first-year students with household income under £25,000
Check eligibility →BSc (Hons) Computer Science Bachelor's degree at the University of Cumbria
BSc (Hons) Computer Science at University of Cumbria. You'll study across specialisations such as Software Engineering, Data Science, AI & Machine Learning, Cyber Security, Web & Mobile, Cloud & DevOps, Games, and HCI.
About this course
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BSc (Hons) Computer Science is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at the University of Cumbria, based in In Lancaster. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Computer Science, see the sections below.
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 6 modules
- Fundamentals of Computer Science & ProgrammingCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces the fundamental principles of computer science. You will learn about how computers work, the basic building blocks of computer systems and how computers and computer systems are used in business and industry. You will also explore data, data communication and encryption.
- Networking FundamentalsCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces the fundamental principles of networking, providing a practical and theoretical foundation for understanding computer systems and their interconnections. You will explore different network configurations and security considerations, gaining hands-on experience in setting up and troubleshooting networks.
- Introduction to Computer SystemsCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop your foundational understanding of computer systems through both theory and practical application. You will explore the evolution of computing, develop problem-solving and computational thinking skills, and study core concepts such as Boolean logic, computer hardware, operating systems, and system maintenance.
- Information Systems DesignCompulsory
Module details
You will find out how business functions, how computers are used to support this work, and learn how to understand business requirements to deliver an appropriate computer solution. As part of this, you'll be introduced to Unified Modelling Language (UML) to analyse, document and visualise systems.
- Designing Computing SolutionsCompulsory
Module details
You will learn about the fundamentals of systems and software to design, build and test your own software solutions. You'll find out about the software development life cycle, and the processes of data integration, software testing methods and project management.
- Web DevelopmentCompulsory
Module details
The main aim of this module is to develop a range of skills through an interesting and relevant project. You will work as part of a team to explore the processes required to develop, test and deploy a web-based app.
Year 2 6 modules
- Application DevelopmentCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop your understanding and practical skills in designing and building software applications. It introduces a range of development environments, programming frameworks, and user interface design principles (e.g., usability and user experience).
- Big Data & Data ScienceCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop your understanding of the principles and practices of data science and data analytics. It introduces key concepts in data processing, machine learning, and data visualisation, alongside practical skills in designing and implementing data-driven applications. You will explore the use of modern data science tools and frameworks, and how applied analytical techniques provide insights from large and complex datasets.
- Database and Enterprise SystemsCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop your understanding of the design, implementation and management of database and enterprise systems within modern organisations. It explores relational and non-relational database technologies, enterprise system architectures and the integration of data across business functions.
- Network Management & AdministrationCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop your practical and theoretical understanding of network management and administration. You will gain hands-on experience in configuring and managing a range of network devices and services, including routers, switches, servers, and wireless technologies.
- Software EngineeringCompulsory
Module details
This module is designed to build your proficiency in programming and software engineering. It emphasises the design, development, and testing of software solutions, with opportunities to explore applications that interact with hardware as well as purely software-based systems. You will be introduced to Agile methodologies to support collaborative, iterative development within team environments.
- Cyber Security and Ethical HackingCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop your understanding of core cybersecurity concepts and practices, with a focus on identifying threats, managing vulnerabilities and implementing effective security controls. You will gain hands-on experience in using industry tools to perform ethical hacking tasks, including reconnaissance, vulnerability scanning and basic penetration testing.
Year 3 5 modules
- Professional ProjectCompulsory
Module details
The Professional Project is the capstone of your degree. You will undertake a substantial and independent piece of research into a topic of your choice, related to one of your taught modules in year 3.
- Cyber-physical systems, Robotics & Autonomous TechnologiesCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop your theoretical and practical understanding of cyber-physical systems (CPS), focusing on the integration of technologies such as automated systems, robotics and mobile drones utilising Internet of Things (IoT). It also covers the boundaries and convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT).
- Artificial IntelligenceCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to provide you with a deep and practical understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) concepts, techniques and applications. It explores emerging areas of AI, including intelligent agents, search algorithms, reasoning, natural language processing and ethical AI. You will engage with real-world problems and develop intelligent systems using modern frameworks and tools, preparing you for careers in AI development, research and innovation.
- Network Infrastructure EngineeringCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in designing, implementing, managing, and optimising enterprise-scale network infrastructures. You will explore the configuration and integration of key routing, switching, security, and redundancy technologies, alongside network management, monitoring, and automation approaches that support high availability, scalability, and performance.
- Immersive TechnologiesCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces you to the rapidly evolving field of immersive technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR). You will investigate how these technologies are applied across various industries (e.g., education, healthcare, engineering, creative media etc.) and explore their technical, innovative, and ethical implications.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
You'll usually start with programming fundamentals in languages such as Python and Java, alongside computer systems and architecture, and discrete mathematics for computing. In Year 2, a course like this normally moves to algorithms and data structures, databases and software engineering, and artificial intelligence and machine learning. Year 3 introduces specialist options, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, systems and networks, or human-computer interaction, alongside security and networks, before concluding with an individual project where you design, build and evaluate substantial software independently.
Who it's for
This course suits those seeking a structured qualification in Computer Science with practical depth across modern specialisms. It's for full-time students ready to commit to a three-year programme taught in English.
Careers & job market
Across Computer Science courses nationally, 85% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating. Of those working, 75% are in highly skilled roles or continuing their studies. National earnings data shows Computer Science graduates starting at £25,000–£35,000 (15 months post-graduation), rising to £29,750–£42,000 after five years.
University & format
The University of Cumbria is a university-based institution located in Lancaster. The BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree is studied full-time over 3 years, taught in English. The University of Cumbria is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, and its degrees are nationally recognised. The course carries the Silver award for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Names detected beside accreditation or recognition copy on the provider course page; verify the route and intake.
Entry & how to get in
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at University of Cumbria →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
Named awards published by the university. Compare the eligibility and application route before budgeting for one.
Amounts, exclusions and deadlines can change. An award is not guaranteed unless the university confirms it.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Computer Science graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
- 1Graduate / Junior DeveloperFirst engineering role · 0–2 yrs
- 2Software EngineerShipping features end-to-end · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / Lead EngineerOwning systems and mentoring · 5–9 yrs
- 4Principal / Engineering ManagerArchitecture or leading teams · 9+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Computer Science nationally
National figures for Computer Science graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
Job market & outlook
How Computer Science graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Boilerplate and scaffolding code
- First-pass tests and docs
- Routine debugging and refactors
- Standard data wrangling
More human than ever
- System design and architecture trade-offs
- Reviewing and owning correctness & security
- Translating fuzzy problems into software
- Leading delivery and mentoring
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Computer Science graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Tech companies
- Banks & fintech
- Consultancies
- Government (GDS) & startups
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Computer Science graduates.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
University of Cumbria
Computing across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around In Lancaster
870 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Computer Science right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to University of Cumbria from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £25,000 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check University of Cumbria’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with University of Cumbria and gov.uk before you apply.
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What do graduates earn?
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