Computer Science with Security and Forensics (BSc)

Cardiff’s BSc Computer Science with Security and Forensics delivers a rich, hands-on education combining cutting-edge facilities, innovative projects, and strong industry ties.

Facilities & Learning Environment

• Abacws Building: Purpose-built home for the School of Computer Science and Informatics, featuring flexible lecture theaters, collaborative seminar rooms, multiple computer labs, a dedicated Makerspace, IT workshop, and a fully-equipped cybersecurity lab.

• Queen’s Buildings Suites: Includes the Data Science Academy (Ystafell Turing) and Katherine Johnson Suite, offering advanced tools for AI, data analytics, and collaborative work.

• National Software Academy: Startup-style spaces in the Julian Hodge Building supporting software engineering activities, with access to all Abacws facilities.

• Dedicated technical support ensures smooth operation of IT platforms and learning tools across all environments.

Experiential Learning Highlights:

• Weekly Demonstrator-Led Labs: Around 15–20 contact hours in Year 1, focused on hands-on practice in Java, Python, C/C++, database systems, networking, cybersecurity, and software engineering, supported by tutorials and example sessions.

• Team-Based Learning:

  • Year 1: Group projects applying core skills.

  • Year 2: Complex software system group assignments emphasizing systems design and team presentation skills.

• Year 3 Individual Project: Independent, faculty-supervised capstone reflecting your chosen specialisation such as AI, security, graphics, or databases.

Year in Industry & Placements

• Optional Year in Industry (between Years 2–3, 120 credits):

  • Student-led placement search supported by the School’s Placement Officer.

  • Includes workshops, tutorials, supervisor visits, and assessed deliverables such as portfolio, reflective report, and employer feedback.

• Recent Placement Hosts: Airbus, Admiral, CERN, GSK, HP, Lloyds Bank, Red Bull Racing.

• Summer Placements & Industry Projects: Supported via Careers and Employability services, enabling short internships or live client work during modules.

Research-Led Teaching & Career Integration

• Curriculum informed by strong research culture within the School, aligned with BCS accreditation and QAA quality standards.

• Dedicated career support with CV advice, interview preparation, job fairs, and placement application assistance.

• Employment Outcomes: Around 95% of graduates secure highly skilled roles within 15 months of graduating.

Cardiff University's BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Security and Forensics program offers a robust curriculum, strong industry connections, and excellent graduate outcomes. With opportunities for specialization, professional accreditation, and advanced study, it provides a solid foundation for a successful career in computing. Approximately 85% of Cardiff University’s BSc Computer Science graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months, with around 90% in highly skilled roles.

This degree sets you up for roles such as:

• Software Engineer / Web Developer

• Computer Programmer / Associate Developer

• Business Analyst / Systems Development Officer

• IT Consultant / Data Specialist

University Services That Support Employment

• Dedicated Careers Service, offering:

  • One-on-one advising

  • CV and interview workshops

  • Employer fairs and networking events

• Optional year-in-industry placement, supported by a Placement Officer—a key booster for employability and professional experience

• Access to industry-standard projects and client-led assignments via the advanced Abacws building labs and coursework

Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success

• 85% of graduates in employment or further study 15 months post-graduation

• Median salaries:

  • ~£31,000 at 15 months

  • ~£32,500 at 3 years

  • ~£39,000 at 5 years

University–Industry Partnerships

Graduates are employed by high-profile organisations including:

• Airbus Group, Amazon, BBC, BT, Capgemini, GCHQ, IBM, Morgan Stanley, Sky, Ministry of Defence, South Wales Police, Thomson Reuters

Cardiff’s strong local tech ecosystem encourages students to:

• Build portfolios

• Take part in open-source projects

• Gain real-world experience skills highly valued by recruiters

Accreditation & Long-Term Value

• Accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS)

• Degree aligned with industry and academic standards, enhanced through client-based projects and an up-to-date curriculum

• Cardiff is a Russell Group university, offering:

  • Research excellence

  • Strong academic reputation

  • High-impact career networks

Graduation Outcomes

• ~80% of students say their job aligns with their career plans

• ~70% report actively applying the skills from their studies

• Nearly 100% of year-in-industry graduates are in skilled professional roles shortly after graduation

Further Academic Progression

After completing your BSc, you can:

• Pursue an MSc in Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Data Science, or Software Engineering

• Choose a year-in-industry MSc or a research-based MSc / PhD, supported by Cardiff’s top-tier institutes

• Use your BCS-accredited degree to progress toward Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status

• Expand into portfolio building, teaching pathways, or summer internships, with continued career services and alumni support