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University of Derby – BSc (Hons) Computer Science
This degree offers a robust mix of computing theory and practical, real-world learning—covering programming, algorithms, systems, AI, networks, and security. Designed with industry input, it includes specialisation options from Year 2 and features employer-led projects, advanced labs, and strong graduate employability outcomes.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
Establishes a shared foundation with core modules in programming (Python/Java), discrete mathematics, computer systems, storage, and software design. Students participate in team-based projects and labs, developing early hands-on experience in coding, digital logic, and collaborative development (average 20 contact hours/week).
Year 2
Students choose a specialisation:
Software Development: Focuses on software engineering, algorithms, artificial intelligence, operating systems, and databases.
Networks & Security: Aligned with Cisco certification; covers network infrastructure, protocols, and systems security, supported by dedicated labs.
All students undertake live, employer-led projects for practical experience.
Year 3 (Honours)
You’ll continue with your chosen pathway, take advanced modules, and complete an individual honours project. This self-directed research or software development project consolidates learning in your specialist area.
Optional Year in Industry / Foundation Year
Placement Year: A credit-bearing (but classification-exempt) year in industry is available between Years 2 and 3.
Foundation Year: Available for students without standard entry qualifications.
Assessment Format
Years 1–3: Entirely coursework-based—no written exams. Assessments include programming assignments, lab reports, project deliverables, technical presentations, and group work.
Individual Honours Project: Evaluated via technical report, working software/demo, and a final presentation.
Specialisation-Specific Assessments:
Networks & Security: Includes Cisco-aligned coursework.
Software Development: Assessed through iterative, industry-style project submissions.
Placement Year: Assessed via employer feedback and reflective portfolios; does not count toward the final degree classification.
Focus Areas
Applied software engineering and artificial intelligence
Network architectures and dedicated security labs
Algorithms, databases, and systems infrastructure
Industry-led or simulated software development projects
Independent honours-level research or software builds
Optional industrial placement or entry through a Foundation Year
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
Design, build, and evaluate sophisticated software or network systems
Analyse system and security vulnerabilities
Undertake project-based technical research or development
Work confidently with industry-standard programming tools and platforms
Transition effectively into graduate-level jobs, postgraduate study, or tech entrepreneurship
Professional Alignment & Accreditation
Fully accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) – meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status
Networks & Security specialisation aligns with Cisco Certification Standards
Strong industrial integration, with placements available at organisations such as the Met Office, VMware, and Sumo Digital, as well as local partners in the East Midlands tech sector
Reputation & Employability
Top 20 in the UK for student satisfaction in teaching (Guardian University Guide 2022)
96% of graduates employed or in further study within 15 months
Ranked in the Top 5 for Employability (Uni Compare 2025)
Active on-campus ecosystem with a Computing Society, XR labs, and immersive CAVE 270° projection environments
University of Derby – BSc (Hons) Computer Science
This course delivers strong experiential learning, providing hands-on experience with modern technologies, real-world projects, and significant industry engagement.
Facilities & Technical Tools
Industry-standard computing labs equipped with Python, Visual Studio, Azure Cloud, Unreal & Unity engines, Apache, PHP/MySQL, DirectX/OpenGL.
Dedicated XR lab and Makerspace for prototyping and immersive development.
Cyber-security suite featuring routers and switches (Cisco/D-Link/Netgear) and secure sandbox environments for defensive and penetration testing.
Comprehensive campus infrastructure with high-performance Windows/Linux workstations, virtualization tools, and the £13 million STEM Centre supporting AI, IoT, and advanced networking labs.
Experiential Learning – Semester by Semester
Weekly demonstrator-led labs from Year 1 onward covering programming (Java, Python), databases, web development, security, data science, and AI, blending theory with practical application.
Year 2 “real problem” briefs involving live projects set by employers to develop practical problem-solving skills.
Team-based final-year project: a substantial capstone that demonstrates full-stack development skills, user-centered design, and teamwork.
Placements & Career Readiness
Optional 1-year sandwich placement after Year 2 with opportunities in local, national, and international companies including the Met Office, VMware, Rolls-Royce, JCB, Alstom, Sumo Digital, among others.
Short-term internships facilitated by the Careers & Employability Service, which also offers a job portal, CV workshops, mock interviews, and career fairs.
Derby ranks in the UK Top 5 for graduate employability with 96% employed or in further study post-graduation; 87% of graduates report meaningful employment activities.
Research & Employer Links
Strong partnerships with companies such as Rolls-Royce, Toyota, BBC, Sky, Warner Bros, and JCB help shape curriculum development, guest lectures, live briefs, and placement opportunities.
Hosts a Data Science Research Centre with active research in AI, machine learning, IoT, big data analytics, including projects on VR transport modelling and social network crime analysis.
University of Derby – BSc (Hons) Computer Science Graduate Outcomes
Graduates build solid tech careers with approximately 96% employed or in further study within six months, and around 95% in work or study at 15 months. Median starting salaries are close to £30k, rising to about £29k at three years and £34.5k by five years.
Typical Roles
Software Engineer / Developer
Project Manager / Technical Architect
Network Specialist / IT Consultant
Chief Technology Officer
University Services Supporting Employment
Careers & Employability Services provide tailored one-on-one coaching, CV and interview workshops, mock interviews, job fairs, and ongoing support through the Derby Talent Team and Placement Academy.
Placement pathways offer optional paid year-long industrial placements after Year 2, with past students placed at Rolls-Royce, PwC, Network Rail, Lubrizol, Aldi, and more.
Project-based curriculum with modern labs featuring real-world briefs and industry-standard tools such as Python, Visual Studio, Unity, Apache, Azure, and a cross-reality lab.
Employability Awards and continued support post-graduation, including up to three years of career guidance.
Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success
95% employed or in further study at 15 months, with 85% in highly skilled roles including IT professionals and tech consultants.
Median earnings: ~£30k at 15 months (range £25k–37k), £29k at three years (range £21.5k–38k), and £34.5k at five years (range £25k–48.5k).
Nearly 100% of UK-resident graduates remain employed in England at 15 months, increasing to 97–98% by three years.
University–Industry Partnerships
Employers hiring graduates include Rolls-Royce, IBM, PwC, Network Rail, Lubrizol, Aldi, and various SMEs.
Strong lab-based engagement has led alumni into internships with IBM and roles in VR, robotics, and software engineering.
Long-Term Accreditation & Reputation
Fully BCS-accredited, ensuring clear pathways to Chartered IT Professional status, free BCS membership, and mentoring.
Ranked Top 5 in the UK for employability by Uni Compare 2025.
Offers a supportive, practical learning environment with ongoing campus investments in STEM facilities and real-world teaching.
Further Academic Progression
MComp: A 4-year integrated master’s degree with an embedded placement year for advanced professional training.
MSc programmes: Available in AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, or related fields at Derby or other leading institutions.
PhD research opportunities leveraging Derby’s technology-rich environment and growing research expertise.
Professional accreditation includes Chartered IT Professional status via BCS and vendor certifications such as Cisco, Microsoft, and AWS.
UCAS Application • Official High School Transcripts • Personal Statement • Educational Resume • Letter of Recommendation by School TeacherUCAS Tariff Points: 120 points from a Level 3 qualification A Level: BBB International Baccalaureate (IB): relevant subject (Science / Maths/ Computing/ IT)The 12th Standard minimum of 70%.IELTS: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 each componentTOEFL iBT (including Home edition). 79 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking).Software EngineerProject ManagerTechnical ArchitectChief Technology OfficerProduct Manager 
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University of Derby
