Northampton’s BSc Computer Science combines essential theory in programming, systems, algorithms, databases, AI, security, web, and mobile technologies with practical labs, industry insights, and strong employment support including a free laptop and guaranteed paid internships under its Employment Promise. It’s well suited to students eager for applied learning in a modern Waterside campus, supported by guest speakers, flexible learning, and career-focused initiatives.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
You’ll establish technical and analytical groundwork through modules like: Problem Solving & Programming, Mathematics for Computer Science, Computer Systems, Computer Communications, Software Engineering Fundamentals, and Web Development, developing coding fluency, data handling, system architecture, and software design via lectures and hands-on labs.
Year 2:
In year 2, you'll study Data Structures & Algorithms, Operating Systems, Relational Databases, Web Programming, Systems Design & Development, and complete a team Group Project, refining your skills in software development, databases, web systems, and collaborative project work.
Optional Placement Year:
After Year 2, a paid “Learning Through Work” placement lets you gain industry experience, backed by the university’s Employment Promise and Careers support boosting your employability and practical skills.
Final Year (Year 3):
You’ll undertake a substantial Computing Project Dissertation (40 credits) plus core topics in Advanced AI & Applications, Cyber Security & Applied Cryptography, Modern Databases, and Media Technology, helping you specialize before entering the job market.
Assessment Format
• Coursework & Practical Work – programming tasks, lab reports, projects (individual and group), portfolios, and presentations.
• Exams & Time-Constrained Assessments – written exams and quizzes, especially in theory-heavy modules.
All modules include formative assessments (e.g., drafts, quizzes, supervised labs) for real-time feedback, while summative assessments (coursework/exams) determine your final grades .
Focus Areas
programming • systems & networking • data structures & databases • algorithms & theory • AI & cybersecurity • media technology • individual honours project
Learning Outcomes
Develop robust software and database systems
Apply theoretical, algorithmic, and security principles
Create advanced AI and media applications
Collaborate in projects and deliver a major individual dissertation
Demonstrate readiness through employment-linked practical experience.
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
The course maintains strong links with employers and industry bodies like BCS, IEEE, and the Cisco Network Academy, and its Northampton Employment Promise guarantees paid internships if graduates haven't secured work within a year.
Reputation & Employability Rankings
The £330 M Waterside Campus includes labs, guest speakers from firms like Barclaycard and GE, and comprehensive careers support, including free laptops and guaranteed internships.
Northampton’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science delivers a practice-led, employability-focused degree supported by modern infrastructure, real-world group projects, and a unique post-graduation employment guarantee. With access to industry-grade facilities, hands-on technical experience, and robust career support, it prepares students for success in software development, cybersecurity, AI, and data-driven industries.
Facilities & Learning Environment
Waterside Campus: £330 million purpose-built site featuring state-of-the-art computing labs tailored for software engineering, AI, networking, and cybersecurity.
24/7 Learning Hub: Offers collaborative spaces, PC clusters, digital library resources, and quiet zones for focused study.
Device Loan Scheme: Access to Raspberry Pis, smartwatches, and other physical computing tools for project work.
Personal Laptop & Core Texts: Every student receives a free laptop to keep, and all essential course readings are accessible via the digital library.
Experiential Learning Highlights
Year 1–2: Foundations & Collaboration
Weekly Labs: Practical sessions integrated into modules on programming (Java, Python, C/C++), systems, Linux, cybersecurity, AI, and web development.
Group Projects (Year 2): Team-based design and development of real-world solutions mirroring industry workflows and software lifecycles.
Final Year (Year 3): Capstone & Specialisation
Independent Dissertation Project: Tackle a substantial project in a chosen field (AI, databases, cybersecurity, media tech, etc.), guided by academic supervisors and drawing on cumulative knowledge and lab access.
Career Support
Industry Links: Partnerships with leading employers like Barclaycard, GE, and tech bodies (BCS, Cisco, IEEE) offer internship pathways and certification opportunities.
Careers & Employability Services: The on-campus Career Hub supports students through tailored CV help, interview prep, employer networking events, and alumni mentoring.
University of Northampton's BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduates launch into purposeful tech careers: approximately 85% are in employment or further study within 15 months, with around 75% in graduate-level roles.
Typical roles include:
Software Developer
IT Consultant / Systems Analyst
Cybersecurity Specialist / Network Engineer
Data Analyst / Technical Project Manager
University services that support employment
Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success
Median salaries:
Graduate destinations include roles in software, data, cybersecurity, and consultancy, with many alumni staying employed beyond five years
University–industry partnerships
Long‑term accreditation & reputation
Further Academic Progression:
Upon completing your BSc, you can pursue:
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