Computer Science MEng, BSc

Computer science is a dynamic and fast-moving area. It is vital to how we live in the digital age, and how we seek to evolve in every part of our lives. From commerce to healthcare, from agritech to government – innovators in artificial intelligence and virtual reality, cloud computing, robotics and all kinds of other developing specialisms are already creating the solutions of tomorrow.

Successful computer scientists are not only skilled programmers, they are also highly creative thinkers and problem-solvers who are adept at handling complex information. Computing touches every industry, everywhere, so computer scientists are in demand in all sorts of sectors and are usually at the forefront of new technological developments.

Studying computer science at Leeds will equip you with the core technical and problem-solving skills to tackle current and emerging challenges in this crucial and fast-changing field. You will develop your skills in software engineering and algorithm design, explore the challenges in mobile computing, robotics, and graphics shaping the future, and work with state-of-the-art technologies.

As a computer science student, you’ll be taught in our brand new, purpose-built hub for students and academics - the Sir William Henry Bragg Building - which is home to world-leading research and specialist teaching facilities and laboratories right here on campus. The Bragg Centre is where scientists and engineers work collaboratively to develop solutions for economical, societal and technical challenges in the UK.

Here at Leeds, we understand the importance computer science has in everyday life, which is why our courses are professionally accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). The topics you’ll study reflect the latest developments in computer science, equipping you with the key knowledge, skills and experience you need to begin your career in this highly valued profession.

Why study at Leeds:

• Graduate with a British Computer Society (BCS) accredited degree from a university ranked in the top 100 in the world, QS World University Rankings 2023.

• Our courses are shaped by our world-leading research in areas such as artificial intelligence, computational science and engineering, computational medicine and distributed systems.

• Benefit from our partnership with the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence.

• Study in the Sir William Henry Bragg building, a brand-new development providing excellent facilities and teaching spaces for an outstanding student experience.

• Develop your experience and boost your career prospects with our paid industrial placement opportunities or study abroad programmes.

• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining CompSoc, where you can meet like-minded undergraduate and postgraduate students in the School of Computing through fortnightly events covering a range of activities including socials, sports and Hackathons!

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS).

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students. An accredited computer science course must meet the quality standards set by the BCS.

Completing this degree course fulfils the academic requirements associated with becoming a member of the BCS. By completing our MEng, BSc degree course you will have exemption from the Engineering Council professional examinations, the first step towards becoming a chartered engineer.

In this course, you will develop industry-standard skills in computer programming, architecture, mathematics and security, with applications in a wide variety of career choices. Beginning with a focused curriculum of modules in core computer science concepts, you will advance through the course to choose from a wide selection of optional modules, allowing you to specialise in the topics that interest you the most.

Discovery modules are available in all years of your degree, as long as you are taking enough credits of your own subject for that year.

Year one

Our courses in Computer Science, Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science with High-Performance Graphics and Games Engineering share a common first year, which focuses on the fundamentals of programming and the mathematical principles that underpin computer science. This gives you the flexibility to switch easily between the three courses if you choose, until the end of your first year.

Year two

Year two allows you to deepen and broaden your knowledge of computer science, with core modules introducing you to topics such as artificial intelligence and developing your understanding of algorithms, operating systems, and computer networks. You’ll also select optional modules to focus on topics that suit your interests or career plans, such as data mining or web application development.

Year three

In your third year you have far greater choice in your optional modules. You could study robotics, build your skills in computer graphics or machine learning

Year four (MEng)

If you continue onto Year 4 to gain the MEng qualification, you can also select modules on topics such as natural language processing, knowledge representation or bio-computation. You will also take part in a substantial group project on a specific engineering problem that allows you to apply everything you’ve learned during the course.

Recent projects include:

• development of a 3D modelling tool using a Haptic device

• simulation of driverless cars in an edge computing environment

• developing a tool for automated fracture detection and reporting from X-ray images

(Optional) One-year work placement or study abroad

To advance your skill set and boost your experience, you can choose to take up an industrial placement or study abroad at one of the many universities we’re in partnership with worldwide. Both of these options will extend your degree by 12 months.

Project work

Every year of the course gives you hands-on experience of project work. This gives you the opportunity to explore your subject further as well as developing valuable skills in problem-solving, communication and teamwork.

Ethics

You’ll study computing ethics as part of your course. This is taught using real-life case studies, with input from specialist ethicists as well as your tutors and lecturers. The team responsible for the ethics taught in computing has produced educational material used to stimulate debate in class about topics such as ethical hacking, open source software, and use of personal data.

Not only will this enhance your reasoning and decision-making skills which are crucial to employers, but it will help you identify and respond effectively to ethical dilemmas that you will encounter in your professional life in the IT industry.

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 full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Computer Science MEng, BSc in the course catalogue

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

Modules

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Discovery modules

Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.

This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

You’ll study among academics who are leading their fields. 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 the IT industry.

To help you benefit from our expertise, we use a range of teaching and learning methods including lectures, lab classes, tutorials and example classes. Together they will equip you with in-depth knowledge and key practical skills that will put you in a good position to compete in science and technology-related careers. You’ll also work with an academic supervisor on your projects.

Our personal tutorial system will provide academic and pastoral support. You will have a designated personal tutor throughout your studies at Leeds. He or she will be an academic member of staff: you will have weekly academic tutorials with your tutor throughout your first year, in your tutor group

In addition, our excellent student support team is based close to where you’ll work and study to help with anything from academic advice to timetabling and project submission enquiries.

Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the School, your programme and modules.

You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.

Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:

• Autonomous Robotic Manipulation

• From Computing on the Cloud to the Edge

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 will be assessed using various methods including formal exams, laboratory practicals and project reports. Throughout the year, you’ll also be assessed using coursework, worksheets, in-module tests, example sheets and presentations to develop your knowledge and allow us to monitor your progress.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA including Mathematics or Computing. Grade B (6) or above in GCSE Mathematics is required if no Mathematics A-level is taken.

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.

Excludes A-level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

Extended Project Qualification and International Project Qualification: Whilst we recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, we do not currently include them as part of our offer-making. We do, however, encourage you to provide further information on your project in your personal statement.

• Access to HE Diploma

  Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, 30 credits with Distinction (including an appropriate number of Mathematics modules) and the remaining 15 credits with Merit or above.

• BTEC

  D*D*D with Distinctions in all Mathematics units. Mathematics units must include Further Mathematics. This unit may be optional on your BTEC but is it required by the Faculty. Please contact us for further information. Please note: there may be different requirements for the new RQF BTECs, please contact Admissions.

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

• Cambridge Pre-U

  D3, D3, D3 including Mathematics.

• International Baccalaureate

  35 points overall with 18 points at Higher level to include 5 in HL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or 6 in HL Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation or 5 in HL Computing. If only Computing is offered from the IB, Grade B or above in GCSE Mathematics (or equivalent) is required.

• Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)

  H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2, including Mathematics.

• Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers

  AA at Advanced Higher level, including Mathematics or Computing, and AABBB at Higher level.

• Other Qualifications

  IT or Engineering Diploma: A (plus A or above in Mathematics or Computing in A-level).

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 an alternative 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.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: ABB, including an A in Mathematics or Computing. Grade B (6) or above in GCSE Mathematics is required if no Mathematics A-level is taken.

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. We offer a Studies in Science with a Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.

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.

How to apply

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We typically receive a high number of applications for this course. To ensure we treat all applications fairly, we may put your application on hold until after the UCAS deadline before making a final decision. All applications received before the UCAS deadline are guaranteed equal consideration.

This course is not accepting applications for deferred entry.

Read our admissions guidance and see ‘application decisions’ for details.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2023

Fees

UK: £9,250

International: £26,500 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2022/23
For UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2022/23 the fee will be £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students for 2023/24 have been agreed by the UK Government and will remain at the current fee level of £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 should be available on individual course pages from September 2022.

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.

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 about additional costs.

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.

There is a wealth of excellent job opportunities for graduate computer scientists – making it easy for you to choose your ideal career. From start-ups to international organisations, the IT industry is booming and demand for computer science graduates looks set to continue at a pace.

University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2022, High Fliers Research. We have close links with companies such as IBM, Accenture and Hewlett Packard and our graduates find employment across a range of sectors including:

• Technology

• Consultancies

• Banking and investment

• Retail

• Finance

• Public authority

Many graduates have launched careers as software developers and engineers, mobile solution engineers, technology consulting analysts, production project managers and business system analysts at organisations including:

• Graduate Software Engineer, IBM

• Software Engineer, Google

• Developer Evangelist, Microsoft

• Senior Firmware Engineer, SpaceX

• Consultant, JPMorgan Chase

• Senior Analyst, Lloyds Banking Group

Careers support

At Leeds we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.

You will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.

You will also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.

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.

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

Work placements

The graduate recruitment market is highly competitive so it’s important that you stand out. An industrial placement could be the opportunity you need to impress potential employers and improve your chances of securing the career you want.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas

• All placements are salaried

• Build industry contacts within your chosen field

• Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers

• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice

• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry

• Improve your employability

If you decide to undertake a placement year, this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you will be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.

Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed:

• Software Engineering Intern, HP Inc UK

• Industrial Placement, GlaxoSmithKline R&D

• Web Development Industrial Placement, UK Research and Innovation, STFC

• ISIT Placement, Nestle

• Placement Technical Specialist, Bluesmith Information Systems

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.