BSc (Hons) Computer Science

UCAS CODE: CS01, ARIN (Full-time) or CSFY, ARIF (Foundation Year)
TARIFF: 88 - 112 (Full-time) or 32 - 56 (Foundation Year)
  • Study Mode: Full Time
  • Location: High Wycombe
  • Duration: Three or Four Years
  • Start Date: September 2023

Do you want to work in the fast-paced world of IT? Stand out to employers with a strong foundation in computer science and artificial intelligence.

Software and artificial intelligence are both an essential part in controlling computers and a solution to communication, financial, business, entertainment and healthcare problems. Working in the computing industry developing software is an exciting career that challenges you to use both analytical and creative skills and be at the forefront of the latest technological advances.

Pathways

Our Computer Science programme gives you the opportunity to choose your specialism for your future career after your experience of the core curriculum in year one. Rather than having to make your big career decision before you join us, we introduce you to various specialisms and offer you the flexibility to choose the pathway which leads to your chosen career. 

These pathways are also offered as four-year programmes, including an initial Foundation Year. The Foundation Year will allow you to develop your academic study skills and build confidence in your abilities, identifying your own strengths and development needs for progression onto an undergraduate programme.

Computer motherboard
Computer Science Pathway

What will I study on this pathway?

Throughout the BSc (Hons) Computer Science course, you'll build advanced programming skills and be taught how to develop highly dependable and reliable systems, within an object-oriented design approach. You'll study the process involved in managing the development of large-scale software projects. Furthermore, specialist modules allow you to explore the areas of real-time systems, cloud computing, data science, design patterns, AI and more!

You will graduate with BSc (Hons) Computer Science.

Artificial Intelligence
Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence Pathway

What will I study on this Pathway?

You’ll explore AI from its history to philosophy and what it can and can’t do. You'll study machine learning, artificial neural networks, and data analysis and use industry tools including MATLAB and Jason. You'll consider ethics of AI and debate the benefits and challenges posed by AI developments. This pathway is enhanced by alignment with certification programmes from major companies including Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Cisco which you can choose to take during your studies.

You will graduate with BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence.

Why study this subject?

If you love the idea of creating valuable new applications and software, then our Computer Science programme could be perfect for you. Across the world businesses and organisations rely on complex computer-based systems, and there is an ever-increasing demand for people with the skills to update, maintain and enhance the software. It is essential for qualified professionals to be available to keep national and international economies running.  

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industry – and the world we live in. Experts are applying their skills to improve care in hospitals, control robots in space, help companies understand buying habits, and more. By 2035, it’s predicted that AI activity could be worth an impressive £630 billion in the UK. A degree in this field will help give you the skills and knowledge you need to help play your part in shaping the future!

A BNU student sat at a table looking at an Apple Mac computer.
Two Bucks students using Macbooks in the Library

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

Buckinghamshire New University is invested in you and your future. We work hard to ensure that our courses are designed with you and industry in mind, so that you can graduate confident that you can make competitive job applications post-university. We know that the industry is constantly changing and rapidly evolving, which is why we are committed to implementing new and improved technologies in our topics, teaching and facilities.

We’ve created our Computer Science programme to help you design and programme systems capable of solving real-world challenges. Our programme is a part of our strong Computing school, and you’ll be taught by a team of expert lecturers who have vast experience of working in their respective fields. To further enhance your education, we invite in guest lectures to share their experience and expertise and host day-long interactive events run by leaders in their field giving you the chance to put your knowledge into action.

This exciting course allows you to explore the diversity of modern computer science and software engineering, gaining the integral skills required for today’s industry workplace. We do not just teach in the classroom; you will increase your knowledge through involvement on real-life projects and gain hands-on experience of working either individually or in a software development team.

It doesn’t matter if you haven’t studied computing before – we’re looking for students who want to be at the forefront of the developments in technology that will shape society in the very near future. During this course you will acquire a broad range of skills covering computation theory, fundamentals of computer science, compliers and operating systems, basic programming, software development and testing, web applications and databases, algorithms and data structures, whilst building secure web and mobile applications, alongside analysing life-critical systems. From your first day and onwards, you are with us, you will be studying topics ranging from, Computer Architecture, Discrete Mathematics, User Experience (UX) and Data Science.

This programme is founded in software and web technologies with a focus on the technical side of web-based applications and services for working in industries that require expertise in web focused sectors of computing. You will gain an appreciation of the role that web-based computing can have in a range of business and industry contexts. The course provides a balance of theory and practice, providing opportunities to apply knowledge into real projects where possible. You will acquire a wide range of skills and competences such as the ability to think critically about real-world problems. You will be exposed to a variety of computing discipline areas, so that you will then be able to select and apply appropriate principles, theories, best practices and appropriate technologies to address the needs of different business contexts, users, customers and stakeholders.  

You’ll learn how to develop highly dependable and reliable systems, within an object-oriented design approach, using a range of industry standard approaches, such as UML. In addition, you will gain an understanding of the process involved in managing the development of large-scale software projects. Specialist modules allow you to further explore the areas of artificial intelligence, media programming, real-time systems, cloud computing and security.

There will be progression and development in your learning through the programme, from initially learning the fundamentals in areas such as web and mobile development, IT support, software development, programming, analysis, design and network industries, before going on to apply what you have learned to various individual and team assignments. You’ll have the chance to develop skills in machine learning and artificial neural networks, data analysis, fuzzy and expert systems. But AI is also underpinned by mathematics, logic, philosophy, cognitive psychology, linguistics and sociology, so you’ll explore these areas too.

On our BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence pathway, in your second year you’ll start looking at AI in more depth and understand how machines search, reason and problem solve. At the same time, we’ll also explain the role of classical logic in machine intelligence, algorithms to search state spaces, and natural language processing systems. Then we’ll put your knowledge to the test. In workshops, you’ll work as part of a team to build AI machines – whether these are in the form of Expert Systems, Intelligent Agents or robots. You’ll also become confident using a range of AI-related tools and techniques including MATLAB and Jason with AgentSpeak.

In the final year of the programme, you will be expected to integrate, apply and evaluate the knowledge you have gained through independent, work-relevant study as part of a major project or extended written piece of work. The course provides, through the choice of research topic and via selection of particular option modules, for you to tailor your studies to suit your own individual interest areas and future career ambitions. 

Opportunity modules are a key part of the BNU curriculum. You’ll choose modules in both your first and second year from a broad selection in areas such as sustainability, entrepreneurship, creativity, digital skills, personal growth, civic engagement, health & wellbeing and employment. Opportunity modules are designed to enable you to develop outside the traditional boundaries of your discipline and help you to further stand out from the crowd to future employers.

You will also get opportunities to expand your knowledge both inside and outside of the lecture theatre. Students have previously visited sites of historical importance, including Bletchley Park, to learn more about the history of computing and how it impacted the world.

What facilities can I use?

BNU has invested in our facilities to ensure that you can learn on industry standard systems and software, meaning that you can make an easy transition from education into employment. Quite simply we are committed to making sure we provide you with the best learning experience possible.

We make sure we keep the University’s computing facilities well maintained and equipped. We have a range of large labs; some being enhanced with cyber and A.I. specific facilities. Furthermore, many of these rooms are filled with dual-screen, dual boot (Windows and Linux) systems. Latest industry standard software is also included on devices to allow you to develop your skills to what is needed in the workplace.

Labs have been custom built to provide the best spaces to nurture the specific skills needed for game and internet development. These allow you to build your skills within key areas of future employment.

Hands-on experience is what we are all about. We have numerous devices that will provide the basis for various supervised projects you will carry out across the programme. These include but are not limited to Virtual Reality headsets, 3D printers, Raspberry Pi microcomputers, EEG headsets.

Furthermore, we provide online facilities to enhance your independent learning, via our Virtual Learning Environment. This will provide you with access to additional material and collaborative learning tools 24/7. And our virtual server technology will allow you to use our operating systems remotely.

students walking around in the high wycombe library
close-up of High Wycombe campus Gateway building

How will I be taught and assessed?

At Buckinghamshire New University we like to foster an interactive and student-focused teaching style where we have a combination of formal lectures, tutorials, practical lab sessions, seminars and guest speakers to enhance the learning experience.

We like to design our course to reflect the workplace so you will have the opportunity to carry out independent study, supported through distance learning technologies such as Blackboard, our Virtual Learning Environment. We will also provide reading lists and suggested resources to enhance independent study.

You are more than a number at BNU, and we are here to support you through your education journey. We have in place regular contact hours with our tutors and provide you with informal feedback throughout the programme of study.

Over the years of your course you will be assessed and graded in a multitude of ways to allow you to develop and expand on your abilities and skills. Assessments for the various modules will mostly take the form of practical coursework, lab tests and written exams, with the focus being on testing the practical application of the various concepts and techniques being conveyed.

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Open Days

We understand that when it comes to deciding where you’d like to study, there are a lot of things to consider. Come along to our Open Day and discover why BNU could be the place for you. You can find out more about your course, meet the course team, and get all your questions answered.

 

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Application Guide

For everything you need to know about applying, check out our Application Guide. You can find useful information for each stage of your application journey – from before you even apply to what to do if you receive an offer, and everything in between.

 

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Students' Union

At BNU, we believe in putting our students first. That’s why we’re the only university in the UK to offer free access to such a diverse and exciting range of activities through our SU – all to enrich your university experience. 

 

BSc (Hons) Computer Science Programme Specification

What are the course entry requirements?

A typical offer will require a UCAS tariff score of: 88 - 112 (Full-time) or 32 - 56 (Foundation Year)

A minimum of two full A-levels (or equivalent) is required. Every application is considered on an individual basis.

For further details of our international English entry requirements, please visit our international pages.

Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements for the three-year undergraduate programme, or those who do not feel fully prepared for a degree course, can apply for a four-year programme including a Foundation Year; find out more.

Modules

This provides a guide of the modules that make up your course. You can find more information about how your course is structured on our Academic Advice section.

This course has Opportunity modules.

Opportunity modules are a key part of the BNU curriculum. You’ll choose modules in both your first and second year from a broad selection in areas such as sustainability, entrepreneurship, creativity, digital skills, personal growth, civic engagement, health & wellbeing and employment. Opportunity modules are designed to enable you to develop outside the traditional boundaries of your discipline and help you to further stand out from the crowd to future employers. Find out more.

Computer Science Pathway
Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence Pathway

What are the tuition fees

Home

Home, Academic Year 2023 - 2024

£9,250 per year

International

Overseas/International, Academic Year 2023 - 2024

£15,000 per year

Most courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees.

You could benefit from financial support through a bursary or scholarship during your time as a student. For more details visit our financial support, bursaries and scholarships section.

Questions about fees?

Contact our Enquiries Team:

0330 123 2023

advice@bnu.ac.uk

What are my career prospects?

BSc (Hons) Computer Science Pathway

As you begin to think about life after university and look for employment after graduation we are here to help. We encourage you to make the most of opportunities that are available during your course, such as guest lectures and internships, which can provide invaluable industry experience and contacts. We’ll help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising, employable and good leaders. We also help you find employment after graduation. Have a look at our Careers and Employability pages to find out more.

We are very proud of our reputation for delivering industry standard courses and the success our graduates achieve after leaving the University. This course will provide a first-rate springboard for your career opportunities to evolve over time. As the role of computer science is becoming increasingly prolific, this hands-on, highly vocational course provides you with the skills to pursue a career in a variety of sectors, including, commercial, environmental, government, health, education and defence.

Graduates of the degree programme can continue their studies at postgraduate level, or further enhance their employability by obtaining Microsoft Certification™. There is an increasing demand for qualified specialists in computer science and software engineering, meaning that you can expect to graduate with a variety of rewarding career options ahead of you. With the diverse nature of computer science, you can seek out a range of job roles including:

  • Programmer
  • Data Scientist
  • Software Developer/Software Engineer
  • System Analyst
  • Software Product Manager
  • Computer Scientist
  • IT System Manager
  • Cyber Security Consultant
  • Machine Learning Engineer

 

BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence Pathway

Throughout your time with us we’ll support you on the route to your chosen career. We’ll help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising, employable and good leaders. We also help you find employment after graduation. Have a look at our Careers and Employability pages to find out more.

AI is infiltrating our everyday life and is key to solving many challenges that different sectors face. After studying at BNU, you’ll be ready for a range of AI roles, such as:

  • machine learning engineer – build and manage platforms for machine learning projects
  • business intelligence developer – design, model, and maintain complex data in cloud-based data platforms
  • artificial Intelligence architect – provide AI solutions to help businesses
  • robotics scientist – build and maintain software for robots that do tasks with varying human input.

You may also choose to stay on at BNU and study a postgraduate programme.

Did you know?

We are one of the top 10 UK universities mostly likely to produce graduates who go on to own or manage a business (Capital on Tap, 2021), find out more about this excellent news.

Course leader

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Dr Muntasir Al-Asfoor
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Michael Everett
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Dr Carlo Lusuardi
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Dr Kevin Maher
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Dr Nicholas Day
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Justin Luker
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Dr Rafid Al-Khannak
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Dr Shahadate Rezvy
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Muhammed Haroon
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Kompel Campion
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BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence with Foundation Year