BSc(Hons) Computer Science

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) delivers real-world technical skills through state-of-the-art facilities, hands-on labs, and strong links to industry. From immersive project-based learning to internships and professional mentoring, it’s built to prepare students for success in software, AI, security, and systems roles.

Facilities & Learning Environment

• 24/7 computing labs: Over 500 workstations across Windows, Linux, and Unix platforms, with networked environments and dedicated servers, supporting collaborative and real-world development workflows.

• Games Technology Lab & creative studios: Equipped with Unreal/Unity engines and PlayStation development kits. Many teaching staff are industry veterans from studios like Sony, RARE, and Sports Interactive.

• Bristol Robotics Laboratory (BRL): The UK’s largest robotics research facility, shared with the University of Bristol is available for student research and final-year projects.

• Security & forensics lab: An isolated test environment tailored to cybersecurity teaching, alongside AV-enabled spaces for live software and systems demos.

• Campus-wide digital access: 24/7 library at Frenchay Campus, virtualisation tools, group study pods, and broad IT support infrastructure.

Experiential Learning Highlights

• Weekly hands-on labs: Core teaching includes Java, Python, C/C++, mobile development, networks, cybersecurity, VR, and robotics. All integrated into modules through guided, demonstrator-led lab sessions.

• Group projects & coursework: Collaborative development of applications, systems, and games, emphasising practical delivery and presentations in professional studio settings.

• Fieldwork opportunities: Study-related trips to key computing sites like Bletchley Park and CERN, plus conference participation to link academic learning to industry practice.

Internships & Industry Experience

• Part-time term internships: 148-hour placements paid at the Real Living Wage (~£12/hour), arranged through UWE’s own Internship Scheme.

• Summer internships: 8–12 week roles supported by the Careers Service and promoted through the Handshake platform.

• Sandwich placement year: Full-year industrial placements (after Year 2), supported by dedicated placement staff. Past partners include Microsoft, IBM, Gamma Telecom, GCHQ, and Airbus.

• Final-year capstone projects: Delivered using advanced labs and real hardware, emphasising AI, games, security, and robotics solutions with academic and industry supervision.

Skills & Career Development

• Careers support: UWE’s Careers Hub delivers CV reviews, mock interviews, employer meet-ups, skills workshops, and long-term alumni support.

• Industry partnerships: Ongoing collaboration with organisations including IBM, Microsoft, Rolls-Royce, GCHQ, NHS, BBC, BAE Systems, and Airbus contributing to placement roles, guest talks, and live case studies.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Computer Science at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) step into high-impact roles across tech, data, and cybersecurity. Around 88–92% are employed or in further study within 6–15 months, with 90% in highly skilled work by 15 months.

Career Pathways

Common graduate destinations include:

• Software Engineer / Developer

• Data Analyst / Data Scientist

• Cybersecurity or SOC Analyst

• IT Consultant / Project Manager / Web Developer

University Services That Support Employment

• BCS-accredited programme, meeting academic criteria for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partially for Chartered Engineer (CEng) recognition.

• Award-winning Careers Service delivers one-on-one coaching, CV/interview support, job fairs, and employer networking aligned with the curriculum.

• Placement and internship support: UWE provides structured pathways for both summer and year-long placements, with past employers including Microsoft, IBM, GCHQ, BAE Systems, Airbus, and the Met Office.

• Professional development opportunities through field trips, global tech conferences, and industry-focused hackathons.

Graduation Outcomes & Alumni Success

• Employment rate: 87.9% in employment or further study at 15 months

• High-skill employment: 90% in skilled roles within six months

• Meaningful work: 80% report their job aligns with long-term career goals

Median salaries:

• £29,000 at 15 months

• £32,000 at 3 years

• £38,500 at 5 years

Graduates are recruited by leading employers in tech and public sectors, including IBM, Microsoft, NHS, and government agencies.

Further Academic & Professional Pathways

Graduates often pursue:

• A Year-in-Industry placement to enhance employability

• MSc programmes in AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, or Software Engineering

• PhD research, particularly via the Bristol Robotics Lab or UWE research centres

• Professional progression toward CITP or CEng status through BCS