BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Software Engineering)

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science at Keele University transforms your learning into real-world skills through hands-on labs, live projects, and strong industry-engagement:

From day one, you’ll learn by doing, coding in languages like Python, C/C++, and Java using modern, dual-boot Windows/Linux machines, accessing high-performance computing (including supercomputer facilities), and working in a VR and Maker‑Space environment. Keele’s School offers optional specialisms (AI, cybersecurity, games, forensics, software engineering), allowing you to tailor your learning and tools to your interests.

Experiential Learning Highlights:

• Core individual and group software projects: From Year 1 onwards, modules include practical group work with professional practices (version control, testing, CI), and your final-year project is a two-semester, supervised piece aimed at solving real-world problems .

• Flexible short placement (75 hours): In (Year 2), you can complete a 75‑hour placement sourced by Keele or self-secured—gaining workplace experience and employability skills.

• Optional sandwich placement year: Opt to take a full-year placement between Years 2 and 3 (or Year 3–4) at companies like IBM, AstraZeneca, NHS, Boeing, Nintendo, Bentley, and more, arranged and supported by Keele’s Placements & Projects team .

• AI, Cybersecurity & Games modules: Choose optional study paths featuring specialist modules in machine learning, cyber‑security, digital forensics, computer graphics, animation, and game development using engines like Unity.

• Top-tier facilities: Work in VR labs, university supercomputing resources, Cisco-assisted networking suites, and dedicated Maker‑Spaces that support project prototyping and collaboratio.

• Research-aligned independent study: The Level 6 Individual Study Topic encourages you to pursue emerging or niche areas under supervisor support, perfect for creative or research-led learning.

• Strong careers and employability support: Keele's award‑shortlisted Careers & Employability Team offers mock interviews, CV advice, career fairs, alumni mentoring, and ongoing support.

• Study abroad option: You can choose an international year instead of a placement year, which helpsbroadening your global perspective and study experience.

Keele University Computer Science BSc graduates enjoy excellent early outcomes: 90% are in employment or further study within 15 months, Recent graduates typically move into roles such as:

• Software Engineer / Developer

• Cybersecurity Analyst / Network Engineer

• Data Scientist / Big Data Engineer

• IT Consultant / Systems or DevOps Analyst

University services that support employment

• Careers & Employability support – Keele’s award‑nominated team (short‑listed for Best University Careers Employment Service, 2021) provide one‑to‑one coaching, mock interviews, CV prep, alumni mentoring, and networking events, with annual careers fairs and a campus portal full of graduate opportunities.

• Industrial experience – many students take optional placements or summer internships (6–12 weeks or a year), with successful placement at companies like IBM and Pektron, often leading to job offers.

• Employment stats & salary figures – 90% employed or studying within 15 months; median salary ~£26,000 (range £25–33k) after 15 months, ~£32k at 3 years, and ~£35k at 5 years.

• University–industry partnerships – Keele is co-located with its Science Park and works closely with employers like IBM. Projects and placements reinforce curriculum relevance.

• Accreditation & professional value – the BSc is accredited by BCS, supporting progression toward Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

• Graduate destinations – graduates move into highly-skilled roles across sectors like software, cybersecurity, IT consulting, data engineering with practical project experience (e.g., capstones and internships) proving especially valuable.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can choose to pursue postgraduate study and credentials, such as:

• MSc degrees in specialisms like Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Data Science, or related disciplines either at Keele or other universities.

• PhD opportunities, leveraging Keele’s research-active School of Computer Science and its campus-based Science Park environment.

• Advanced professional qualifications, including Chartered IT Professional (CITP) via BCS accreditation, or certifications in cybersecurity, networking, data science, or DevOps.