BSc Hons Computer Science

At Loughborough University, you won’t just learn computer science, you’ll build, experiment, and innovate in a program designed to turn theory into real-world solutions.

Ranked Top 10 in the UK for Computer Science (Guardian University Guide 2024), Loughborough combines cutting-edge facilities, industry partnerships, and hands-on projects to prepare you for a standout career in tech.

Facilities & Learning Environment

Haslegrave Building labs:

• General labs: Five dedicated suites (180 PCs) for everyday teaching and coursework.

• Specialist labs: Four focused spaces for robotics (Pepper humanoid, NAO, quadcopters), networking, HCI, and imaging.

• STEMLab (£17m facility): A high-tech shared workshop with computer suites, prototyping zones, and equipment for electronics and robotics.

• Campus-wide IT support: Over 1,900 machines (Windows, Mac, Linux), 24/7 access, virtualization tools, and free downloadable software.

• Library & study zones: A four-storey library with individual/group study spaces, PC clinics, and technical support.

• Virtual Learning Environment: Access all lectures, course materials, and assignments online through LEARN.

Experiential Learning Highlights:

• Weekly practicals & workshops: Every module blends lectures with lab sessions, coding, hardware setups, robotics and includes teamwork, presentations, and demos.

• Group projects & software modules: Frequent collaborative projects give you real software-engineering experience using tools like Visual Paradigm, UML, BPMN, and Agile methods.

• Individual research project: In your final year, you'll conduct a supervised, sizeable original project often using robotics or imaging tech from specialist labs.

Placements & Internships

• Optional professional placement year (3rd year):
  Work full-time in industry as a trainee, earning a Diploma in Professional Studies (DPS).
  Supported by a placement tutor and Careers Network where over 1,400 students do placements annually.
  Hosts include IBM, Microsoft, CERN, Disney, BAE Systems, GSK, HSBC, PepsiCo, Renault F1, and others.

• Year abroad & enterprise placement:
  Options include a full year abroad, or 6 months abroad + 6 months professional placement.

• Summer internships:
  Department and Career Network support short-term placements between academic years which is optional but encouraged.

Loughborough University's BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduates enjoy high-impact tech careers where around 85-90% are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months, with average starting salaries of £33–35 k  rising to £48.5 k by five years.

Popular roles include:

• Software Engineer or Developer

• Data Scientist or Analyst

• Technical / IT Consultant

• Web or App Developer

Here’s how Loughborough turbocharges your career:

University services that support employment

• Award-winning Professional Placement Year, available on all courses, helps you secure paid 9–12 month positions (£18–25 k). Many placements convert to graduate offers.

• The Careers & Employability Centre partners with the CS Department for tailored guidance, workshops, mock interviews, and ongoing support via a student portal.

Employment stats & salary figures

• 85-90% in employment or further study within 6–15 months

• Median salary: ~£35 k at 15 months, ~£40 k at 3 years, £52 k at 5 years

University–industry partnerships

• Extensive placement networks with IBM, Microsoft, AWS, Sony, BAE Systems, BMW, Siemens, and others

• The department engages with corporate sponsors for module design, project support, and guest lectures

• Campus is adjacent to a research-rich sports and innovation environment

Long-term accreditation & reputation

• Fully BCS‑accredited, satisfying requirements toward Chartered IT Professional and Chartered Engineer status

• Regularly ranked among the UK Top 15 for Computer Science (Times, Guardian, Complete University Guide)

Graduation outcomes

• 100% of surveyed students were working or studying by 15 months.

• Graduates secure roles such as Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Web Developer, App Developer, Security Analyst, and Project Manager

• Top employers include: Amazon, Barclays, Dyson, PwC, Deutsche Bank, Morgan Stanley

Further Academic Progression

Upon completing your BSc, you can seamlessly progress to:

• A placement-enhanced MSci (4‑year) offering deeper research or industry immersion

• A standalone MSc in AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering either at Loughborough or other top universities

• PhD research, leveraging excellent facilities, industry ties, and the university’s growing research reputation

• Professional accreditation via BCS or conversion pathways into finance, teaching, or management consultancy