BSc Hons Computer Science

Salford’s BSc Computer Science delivers a practical, forward-looking computing education rooted in real-world application. Based in the heart of Greater Manchester’s tech ecosystem, it combines strong theoretical instruction with hands-on labs, industry engagement, and modern specialist facilities. Students gain the confidence and skills to pursue careers in software engineering, cybersecurity, AI, and immersive technologies.

Facilities & Learning Environment

• A £65M Science, Engineering & Environment Building: Opened in 2022, housing cutting-edge computing suites and group collaboration spaces

• Cybersecurity Labs & Cisco Networking Rooms: Dedicated, sandboxed setups for secure system simulation

• VR, AR & Imaginarium Studio: Digital creation spaces for games, multimedia, and immersive tech

• High-Performance UNIX/Linux Environments: On-campus and remote access for cloud-computing and systems development

• Makerspace & Creative Pods: Project-based zones for building, testing, and prototyping ideas

• Campus IT Support: 24/7 library PC access, strong Wi-Fi, and software tools like Azure DevTools, Git, and virtual lab access

Experiential Learning Highlights

• Weekly demonstrator-led labs: From Year 1, modules combine lectures with hands-on work across languages (Java, Python, C/C++), Linux, Git, graphics, AI, networking, databases, and cybersecurity.

• Live project briefs & hackcamp module: Engage directly with industry problems; work on real challenges in Manchester’s thriving tech ecosystem.

• Optional Year in Industry (“Professional Experience” route): A paid placement between Years 2–3 that can feature in a “with Professional Experience” degree title.

• Final-year capstone: Year 3 students carry out a self-directed honours project, applying tools like Java, C++, VR, AI, data mining, or cybersecurity frameworks.

Industry Placement & Career Support

• Optional Year in Industry: Paid 12-month placement between Years 2–3 (Professional Experience route)

• Careers & Employability Hub: CV help, mock interviews, internship platforms like JobTeaser, and alumni mentoring

• Strong Employer Links: Partnered with BBC, ITV, Siemens, IBM, NHS, Amazon, Sky, and many others

• Proximity Advantage: Based near MediaCityUK, providing direct access to employer events, talks, and networking fairs

University of Salford's BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduates launch into tech careers with confidence: approximately 95% of UK‑resident alumni are employed or in further study within 15 months, with around 85% in highly skilled roles. Typical roles include:

• Software Engineer / Developer

• Data Analyst / AI & Machine Learning Specialist

• IT Consultant / Systems Administrator

• Web/Mobile Application Developer

University services that support employment

• Careers & Employability Service & School Employability Officers: Provide one‑to‑one coaching, CV/interview prep, mock interviews, job fairs, and lifelong career support available both during and after your studies.

• Placement paths: Optional paid industrial placement year between Years 2–3, with companies like NHS, Enterprise, Adidas, Amazon, and IBM.

• HackCamps & real-world briefs: Annual industrial HackCamps in collaboration with Greater Manchester Cyber Foundry and AI partners help you tackle live problems and prepare for industry.

• Lab & project experience: Industry-focused group projects from year one, delivered in Salford’s new £65 million STEM building meaning your learning is hands-on and professionally relevant.

Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success

• ~£22k median salary at 15 months post-graduation  £27k at 3 years; £30k at 5 years.

• 95% employed or in further study within 15 months; 85% in highly skilled roles (70% IT professionals, 15% engineer/tech associates).

University–industry partnerships

• Placement hosts include Amazon, IBM, NHS, Adidas, Enterprise, Jaguar, Arm, supporting both UK and international placements.

• HackCamps & Cyber Foundry: Collaboration with Greater Manchester Cyber Foundry and AI initiatives ensures you gain experience on emerging technologies.

• Cisco Local Academy + lab access: Real-world tools and infrastructures support practical learning and professional certification pathways .

Long‑term accreditation & reputation

• Fully BCS-accredited, preparing you for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status and professional registration

• Salford’s computing building is a £65 million STEM hub, industry-ready facilities that support your learning and impress employers.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you can take your skills even further:

• Expand into a 4-year MComp with embedded placement for advanced professional training.

• Pursue MSc degrees in AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, Networking, or related areas either at Salford or other top universities.

• Dive into PhD research, collaborating on industry-linked projects through Salford’s active STEM and Cyber initiatives.

• Fast-track professional accreditation, including BCS Chartered status, Cisco/Microsoft/Cybersecurity certifications, and Chartered Engineer recognition.