BSc Computer Science

the BSc Computer Science at the University of Leicester transforms your studies into dynamic, real-world experience backed by research, modern labs, group projects, and strong industry and global opportunities:

From day one, you’ll work with industry-standard languages like Java, Python, C++, Haskell, JavaScript, PHP, Prolog, and R, using tools such as Eclipse across dual-boot Windows/Linux PCs. You'll have access to Leicester’s Academic Computing Cluster (RACC), a 2,048‑core supercomputing facility and specialist resources like Esports labs and VR suites, enabling you to build everything from mobile apps to parallel computing systems.

Experiential Learning Highlights:

• Year 2 group project commissioned by real clients: You’ll work in teams to design, develop, test, and present software solutions for real-world client briefs—mirroring professional engineering workflows.

• Final-year individual project: Undertake a problem-based independent project (e.g. 3D games, mobile apps, robots, security tools), supervised one‑to‑one and applying your skills to a substantial real-world challenge.

• Optional Year in Industry or Abroad: Between Years 2 and 3, you can choose a paid industrial placement or study abroad supported by career prep, CV/interview coaching, and placement visits.

• Short work‑experience preparation: Year 2 starts with CV writing workshops and interview training, and you're tracked with logbooks and placement reports to assess professional development .

• Research‑informed modules & faculty: Learn from staff actively researching in areas from networks and AI to formal methods and complexity, with seminars, reading groups, and opportunities to participate in research projects.

• Guest industry lectures & industrial advisory board: Benefit from expert talks and oversight ensuring course relevance with connections to firms like IBM, Accenture, BAE Systems and more.

• Access to high-performance computing & Space Park Leicester: Use the RACC and Leicester’s DiRAC supercomputer; tap into national-level space research via Space Park and the adjacent National Space Centre which is ideal for space, data, and AI projects.

• 24/7 lab access & modern campus resources: PC labs are open around the clock, with wireless coverage and library facilities including the David Wilson Library, immersive Esports & VR labs.

University of Leicester BSc Computer Science graduates achieve outstanding early career outcomes: approximately 80% are employed or in further study within 15 months Career paths commonly include:

• Software Engineer / Developer

• Systems Analyst / IT Consultant

• Data Scientist / Cybersecurity Specialist

• Technical Project Manager

University services that support employment

• Career Development Service provides one-to-one coaching, CV/interview workshops, employer-speed networking, alumni mentoring, mock interviews and guidance on placements and internships.

• Placement & Internship Opportunities – optional year-in-industry or summer internships, enabling hands-on work experience and stronger employability.

• Employment statistics & salaries – 80% employed or continuing in study within six months with an average starting salary of £31k at 15 months, rising to £34k at 3 years and £39k at 5 years.

• Industry partnerships – graduates progress into roles with organisations like Accenture, BAE Systems, Bloomberg, IBM, and Google, supported through career fairs, live project briefs, on-campus recruitment.

• Professional accreditation – BSc is fully accredited by BCS for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partially for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, enhancing long-term career recognition.

• Graduate outcomes – 80% of graduates work in roles where their degree is essential or beneficial; 74% enter IT/telco professions; on average, Leicester graduates earn higher-than-average starting salaries and enjoy strong employment rates.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates have multiple routes to advance their education and skills:

• Master’s degrees in AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, or advanced computing—either at Leicester or elsewhere.

• PhD research, leveraging Leicester's research-active Department of Informatics and its strong industry collaborations.

• Professional qualifications, including BCS Chartered IT status, CEng, or specialist cybersecurity/networking certifications.