BSc Hons Computer Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

The University of Bradford

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science at University of Bradford is a dynamic three-year program designed to equip students with both theoretical foundations and practical skills in computing. The curriculum covers programming, algorithms, cybersecurity, and AI, with opportunities to specialize in areas like Data Science, Software Engineering, or Cyber Security. The program emphasizes real-world application through industry projects and research, preparing graduates for high-demand tech role.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Foundations in Software and Systems

  • Fundamentals of Programming 

  • Computer Architecture & Systems Software

  • Internet Technologies

  • Software Design & Development

  • Mathematics for Computing

  • Technical & Professional Skills

You’ll develop proficiency in programming languages and system fundamentals while building teamwork, design thinking, and database capabilities all reinforced with lab-based learning.

Year 2 – Core Computing Depth & Enterprise Challenge

  • Computational Modelling & AI

  • Communications & Networks

  • Data Structures & Algorithms

  • Database Systems

  • Numerical Analysis

  • Enterprise Pro: Group-based, employer-driven project simulating real workplace challenges

This year deepens core computing skills while testing your ability to deliver industry-standard solutions in a team setting.

Year 3 – Optional Placement Year

  • Paid placement with companies like IBM, Intel, and Microsoft

  • Gain up to 12 months of full-time experience

  • Roles across software development, systems support, or cybersecurity

The placement isn’t classified but builds critical professional experience and confidence.

Year 4 – Honours Year & Technical Specialisation

  • Final Year Project

  • Large-Scale Data-Driven Applications

  • Neural Networks & Fuzzy Systems

  • Optional modules in Cryptography, Mobile App Dev, Games AI, Security, and more

Specialise in a domain of your choice and demonstrate independence and innovation through your project.


šŸ“ Assessment Format

  • Most modules use a mix of coursework, lab-based tasks, and exams

  • Enterprise Pro (Year 2): Team project graded on technical output, collaboration, and presentation

  • Final Year Project: Evaluated through code, documentation, live demo, and presentation

  • Placement Year: Graded via employer reports and reflective portfolios (credit-bearing, not degree-classified)


Focus areas:
"Programming (Java, Python, C++, Ruby, Haskell) • Algorithms & data structures • Systems, networks & web • Databases • Artificial Intelligence • Cybersecurity • Industrial projects"

Graduate learning outcomes:

  • Build and deploy robust applications

  • Analyse and model complex systems and algorithms

  • Collaborate professionally in team environments

  • Apply AI and data modelling to solve real problems

  • Manage large-scale software projects

  • Transition effectively into graduate-level tech roles


Accreditation & Industry Engagement

  • Fully accredited by BCS, meeting academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP)

  • Placement year and technical curriculum benchmarked to employer needs

  • Provisionally recognised by UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)


Reputation & Employability Rankings

  • 95% of Bradford Computer Science grads go into high-skilled roles

  • Recent placement employers include IBM, Intel, and Microsoft

  • 92% student satisfaction in the 2021 National Student Survey

  • Alumni succeed in roles such as Software Engineer, Systems Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, and AI Engineer

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

BSc (Hons) Computer Science at the University of Bradford delivers a hands-on, career-focused learning experience, making you job-ready from day one:


Facilities & Learning Environment

The Horton D building now houses five state-of-the-art labs, following a £700K investment in 2025 (in addition to £600K in 2024). These spaces are built for flexible, collaborative work, perfect for group coding, prototyping, and live demonstrations.

High-performance UNIX/Linux servers and virtualisation support both coursework and research. Students can use campus workstations or remote-access VMs, mirroring real-world industry environments.

A Device Loan Scheme allows students to borrow tech such as Raspberry Pis and smartwatches for IoT, mobile apps, and electronics-based modules.

The J.B. Priestley Library is open 24/7 and features a 100-seat PC cluster, individual booths, and full IT support, ideal for late-night coding sessions.


Experiential Learning Highlights

From day one, you’ll engage in demonstrator-led labs, applying theory in practical contexts using Java, Python, C/C++, as well as networking, AI, security, and enterprise systems.

By Year 2, you'll complete the Enterprise‑Pro module, working in teams on live industry briefsdesigning, implementing, and operating client solutions under supervision.

In your final year, a guided capstone project allows you to focus on areas such as AI, graphics, cybersecurity, mobile, or large-scale systems development, applying everything you’ve learned with real tools and resources.


Professional Placements & Career Experience

You can opt for an optional Year in Industry in Year 3, featuring a placement supported by academic supervisors and a Career Development Advisor. Students often return with job offers from placement companies like IBM, Intel, and Microsoft.

Ongoing career support includes portfolio building, CV/interview preparation, industry mentorship, and employer events integrated throughout the curriculum.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Approximately 96–100% of University of Bradford’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months, with around 82–95% in graduate-level roles.

This degree prepares you for careers such as:

  • Software Engineer / Developer

  • Systems Analyst / IT Consultant

  • Data Scientist / AI or Machine Learning Specialist

  • Cybersecurity / Network Engineer


University Services That Support Employment

  • Career & Employability Services are embedded within the course, providing:

    • CV support

    • Mock interviews

    • Placement and job search assistance

  • The Enterprise Centre enables hands-on, real-world project work in final-year modules

  • Optional placement year backed by strong employer links with companies like:

    • IBM, Microsoft, Intel, HP, Rolls Royce


Employment Stats & Salary Figures

  • Median salaries:

    • ~£25,000 at 15 months

    • ~£27,000 at 3 years

    • ~£30,000–£33,000 at 5 years

  • 100% of UK-resident graduates are in employment or further study 15 months post-graduation


University–Industry Partnerships

  • Industry partnerships with over 450 organisations, including:

    • IBM, Microsoft, Intel, HP, BBC, Capgemini, NHS, Rolls Royce, AWS

  • The Bradford Computing Enterprise Centre offers client-facing team projects via Enterprise Pro modules


Accreditation & Long-Term Value

  • Fully accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS)

  • Meets academic standards for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status

  • Outstanding teaching reputation:

    • 92% overall student satisfaction

    • 100% of students agree they had opportunities to explore ideas and apply learning


Graduation Outcomes

  • Nearly all graduates secure meaningful employment or further study within 15 months

  • ~75% overall satisfaction, with strong scores for:

    • Staff support

    • Depth of learning

    • Lab facilities and technical resources


Further Academic Progression

After completing your BSc, you can:

  • Pursue an MSc in AI, Cyber Security, Data Science, or Software Engineering

  • Enrol in an MSc by Research or progress to a PhD, supported by Bradford’s research-active academic environment

  • Work toward Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status, leveraging your accredited degree and placement experience

  • Explore professional conversion routes into fintech, consultancy, or teaching, with continued guidance from the Careers & Employability Service

Program Key Stats

Ā£24,456
Sept Intake : 29th Jan


52 %

Eligibility Criteria

BBC
2.7
29 - 31
70

1250
23
6.0
80

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Database Administrator
  • Application Analyst
  • IT Consultant
  • Web Designer
  • Applications Developer
  • Information Systems Manager

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