Computer Science, BSc (Hons)

Course summary

Develop an in-depth understanding of the key conceptual and technological issues involved in computation, computer use and design.Why study BSc Computer Science:This degree prepares you for a career in software engineering, and covers key technical skills such as algorithmic thinking, full-stack web development, and machine learning, as well as industry-relevant soft skills such as project management frameworks, user-centred design, and digital venture creation.By opting to take computer science without a pathway, you'll develop a general understanding of a range of foundational topics, including software development and engineering, algorithms, and computer architecture. You may consider this option if you have not decided where your interests in computer science lie and want to have the widest understanding of the discipline. As you approach the latter part of your degree, you'll be able to choose advanced optional modules freely based on your experiences so far. By opting to take a pathway degree a range of complementary modules have been chosen to reflect your interest in a particular area of computer science.Computer Science pathwaysAs well as BSc Computer Science, we offer several pathways that allow you to focus on the following specialisms:

• BSc (Hons) Computer Science: Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

• BSc (Hons) Computer Science: Cybersecurity

• BSc (Hons) Computer Science: Software Engineering

• BSc (Hons) Data Science: User Experience

Create your own projectsThe degree is hands-on and practical from the start. You'll be creating your own web and mobile applications, data visualisations, and games. You will also explore your potential through practical projects whilst learning relevant technical skills for your future career.PlacementsIn your third year, you’ll have the opportunity to take a full-year industry placement (making this programme four years full-time, or seven years part-time).This gives you valuable experience to build confidence, further develop skills and industry insight, and enhance your career prospects. By the end of your degree, you’ll have built a portfolio of work to kickstart your career in the creative industry.Learn skills for the creative industriesWe will teach you the skills you need for software engineering, but you don’t need to know how to code before you start. We begin from the basics and bring you up to a professional level over the course of your degree.You’ll program in multiple languages, use industry-standard tools, learn about analytical skills and problem-solving strategies, and explore topics such as machine learning, data mining, and artificial intelligence. You will also develop professional working practices such as design documentation, testing cycles, issue tracking, and version control.Please note the BSc Computer Science only accepts applications for first year entry.

Modules

OverviewFrom the start of your degree, you’ll be developing your own projects and digital ventures, which will increase in scale and ambition. During this time, you’ll study a range of relevant technical disciplines including database and server-side programming, computer security, machine learning, data mining, digital business modelling, and mobile development. This work is underpinned by relevant theoretical learning including professional software development practices, analytical skills and problem-solving strategies.Whilst studying with us you will also benefit from Goldsmiths Computing Department’s unique approach to teaching computing, informed by our wealth of expertise in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. You will notice this through the engaging and accessible way that we teach programming on core modules, but also through optional topics such as physical computing and virtual reality.Year 1- compulsory modules Introduction to Programming Front End Web How Computers Work Problem Solving for Computer ScienceNumerical Mathematics Symbolic Mathematics Graphics 1 Computing Project 1 Year 2 - compulsory modules Java for Industry Algorithms 1 Computing Project 2 Dynamic Web Applications Algorithms 2 Extended Java Fundamentals of Computer ScienceOptional placement yearOur degrees include an optional industrial placement year after the second year of study. You will be responsible for securing a placement, but we can support you through this process. Although we encourage you to take the opportunity of a placement year, you can also complete your degree in three years.Year 3 (or year 4 with placement year)Your final year consists of compulsory and option modules (term one) and a major Computing project (terms two and three) in which you apply your new technological skills to solve real-world problems in innovative and practical ways.Year 3 compulsory modules Databases and the Web Some of the optional modules previously available on this programme have been:Neural Networks Computer Security Data Mining Artificial Intelligence Physical Computing 1Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.

Assessment method

You’ll be assessed by a variety of methods, depending on your module choices. These include coursework, examinations, group work and projects. If you opt for an industrial placement year, your placement tutor will assess your work. If you complete the placement year successfully, you earn the endorsement 'with work experience' on your degree certificate.

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Overview From the start of your degree, you’ll be developing your own projects and digital ventures, which will increase in scale and ambition. During this time, you’ll study a range of relevant technical disciplines including database and server-side programming, computer security, machine learning, data mining, digital business modelling, and mobile development. This work is underpinned by relevant theoretical learning including professional software development practices, analytical skills and problem-solving strategies. Whilst studying with us you will also benefit from Goldsmiths Computing Department’s unique approach to teaching computing, informed by our wealth of expertise in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. You will notice this through the engaging and accessible way that we teach programming on core modules, but also through optional topics such as physical computing and virtual reality. Year 1- compulsory modules Introduction to Programming Front End Web How Computers Work Problem Solving for Computer Science Numerical Mathematics Symbolic Mathematics Graphics 1 Computing Project 1 Year 2 - compulsory modules Java for Industry Algorithms 1 Computing Project 2 Dynamic Web Applications Algorithms 2 Extended Java Fundamentals of Computer Science Optional placement year Our degrees include an optional industrial placement year after the second year of study. You will be responsible for securing a placement, but we can support you through this process. Although we encourage you to take the opportunity of a placement year, you can also complete your degree in three years. Year 3 (or year 4 with placement year) Your final year consists of compulsory and option modules (term one) and a major Computing project (terms two and three) in which you apply your new technological skills to solve real-world problems in innovative and practical ways. Year 3 compulsory modules Databases and the Web Some of the optional modules previously available on this programme have been: Neural Networks Computer Security Data Mining Artificial Intelligence Physical Computing 1 Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.