BSc Computer Science

Right from the start of your degree, you’ll work in the Merchant Venturers Building, using state-of-the-art collaborative labs equipped with Linux machines, flexible AV technology, and the on-site Hackspace, a creative maker space and a lively atrium that encourages innovation and teamwork.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of experiential learning:

Supervised practical classes:
Each term includes demonstrator-led programming and systems labs (languages like Java, Python, C/C++), plus coursework implementing core concepts like algorithms, data structures, and architecture.

Year‑2 software team project:
You'll develop a real application for an external client (e.g., Hewlett‑Packard, Environment Agency) under industrial mentorship which helps in building teamwork, design, and client-facing skills.

Final-year individual project:
Co-created with staff, this capstone allows you to work with industrial or research partners, crafting a substantial original software project.

Games Day for third‑year MEng:
Although specific to MEng, third‑year students build full-featured video games in teams and showcase them at the public Games Day, great for team development and creativity skills.

Industrial mentoring & internships:
The Industrial Liaison Office pairs you with a mentor and supports securing internships and placements with top firms and many of our graduates  intern at companies like Airbus, HP, NatWest, and more.

Career and placement support:
The Careers Service provides workshops, employer events, and the Bristol PLUS Award, which highlights work experience, volunteering, and enterprise skills.

City-connected tech ecosystem:
Bristol is a thriving tech hub, home to numerous startups (Graphcore, Ultraleap, Open Bionics), alongside major companies (Airbus, Rolls‑Royce); this proximity fuels guest talks, meetups, and employment pathways.

Research & robotics opportunities:
You gain exposure to cutting-edge research at centres like the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, with its 4,600 m² of robotics facilities spanning human–robot interaction, drones, autonomous vehicles and more.

University of Bristol BSc Computer Science graduates enjoy excellent outcomes: about 93% are employed or in further study 15 months after graduating, with median salaries around £32k, rising to £60k at the five-year mark. Job titles often include Software Engineer/Developer, Data Analyst, Systems Architect, and Emerging Tech Specialist. Here’s a clearer breakdown:

University services that support employment
• The Bristol Careers Service offers one-on-one guidance, career workshops, CV/interview coaching, access to over 300 employer events annually, and internship funding.
• The Bristol PLUS Award helps you develop real-world skills via volunteering and internships.
• The Industrial Liaison Office connects engineering and CS students with industrial mentors, client-led project support, and placement opportunities.

Employment stats & salary figures
• 93% of CS graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months
• Median salary 15 months post-graduation is £30–32k; after three years around £39–47k, and after five years £58–62.5k
• All reported roles at 15 months are skilled graduate-level positions

University–industry partnerships
• The CS department is accredited by BCS, with real-world projects involving industrial mentors
• Strong employers include Apple, Google, Microsoft, IBM, HP, Cisco, and Hewlett Packard.
• Bristol is part of the thriving tech ecosystem in Bristol city, offering placements and internships through local and national industry ties

Long-term accreditation & reputation
• The CS department is ranked in the UK top 10 (Times Higher Education 2025)
• The University of Bristol is a Russell Group, top 5 for research quality and joint 7th for graduate employability (QS)

Graduation outcomes
• 100% of UK-resident CS graduates are employed or in study after 15 months
• Alumni work across sectors including tech firms, finance, media, startups, and academia, supported by a global alumni network spanning 160,000+ across 190 countries

Further Academic Progression:
As a Bristol CS graduate, you have several strong academic pathways ahead:

• Pursue an MSc in areas like Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, or Software Engineering. Bristol offers these as stand-alone or part of new integrated offerings

• Undertake PhD research, taking advantage of world-class facilities and industry partnerships in Bristol's research ecosystem

• A Bristol CS degree and Russell Group status provides excellent standing if applying to top global universities (e.g., Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, Stanford).

• Consider interdisciplinary or dual postgraduate routes. For example, combining CS with business, law, or health technologies