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.
š 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
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 EnterpriseāPro module, working in teams on live industry briefs, designing, 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.
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
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