BSc Computer Science

At the University of Birmingham, the BSc  Computer Science programme is built on a foundation of real-world engagement, modern facilities, and career-focused learning. From day one, students immerse themselves in cutting-edge labs, collaborative environments, and practical coursework designed to mirror industry demands.

Hands-On Facilities & Learning Environment

Students benefit from access to:

• High-performance computing clusters

• Specialist networking and virtualization suites

• Dedicated Windows and Linux workstations

These facilities are available for practical work in programming, systems development, cybersecurity, and data analytics. The environment is designed to reinforce theoretical content with tangible technical experience.

Experiential Learning Highlights

Semester-Based Lab Sessions
Every semester, lectures are paired with intensive practical labs, where students:

• Code using Java, Python, C/C++

• Operate in Linux environments

• Use tools like Git for version control
  Support is provided by lab demonstrators and teaching assistants, ensuring students can solve problems in real-time.

Industrial Placement Year (Optional)

 Students may opt for a paid industrial placement, gaining hands-on experience in full-time roles. Past placements have been with top companies such as:

Google, Microsoft, IBM, Bloomberg, Vodafone, GCHQ, PwC, and JP Morgan

Students contribute to real projects, learn teamwork in professional settings, and graduate with a competitive edge.

Global Opportunities – Study Abroad

Students can choose to spend their penultimate year studying abroad at one of 300+ international partner universities, gaining cultural perspective and academic growth while continuing their core CS learning.

Summer Internships & Research Placements

Birmingham offers access to:

• Departmental summer internships

• University-wide internship schemes such as the UoB Graduate Internship Scheme
  These experiences, usually lasting 8–13 weeks, let students work on live technical projects, participate in faculty-led research, or gain startup exposure.

Final-Year Capstone Project

In their final year, students complete a 40-credit individual project, supervised by faculty. This project allows them to:

• Develop original software or conduct technical research

• Present findings in a formal report and presentation

• Demonstrate independent problem-solving and innovation using department resources

Enterprise & Mentoring Opportunities

Students receive personalised career and innovation support via:

• A dedicated Industrial Liaison Officer

• The Careers Network, which offers CV and interview workshops, job fairs, and tailored support

• The Personal Skills Award, recognising extra-curricular learning, enterprise, and leadership
  Birmingham’s links with industry help students connect directly with tech firms and employers.

Vibrant Student Tech Community

The Computer Science Society offers:

• Peer-led coding workshops and GitHub bootcamps

• Award-winning hackathons

• Opportunities to collaborate, network, and compete in national challenges

Digital Tools & Resources

All students gain access to a robust set of tools and services including:

• LinkedIn Learning

• ACM and IEEE digital libraries

• Hardware and virtualization labs

• Bursary-supported placement and internship funding

BSc  Computer Science at the University of Birmingham equips students with the skills and experiences needed to launch successful careers in technology, research, or further study. With impressive employability statistics and strong industry links, graduates find themselves well-prepared for high-impact roles across the tech landscape.

Graduate Outcomes & Career Trajectories

• ~90% of UK-based graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months

• 95% of employed graduates are in highly skilled, graduate-level roles

• Typical early-career salary: ~£32,000, rising to ~£45,000 five years after graduation

• Common roles include:

  • Software Engineer / Developer

  • AI or Cybersecurity Analyst

  • IT Consultant or Systems Architect

  • Cloud Engineer / Applications Developer

University Services That Support Employment

Birmingham delivers robust support through its:

• CS-specific careers services: Fairs, guest talks, and workshops tailored for computing students

• One-on-one support via the Careers & Industrial Liaison Team and College Careers Officers

• Graduate jobs database featuring over 2,000 targeted roles and internships

• Internships and Industry Fund: Up to £1,500 in financial support, including for international students

• Student Circus: Specialised career support for international students including visa guidance and employer-matched roles

Industry Engagement & Placement Opportunities

• Top employers such as Google, Accenture, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Rolls Royce, EY, IBM, UBS, and GCHQ engage directly with students through:

  • Career fairs

  • Employer-led workshops

  • Placement and internship programmes

• Many students undertake a year-in-industry between Years 2 and 3, often leading to graduate job offers from placement companies

• Placement destinations include public sector organisations (e.g., European Space Agency) and tech multinationals

Accreditation & Institutional Reputation

• BCS-accredited degree programme, aligning with professional standards for CITP status

• Russell Group member, with high rankings for graduate employability and teaching quality

• Birmingham is consistently ranked among the most targeted UK universities by top employers

Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success

• 95% of jobs held by graduates are in graduate-level, professional roles

• 80–90% of working alumni report roles as meaningful and aligned with their career ambitions

• Graduates secure positions at companies like:

  • Accenture, Microsoft, IBM, Goldman Sachs, Rolls Royce, BAE Systems, ESA, GCHQ, and GE

Further Academic & Professional Pathways

Graduates are well-positioned for advanced study and career growth:

• Progress to a Master’s (MSc) or integrated MComp in areas such as AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering

• Pursue a PhD, supported by research-active faculty and strong industry connections

• Consider conversion or professional routes such as IT consultancy, fintech roles, or teaching qualifications with built-in university support