Computer Science

BSc (Hons)

Clearing places are available on this course

UCAS code: G403

Start dates: September 2023 / September 2024

Full time: 3 years or 4 years if work placement is chosen

Part time: up to 8 years

Location: Wheatley

Department(s): School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

Find a course

Expand

Overview

Is your interest in information systems or software product development? What about software engineering or data structures? On our Computer Science degree you can take your first step into computer science. Through your learning, studies and development you build everything you need for a successful career in any area of computing. 

You will solve difficult problems. And you will sharpen your technical skills. We believe that learning goes beyond the classroom. Our award-winning Formula Student autonomous team, one of the UK’s finest, provides students with the opportunity to learn through a fun, educational competition. Student-led societies – such as Computing, Gaming and Women in Computing – are a great place to learn and make friends. 

We are a community that values teamwork. We enjoy seeing our students thrive and we love inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs. Our innovation hub, the IceCube, is supported by the Royal Society. It provides a space for students to grow their ideas. 

Whatever your aims are, we will help you to reach them. 

Order a Prospectus Ask a question Attend an open day or webinar

Computer Science

Why Oxford Brookes University?

  • Excellent reputation

     The degree is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), the Chartered Institute for IT.

  • Supportive environment

     We provide a network of support to help you through any learning challenges. This includes peer-assisted learning and methods of work assessment that suit you.

  • Learn from the start

    There is no requirement for you to have previous technical experience or particular qualifications to study this course.

  • Optional placement year

    On your placement you’ll progress your industry skills and your academic ability. Recent student placements include IBM, Microsoft and PepsiCo.

  • Like minded community

    Join the Brookes Computing Society, where you can take part in programming workshops, competitions, conferences, socials and a host of other computing activities.

  • Free language courses

    Free language courses are available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.

  • Study abroad

    You may be able to go on a European or international study exchange while you are at Brookes. Most exchanges take place in the second year. Although we will help as much as we can with your plans, ultimately you are responsible for organising and funding this study abroad.

  • Accreditation(s)

    Accredited by the British Computer Society (Full CITP, partial CEng)

    • The British Computer Society

Course details

Course structure

In your first year, you will focus on developing core computer science skills. Expect to be introduced to new concepts in computer programming, mathematics, and project management. These will give you the grounding you need to be successful on the rest of the course. 

Your training in computer programming will go deeper in the second year. You will start to explore the foundations of software development and our researchers will teach you about security both as a programmer and a developer. 

We encourage you to make the most of our links with industry. The optional work placement will help sharpen your skills. It will also create more attractive employment prospects for you. 

Our academics will introduce you to the latest developments in the world of computing and cybersecurity through their research. In your third year, you will be supported with your chosen final project, which is a great opportunity to showcase your learning.

Computer Science

Learning and teaching

You will learn relevant theory and strong practical skills.

Our teaching methods include;

  • lectures
  • practical sessions
  • apprentice style learning (a combination of lectures and hands-on exercises). 

Assessment

All your modules will include continuous assessment. If they include written examinations, these are worth 30%, 50% or 70% of the module. 

Study modules

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Information Systems (15 credits)

Problem Solving and Programming (30 credits)

Object Oriented Programming (15 credits)

DevOps (15 credits)

Basic Communications and PC Networking, MCEL4001 (15 credits)

This is a foundational module designed to equip you with an in-depth understanding of communication networks and their application in a real-world context. This module aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the basic principles of computer networking, focusing on layered network models, and the design, connection, configuration, and testing of computer networks that involve PCs, switches, and routers. Hands-on laboratory experiments will allow you to implement and validate network designs using a range of analytical and simulation tools, reinforcing theoretical knowledge with practical application. 

Upon successful completion of this module, you will have a firm grasp of the principles that underpin communication networks. This module is an engaging introduction into the world of communications and PC networking and a first step towards becoming a proficient network designer and operator. 
 

Foundations of Computer Systems (15 credits)

Mathematics for Computing (15 credits)

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Databases (15 credits)

Foundations of Computation (15 credits)

Software Development with C and C++ (15 credits)

Web Application Development (15 credits)

Innovative Product Development (Double) (30 credits)

Data Structures (15 credits)

In this module you will delve deeper into the world of programming, expanding your expertise and confidence in various key areas. This module is designed to enhance your programming skills to the point where you can confidently utilise recursion, perform effective testing, and manipulate essential data structures like graphs and trees. Through engaging with these concepts, you will acquire valuable knowledge and practical skills that will empower you in the field of computer science.
 
By the end of this module, you will be able to create and anticipate the behaviour of programs that employ data structures such as graphs and trees. You will develop the ability to devise comprehensive test plans for programs, ensuring their effectiveness and reliability. Furthermore, you will be capable of creating and comprehending programs that leverage recursion, a powerful technique for solving complex problems.
 

Foundations of Security (15 credits)

Business Intelligence Programming, COMP5007

Delve into the realm of Business Intelligence Programming and uncover the foundations of Business Analytics. Explore a wide range of methods, tools, and techniques that enable the development of applications for complex decision making. This module utilises a dynamic online learning approach to deliver engaging and comprehensive content. Throughout this module, you will gain a deep understanding of data, information, and knowledge within the organisational context. Develop the skills to create strategic decision-making plans by harnessing an organisation's valuable information assets. Design, implement, test, debug, and review applications that facilitate decision making based on diverse and fragmented information.
 
By the end of this module, you will possess the expertise to apply Business Intelligence Programming techniques and tools, enabling you to make informed decisions based on complex data sets.
 

Year 3 (optional placement year)

Optional modules

Independent Study Level 5 (15 credits)

Optional Work Placement Year

A supervised work placement in the computer industry for 12 months between Year 2 and your final year. You will be taught about how to apply for jobs effectively in a second year module and we have a placements office with dedicated staff to provide information and advice to help you secure a placement. A placement benefits their final-year studies and career prospects. Possible placement organisations include IBM, Microsoft and PepsiCo. On returning to university for your final year, the experience you have gained invariably improves your academic performance. In addition, we have an excellent record of students gaining full-time employment on graduation, often with their industrial placement company or organisation.

Year 4 (or year 3 if no placement)

Compulsory modules

BSc Computing Project (30 credits)

Embark on an individually supervised project to delve into a chosen problem, conducting an extended study in your specialised area of study. This project will challenge you to solve a practical problem, showcasing your breadth and depth of knowledge. Throughout this module, you will showcase your project management skills by creating, designing, planning, and carrying out a project that addresses a practical problem within a social and economic context, while considering factors like risk. Applying your practical and analytical skills, you will investigate a substantial topic and employ the scientific method to report your findings using accepted formalisms. You will also demonstrate proficiency in utilising appropriate technologies and trustworthy information sources, such as the ACM Digital Library, to locate and critically evaluate both technical and non-specialist information relevant to your project.

 

 

Software Engineering (15 credits)

Cloud Computing and Internet of Things (15 credits)

Immerse yourself in the cutting-edge realms of Cloud Computing and the Internet of Things (IoT). You’ll gain a critical understanding of recent trends and developments, empowering you to design, construct, and evaluate innovative Cloud Computing solutions. Additionally, you’ll delve into the Internet of Things, unlocking insights into its latest advancements and programming frameworks. Furthermore, explore the management of distributed data, privacy, and security considerations.
 
On successful completion of this module, you will possess the expertise to critically analyse, design, and evaluate Cloud Computing and IoT solutions. You’ll also develop team working skills by collaborating effectively within groups, applying your knowledge and skills to practical scenarios.
 

Artificial Intelligence Project (Hons) (15 credits)

Advanced Object Oriented Programming Project

This module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced object-oriented programming (OOP) principles and practices. It focuses on developing the skills required to design and implement high-quality, robust, and scalable software systems using OOP concepts. With a focus on real-world applications, students will be equipped with the tools and techniques needed to excel in a wide range of software development roles.

By completing this module, students will have a strong understanding of advanced object-oriented programming concepts, including how to create high-quality, scalable, and maintainable code. 

Principles of Secure Operating Systems (15 credits)

Optional modules

Communicating and Teaching Computer Science (15 credits)

This module offers a valuable opportunity to develop marketable and transferable skills in effectively communicating their knowledge of the subject within a challenging educational setting. Throughout the module, you will enhance their understanding of their own expertise in computer science by articulating core ideas and concepts to others. Emphasis will be placed on addressing individual needs and employing appropriate presentation methods for different target audiences.


This module will focus on developing communication, collaboration, organisation, reliability, self-management, initiative, creativity, and critical evaluation skills. You will demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, organise and manage your responsibilities, show initiative and creativity, identify educational needs, and engage in self-analysis and reflection.
 

Independent Study level 6 (15 credits)

Machine Learning (15 credits)

Game Development (Hons) (15 credits)

Please note: As our courses are reviewed regularly as part of our quality assurance framework, the modules you can choose from may vary from those shown here. The structure of the course may also mean some modules are not available to you.

Careers

Oxford Brookes Computer Science graduates enjoy great success in the workplace. On average, computer science graduates earn £29,000 per year within 6 months of graduating, according to Unistats. You will be rewarded for your practical and technical skills. 

Previous students have gone on to work in different industries, and for many different employers. Companies include:

  • Microsoft
  • BP
  • the NHS
  • UK Atomic Energy Authority.

Entry requirements

Wherever possible we make our conditional offers using the UCAS Tariff. The combination of A-level grades listed here would be just one way of achieving the UCAS Tariff points for this course.

Standard offer

UCAS Tariff Points: 112

A Level: BBC

IB Points: 30

BTEC: DMM

Contextual offer

UCAS Tariff Points: 88

A Level: CCD

IB Points: 27

BTEC: MMM

Further offer details

We welcome applications from candidates with alternative qualifications, and from mature students.

International qualifications and equivalences

Tuition fees

Please see the fees note
Home (UK) full time
£9,250

Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module

Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,500

International full time
£16,100

International sandwich (placement)
£1,500

Home (UK) full time
£9,250

Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module

Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,600

International full time
£16,900

International sandwich (placement)
£1,600

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

Tuition fees

2023 / 24
Home (UK) full time
£9,250

Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module

Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,500

International full time
£16,100

International sandwich (placement)
£1,500

2024 / 25
Home (UK) full time
£9,250

Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module

Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,600

International full time
£16,900

International sandwich (placement)
£1,600

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

+44 (0)1865 483088

financefees@brookes.ac.uk

Please note, tuition fees for Home students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Oxford Brookes University intends to maintain its fees for new and returning Home students at the maximum permitted level.

Tuition fees for International students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students. 

The following factors will be taken into account by the University when it is setting the annual fees: inflationary measures such as the retail price indices, projected increases in University costs, changes in the level of funding received from Government sources, admissions statistics and access considerations including the availability of student support. 

How and when to pay

Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.

  • For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
  • For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy page

Additional costs

Please be aware that some courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. Specific additional costs for this course are detailed below.

Information from Discover Uni

Full-time study

Part-time study

Programme changes:
On rare occasions we may need to make changes to our course programmes after they have been published on the website. For more information, please visit our changes to programmes page.