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The BSc Natural Sciences degree provides a wide choice of subjects to study and does not require applicants to study any particular subject. These subjects are divided into three groups.Typically, first-year BSc Natural Sciences students either take three modules f
In a fast-moving world, computer science is the force behind the technological breakthroughs that have changed our lives for the better. Durham’s BSc in Computer Science and Mathematics offers a powerful 50/50 blend of rigorous computing and pure mathematics. Perfect for analytical thinkers, this BCS-accredited degree gives you strong foundations in algorithms, programming, discrete maths and statistics, while providing flexibility to specialise in advanced areas like AI, data science, or theoretical mathematics
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
Students develop foundational knowledge in both computer science and mathematics, with a balance of theory and practical work.
Core modules include:
Programming (core concepts and problem-solving)
Discrete Mathematics
Algorithms & Data Structures
Calculus & Linear Algebra
Computer Systems (architecture and low-level principles)
Probability & Statistics
Year 2
The curriculum advances in both disciplines, with greater integration of computational and mathematical theory.
Core modules include:
Software Methodologies (design and development)
Analysis & Differential Equations
Artificial Intelligence (introductory concepts)
Computational Mathematics (numerical methods, optimization)
Theory of Computation
Databases & Networks
Optional modules
Computer Graphics
Statistical Methods
Functional Programming
Year 3
Students specialize further, undertaking a major project (30 credits) in either computer science or mathematics, alongside advanced electives.
Core modules:
Final Year Project (CS or Math-focused research/implementation)
Optional modules (wide selection, examples below):
Computer Science:
Machine Learning
Computer Vision
Advanced Algorithms
Security & Cryptography
Mathematics:
Mathematical Modelling
Stochastic Processes
Graph Theory
Quantum Computing (interdisciplinary)
Placement / Abroad Option
You can add a fourth year, either on an industry placement (COMP3986 – 120 credits) or a year abroad, integrating professional or global experience into your degree.
Assessment Format
Years 1–2: Modules are assessed via a balance of written exams, programming assignments, lab reports, and occasional presentations, giving you practical and theoretical depth.
Year 2 Team Project: Your group software build is formally evaluated based on both teamwork and final product quality, replicating industry assessment models.
Year 3 Individual Project: This final-year dissertation combines technical innovation and academic investigation; you’re assessed through a written report and presentation, making up about one-third of your Year 3 marks.
Final Degree Classification: Honours is awarded based on performance in Year 3 modules, including rigorous project assessments and exams. There are clear pass marks and credit-weighting rules to guide progression.
Focus areas:
"Algorithms & data structures • Computational thinking & programming • Linear algebra, calculus, probability & statistics • Software engineering & computer systems • Specialist pathways in AI, data science, pure mathematics • Individual honours project • Enterprise teamwork module"
Learning outcomes:
Design and build algorithmic software; use formal and systems thinking; collaborate on real-world projects; conduct deep independent research; communicate technical solutions effectively; Understand and apply advanced mathematical concepts
Professional alignment (accreditation):
While non-BCS, the BSc’s structure—with its team project, individual research, and placement option—closely matches competencies expected by employers and supports Chartered Engineer progression.
Reputation (employability rankings):
Durham CS ranks among the UK’s top ~6 and boasts ~90% graduate employment or further study within 15 months, many in skilled roles averaging ~£40 k.
r degree. It also allows you to delay the choice about the direction of your studies until the end of your first year. Each year you can normally change your choice of modules within the first three weeks of the academic year.
Durham University’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science program gives you hands-on, real-world experience through cutting-edge facilities, practical learning, and career-focused opportunities. From day one, you’ll study in a purpose-built £40 million Computer Science building at Upper Mountjoy. Inside, you’ll find open-plan workspaces, breakout areas, a café, and dedicated labs and computer rooms. Plus, the Hazan Venture Lab supports student enterprise and entrepreneurship in collaboration with Careers & Enterprise.
Here’s what experiential learning looks like:
State‑of‑the‑art HPC & specialist labs:
Use Durham’s own supercomputers (Hamilton, DiRAC Cosma, 16-node Dine cluster with SmartNICs), the Nvidia CUDA Centre (multi‑GPU/CPU cluster), and a visualization lab with 3D/4K screens, perfect for AI, data analysis, visualization, and systems experimentation.
Weekly programming & systems practicals:
Every module combines lectures with hands-on problem-solving sessions and coding assignments are supported by staff and demonstrators.
Supervised individual research project:
In your final year you’ll undertake a year-long, one-on-one project requiring independent research, development, and technical presentation.
Internships & placement year:
Summer internships (8–12 weeks) at leading international businesses like Google, IBM, Microsoft, Meta, Deutsche Bank, Morgan Stanley with departmental support and funding from an Industry Fund up to £1,500.
Optional placement year:
Take an extra year in industry after Year 2 or Year 3 via module COMP3986 earning professional skills and real workplace experience.
Student-led initiatives & hackathons:
Get involved in CompSoc events like DurHack (24‑hour hackathon), or take the lead in groups like the Student Cluster Competition team where Durham students have built award-winning supercomputing projects.
Industry networking & career development:
The Careers & Enterprise Centre runs employer events, mentoring, hackathons, and professional development opportunities; Durham is ranked 6th for CS employability, with 92% of graduates in professional roles within 15 months of graduation.
Durham’s BSc in Computer Science prepares you for outstanding career paths: 92% of graduates are in skilled employment or further study 15 months after finishing, earning an average salary of £40,500, with typical starting salaries around £35 k and rising to £42–45 k by five years post-graduation. Common career roles include:
Software Engineer or Developer
Data Scientist or Analyst
IT Consultant or Technical Lead
Systems Architect
University services that support employment
Durham’s Careers & Enterprise Team and dedicated CS adviser offer one‑to‑one guidance, CV/interview prep, employer workshops, and access to graduate job and internship databases. The Placement Team arranges summer internships and year‑long industrial placements.
The Internships and Industry Fund offers up to £1,500 to support costs for placements (UK & abroad), covering travel, accommodation, equipment, etc.
University–industry partnerships
Students complete internships at top firms like Google, IBM, Microsoft, Morgan Stanley, Meta, and Waters.
Durham is deeply connected to regional innovation via NETPark, a science & tech hub with collaborations in satellite communications, photonics, semiconductors and enterprise support.
Hacks and events through CompSoc, backed by industry partners, sharpen skills and networking.
Long-term accreditation & reputation
A top‑tier Russell Group university, Durham ranks 6th overall in The Guardian 2025 and 5th in The Times/Sunday Times 2025.
The CS department is joint 6th for employability in the Complete University Guide 2025.
Graduation outcomes
100% of those employed are in highly skilled roles
Graduates step into roles at Google, Microsoft, IBM, Accenture, Deutsche Bank, Meta, and more
Paid internships frequently convert into full-time offers, as seen in case studies with Deutsche Bank and Google
Further Academic Progression
After your BSc, you can build toward:
A Master’s (MSc) in fields like AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Software Engineering either at Durham or leading universities worldwide.
A Year Abroad option in your degree, adding an extra year overseas to enrich cultural and academic experience.
A PhD in Computer Science, tapping into Durham’s research centers, industry-linked projects, and proximity to NETPark.
Professional certifications or postgraduate conversion courses (e.g. teaching, fintech, enterprise) leveraging Durham’s strong reputation.
UCAS Application • Official High School Transcripts • Personal Statement • Educational Resume • Letter of Recommendation by School TeacherA Level: A*AA including A in MathematicsInternational Baccalaureate (IB): 38 with 666 in higher level subjects, including MathematicsCBSE / CISCE Boards: Standard XII with an average score of 87% (best of 4 academic subjects, excluding Physical Education) with any prerequisite subjects at 85% or higherIELTS: 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each componentTOEFL (iBT): 92 with no component under 23Offers optional Industrial Placement and Study Abroad Year. Tuition Fees: 20% and 15% full time rate for Industrial Placement and Study abroad year respectively.EngineerCommunications designerComputer hardware EngineerSoftware EngineerComputer system designerControl system designer Database AdministratorUX/UI DesignerEmbedded Systems EngineerDevOps EngineerGame DeveloperBlockchain DeveloperIT Support SpecialistFull-Stack DeveloperFront-End DeveloperBack-End DeveloperSite Reliability EngineerComputer Vision Engineer
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