Brunel’s BSc Computer Science is a dynamic three-year program designed to equip students with both theoretical foundations and practical skills in computing. The curriculum covers programming (Java, Python), algorithms, cybersecurity, and AI, with opportunities to specialize in areas like software engineering, artificial intelligence, and network computing. The program emphasizes real-world application through industry projects and research, preparing graduates for high-demand tech roles
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 – Core Principles & Programming
Establish your foundation through modules such as:
Introductory Programming
Logic and Computation
Data & Information
Information Systems & Organisations
Level 1 Group Project
These core modules establish your programming, computational logic, systems, data handling, and teamwork skills through lectures, labs, and group software projects
Year 2 – Applied Development & Engineering
Expand your knowledge in areas including:
Software Development & Management
Usability Engineering
Algorithms & Their Applications
Networks & Operating Systems
Level 2 Group Project
This year deepens your knowledge of systems design, software engineering, networking, and UX, continuing team-based project work
Year 3 – Final Project & Specialisation (Honours Year)
Tackle advanced concepts while tailoring your degree through electives:
Final Year Project
Software Project Management
Advanced Topics in Computer Science
Optional specialisms: Choose from AI, Software Engineering, Network Computing, or Digital Media & Games
Optional Placement Year (Sandwich Route)
Undertake a paid professional placement in the UK or internationally between Years 2 and 3. This offers real-world experience, valuable contacts, and a CV boost fully supported by Brunel’s Placement Team.
Assessment Format
Assessment and feedback varies from one module to another and may be based entirely on coursework, entirely on examination or on a combination of both. As you progress, you’ll learn how to reliably assess the quality and value of your own before you submit it.
Level 1 does not count towards your final degree classification; Level 2 is worth a third; and Level 3 accounts for two thirds. Your final year project is worth a third of the Level 3 marks. Overall the exam-to-coursework ratio is about 60:40.
Focus Areas:
Java programming • Algorithms & data structures • Operating systems & networking • Software engineering & usability • Project-based learning • AI, games, and digital media specialisms • Paid placement option
Learning Outcomes:
Design and build complex software systems
Apply networking and algorithmic logic
Collaborate on large-scale group development
Manage software projects and usability engineering
Specialise in innovative computing areas
Deliver independent final-year research or solutions
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
Fully BCS-accredited, meeting academic requirements for:
Chartered IT Professional (CITP)
Incorporated Engineer (IEng)
Partial Chartered Engineer (CEng)
Eligible for BCS professional membership post-graduation
Reputation & Employability Rankings
Top 15 UK for Computer Science graduate earnings (LEO data)
Ranked 7th in London for graduate prospects
Ranked between 201st and 250th globally for computer science.(The Times Higher Education World University Rankings)
Employers include: Accenture, Microsoft, O2, Toshiba, Barclays, British Airways
Students benefit from modern labs, robotics & drone platforms, Cisco systems, and collaborations with Microsoft and Apple
Brunel’s Computer Science degree offers a highly practical, industry-integrated education supported by excellent facilities, project-based learning, and strong employer links. With access to emerging tech like drones and robotics, students graduate equipped for modern tech careers and advanced specialisations.
Facilities & Learning Environment
Modern Computing Labs: Equipped with high-spec workstations, CS labs support intensive development tasks and experimentation with drones, robotics, and IoT devices.
Collaborative Project Zones: Open workspaces surround labs to encourage peer learning, team collaboration, and creative development.
Virtual Lab Tours: Available online, offering a glimpse into Brunel’s advanced teaching environment and tools.
Robotics & Emerging Tech Access: Physical computing is embedded into coursework via access to drones, robot kits, and smart devices.
Experiential Learning Highlights
Project-Based Learning (~33%):
Level 1 & 2: Students collaborate on group projects, simulating software industry workflows.
Final Year: Students undertake an individual capstone project, showcasing innovation and technical ability.
Weekly Demonstrator-Led Labs:
Every module includes coding, debugging, and testing using industry-standard tools and environments.
‘Made in Brunel’ Showcase:
Final-year and placement projects are displayed at a public event, with prizes sponsored by firms like Cisco, Sky, and Xerox.
Offers real-world recognition and networking opportunities.
Placements & Career Experience
Optional Year in Industry:
A 12-month paid placement is available between Years 2 and 3.
Brunel’s Professional Development Centre supports with CV prep, mock interviews, and application mentoring.
Placement partners include:
Microsoft, IBM, BMW, Xerox, Accenture, Barclays, Toshiba, and many others.
Tier 4 placement students often secure graduate roles aligned with their placement experience.
Research & Special Opportunities
Research-Informed Curriculum:
Faculty conduct active research in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, HCI, and data analytics, directly informing teaching.
Tech Memberships & Alliances:
Microsoft Alliance
Apple iOS Academic Program
Nvidia CUDA Teaching Centre
Inclusion & Mentoring:
Initiatives like Women in Engineering mentoring and Athena SWAN Bronze award reflect Brunel’s commitment to equity in STEM fields.
Brunel University's BSc Computer Science graduates launch into high-impact careers: approximately 87% of graduates are employed in England or in further study within 15 months
Typical roles include:
Software Engineer / Developer
Systems Analyst / IT Consultant
AI / Machine Learning Specialist
Web & Mobile Applications Developer
University services that support employment
Professional Development Centre (PDC): Offers one-on-one coaching, CV/interview prep, placement search support, networking events, career fairs, and ongoing guidance even post-graduation.
Placement path: Optional four‑year sandwich degree includes a paid year-long professional placement in Year 3, with past students interning at Accenture, Microsoft, British Airways, Barclays, Toshiba, and more.
Made in Brunel: Annual showcase where final-year software innovation projects are judged by industry experts from Cisco, Sky, Xerox, etc. great for visibility and credibility.
Athena SWAN & mentoring schemes: Recognition of gender equality efforts, including a “Women in Engineering and Computing” mentoring initiative.
BCS Accreditation: The course fully satisfies British Computer Society standards, enabling progression to Chartered IT Professional (CITP), Incorporated Engineer (IEng), and partial Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success
87% employed or in further study at 15 months
Median salaries: £30k at 15 months, £34k at three years, £42k at five years
University–industry partnerships
Placement and networking connections with major employers: Accenture, Microsoft, IBM, Cisco, Barclays, Toshiba, British Airways, etc.
Industry judges and sponsors for student projects through “Made in Brunel,” boosting both exposure and confidence
Long-term accreditation & reputation
BCS-accredited programme meets academic criteria for CITP, IEng, CEng professional recognition for your degree
Located in London-West and ranking 9th for graduate earnings among London universities
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BSc, you can continue to elevate your expertise with:
A 4-year sandwich MComp option, deepening technical skills and industry experience
MSc degrees in AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, or related fields either at Brunel or other top universities
PhD research, leveraging Brunel’s active research ecosystem in software, AI, robotics, and more
Professional accreditation, moving into CITP, IEng, CEng, plus vendor certifications (e.g., Cisco, Microsoft)
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