BSc Computing Science

Aberdeen’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science delivers a hands-on, professionally driven experience. From the first semester, you’ll engage in live software projects, industry-linked work, and guided lab practice—supported by cutting-edge facilities and strong career pathways.

Facilities & Learning Environment

• Aberdeen Software Factory – A student-led software house where you deliver real client projects using Agile, Lean, and service design methodologies.

• Modern Computing Labs – Equipped for development on Windows/Linux, networks, virtualisation, robotics, and cybersecurity.

• Science Teaching Hub – A £35M facility (opened 2022) shared by computing and other STEM disciplines, providing high-end lab environments.

• High-Performance Clusters – Infrastructure for AI, machine learning, and data analytics projects across upper-level modules and research initiatives.

Experiential Learning in Practice

• Weekly Lab Sessions – Start in Year 1 with Java, Python, web systems, AI fundamentals, and cybersecurity tools—delivered with demonstrator support and aligned to theoretical modules.

• Software Engineering Project (Year 3) – A full-year, team-based project using Scrum/Agile methodologies to deliver professional-standard software for real users.

• Individual Honours Project (Year 4) – A capstone research or industry-linked project, often in areas like secure networks, AI, blockchain, or data science.

• Live Client Work – Through the Software Factory, students manage real-world briefs, follow sprint cycles, and liaise directly with companies to build enterprise-ready applications.

Placements & Career Preparation

• Flexible Placement Options – Choose between a short (3-month) summer placement or a full 9–12 month industrial placement between Years 3 and 5.

• Supported by the Placements Coordinator & Career Services – Guidance for CVs, applications, and placement sourcing.

• Previous Hosts Include: Microsoft, GE Oil & Gas, Intelligent Plant, BOC Group, and Siemens Energy—some offering international experiences.

• Placement Outcomes – Students cite gains in teamwork, technical depth, and employability—many receive job offers post-placement.

Industry Integration & Professional Recognition

• BCS Accreditation – Recognised by the British Computer Society, putting you on track for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

• Research-Active Environment – Strong academic research in AI, machine learning, blockchain, cybersecurity, privacy-enhanced computing, and robotics feeds into module content.

• Industry Connections – Partnerships and guest lectures with companies like Amazon, CGI, and local innovators ensure you stay plugged into current tech trends.

University of Aberdeen – BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Computer Science) graduates move swiftly into careers: the vast majority secure relevant jobs within three months, with approximately 75% employed or studying by 15 months, and salaries reaching around £36k at 3 years, growing to £40k at 5 years .

Typical roles include:

• Graduate Programmer / Software Developer

• Graduate Support Engineer / Technical Consultant

• Release Engineer / Research Assistant

• Systems Engineer for major tech, energy, finance, and public sector firms

University services that support employment

• University Careers & Employability Service plus School of Engineering and Computing Science offer tailored support: CV/interview coaching, mock interviews, job fairs, and internship prep; employability is also embedded via the Aberdeen Software Factory, where students build real projects for clients.

• Placement pathways: Encouraged summer placements and an optional MSci route adds a full-year industrial placement in the final year.

Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success

• ~75% of first-time graduates working or studying at 15 months; only 5% unemployed.

• Median salaries: ~£29k at 15 months; £27k at 3 years; £32k at 5 years.

• Graduates work in diverse industries—banking (BP, HSBC), technology (IBM, Amazon), energy (BP, ConocoPhillips), public sector (NHS, Scottish Hydro), and film/games sectors.

University–industry partnerships

• Employers hiring Aberdeen grads include IBM, Amazon, BP, Hewlett Packard, CGI, Wipro, Scottish Hydro Electric, BT, QinetiQ, NHS, and others.

• Lightly structured but impactful engagement with employers through prizes (e.g., Amazon, CGI) and live briefs.

Long‑term accreditation & reputation

• Ranked 4th in the UK for Computer Science (Guardian 2022) and 3rd in Scotland.

• Strong NSS feedback: overall student satisfaction ~87%, with very high scores on teaching, support, and resources (90%+).

• University has robust research output and is a member of SICSA, Scotland’s Informatics and CS alliance.

Further Academic Progression:
Upon completing your BSc, you can advance through:

• A 5-year MSci (Hons) Computing Science with Industrial Placement, including a full year in industry and graduation with a Master’s-level degree.

• MSc programmes in areas like AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering at Aberdeen or other elite institutions.

• PhD research, leveraging strong School of Engineering and Computing Science labs and SICSA-linked projects.

• Professional accreditation opportunities and tech certifications, accelerated by BSc learning and placement experience.