK and overseas.
• Build industry contacts within your chosen field.
• Be in direct contact with potential employers thanks to our close industry links.
• Advance your experience and skills by putting course teachings into practice.
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in your chosen industry.
• Improve your employability.
• All placements sourced by the University are paid positions
• We also offer shorter-term placement opportunities.

Our Employability Team are here to help you every step of the way. They run several placement sessions to answer your questions, discuss available opportunities and support you with CV writing and interview preparation.

If you decide to undertake a placement year, your period of study will be extended by 12 months.

If your application is successful, during placement, you'll be supported by an industrial supervisor from within the company, plus an academic supervisor who will keep in touch throughout.

On successful completion of your placement year, you'll be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

Students in our Faculty have recently completed placements at:

• Arm
• Lloyds Banking Group
• Bluesmith
• DRS Software
• Robotas
• Johnson Matthey
• Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Limited (Mercedes F1 Team)
• Jaguar Land Rover
• The Technology Partnership (TTP)
• Unilever
• Acerne Tech Solution Limited
• BAE Systems – Naval Ships

We can’t guarantee a work placement. The job market is competitive – and there may be competition for the placement you want. You’ll have to apply the same way you would for any job post, with your CV and, if successful, attend an interview with the organisation. That said, we encourage everyone to apply.