1. University of Glasgow
  2. Program
  3. Bachelors
  4. BSc Computing Science

BSc Computing Science

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Glasgow

Program Overview

University of Glasgow BSc (Hons) Computer Science equips students with a strong technical foundation and the freedom to explore advanced computing pathways. With a hands-on approach, students begin programming in Python, transition to Java and C, and explore topics from systems and networks to HCI and algorithmic thinking. It also offers high flexibility via a fast-track 3-year route, MSci extension, and study abroad making it ideal for forward-thinking learners aiming for impactful tech careers or research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: 

  • Programming with Python, Computing Fundamentals, Computer Systems, Databases, Human–Computer Interaction

  • Strong emphasis on coding, interface design, and computing basics via labs and tutorials

Year 2:

  • Object-Oriented Programming (Java), Software Engineering, Networks & OS, Data Structures, Algorithmic Foundations, Web Development

  • Gain hands-on software development and networking experience

Years 3–4 (Honours):

  • Advanced modules in Algorithmics, Data Fundamentals, Systems Programming, HCI design, and Professional Software Development

  • Includes both a Team Project and a major Individual Honours Project (research or software-based)

MSci Pathway / Fast Track Option:

  • Accelerated 3-year BSc route available for top performers

  • Alternatively, extend into a research-focused MSci for deeper specialisation

Study Abroad:

  • Exchange opportunities without extending degree length

Assessment Format

  • Years 1–2:

    • Coding coursework (Python, Java), lab work, web applications, online quizzes

    • Final exams test theoretical knowledge

  • Years 3–4:

    • Team Project assessed on product quality and collaboration

    • Individual Honours Project evaluated via dissertation and oral presentation

  • Final Classification:

    • 60% Year 4 + 40% Year 3

    • Progression requires passing thresholds across all modules (E3 minimum, D3 in 100 credits)

Focus Areas

Python → Java → C • Data structures & algorithms • Systems & networking
Databases & web development • Human–computer interaction
Group software projects & independent honours research

Learning Outcomes

  • Develop fluency across multiple programming paradigms

  • Solve complex computational problems analytically

  • Build robust, scalable software systems

  • Apply HCI and database principles effectively

  • Work collaboratively in technical teams

  • Conduct and present meaningful research or applied computing work

Professional Accreditation

  • BCS-accredited, satisfying academic criteria for:

    • Chartered IT Professional (CITP)

    • Partial requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng)

  • Strong alignment with real-world IT practice through project-based learning

Reputation & Graduate Employability

  • Top ranked in Scotland for student satisfaction in Computing Science

  • Strong industry links with Google, JP Morgan, Yahoo, Skyscanner and others

  • Member of the Russell Group, consistently ranked in the UK top 20 for graduate outcomes

  • Supported by the School of Computing Science’s industrial connections, ensuring workplace relevance

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

University of Glasgow BSc (Hons) Computer Science delivers a highly immersive, practical education, centred on real-world programming, team-based development, and research-inspired learning. From cutting-edge labs to industry-aligned placements, students gain not just knowledge but workplace-ready confidence.

Facilities & Tools

Boyd Orr Labs (BO620, BO715, BO720, BO1028):

  • Four modern labs equipped with Intel 27″ All‑in‑One workstations running a custom Glasgow CS image

  • Designed for collaboration with breakout spaces, writable walls, and large displays

  • 24/7 access for honours-level students starting in Year 3

Library Labs (Islay & Jura):

  • Two 22-seat spaces in the main library for scheduled classes and solo study

QMU Flexible Study Zone:

  • CS-exclusive zone with 64 seats for project meetings, code sprints, and focused work

Campus-wide tech support:

  • Reliable eduroam Wi-Fi, pull printing, and specialist IT support across all CS labs

Experiential Learning

Weekly Lab Structure:

  • Year 1: Hands-on programming in Python, Windows-based

  • Year 2: Transition to Java, with a focus on object-oriented design

  • Year 3: Emphasis on C and Linux, with optional exposure to Haskell, C#, Objective‑C, Android

Major Projects:

  • Year 3 Team Project:

    • Work in teams of five to build and present a substantial software application

    • Past projects have won national awards

  • Year 4 Individual Honours Project:

    • Supervised, independent research or application development

Placements & Industry Links

Summer Placement (10 weeks – mandatory):

  • After Year 3, all BSc students complete an assessed, real-world placement

  • Placements come with company mentorship and university liaison visits

MSci Internships (1 year):

  • Exclusive to Software Engineering MSci pathway

  • Extended industrial immersion, often leading to full-time roles

Client-Facing Team Projects:

  • Run via the Innovation Lab and University Software Service

  • Students consult and deliver solutions for real external clients

Industry Partnerships:

  • Long-term engagement with IBM, HSBC, Adobe, SICSA, The Data Lab

  • Supported by an advisory board, career events, and mentorship pipelines

Research & Community Involvement

GLASS Systems Group:

  • Explore systems, parallel/distributed computing, and real-world applications

  • Partners include NASA, Microsoft Research, GCHQ, Airbus

Game Lab & AR Research:

  • Student-led AR development showcased at major events like WorldCon 2024

STEM Outreach & Public Engagement:

  • Frequent contributions to the Glasgow Science Festival and other public showcases

  • Topics include robotics, spatial computing, and algorithmic problem-solving

Progression & Future Opportunities

About 89% of Computing Science BSc (Hons) graduates from the University of Glasgow are employed or in further study within 15 months, with 95% in highly skilled roles and an average starting salary around £31–34k, rising to £48k within five years.

This prepares you for roles such as:

  • Software Engineer / Developer

  • Systems Analyst / IT Consultant

  • Data Engineer / AI Specialist

  • Cybersecurity Analyst

Here’s what makes Glasgow a standout choice:

University Services That Support Employment

  • Access to the College of Science & Engineering Careers & Employability Service, offering 1:1 coaching, career fairs, masterclasses, and internship listings

  • Amplify Mentoring programme connects computing students with industry professionals

  • College Employability Grants of up to £100 plus the My Future Skills Award help fund career-building extracurriculars

Employment Stats & Salary Figures

  • ~89% in work or study and ~92% in graduate-level roles six months post-graduation

  • Median salary:

    • ~£37k at 15 months

    • ~£40k at 3 years

    • ~£48k by year five

University–Industry Partnerships

  • Graduates hired by top recruiters such as Google, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Skyscanner, Yahoo

  • Local tech and finance giants including Barclays, Capgemini, and JP Morgan actively recruit from Glasgow, often via summer internships

Accreditation & Reputation

  • Accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), fulfilling academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status

  • Holds the Euro-Inf Bachelor’s Quality Label

  • MSci graduates eligible for full CITP and partial CEng/CSci

  • Part of the SICSA research alliance, backed by a strong research profile (100% world-leading impact in REF-2021)

Graduation Outcomes

  • 75% of graduates find their work both meaningful and aligned with their future plans

  • 95% are in highly skilled employment, mostly in IT professions

Further Academic Progression

After graduation, you can:

  • Pursue a one-year MSc or integrated MComp in areas like AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Software Engineering

  • Progress to a PhD, supported by Glasgow’s world-class research faculty

  • Obtain professional accreditation (CITP, CEng, CSci) through BCS and begin chartered status

  • Transition into professional training, fintech conversion programmes, or teaching credentials, leveraging university support

Program Key Stats

£31,800 (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 30th Jun


74 %
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

AAA - AAB
3.5
38
75 - 80

1280
27
6.5
90

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Career in Telecommunications
  • Information Technology
  • Communication
  • Consultancy

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