Computer Science

BSc Computer Science

All of the Level 4 and Level 5 modules are compulsory. There is a broad range of options at Level 6, towards the end of the course.

• During Level 4, you learn the fundamentals: how computers work, how to programme, and more about the mathematics that underpins computer science.
• During Level 5, you deepen your programming skills to consider software projects and explore specialist topics such as Graphics Programming and Data Science.
• During Level 6, you study elective modules then undertake a 30 credit project that combines your knowledge and skills to create a software system.

View the BSc Computer Science structure

You can also choose to register on a specialist award if you want to focus your studies on a particular area of computer science. To specialise, you must take five compulsory specialist modules and an elective from any specialism. You will be asked to select your preferred specialism when you register.

Download Programme Specification

View Programme Regulations

You can also choose to register on a specialist award if you want to focus your studies on a particular area of computer science. At the registration stage, you will be asked to select your preferred specialism.

The specialist awards are:

• BSc Computer Science (Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence)

Machine learning provides a means for computer systems to extract useful information out of data. These techniques are widely used in the technology industry for a variety of applications.

• BSc Computer Science (Data Science)

Data science is a significant subfield in computer science which has seen rapid growth in recent years as companies and institutions have begun to gather data at scale across many sectors.

• BSc Computer Science (Web and Mobile Development)

This degree aims to set you up with the skills you need to develop applications for web and mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Web and mobile development are critical application areas for computer science. 

• BSc Computer Science (Physical Computing and the Internet of Things)

You will learn how to design devices that compute in real-world settings. You will also learn how to connect them, virtually, to each other and the rest of the world via the internet. 

• BSc Computer Science (Games Development)

This degree is specifically designed for those who want to be at the forefront of the thriving gaming world, creating software tailored to games development. Video games are a critical application area for computer science, and the games industry forms a significant part of the creative economy. 

• BSc Computer Science (Virtual Reality)

Virtual reality is the creation of immersive, simulated environments using computer systems. Advancements in technology has now put virtual reality in the hands of the consumer. This has created a demand for people who can develop this software and experiences in this medium.

• BSc Computer Science (User Experience)

You will be provided with the technical and theoretical know-how you need to implement effective user experiences in software. Our daily lives involve complex tasks, requiring interaction with a plethora of computer systems. User experience design is a critical part of the development of these systems. 

This programme has two intake dates per year: April and October.

You can study this online programme from anywhere in the world. The flexible approach to learning enables you to fit your studies around your commitments whilst providing the academic rigour and structure of an on-campus programme.

Modules are offered over two 22-week sessions each academic year. You choose which sessions to enter and how many modules to take in each session.

Assessment deadlines are outlined clearly in advance of the session. The maximum number of modules you can study any one session is five, or three plus the final project. This can be a combination of new modules and resits (with a maximum of four new modules) or resits only. You will also receive comprehensive learning materials and support from online tutors.

Are you affected by US-imposed restrictions?

Our suite of BSc Computer Science degrees use creative interactive approaches delivered through Coursera, the world’s largest online learning platform, to provide immersive learning experiences.

United States export control regulations prevent Coursera from offering services and content to users in certain countries or regions. More information about which countries or regions are affected can be found on Coursera's website.

Coursera must enforce this restriction in order to remain in compliance with US law and, for that reason, we advise that all learners check this information before applying to the programme.

Study materials

We provide you with all of the resources and study materials you need to complete the course successfully, including the essential reading for each module. You can access these through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) on a range of devices. This learning platform is provided by Coursera, the world’s leading MOOC providers.

Our online learning resources typically include multimedia content, activities and exercises (e.g. multiple choice quizzes, reflective exercises and self-assessment questions), as well as facilities for you to interact with your tutor and fellow students. You’ll also receive access to an onboarding course that will help you get the most from your studies.

Online support

When you register, we will give you access to your Student Portal. You can then access your University of London email account and two other key resources:

• The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Here, you can access electronic copies of all printed study materials, resources including audio-visual, and forums to discuss course material and work collaboratively with others.
• The Online Library provides access to over 100 million academic electronic items comprising E-books, E-journals, conference proceedings, etc. In addition, students can request items which are not held in the library via the library's Inter-Library loans service with the British Library.
• Senate House Library provides free reference access for all registered distance and flexible learning students.
• Access to academic support and feedback from London-based support teams. Tutors introduce the modules, respond to queries, monitor discussions and provide guidance on assessments.

If you register for support at one of our recognised teaching centres you can attend lectures and benefit from, and receive tutor support.

Tutor support

All students receive tutor support and feedback while studying this programme. Tutors introduce the modules, respond to queries, monitor discussions and provide guidance on assessments.

Web-supported learning: if you register for a module as a web-supported learner, you join an online tutor group.

Institution-supported learning: if you enrol for a module with a local teaching centre, you receive face-to-face tuition. We work with several teaching centres in a number of countries and will recruit more to support the programme.

Student Support

We are committed to delivering an exceptional student experience for all of our students, regardless of which of our programmes you are studying and whether you are studying independently or with a Recognised Teaching Centre.

You will have access to support through:

• The Student Advice Centre – provides support for application and Student Portal queries.
• TalkCampus – a peer support service that offers a safe and confidential way to talk about whatever is on your mind at any time of day or night.

Time commitment

Study at your own pace, either part-time or full-time. Once you begin a module it is generally expected that you will complete it in the six-month session. Each module presents about 150 hours of study. Over a 22-week session, a 15 credit module will typically require five to seven hours of work/effort per week, and a 30 credit module will typically require ten to 15 hours of work/effort per week.

Assessment

Each module includes a mix of assessments. During your study period you will undertake formative assessments, which help you to measure your progress but do not count towards your grade, and summative assessments Summative assessments do count towards the final grade. These include a mid-session coursework submission and an unseen written examination (or final project) at the end of the session.

Written examinations are held twice a year. You can defer sitting an exam once (subject to a fee) but you cannot defer the submission of coursework.

More about exams.

What qualifications do you need?

For direct access to the BSc Computer Science degrees, you will usually meet the following criteria:

• Age 17+ by the registration deadline of your enrolment session.
• GCSE Mathematics (Grade A*-B / 9-5) or AS Level Mathematics (A-E), or equivalent.
• Satisfy our General Entrance Requirements.

For access by Performance-Based Admission:

If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you can apply for the programme via the performance based admission route.

To be eligible to register, you must normally:

• Age 17+ by the registration deadline of your enrolment session.
• Have passed at least four separate subjects at GCSE level, with grades A* - C / 9 - 4, or the equivalent. Equivalents include successful completion of the US High School Diploma.
• If you do not satisfy the above GCSE requirement then Work experience will be considered on an individual basis.

If registering through the performance based route you must satisfy the following before progressing onto the direct entry:

• Pass both Introduction to Programming I and either Computational or Discrete Mathematics with a weighted average of 40% or above.

If you are unsure as to which entry route you are eligible for, please apply via the standard entry route only. If you do not meet all of the entrance criteria for this route your application will automatically be considered for Performance-Based Admission.

Even if you do not meet the standard requirements, we will consider each application on its own merits. Our Admissions Panel will consider whether any alternative/incomplete qualifications or work experience you have are suitable for entry to the programme.

If we are unable to issue you an offer then if available we will advise on further alternatives such as our International Foundation Programme or on additional qualifications you need to take in order to meet our minimum entrance criteria.

English Language requirements

You need to demonstrate a good level of English to be admitted to our programmes. We accept a range of evidence, including proficiency test scores. If you don’t have evidence but believe you can meet the standard, we may consider your case.

Do I meet the language requirements?

Computer requirements

As this is a technical course, you will need access to suitable IT facilities. For this degree, you will also need Adobe Flash Player to view video material and a media player (such as VLC) to play video files.

More about computer requirements.

You may also require additional capabilities and software for specific modules, such as:

• Video and audio recording.
• Programmer’s text editor such as Atom; integrated development environment software (IDE).
• Additional software: Xamarin and Games development; 3D Graphics and Animation, and Virtual Reality all use Unity3D.
• Access to hardware: Android or iOS device; VR Head mounted display and a microcontroller like Arduino.

See the programme specification for details.

If you have studied material as part of a previous qualification that is comparable in content, level and standard to our computer science modules, you might be exempted from the equivalent course of our degree. This is known as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Exemption. You will not need to study or be assessed in the module(s) to complete your award.

To be considered for RPL you should make a formal request within your application when applying online. Alternatively, this can be done through an online enquiry, once you have submitted your application.

You may apply for RPL for up to 120 credits.

We will not recognise or accredit prior learning for a module later than 14 days after the module start date. You will be deemed to have started a module once you have been given access to the learning materials on the VLE.

Automatic

Some qualifications are automatically recognised as meeting the learning outcomes of our courses. If you satisfy the conditions, make a formal request and supply the necessary evidence, we will accredit your prior learning as detailed here: Recognition of Prior Learning degrees in Computer Science. No fees are charged for this service.

Discretionary

Other qualifications will need to be assessed by specialist academics on a case by case basis, before we can potentially approve RPL. A formal application is required and an RPL application fee is payable. The RPL application fee is non-refundable, even if your prior learning is not recognised. Further details can be found here: Recognition of Prior Learning degrees in Computer Science.

Your qualification must be at the appropriate level (equivalent to a UK Level 4 or above) to be considered. You must also have completed the qualification/ examination, that you are basing your RPL request on, within the five years preceding the application for RPL.

Note: that all discretionary RPL requests must be submitted by the dates specified for the April or October intake, in the year that you apply. Once submitted, we must receive all required supporting evidence by the deadline stated.

Please note: if you submit your application but are too late to be considered for RPL then we will still process your application to study the programme.

If you receive an offer, you can still register. You will be asked to contact us at a later date to be considered for RPL in the study session. So don't register on the modules you wish to be considered for RPL in the current study session.

Further information on rules regarding RPL is covered in the Recognition of Prior Learning section of the appropriate Programme Regulations and Section 3 of the General Regulations.

The fee for our computer science degree depends on two factors:

• Whether you choose web-supported or institution-supported learning.
• Whether you live in the UK, or a developing (Band A) or developed (Band B) nation. See the list of Band A and B countries [PDF]

Important: the table below does not include fees payable to a third party, such as tuition costs payable to a Recognised Teaching Centre or fees charged by your local examination centre, or local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or sales tax.

The programme fees below refer to the October 2023 and April 2024 session only and are effective from 1 January 2023.

Disclaimer: Currency conversion tool.

*Indicative totals reflect average annual fee increases and assume that you complete the qualification within the minimum time without re-sits and Accreditation of Prior Learning (which would require additional fees). Additional costs you would also need to budget for would be examination centre fees. Indicative totals will be available soon.

*The online examination administration fee is charged for each examination paper held online, including resits. This does not apply to any coursework submissions.

More about programme fees

How fees work

Your fees include study materials and entry into assessments.

With pay-as-you-go, you pay for each module as you register for it. The ‘web-supported learning’ fee includes support from a University of London online tutor. Alternatively, if you prefer face-to-face tuition, you can pay a smaller fee to us and a separate fee to a teaching centre which supports the programme.

The module continuation fee is the cost per module if you defer an examination or need to retake assessments. It includes all study materials, entry into assessments, and online tutor support.

Additional Costs

You will also need to budget for:

• Exams: our approved examination centres around the world charge a fee when you sit an exam. Contact your chosen examination centre for details about costs.
• Tuition: as described, teaching centres charge for face-to-face tuition if you choose to take modules with institution-supported learning.
• Module specific requirements: Certain modules may have additional software and hardware requirements. For example, the Virtual Reality module requires a VR Head Mounted Display with the ability to be used in developer mode, and the Physical Computing and the Internet of Things module requires an Arduino Starter Kit or similar. More details on module specific requirements are available within the Programme Specification.

How to pay your fees

Please note: all student fees shown are net of any local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or any other sales tax payable by the student in their country of residence. Where the University is required to add VAT, GST or any other sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the fees shown during the payment process. For students resident in the UK, our fees are exempt from VAT.

Further information on Sales Tax

Your payment provider may apply additional transaction fees (if in doubt, please check with them before making a payment).

Further information about fee payment options can be found in the “How to pay your fees” link above.

The BSc Computer Science provides you with the opportunity to hone the technical skills and digital capabilities necessary to build an effective career in a range of related fields in the future. Beyond specific technical skills, you’ll also develop a range of transferable skills, from presentation skills to project management, which are highly valued in a range of workplaces and industries including business, finance, medicine, education, video games, engineering and science.

A world of career opportunities based on your specialism:

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence: Technical, problem-solving jobs in a rapidly growing area. A typical job title is machine learning engineer.

Data Science: Data-intensive technical jobs. Typical job titles include data scientist, data visualisation engineer, business data analyst, data manager and data engineer.

Web Development and Mobile Development: Jobs involving the development of web and mobile technology such as web sites and applications for smart phones and tablets. Typical job titles include Mobile Application Developer, Mobile Software Engineer, front-end engineer, full stack developer and back-end developer.

Physical Computing and Internet of Things: A rapidly growing and exciting area which is becoming relevant across different sectors. Typical job titles include Internet of Things (IoT) engineer, Creative Technologist and Embedded Software Engineer.

Games Development: A range of jobs in the creative industries, especially in the video games industry. Typical job titles include game designer, video game tester and video game programmer.

Virtual Reality: Exciting jobs in an emerging area which spans sectors such as the creative industries, video games and education and training. Typical job titles are virtual reality developer, environment artist, Virtual Reality architect and augmented reality engineer.

User Experience: Jobs which involve a flair for design, and engagement with end users in a range of sectors, wherever there is a need for effective user interface design. Typical job titles include UX Engineer, User Experience Designer and UI Designer. 

To find out more about the career support available to our students please visit our Careers Services page.

In some countries, qualifications earned by distance and flexible learning may not be recognised by certain authorities or regulators for the purposes of public sector employment or further study. We advise you to explore the local recognition status before you register, even if you plan to receive support from a local teaching centre.

Academic direction for the BSc Computer Science is provided by the Department of Computing at Goldsmiths, one of the UK’s top creative universities. Goldsmiths' unique hands-on project-based style works for a diverse range of interests - from computer and data science to art and music to social science and journalism.

Its multi-disciplinary staff are actively involved in a wide range of innovative applications of computer science. Research and teaching includes computer science but also extends to more surprising topics, including computational art, virtual reality, computer music, digital sociology and education technology.

Programme Director

Dr Matthew Yee-King is an academic in the Department of Computing at Goldsmiths. As the project manager for the €3m PRAISE research project, he managed the development and trialling of innovative education technology, including media annotation systems. He has also carried out research into audio analysis and creative applications of machine learning, including a series of commissioned musical AI systems.

Unlike traditional degrees in music/film/media, which teach students how to use tools to manipulate media, this degree teaches you how to make your own tools for working with media. You gain a much deeper, applied technical understanding of digital media as well as having opportunities to work creatively with media.

- Dr Matthew Yee-King

Without the cost of moving to London, studying for your University of London degree anywhere in the world represents excellent value for money. However, there are additional sources of support depending on where you live and how you choose to study.

More on funding your study

Goldsmiths welcomes applications from students who wish to transfer to an on-campus degree.

To complete your degree in two years of full-time study at Goldsmiths, you must have completed eight Level 4 modules successfully. To complete your degree in one year of full-time study at Goldsmiths, you must also have completed eight modules at Level 5.

If you are interested in transferring to Goldsmiths and have successfully completed the required courses (or expect to do so in your intended year of transfer), please contact the Computing Team.