BSc Computer Science (2024)

You complete 23 modules to complete the BSc Computer Science.

All of the Level 4 and Level 5 modules are compulsory. There is a broad range of options at Level 6, towards the end of the course.

• During Level 4, you learn the fundamentals: how computers work, how to programme, and more about the mathematics that underpins computer science.
• During Level 5, you deepen your programming skills to consider software projects and explore specialist topics such as Graphics Programming and Data Science.
• During Level 6, you study elective modules then undertake a 30 credit project that combines your knowledge and skills to create a software system.

Note: Agile Software Projects will run for the last time in October 2024. No further registrations will be accepted on this module after October 2024. The last opportunity to sit the assessment for this module will be October 2026. Module‘Professional Practice for Computer Scientists’ will replace Agile Software Projects and will run for the first time in April 2025.

Specialisms

You can also choose to register on a specialist award if you want to focus your studies on a particular area of computer science. To specialise, you must take five compulsory specialist modules and an elective from any specialism. You will be asked to select your preferred specialism when you register.

The Programme Specification and Programme Regulations contain information and rules regarding what modules you can choose and the order in which they must be studied.

• Download Programme Specification
• View Academic Regulations

The BSc in Computer Science leads to a recognised UK degree qualification. However, this degree doesn’t receive any additional professional accreditation at this time.

Machine learning and artificial intelligence are starting to play far bigger roles in our daily lives. They are used in digital assistants that respond to our voices, self-driving cars and adaptive education systems.

Machine learning provides a means for computer systems to extract useful information out of data. These techniques are widely used in the technology industry for a variety of applications, for example, recommending music and other products to people, identifying faces in photos and predicting trends in financial markets. 

By studying this degree you will:

• gain the mathematical and engineering knowledge to construct working machine learning and AI systems.
• learn how machines make sense of the world through intelligent signal processing.
• carry out a substantial practical project where you’ll construct an AI system and apply it to a problem.

New data is being produced at an exceptionally fast rate across the world. It’s the role of data scientists to make sense of this information and create accurate predictions, treatments and services tailored to individuals.

Data science is a significant subfield in computer science which has seen rapid growth in recent years as companies and institutions have begun to gather data at scale across many sectors. Data science has many application areas ranging from medicine to climate science and business analytics.

By studying this degree you will:

• develop the necessary skills to be a data scientist. This will include learning about artificial intelligence, data analytics and machine learning.

With the global mobile app market booming and expected to be worth $139 billion by 2021, it is no surprise that it is common for established organisations to have a web presence which includes complex interacting systems.

Web and mobile development are critical application areas for computer science. Many of the largest technology companies maintain large scale web applications, providing services such as social media, search, advertising and video and audio streaming. Mobile application development has become a major part of the software industry over the last decade, with established as well as new companies developing thousands of mobile games and utilities.

By studying this degree you will:

• be able to develop applications for the web and mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.
• carry out a substantial project where you have created a mobile or web application.
• learn about mobile development, web development and databases.

Physical computing involves the creation of hardware devices that can sense and act in the real world. Physical computing techniques underpin a wide range of contemporary technology trends such as the Internet of Things, the quantified self and smart homes. There are many applications of physical computing, for example in creative arts, museums, ubiquitous and embedded computing, scientific sensing, robotics, engineering control systems and robotics.

By studying this degree you will:

• design devices that compute in real life settings
• learn how to connect these virtually to each other and globally via the internet.
• apply your learned skills in the creative arts, smart homes, robotics, engineering control systems and many more computer related areas.

Gaming is a world entertainment phenomenon. The global games market is currently valued at $137.9 billion, by 2021 it’s expected to be worth $180 billion (Source, Newzoo). This degree is specifically designed for those who want to be at the forefront of the thriving gaming world, creating software tailored to games development.

Video games are a critical application area for computer science, and the games industry forms a significant part of the creative economy. It is a complicated subject, drawing on other areas such as computer graphics, interaction design and artificial intelligence.

By studying this degree you will:

• learn how to create software tailored to games development
• be able to produce high standard graphics, narratives and interaction design
• equip yourself with the skills to develop virtual reality systems.

Virtual reality is the creation of immersive, simulated environments using computer systems. Advancements in technology has now put virtual reality in the hands of the consumer. This has created a demand for people who can develop this software and experiences in this medium.

Virtual Reality involves the creation of immersive, simulated environments using computer systems. Recent technology advances have made it possible to create high fidelity, high immersion virtual realities which people can access with consumer hardware. Virtual Reality has many application areas, including entertainment, education and military.

By studying this degree you will:

• specialise in computer graphics, animation, immersive interaction design and virtual reality.
• carry out a substantial project where you create a virtual reality system and/or experience.

Our daily lives involve complex tasks, requiring interaction with a plethora of computer systems. User experience design is a critical part of the development of these systems. These advancements ensure the interaction between the individual, computer system and the workflow it enables are all fit for purpose.

User experience design or UX has grown out of the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), which is about how to design computer systems for use by people. HCI is a major subfield of computer science, and it has informed the visual design and workflow of computer systems we use every day. HCI draws on a range of hard and soft skills and is a naturally cross-disciplinary subject.

By studying this degree you will:

• understand HCI and how to apply its principles across multiple development environments
• carry out a substantial project where you have implemented and evaluated a user experience
• gain the technical and theoretical know-how you will need to implement effective user experiences in software.

You can study this online degree from anywhere in the world. The flexible approach to learning enables you to fit your studies around your commitments whilst providing the academic rigour and structure of an on-campus programme.

Modules are offered over two 22-week sessions each academic year. You choose which sessions to enter and how many modules to take in each session.

Assessment deadlines are outlined clearly in advance of the session. The maximum number of modules you can study any one session is five, or three plus the final project. This can be a combination of new modules and resits (with a maximum of four new modules) or resits only. You will also receive comprehensive learning materials and support from online tutors.

Are you affected by US-imposed restrictions?

Our suite of BSc Computer Science degrees use creative interactive approaches delivered through Coursera, the world’s largest online learning platform, to provide immersive learning experiences.

United States export control regulations prevent Coursera from offering services and content to users in certain countries or regions. More information about which countries or regions are affected can be found on Coursera's website.

Coursera must enforce this restriction in order to remain in compliance with US law and, for that reason, we advise that all learners check this information before applying for the degree.

Study materials

We provide you with all of the resources and study materials you need to complete the degree successfully, including the essential reading for each module. You can access these through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) on a range of devices. This learning platform is provided by Coursera, the world’s leading MOOC providers.

Our online learning resources typically include multimedia content, activities and exercises (e.g. multiple choice quizzes, reflective exercises and self-assessment questions), as well as facilities for you to interact with your tutor and fellow students. You’ll also receive access to an onboarding course that will help you get the most from your studies.

Online support

When you register, we will give you access to your Student Portal. You can then access your University of London email account and other key resources:

• The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Here, you can access electronic copies of all printed study materials, resources including audio-visual and revision guides, and forums to discuss course material and work collaboratively with others.
• The Online Library. As a student at the University of London, you will have access to a range of resources, databases, and journals via the Online Library. You will be able to contact a team of professional and qualified librarians for any help you require.
• Access to academic support and feedback from London-based support teams. Tutors introduce the modules, respond to queries, monitor discussions and provide guidance on assessments.

Senate House Library

If you’re based in the United Kingdom, or are visiting London, make sure to visit Senate House Library. Students studying with the University of London can join the library free of charge. Membership includes a 10-book borrowing allowance, access to all reading rooms and study areas, and on-site access to Senate House Library digital resources.

Tutor support

All students receive tutor support and feedback while studying this programme. Tutors introduce the modules, respond to queries, monitor discussions and provide guidance on assessments.

Web-supported learning: if you register for a module as a web-supported learner, you join an online tutor group.

Institution-supported learning: if you enrol for a module with a local teaching centre, you receive face-to-face tuition. We work with several teaching centres in a number of countries and will recruit more to support the programme.

Student Support

We are committed to delivering an exceptional student experience for all of our students, regardless of which of our programmes you are studying and whether you are studying independently or with a Recognised Teaching Centre.

You will have access to support through:

• The Student Advice Centre – provides support for application and Student Portal queries.
• TalkCampus – a peer support service that offers a safe and confidential way to talk about whatever is on your mind at any time of day or night.

Time commitment

Study at your own pace, either part-time or full-time. Once you begin a module it is generally expected that you will complete it in the six-month session. Each module presents about 150 hours of study. Over a 22-week session, a 15 credit module will typically require five to seven hours of work/effort per week, and a 30 credit module will typically require 10 to 15 hours of work/effort per week.

Assessment

Each module includes a mix of assessments. During your study period you will undertake formative assessments, which help you to measure your progress but do not count towards your grade, and summative assessments Summative assessments do count towards the final grade. These include a mid-session coursework submission and an unseen written examination (or final project) at the end of the session.

Written examinations are held twice a year. You can defer sitting an exam once (subject to a fee) but you cannot defer the submission of coursework.

More about exams.

Academic direction for the BSc Computer Science is provided by the Department of Computing at Goldsmiths, one of the UK’s top creative universities. Goldsmiths' unique hands-on project-based style works for a diverse range of interests - from computer and data science to art and music to social science and journalism.

Its multi-disciplinary staff are actively involved in a wide range of innovative applications of computer science. Research and teaching includes computer science but also extends to more surprising topics, including computational art, virtual reality, computer music, digital sociology and education technology.

Programme Director

Dr Matthew Yee-King is an academic in the Department of Computing at Goldsmiths. As the project manager for the €3m PRAISE research project, he managed the development and trialling of innovative education technology, including media annotation systems. He has also carried out research into audio analysis and creative applications of machine learning, including a series of commissioned musical AI systems.

Unlike traditional degrees in music/film/media, which teach students how to use tools to manipulate media, this degree teaches you how to make your own tools for working with media. You gain a much deeper, applied technical understanding of digital media as well as having opportunities to work creatively with media.

Dr Matthew Yee-King

What qualifications do you need?

For direct access to the BSc Computer Science degrees, you will usually meet the following criteria:

• Age 17+ by the registration deadline of your enrolment session.
• GCSE Mathematics (Grade A*-B / 9-5) or AS Level Mathematics (A-E), or equivalent.
• Satisfy our General Entrance Requirements.

If applicants do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, they can apply for the programme via the performance based admission route.

To be eligible to register, applicants must normally:

• age 17+ by the registration deadline of your enrolment session
• have passed at least four separate subjects at GCSE or GCE O level, with grades A to C, or the equivalent. Equivalents include the successful completion of the US High School Diploma.
• have two years of relevant working experience; and
• and satisfy the University of London English Language Requirements.

If you are unsure as to which entry route you are eligible for, please apply via the standard entry route only. If you do not meet all of the entrance criteria for this route your application will automatically be considered for Performance-Based Admission.

Even if you do not meet the standard requirements, we will consider each application on its own merits. Our Admissions Panel will consider whether any alternative/incomplete qualifications or work experience you have are suitable for entry to the programme.

If we are unable to issue you an offer then if available we will advise on further alternatives such as our International Foundation Programme or on additional qualifications you need to take in order to meet our minimum entrance criteria.

If you do not meet the mathematical course requirement of the programme please visit mathematics aptitude test

English Language requirements

You need to demonstrate a good level of English to be admitted to our programmes. We accept a range of evidence, including proficiency test scores. If you don’t have evidence but believe you can meet the standard, we may consider your case.

Do I meet the language requirements?

Computer requirements

As this is a technical course, you will need access to suitable IT facilities. For this degree, you will also need Adobe Flash Player to view video material and a media player (such as VLC) to play video files.

More about computer requirements.

You may also require additional capabilities and software for specific modules, such as:

• Video and audio recording.
• Programmer’s text editor such as Atom; integrated development environment software (IDE).
• Additional software: Xamarin and Games development; 3D Graphics and Animation, and Virtual Reality all use Unity3D.
• Access to hardware: Android or iOS device; VR Head mounted display and a microcontroller like Arduino.

See the programme specification for details.

If you have studied material as part of a previous qualification that is comparable in content, level and standard to our computer science modules, you may be exempted from the equivalent course of our degree. This is known as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Exemption. You will not need to study or be assessed in the module(s) to complete your award.

You may be awarded RPL for up to 120 credits for the BSc.

To be considered for RPL you should make a formal request within your application when applying for the programme. Or, you can submit an online enquiry, if you have already applied.

You will need to have met the entrance requirements for the programme to be considered for RPL.

You must have completed the qualification/ examination(s), on which the application for RPL is based on, within the five years preceding the application.

We will not recognise or accredit prior learning for a module later than 14 days after the module start date. You will be deemed to have started a module once you have been given access to the learning materials on the VLE.

Automatic

Some qualifications are automatically recognised as meeting the learning outcomes of our courses. If you satisfy the conditions, we will accredit your prior learning as detailed here: Recognition of Prior Learning degrees in Computer Science. No fees are charged for this service.

With the exception of the qualifications noted in the automatic RPL section on our website, applications for RPL based on examinations from professional institutions or professional certificates will not normally be considered.

Discretionary

Other qualifications will need to be assessed by specialist academics on a case by case basis, before we can approve RPL. A formal application is required and an RPL application fee is payable. The RPL application fee is non-refundable, even if your prior learning is not recognised.

Your qualification must be at the appropriate level (equivalent to a UK Level 4 or above) to be considered.

For your discretionary RPL request to be processed, you will need to provide: a completed RPL request form, the supporting documentary evidence (normally a scanned copy of an official transcript and syllabus of your previous studies) and the discretionary RPL fee.

You should apply as soon as possible so that we can process your request. You will need to allow time for academics to consider your documentation, so you can register by the registration deadline.

If you submit your discretionary RPL application but are too late to be considered for RPL in the current session, we will still process your application to study the programme. If you receive an offer, you can still register. If you wish to be considered for RPL in a subsequent session, then you shouldn’t register on the modules you want to apply for RPL.

RPL and Performance Based Admission

If you apply or register via the Performance Based Admission (PBA) route, you may apply for RPL. Any approved RPL will be formally applied to your record once you have been successfully admitted onto the full BSc programme.

To enter the BSc via the Performance Based Admission route, you must first register for Introduction to Programming I and either Discrete Mathematics or Computational Mathematics. We cannot approve RPL or accredit prior learning for these modules.

If you do not successfully meet the requirements to progress onto the full BSc programme, any application fees paid for discretionary RPL are non-refundable.

How to request RPL

Additional information about the process of applying for RPL.

Further information regarding RPL is covered in the Recognition of Prior Learning section of the appropriate Programme Regulations and Section 3 of the General Regulations.

Goldsmiths welcomes applications from students who wish to transfer to an on-campus degree.

To complete your degree in two years of full-time study at Goldsmiths, you must have completed eight Level 4 modules successfully. To complete your degree in one year of full-time study at Goldsmiths, you must also have completed eight modules at Level 5.

If you are interested in transferring to Goldsmiths and have successfully completed the required courses (or expect to do so in your intended year of transfer), please contact the Computing Team.

The fee for our BSc Computer Science degree depends on two factors:

• Whether you choose web-supported or institution-supported learning
• Whether you live in the UK, or a developing (Band A) or developed (Band B) nation. See the list of Band A and B countries [PDF]

Important: the table below does not include fees payable to a third party, such as tuition costs payable to a Recognised Teaching Centre or fees charged by your local examination centre, or local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or sales tax.

The fees below relate to new students registering for the 2024-2025 session. On average, fees are subject to a five per cent year-on-year increase.

Students who registered earlier can view their fees on the Course Fees page.

Disclaimer: Currency conversion tool.

*Indicative totals reflect average annual fee increases and assume that you complete the qualification within the minimum time without re-sits and Accreditation of Prior Learning (which would require additional fees). Additional costs you would also need to budget for would be examination centre fees. Indicative totals will be available soon.

*The online examination administration fee is charged for each examination paper held online, including resits. This does not apply to any coursework submissions.

More about programme fees

See the Academic Regulations for more details.

Additional Costs

You may also need to budget for:

• Exams: our approved examination centres around the world charge a fee when you sit an exam. Contact your chosen examination centre for details about costs.
• Tuition: as described, teaching centres charge for face-to-face tuition if you choose to take modules with institution-supported learning.
• Module specific requirements: Certain modules may have additional software and hardware requirements. For example, the Virtual Reality module requires a VR Head Mounted Display with the ability to be used in developer mode, and the Physical Computing and the Internet of Things module requires an Arduino Starter Kit or similar. More details on module specific requirements are available within the Programme Specification.

Sales Tax

Please note: all student fees shown are net of any local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or any other sales tax payable by the student in their country of residence. Where the University is required to add VAT, GST or any other sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the fees shown during the payment process. For students resident in the UK, our fees are exempt from VAT.

Further information on Sales Tax.

Without the cost of moving to London, studying for your University of London degree anywhere in the world represents excellent value for money. However, there are additional sources of support depending on where you live and how you choose to study.

More on funding your study.

You can pay your fees in a number of ways, including an online payment facility via the Student Portal and Western Union Quick Pay.

More on how to pay your fees

The BSc Computer Science provides you with the opportunity to hone the technical skills and digital capabilities necessary to build an effective career in a range of related fields in the future. Beyond specific technical skills, you’ll also develop a range of transferable skills, from presentation skills to project management, which are highly valued in a range of workplaces and industries including business, finance, medicine, education, video games, engineering and science.

A world of career opportunities based on your specialism:

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence: Technical, problem-solving jobs in a rapidly growing area. A typical job title is machine learning engineer.

Data Science: Data-intensive technical jobs. Typical job titles include data scientist, data visualisation engineer, business data analyst, data manager and data engineer.

Web Development and Mobile Development: Jobs involving the development of web and mobile technology such as web sites and applications for smart phones and tablets. Examples of jobs could be mobile application developer, mobile software engineer, front-end engineer, full stack developer and back-end developer.

Physical Computing and Internet of Things: A rapidly growing and exciting area which is becoming relevant across different sectors. Jobs in this area include Internet of Things (IoT) engineer, creative technologist and embedded software engineer.

Games Development: A range of jobs in the creative industries, especially in the video games industry. Typical job titles include game designer, video game tester and video game programmer.

Virtual Reality: Exciting jobs in an emerging area which spans sectors such as the creative industries, video games and education and training. Job titles might include virtual reality developer, environment artist, virtual reality architect and augmented reality engineer.

User Experience: Jobs which involve a flair for design, and engagement with end users in a range of sectors, wherever there is a need for effective user interface design. Examples of jobs could be UX engineer, user experience designer and UI designer.

What do employers think of our graduates?

In some countries, qualifications earned by distance and flexible learning may not be recognised by certain authorities or regulators for the purposes of public sector employment or further study. We advise you to explore the local recognition status before you register, even if you plan to receive support from a local teaching centre.

You’ll have access to a wide range of careers and employability support through the University of London Careers Service, including live webinars and online drop-in sessions.

More on the University of London Careers Service

Tailored support for careers in the refugee and humanitarian fields is available through regular programme events, webinars and careers resources.