BSc (Honours) Computer Science
UCAS code
G400Attendance
Full-time
Four years full-time (including one year work placement) or three years full-timeAt a glance
Learn to build high-quality software applications which solve real problems. Understand the fundamental principles which underpin software development and gain in-depth knowledge of both the theoretical advances and practical techniques required of modern programmers. You can apply and extend your knowledge and skills with a paid, year-long industrial placement.
Key points
• Study in well-resourced IT laboratories with the latest industry tools.
• Get the latest industry perspectives from employers like ZOO Digital, IBM and Citrix.
• Gain real professional experience with a paid one-year placement in industry.
What is computer science?
Computer science is the academic discipline which examines the basic principles of computation and applies those principles to the development of software and systems. Subjects studied within the discipline range from theories of programming to cutting-edge development techniques. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories • designing and building software • developing effective ways to solve computing problems • devising new and better ways of using computers.
About this course
Learn how to develop complex software and systems using analytical and mathematical approaches. This course is ideal for you if you want to become a programmer and learn the fundamental principles that support and strengthen the software which powers our world.
On the course you learn how to apply the theoretical ideas in computing and computation to solving complex, real-world problems. You also learn about industry perspectives with seminars and workshops from the Institution of Engineering and Technology and employers, such as IBM, BT and Eli Lilly.
The course emphasises the balance between theory and practice as you learn how to specify, design, implement and analyse software applications.
Once you’ve studied and worked on projects in the University, you can then put what you’ve learnt into practice in the real world with a one-year paid work placement. Thanks to our reputation, students choose from placement partners that include • BT • HSBC • the British Standards Institute • GCHQ • the police. Work placements offer you valuable experience, and let you apply your knowledge and skills to the industry.
An important part of your academic study is based on professional development. You gain interview and presentation skills, CV and application writing skills and learn how to set up a small business or enterprise.
You also benefit from our investment in excellent digital facilities including the Digital Design Centre, which is home to six specialist IT laboratories.
Key areas of study
You develop your skills in • programming • software design • analysis of algorithms and data structures • the design and implementation of computer languages • creative and critical thinking.
Alongside the specialised computer science topics, you study the general computing topics that are also needed in the jobs market. These include • computer architecture • design and development of database systems • computer networking • project management.
Associated careers
Computer scientists are in demand throughout industry. In particular their skills and knowledge are suited for roles which require detailed understanding of code and where the performance or accuracy of code is critical.
The course provides you with strong practical skills as well as analytical skills. This enables you to complete a range of programming jobs from developing embedded or control systems to less specialised work such as creating websites or applications for mobile phones.
Most computer science graduates have careers in the design and implementation of software. You can find opportunities in a wide variety of settings including large or small software companies, large or small computer services companies, and large organisations of all kinds such as industry, government, banking and healthcare, which rely on software for many aspects of their business process.
Professional recognition
This course is accredited by the British Computer Society. It counts towards the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered IT Professional, Chartered Engineer and Chartered Scientist.
Course content
Year one modules
• algorithms and data structures 1 • computer architectures and assembler programming • fundamentals of programming (C++) • systems, organisations, objects and data • maths for computer science • professionalism and communication skills
Year two modules
• algorithms and data structures 2 • optimisation • object-oriented programming (C++) • software engineering concepts and methods • database systems • project-based learning
Year three
Final year modules
• functional programming • fundamentals of programming languages • case studies in software design • professional development computer science research project • an option module
Assessment
• coursework • phase tests • examinations • groupwork • presentations
Entry requirements
2014 entry requirements
GCSE English language at grade C or above and mathematics at grade B or above, plus one of the following
• 300 points from at least two GCE/VCE A levels or equivalent BTEC National qualifications. General studies and AS levels may count towards these points.
• Access – an Access to HE Diploma with at least 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2. At least 18 Level 3 credits must be at merit grade or above, from a QAA-recognised Access to HE course, or an equivalent Access to HE certificate.
We may invite you to a selection event at the University as part of the application process.
If English is not your first language you must have an IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills or equivalent. If your English language skill is currently below IELTS 6.0 we recommend you consider a Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve an equivalent English score.
We welcome applications from people of any age. We may be flexible in our normal offer if you can show a commitment to succeed and have the relevant skills and experience. This must show that you will benefit from and finish the course successfully.
2013 entry requirements
GCSE English language at grade C or above and mathematics at grade B or above, plus one of the following
• 300 points from at least two GCE/VCE A levels in relevant subjects, or BTEC National qualifications. General studies and AS levels may count towards these points.
Fees
Home and EU students
2013/14 academic year
For 2013 entry, membership of a professional body is included in the course fee.
International students
2013/14 academic year
Typically £10,680 a year
2014/15 academic year
Typically £11,250 a year
How to apply
You apply for this course through UCAS.
Contact details
For more information or to check the progress of your application phone +44 (0)114 225 5555, fax +44 (0)114 225 2167, email admissions@shu.ac.uk