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Swansea’s BSc Computer Science offers a rigorous foundation in core computing areas such as programming, algorithms, data science, and systems, enriched by research-led teaching and access to cutting-edge facilities like the Computational Foundry. With flexible pathways including a Year in Industry or Year Abroad, the programme is ideal for students seeking both academic depth and real-world relevance.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (Level 4)
Students begin with core modules including:
Programming 1 & 2 (Java/C and software development techniques)
Concepts of Computer Science
Professional Issues 1 & 2
Modelling Computing Systems 1 & 2
Introduction to Data Science
This year builds foundational skills in coding, computational theory, systems thinking, data literacy, and professional ethics.
Year 2 (Level 5)
You’ll take compulsory modules in:
Software Engineering
Database Systems
Algorithms
Artificial Intelligence
Optional modules may include:
Software Security, Concurrency, Graphics, HCI, or Intelligent Robotics broadening your technical toolkit.
Year 3 (Level 6 – Honours)
You’ll complete a major individual project, assessed across two modules (specification and implementation).
Optional modules allow you to specialise in areas such as:
Cryptography & IT Security
Big Data & Machine Learning
Logic and AI
UX Design, Software Testing, Mobile Apps, or Games Programming
Optional Year in Industry or Abroad
After Year 2, students may choose to spend a year on a paid placement or studying abroad. These routes are fully credit-bearing and provide real-world or global experience that boosts graduate employability.
Assessment Format
Years 1–2: Modules are assessed via a mix of programming tasks, lab reports, quizzes, and written exams.
Final Year Project: Evaluation includes a written dissertation, software/code demonstration, and oral presentation, showcasing independent research and development skills.
Progression & Feedback: Students must pass all modules with at least 40%, and assessments follow clear, regulated criteria with transparent feedback.
Focus Areas
Java/C programming • Software engineering • AI & data science • Algorithms & systems theory • Database, HCI & security • Major individual honours project • Optional placement/year abroad
Learning Outcomes
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This degree is fully accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), providing a pathway to Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status upon graduation.
Reputation & Employability
Ranked 26th in the UK for Computer Science (Guardian University Guide 2024)
82% student satisfaction (NSS 2021)
Teaching is research-driven, with contributions from active projects in cybersecurity, AI, UX, and data science
Delivered through Swansea’s Computational Foundry, with access to maker spaces, cybersecurity labs, and collaborative learning hubs
Alumni go on to roles in software engineering, data science, AI, cybersecurity, and HCI, often leveraging placement or global exchange experience during their degree
Swansea University’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science programme empowers you with real-world, practical experience through world-class facilities, immersive projects, and professional placement opportunities.
Facilities & Learning Environment
Computational Foundry (£32.5M tech hub): home to advanced labs supporting hands-on learning across a wide range of computing domains:
Cyber Security & Networking Lab – Work with penetration testing frameworks, IoT devices, and network simulation tools
Future Interaction Technologies Lab (FIT Lab) – Explore robotics, AR/VR booths, 3D prototyping, and haptics
User Experience (UX) Labs – Study human-computer interaction in real-time environments
Vision & Biometric Lab – Access 3D imaging, motion capture, and biometric testing environments
Makers Labs – Build physical prototypes using laser cutters, CNC machines, 3D printers, and electronics stations
Theory Lab – Model computational systems (e.g., rail signalling, distributed logic)
Remote access & 24/7 on-site availability mean you can use the labs as part of daily coursework and projects.
Experiential Learning Highlights:
Hands-on labs embedded in modules:
You'll ork with C, Java, Python, electronics, Arduino/Raspberry Pi kits, and VR/AR tools across years 1–3
Tackle real-world problem-solving through practical tasks in the Computational Foundry
Capstone Dissertation (Year 3):
An original, research-linked project using the Foundry’s technical facilities
Supervision across areas like HCI, computer vision, or embedded systems
Annual Project Fair:
Showcase software, mobile apps, AI systems, VR environments, and cybersecurity tools to peers, staff, and industry visitors
Optional Year in Industry:
You can opt to complete a 12-month paid placement in Year 3
Supported by the Swansea Employability Academy, with past roles in software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity
Optional Year Abroad:
Study overseas at one of Swansea’s international partners in Canada, Germany, Singapore, Australia, Spain, or the USA
Summer Internships:
8–12 week placements in UK tech firms, research teams, or public sector IT departments
Supported by Careers and Employability team
Student community & enrichment:
Join SwanHack, game dev societies, or cybersecurity clubs
Participate in hackathons, student-led competitions, and campus-wide innovation challenges
Swansea BSc Computer Science graduates launch into impactful careers across software development, data science, and cybersecurity. Around 85% are employed or in further study within 15 months, with median salaries starting at £30k, rising to £39k by year five.
Popular roles include:
Software Engineer or Developer
Data Scientist or Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
Systems Engineer or Mobile App Developer
Career Support & Employability Services
Swansea Employability Academy (SEA):
Offers comprehensive support through:
1:1 coaching and CV/interview prep
Career fairs and employer talks
Funding for internships and society involvement
Access to part-time jobs and volunteering
Year in Industry & Summer Placements:
Optional paid 12-month placements between Years 2–3
Supported by dedicated university placement teams
Short-term summer internships (8–12 weeks) also available
These experiences help enhance graduate CVs and often lead to full-time offers.
Graduate Outcomes & Salary Trajectory
85% employed or in further study at 15 months
£30k median salary at 15 months and 3 years
Rising to £36k by year five
Broader salary range: £25.5k–£35k at 15 months; £30k–£44k at five years
Industry Collaboration & Facilities
Swansea has deep industry ties, enabling hands-on projects, placements, and research collaborations with top firms including:
IBM, Google, Microsoft, Tata Steel, Airbus, Siemens, Rolls-Royce, GE Aviation, and National Grid
The £32.5M Computational Foundry hosts labs in:
Cybersecurity & Networking
Vision & Biometric Systems
UX & Interaction Design
Maker Labs with CNC, 3D printing, and electronics
These spaces equip students for real-world challenges using cutting-edge tech.
Reputation & Accreditation
Fully BCS-accredited, qualifying graduates for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status
Ranked Top 3 in the UK for Software Engineering teaching (NSS 2023)
Global reputation for interdisciplinary computing research (REF-rated)
Graduate Destinations & Alumni Pathways
Swansea graduates are employed by major tech players including:
Microsoft, Facebook, IBM, Google, Sony, Disney
Career destinations span:
Software & Web Development
Data Science & Analytics
Cybersecurity
Mobile & Embedded Systems
Students also benefit from a supportive community, with active societies in robotics, AI, and cybersecurity.
Further Academic Progression
After completing the BSc, graduates can pursue:
A Year in Industry or Year Abroad variant for global or professional experience
MSc programmes in AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Software Engineering
PhD research using Foundry resources and Swansea’s industry links
Professional qualifications (e.g., CITP via BCS) or conversion into tech-adjacent sectors like finance or consulting
UCAS Application • Official High School Transcripts • Personal Statement • Educational Resume • Letter of Recommendation by School TeacherA Level: ABB-BBC to include grade B/6 in GCSE Maths if not studying A-Level Maths, Physics or Computer ScienceInternational Baccalaureate (IB): 32 overall to include 5 at Higher Level or 6 at Standard Level "Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches" or 32 overall with 5 at Higher Level or 7 at Standard Level in "Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation"Year XII Certificate / Standard XII / HSC / Year 12 certificate From Central & State Boards: 70% Overall IELTS: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any component TOEFL: 79 overall Offers optional Industrial Placement and Study Abroad Year. Tuition Fees: 20% and 15% full time rate for Industrial Placement and Study abroad year respectively.Analyst DevelopersBusiness AnalystsComputer ProgrammersElectronic EngineersGraphic DesignersSoftware Developers Machine Learning Engineers
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