Computer Science
Computer Science
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MEng
4 years full-time
Durham City
MEng
4 years full-time
Durham City
G406
G406
Typical offers
| A Level | A*AA |
|---|---|
| BTEC | D*DD |
| International Baccalaureate | 38 |
Course details
Our Computer Science degrees balance fundamental knowledge and practical application in order to provide you with both specialised and transferable skills that are greatly valued in the marketplace. The course emphasises from the start both programming and mathematical skills that allow, in the later year's engagement through the 'Individual Project' with cutting-edge research being done in the department.
Year 1
You will undertake five computer science modules, which cover programming, the characteristics of computers and computing systems, and the mathematical foundations of the subject. You will also be introduced to the concept and philosophy of computational thinking and explore cutting-edge technological applications of recent research. You will undertake an elective module, which will be from elsewhere within the Faculty or University.
Once you complete your first year you will have had a thorough introduction to the fundamentals of computer science and to the principles, practices and methodologies that make computer science unique to a scientific subject. You will also have had a glimpse at aspects of computer science research that have enabled major technological advances in society.
Compulsory modules:
- Programming
- Computational Thinking
- Algorithms and Data Structures
- Computer Systems
- Mathematics for Computer Science.
Year 2
You will study six modules covering a core set of topics. One module Software Engineering involves a team software development project and enables you to usually work with external organisations and gain practical software development experience.
Other compulsory topics include, for example, aspects of artificial intelligence including bias, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, computer networks, parallel and distributed computing, concurrency, data structures, algorithms and complexity, image processing, different programming paradigms, systems programming, security, human-computer interaction and computer graphics.
The topics taken in the second year will prepare you with an excellent grounding in a wide range of fundamental subjects within computer science, ready for subsequent specialisation in your final third year. By the end of the second year, you should be in a position to make informed judgments as to which particular aspects of the subject you might wish to focus on.
Compulsory modules:
- Networks and Systems
- Programming Paradigms
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Theory of Computation.
Year 3
A key element of the fourth year is the advanced project (which you spend half of your time on), and the preparation for it begins already in the third year. In the compulsory project preparation module, you will work on essential research skills including researching a topic, writing, and presenting, and will begin preparation specific to your own advanced project.
In the fourth year, the project will be undertaken under the direct supervision of a member of staff and gives you the opportunity to tackle a specific computing task in much greater depth than is possible for other modules. In the third year, you will work on developing the project from a proposed theme. You are given a considerable amount of choice as to the subject of your projects; indeed, you can suggest specific projects yourself. In addition to preparing for your project, you get to choose the other modules that you undertake in the third year.
Year 4
You will now undertake the advanced project that you prepared for in Year 3 (you will spend half of your time on the project). It is possible that the resulting research might be published in a journal or at a conference, possibly as a prelude to a postgraduate degree in Computer Science. Just as in the third year, you will get to choose the other modules that you undertake in the fourth year; again, just as in the third year, there is a range of modules offered, including more advanced versions of some of the third-year modules and further topics which have, in recent years, included blockchain, cryptocurrencies, natural language processing, learning analytics, probabilistic methods, network analysis, and automated reasoning.
Placement
You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more.Study abroad
Computer Science is an international discipline and living and working in another country is a valuable addition to your CV. You can request to transfer onto the MEng Computer Science with Year Abroad (G407) programme at the beginning of your second year and after your second or third year of study in Durham will spend a year studying at another EU or worldwide university, and then return to Durham for your penultimate or final year.
Further information on these study abroad opportunities can be found here
Typical offers
| A Level | A*AA |
|---|---|
| BTEC | D*DD |
| International Baccalaureate | 38 |
Course details
In a fast-moving world, computer science is the force behind the technological breakthroughs that have changed our lives for the better. The MEng in Computer Science develops the fundamental knowledge and practical skills that are in demand across the sector.
During the first two years you will follow a similar structure to the BSc. From the third year the MEng introduces a wider range of modules and an Advanced Project which explore the subject to a deeper level.
You’ll explore a wide range of innovative technological applications such as cryptocurrencies, quantum computing, machine learning, deep learning, computer vision and cybersecurity among others. Our close links with high-technology industries keep us up to date with changing priorities in the sector. This insight allows us to introduce new topics into the curriculum to keep in step with developments.
The course emphasises programming and mathematical skills from the start. The first year provides an introduction into the fundamentals of computer science and gives you a glimpse into some of the research that has enabled major technological advances in society.
As well as equipping you with academic knowledge, the curriculum develops the skills you’ll need to boost your career prospects. The Software Engineering module in Year 2 includes a team project in which you gain practical software development experience working with an external organisation.
You will be taught by passionate researchers with diverse areas of expertise such as artificial intelligence, data science, bioinformatics, high-performance computing, graphics and fundamental algorithms. The final-year Advanced Project is an opportunity to fully engage with the cutting-edge research being carried out in the department.
You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your MEng degree, increasing the course from four years to five.
Course structure
Year 1
Core modules:
Algorithms and Data Structures introduces the theory and practice of problem-solving in computing through the development of algorithms, and their associated data structures, for common computer science problems.
Computational Thinking explores the breadth of Computer Science and the ways in which different topics relate to one another. You will learn the importance of computation and computational thinking in the modern world and the impact it has on technology advances in different settings.
Computer Systems provides an understanding of the way in which modern computer systems (both hardware and software) can effectively represent, transport and manipulate data.
Mathematics for Computer Science introduces key concepts from linear algebra, calculus and mathematics, and explains their importance in the field of computer science.
Plus either Programming (Black) or Programming (Gold).
Year 2
Core modules:
Networks and Systems extends the understanding of the principles and practices of programming and using different computer systems. This module looks at distributed systems, networks, security and databases.
Programming Paradigms will broaden your view of programming and programming languages as well as aiding your understanding of the systems and procedures related to computer programming.
Theory of Computation introduces you to different models of computation and how they are related. You will learn the fundamental notions of computation such as 'computable' and 'efficiently computable' and the design and analysis of efficient algorithms.
Artificial Intelligence provides an understanding of some of the core problem-solving principles of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the role of AI in the real world.
Data Science introduces the techniques used for capturing, cleaning and analysing data and explores the ways in which different types of information can be represented and processed. The techniques covered include probability and statistics, graphics and visualisation, and image processing.
Software Engineering provides a detailed understanding of the phases of the software development lifecycle, including the problems associated with each phase and how to identify best practice for their solution. This module includes a team software development project where you can work with an external organisation to gain practical software development experience.
Year 3
Core modules:
In Project Preparation you will work on essential research skills including researching a topic, writing, presenting, and begin preparation for your own Advanced Project.
Examples of optional modules:
- Advanced Computer Systems
- Bioinformatics
- Compiler Design
- Computational Modelling in the Humanities and Social Sciences
- Computer Science into Schools
- Cryptography
- Deep Learning
- Design of Algorithms and Data Structures
- Human–AI Interaction Design
- Multimedia and Game Development
- Parallel Scientific Computing
- Recommender Systems
- Reinforcement Learning
- Virtual and Augmented Reality.
Year 4
Core module:
The Advanced Project is a substantial piece of research. It is possible that the resulting research might be published in a journal or at a conference, possibly as a prelude to higher level studies in Computer Science.
Examples of optional modules:
- Advanced Algorithms
- Advanced Computer Graphics and Visualisation
- Advanced Computer Vision
- Applied Cryptography
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies
- Coding and Information Theory
- Learning Analytics
- Natural Language Processing
- Networks and their Structure
- Parallel Scientific Computing
- Quantum Computing
- Randomised Algorithms and Probabilistic Methods.
Additional pathways
Students on the MEng Computer Science can apply to be transferred onto either the ‘with Year Abroad’ or ‘with Placement’ pathway during the second or third year. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen your studies will extend from four years to five.
Placement
You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more./prod01/prodbucket01/media/durham-university/study/individual-course-and-cta-images/500-x-300-px-(2).png)
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Learning
The course is mainly delivered through a mixture of lectures, practical and problem classes. Typically lectures provide key information on a particular field of study and identify the main areas for discussion and debate among Computer Scientists. You will be introduced to both basic and advanced concepts, techniques, and methods in Computer Science through lectures with associated written and multimedia presentations, and your knowledge and understanding are reinforced in practical and problem classes and through summative and formative assignments.
The balance of these types of activities changes over the course of the degree, as you develop your knowledge and ability as an independent learner. In Year 1 you will take five core Computer Science modules which is normally 10 hours a week of lectures, and five two-hour compulsory practicals each week. You will also study an elective module selected from those offered by other departments across the University. Outside timetabled contact hours, you are also expected to undertake your own independent study to prepare for your classes and broaden your subject knowledge.
The balance starts to shift in Year 2 as you develop your abilities as independent learners. Lectures, typically 12 hours a week, still play an important role in supporting you in developing your knowledge and skills. Associated with the lecture series you will normally attend up to six two-hour optional practical classes a week. This move towards greater emphasis on independent learning continues in the third year with the basic material and techniques learned throughout Year 1 and 2 being applied and extended with material in Year 3 being at a much more advanced level.
Year 3 teaching is research-led and reflective of not only the research expertise of academic staff at Durham but also cutting-edge advances in industry. You will normally have up to ten hours a week of lectures (alongside the project preparation work) and, depending on your choice of modules, occasional practicals.
Year 4 involves an even more significant amount of self-study than in Year 3. Again, you are expected to drive your own learning and your progress is monitored and supported by weekly individual project supervision for your research and development advanced project. Less emphasis is placed on supervised practical work but this reduction of supervised learning time enables you to better direct and evaluate your own learning. Learning at this level is geared towards critical, independent and innovative thinking.
Throughout the course, you will have access to an Academic Adviser who will provide you with academic support and guidance. Typically you will meet with your adviser once or twice per term, in addition to which all members of teaching staff have weekly office hours when they are available to meet with students on a ‘drop-in’ basis.
Entry requirements
A level offer – A*AA including Mathematics.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – D*DD and Mathematics A level at grade A (or equivalent) is required.
IB Diploma score – 38 with 766 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
- We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study. For more information contact our Admissions Selectors.
- If you do not satisfy our general entry requirements, the Foundation Programme offers multidisciplinary degrees to prepare you for a range of specified degree courses.
- If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take an International Foundation Year pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre
- We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry.
Science A levels
Applicants taking Science A levels that include a practical component will normally be required to take and pass this as a condition of entry. This applies only to applicants sitting A levels with an English examination board.
Alternative qualifications
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year.
Fees and funding
Full Time Fees
| Home students | £9,250 per year |
|---|---|
| EU students | £30,250 per year |
| Island students | £9,250 per year |
| International students | £30,250 per year |
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).
Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities.
Find out more about Scholarships and BursariesCareer opportunities
Computer Science
Of those students who graduated in 2019:
- 90% are in paid employment or further study 15 months after graduation across all our programmes
Of those in employment:
- 91% are in high skilled employment
- With an average salary of £40,000.
(Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey asks leavers from higher education what they are doing 15 months after graduation. Further information about the Graduate Outcomes survey can be found here www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk)
Department information
Computer Science
Our Computer Science degrees balance fundamental knowledge and practical application in order to provide you with both specialised and transferable skills that are greatly valued in the marketplace. The courses emphasise, from the start, both programming and mathematical skills that, in the later years, allow engagement through the Individual Project module with the cutting-edge research being done here. It is also possible to follow Computer Science named routes through a Natural Sciences degree.
For more information see our department pages.
Rankings
- 6th in The Complete University Guide 2023.
Staff
For a current list of staff, please see the department web pages.
Research Excellence Framework
97% of our research outputs are world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)
Facilities
We have now moved into a purpose-built £40M new building at Upper Mountjoy in Durham, which is indicative of the major investment the University is making in Computer Science. The building will also include colleagues from Mathematical Sciences and will mean we can further develop joint teaching and research strategies.
The building has academic offices, offices for research staff and students, open-plan space for undergraduate students to work, breakout spaces to collaborate, labs, computer rooms and, of course, a café.
Learn more about our facilities and equipment.
Apply
Find out more:
Use the UCAS code below when applying:
Apply
G406
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) handles applications for all undergraduate courses.
Learning
You will learn through a mixture of lectures, practical and problem-solving classes. Typically, lectures provide key information and identify the main areas for discussion while the practical sessions put into practice what you learn in the lectures.
Computer Science is housed in a purpose-built learning environment containing lecture and seminar rooms, open-plan workspace, breakout spaces to collaborate, labs and computer rooms.
Assessment
Modules are assessed via a combination of coursework and end-of-year examinations.
Many modules are weighted as 66% examination and 34% coursework, though some modules are 100% exam and others 100% coursework. This not only helps to support a wider range of learning styles but is more appropriate for the type of work you are expected to undertake, for example writing software code or working on mathematical ‘pen and paper’ type exercises.
The final year Advanced Project is assessed by a scientific report along with an oral presentation.
Entry requirements
A level offer – A*AA including Mathematics.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – D*DD and Mathematics A level at grade A (or equivalent) is required.
IB Diploma score – 38 with 766 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
- We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study. For more information contact our Admissions Selectors.
- If you do not satisfy our general entry requirements, the Foundation Programme offers multidisciplinary degrees to prepare you for a range of specified degree courses.
- If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take an International Foundation Year pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre
- We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry.
Science A levels
Applicants taking Science A levels that include a practical component will normally be required to take and pass this as a condition of entry. This applies only to applicants sitting A levels with an English examination board.
Alternative qualifications
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year.
Fees and funding
The tuition fees for 2024/25 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed here once approved.
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).
Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities.
Find out more about Scholarships and BursariesCareer opportunities
Computer Science
Studying at one of the top universities in the UK for employability, Durham graduates have excellent job prospects and are highly sought after. Our close links to the concentration of high-technology industries in the North East, and national and international employers, keep our courses at the forefront of new developments.
Computer Science graduates are valued in a wide range of FinTech and banking roles. They are equipped with transferable skills such as solving problems and analysing data that are important across many industries, from healthcare and management consulting to media and communications, among many others.
Many of our graduates have gone on to work as software engineers, analysts, consultants, programmers and developers. Some have founded their own start-ups, work in leading software companies, high-technology consultancies, the Civil Service, GCHQ, banking and finance, retail, engineering, the communications and IT industry. Examples of high-profile employers include BAE Systems, Google and BT.
Of those students who graduated in 2019:
- 90% are in paid employment or further study 15 months after graduation across all our programmes
Of those in employment:
- 91% are in high skilled employment
- With an average salary of £40,000.
(Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey asks leavers from higher education what they are doing 15 months after graduation. Further information about the Graduate Outcomes survey can be found here www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk)
Department information
Computer Science
The most significant developments in our society have come through amazing innovations in technology and the intelligent algorithms that drive those technologies. A degree in Computer Science from Durham will allow you to become one of the drivers of this change as we give you both a deep understanding of the fundamentals of computation and a knowledge of the latest emerging technologies.
You will be taught by passionate researchers with diverse areas of expertise, such as artificial intelligence, data science, bioinformatics, high-performance computing, graphics and fundamental algorithms.
Our close links with local high-technology industries along with national and international employers, keeps us at the forefront of developments across the sector and allows us to adapt the curriculum to reflect these developments.
We offer flexible pathways to suit your interests and career goals, with the chance to work in industry on placement or study abroad. Whether you choose to follow the BSc or MEng course, our qualifications balance fundamental knowledge, with emphasis on programming and mathematical skills from the start, and practical applications, providing you with both specialised and transferable skills that are greatly valued by employers.
For more information see our department pages.
Rankings
- 6th in The Complete University Guide 2023
- 6th in The Guardian University Guide 2023
- 8th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023
Staff
For a current list of staff, please see the department web pages.
Research Excellence Framework
97% of our research outputs are world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)
Facilities
We have recently moved into a £40m, purpose-built building at Upper Mountjoy, in the picturesque and historic city of Durham. It is home to open-plan areas, breakout spaces to collaborate, labs, computer rooms and a café. An innovative feature of the building is the Hazan Venture Lab which is run by Careers and Enterprise and is dedicated to student enterprise and entrepreneurship. The building also houses colleagues from Mathematical Sciences, enhancing the opportunities to develop joint teaching and research strategies.
We have extensive hardware including several local and regional supercomputers for High-Performance Computing (HPC), a GPGPU-driven supercomputer, primarily used for data analysis and machine learning, and visualisation and robotics labs. We also host additional local kit which we use to give students and researchers a safe environment to prototype solutions, explore novel technologies before they hit the market, or to design new solutions.
Learn more about our facilities and equipment.
Apply
Find out more:
Use the UCAS code below when applying:
Apply
G406
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) handles applications for all undergraduate courses.
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