BSc Computer Science (Software Engineering)

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Undergraduate

BSc Computer Science (Software Engineering)

Want to create the next big thing in tech? This is where you start. Apply for Computer Science at Hull today.

Key information

Study mode

Full-time

Course length

3 years

Typical offer

112 points

A Level grades: BBC

UCAS code

G600

Choose an option

Start date

Course overview

Software engineering is essential to the smooth running of modern life. The apps and digital tools we use everyday, driverless cars and passenger planes all require safe, usable, reliable, robust software to make them work.

All our Computer Science undergraduate courses offer a guaranteed, paid year in industry, between the second and third year, as a recognised part of your degree, giving you the chance to test your skills out in the real world.

This programme specialises in formal and user-centred techniques that you’ll need to design, develop and deploy software that delivers value to users and controls the world around us. You'll gain a strong working knowledge of computer science and the theories that underpin the discipline.

You'll develop the skills to write code, create and manage software projects using the latest agile development methods, and you’ll learn about test-driven development and DevOps.

There's also the opportunity to specialise in the areas that interest you most – ending with a major individual software project. Previous topics have included, a run planner and diary, a wind farm simulation, modelling a self driving car and an app to find and join in with live, location-based events.

This degree is accredited to the maximum level available by the British Computer Society. The skills, experience and technical expertise you’ll gain at Hull will put you in high demand when it’s time to enter the job market in this fast-moving industry.

 

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Reasons to choose Computer Science at Hull

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Six reasons to study Computer Science (Software Engineering) at Hull

  1. Guaranteed, paid year in industry
  2. Access to industry-standard facilities like HIVE† and our refurbished Superlab
  3. Accredited by the British Computer Society
  4. 94.4% graduate employability rating*
  5. Our research was ranked joint fifth in the UK‡
  6. New robotics lab with humanoid Baxter robots
This course is British Computer Society (BCS) accredited

What you'll study

The course consists of 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits, meaning you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more (e.g. 40 credits). In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120.

First year modules

A common first year across all of our courses covers the fundamental aspects of the subject.

Due to the common first year, you can easily switch your degree course at any point until the start of Year 2, when more specialist material begins to be introduced.

  • Compusory

    Programming Portfolio

    This module provides the required practical knowledge for Computer Science students to design, implement and test algorithms. The module uses lectures to deliver concepts, a practice lab to apply the programming concepts learnt by developing programs to solve problems. You will take part in hands-on practical assessments, which will enable you to acquire extensive programming skills in an industry standard programming language. We will support you whether you are new to programming or have existing skills.

    Algorithms and Data Structures

    Start to think like a computer (bleep bloop)! This module explores logic, data storage and algorithms with the use of practical demonstrations and activities. Operating in parallel with programming-focussed modules, we will develop a toolkit of key concepts from a theoretical (non-code) perspective, facilitating a better understanding of these fundamentals. Topics to expect include pseudocode, state machines, essential keywords, common data structures, sort algorithms and search algorithms. You will learn methods to analyse and compare algorithms and their constituent parts in order that you may better design, evaluate and develop effective, efficient and performant software solutions.

    Computational Thinking

    This module will enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the key mathematical underpinnings of computer science, to aid you in problem solving and programming. The development of your competence in logic, mathematics and statistics will also provide evidence of your numeracy and more advanced skills and is valued by employers.

    Architectures, Operating Systems and the Cloud

    Explore the fundamental properties of computers that allow them to execute programmes. You will learn about how Computers are made to work in hardware and simulation (Virtual Machines). A collection of Virtual Machines is a cloud, and this module allows you to get experience with the development of your own cloud using appropriate platforms.

    Professional Development (Computer Science)

    Employers want much more than discipline specific skills. This module sets you up to grow your professional skills and awareness, when working both individually and as part of a team. You will also develop your appreciation of the challenges within the sector, and how technology can help to solve worldwide issues. You will begin a personal portfolio that you will add to over your degree and you will work as part of a team to produce a design prototype, demonstrating your personal professional development. Through researching your discipline, you will understand the range of career roles available and what you need to do to progress in them.

Second year modules

  • Compulsory

    Design, Develop, Deploy

    Our flagship software development module. You'll use contemporary software development tool chains to experience authentic software creation and deployment, applying techniques such as agile project management, test-driven development and continuous integration and deployment.

    Software Engineering Design Patterns

    Many problems have been solved before, so you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. One of the features of doing Software Engineering is building on the best practice developed by many others so that you don’t fall into the same traps as earlier developers. This module will give you the chance to learn about some of the top issues in software design and the best patterns for solving them. You’ll also learn about the arts of advanced software testing to ensure that the solutions you create are fit for purpose. 

    Databases and Networks

    You'll be introduced to the core components of any online information system that drives the information we use today. Learn how modern applications fetch data from servers and how that information can be stored and retrieved efficiently. You will solve a real-world problem by developing a networked database.

    User Interfaces and Experience

    Any software or hardware used by humans needs to put human understanding at its core. Digital products succeed or fail by how well the designer understands the ability of a human to use the product, or the experience that using the product provides. You'll take a scientific and engineering approach to understanding, developing and evaluating effective interfaces and experiences for users.

  • Optional

    Advanced Programming

    In this module you will explore advanced techniques in programming as well as building an understanding of how high level objected-oriented languages are executed on a modern CPU.  C++ will be used extensively, but we with reflect back on C#, as well as throwing in some assembly language.

    Mixed Reality Development

    Mixed Reality is a blend of physical and virtual environments, unlocking natural and intuitive 3D human, computer, and environment interactions. Learn concepts and techniques in the field of mixed reality and user-centred testing and implement mixed reality applications using technologies applicable to the problem domain. You will use a mixed reality application to conduct a user test, analyse and report on results.

Year abroad modules

You will have the opportunity to apply to spend the third year studying overseas at one of our partner universities.

During your year abroad, you will follow a programme of study that will be agreed between yourself and us prior to your departure. You will take all assessments set by the host university while you are abroad, for which marks will be awarded and a final transcript released. The year abroad contributes 10% towards your final degree classification.

Placement year modules

Your placement is your opportunity to get some real-world work experience under your belt.

All our Computer Science undergraduate courses offer a guaranteed, paid year in industry, between the second and third year, with the added benefit of help and support from university services such as the Careers and Employability service based in Student Central.

Final year modules

  • Optional (select one)

    Honours Stage Project

    Tackle a substantial piece of computer-related investigation or software design in an area of your interest. This includes practical development and evaluation of your designs and implementation.

    Communicating and Teaching Computing

    This module enables you to undertake a placement in a school, college or other educational establishment where you can develop your practical teaching and communication skills, as well as extending your knowledge of the education process. These skills are valued by employers, whether you are interested in potentially going on to train or teach others or not. You will also have the opportunity to develop an educational project to demonstrate your skills in practice.

  • Compulsory

    Secure Digital Infrastructure

    Secure Digital Infrastructure enables you to deploy organisational computer systems in a professional and secure way. You will learn how to do this through practical hands-on activities and supporting background lectures.

    Digital Disruption and Innovation

    Creating a viable technology start-up requires insight into technical development and what it takes to deliver your product. In this module, you will form an individual digital product business plan. Then, as a small production team, you will then select an idea to take forward to develop and present this a final product pitch.

    Safety Critical Systems

    Safety critical systems form part of society’s crucial infrastructure. From transportation to power generation, their safe operation is a fundamental consideration during their design and beyond. The rise in size and complexity of these systems of systems demands computer automation and support for analysing and optimising throughout the development lifecycle.

    Distributed Systems Programming

    Explore mechanisms for applying your existing C# knowledge to distributed systems or applications while considering key areas like scalability and security.

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

How you'll study

Throughout your degree, you’re expected to study for 1,200 hours per year. That’s based on 200 hours per 20 credit module. And it includes scheduled hours, time spent on placement and independent study. How this time’s divided among each of these varies each year and depends on the course and modules you study.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

53%
7%
40%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

42%
13%
45%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

10%
90%
  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

20%
80%
  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

42%
58%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Owen Woodward
Owen Woodward Computer Science

"It just clicked – and I loved it!"

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Guaranteed, paid year in industry

Spend a year in industry getting real world experience with the added benefit of help from our award-winning careers service.

Explore our Placement Years
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Facilities

Get access to the latest industry-standard facilities, from high performance cloud computing systems and 3D projection to VR and humanoid robots.

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Entry requirements

Typical offer

  • A level grades BBC

  • BTEC grades DMM

  • Points required 112

Work out your estimated points

Don't meet our requirements?

We offer a Foundation Year to boost your skills and knowledge – it’s a great way to make your way into higher education.

Switch to the foundation year

Points can be from any qualifications on the UCAS tariff, but must include at least 80 points from

  • A levels
  • BTEC Subsidiary Diploma, Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • OCR Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma, Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • CACHE Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • Irish Leaving Certificate
  • Scottish Highers
  • Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma
  • or a combination of appropriate Level 3 qualifications

Applicants should also have

  • GCSE Maths at Grade 4 or C or above

Alternative qualifications

  • IB Diploma: 28 points
  • Pass Access to HE Diploma overall with a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points

Worried you don’t quite meet our entry requirements?

We consider experience and qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match the combinations above.

But it’s not just about the grades – we’ll look at your whole application. We want to know what makes you tick, and about your previous experience, so make sure that you complete your personal statement.

If you have any questions, our admissions team will be happy to help.

Don't meet our requirements?

We offer a Foundation Year to boost your skills and knowledge – it’s a great way to make your way into higher education.

Switch to the foundation year

If you require a student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

This course requires academic IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill. See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by this University.

If your English currently does not reach the University's required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses.

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Our lecturers

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Dr David Parker

Lecturer

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Fees and funding

UK

£9,250 per year*

EU/International

£18,300 per year

International applicants may need to pay a tuition fee deposit before the start of the course. Visit our tuition fee deposit page for more information.

*The amount you pay may increase each year, in line with inflation - but capped to the Retail Price Index (RPI).

UK students can take out a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of their course and a maintenance loan of up to £9,978 to cover living costs.

Substantial discounts are available for International students.  

More information on fees can be found in the Money section of our website.

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme (including registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examination).

There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make. The list below has some examples, and any extra costs will vary.

  • Books (you’ll have access to books from your module reading lists in the library, but you may want to buy your own copies)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (including travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (including travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want to buy your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel and food – to name just a few. 

An affordable city for students

From bills, to meals, to pints – you’ll find that your money goes a lot further in Hull.

Your future prospects

  • Software developer
  • Mobile app developer
  • Software engineer
  • Video games developer
  • IT security specialist
  • Web developer

The skills, experience and technical expertise you’ll gain at Hull will put you in high demand when it’s time to enter the job market in this fast-evolving industry.

Our graduates have been recruited by, among others, Sony, the BBC, Logica, Dell Computers and Fujitsu.

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Ready to apply?

You can apply for this course through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

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*Percentage of students in work or further study within 15 months of graduating: UK domicile full-time first degree leavers, Graduate Outcomes survey for the academic year 2018/19, published by HESA July 2021.

†Hull Immersive Visualisation Environment (HIVE)

‡Research Excellence Framcework 2014 (REF2014)