BSc Hons Computer Science

BSc (Hons) Computer Science at Robert Gordon University delivers practical, career-focused learning through cutting-edge tools, real projects, and strong industry links:

From the first year, you’ll work in modern computing environments across Linux, Windows, Mac, and Cisco networks. You’ll have access to specialist labs for multimedia, cybersecurity, motion capture, and client-driven projects, all designed to give you tangible skills alongside your studies.

Experiential Learning Highlights:

• 9 IT laboratories with 335+ PCs: Gain hands-on experience in multimedia production (sound booth, green-screen, render farm), Cisco network labs, project computing spaces, and Mac graphics suites.

• Cybersecurity lab pods (CCNA-equivalent): Each student works with real switches and routers to learn network configuration and security best practices.

• Project computing labs: Honours-year students have exclusive drop-in workspaces to develop major individual or group capstones.

• Optional 8–12 month placement year: Most students take a paid industrial placement between Years 2 and 3 (or 3–4), with support from RGU’s Placement Office; many convert placements into full-time jobs.

• Study abroad routes: You can spend a year overseas (e.g., France, Sweden, Norway, Netherlands) between years to broaden your international experience.

• Multimedia and motion capture equipment: Use motion-capture studios, podcast booths, green-screen suites, and render farms to develop media-rich apps and interactive systems.

• Entrepreneurial & research projects: Work with staff using OpenStack cloud, AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise modules supported by entrepreneurial modules and real-world case studies.

• Strong industry engagement: RGU works closely with employers and professional bodies (BCS, Cisco, Apple, Microsoft, Data Lab, Repsol, TechnipFMC), shaping modules, delivering guest talks, and offering scholarship opportunities.

• Student-led community & hackathons: Through the Computing Society, organize events like 24-hour hackathons, connecting theory and coding while building teamwork and leadership skills.

• Dedicated careers support: The Placement Office guides CV/resume preparation, interview training, and has a strong record of converting placements into graduate-level employment—Eilidh cited peer support leading to Google internships and roles.

Robert Gordon University’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduates boast outstanding early outcomes: 80% are employed or in further study within 15 months, with around 75% securing high-skilled roles such as software engineer, cybersecurity analyst, systems developer, or data specialist. Logical connector: Typical career destinations include:

• Software Engineer / Developer

• Cybersecurity Analyst / Network Engineer

• Systems Analyst or IT Consultant

• Data Specialist or Technical Project Manager

University services that support employment

• Careers & Employability Hub + School of Computing guidance – offers one‑to‑one career coaching, CV/interview preparation, an RGU-specific job portal, and networking events tied to 183+ industry partners, boosting placement and recruitment chances.

• Industrial placements – students undertake a paid 6–12 month placement between Years 2 and 3, frequently leading to part-time or full-time job offers—many continue working with host companies like Sword, IBM, or Shell.

• Graduate Outcomes & Salary – 80% in employment or further study at 15 months. Median salaries: approximately £25k at 15 months, £26k at 3 years, and £28.5k at 5 years, tracking close to UK medians despite Scotland’s regional differences.

• Industry partnerships – strong engagement with Microsoft, Logica, Apple, IBM, and energy-sector leaders like Shell, TotalEnergies, Wood, and Petrofac, which influence curriculum and host placements.

• Accreditation & long‑term value – fully accredited by BCS, forming a pathway toward Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status and recognized credentials in cybersecurity and software engineering.

• Graduate success – alumni have secured roles at companies like Sword (with multiple hires from RGU cohorts). Online feedback highlights RGU grads are “practical… self-starters”, often hired directly from placements .

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can enhance their credentials and advance their expertise through:

• MSc degrees in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, or Information Systems, either at RGU or other leading institutions.

• PhD research opportunities within RGU’s School of Computing, Engineering & Technology, often linked to industry-funded projects.

• Progress toward professional qualifications, including BCS Chartered status or specialist certifications in cybersecurity, networking, or software architecture.