How many students are enrolled on Computer Science programmes?
- Undergraduate:
- Part 1 - 218
- Part 2 - 202
- Part 3/4 - 137
- Master's courses - 43
- PhD - 23
What courses do you offer?
Our three year BSc Computer Science degree programme is also available as a four year programme with an industrial year. The industrial year takes place after your second year of study offering you valuable professional experience which may lead to a job offer after graduation. You may switch from the three year BSc Computer Science programme to the four year BSc Computer Science with Industrial Year programme, or add a study year abroad, after your second year of study.
You can also opt for a study year abroad once you have enrolled on the BSc Computer Science programme. Our BSc Computer Science courses are accredited by the British Computer Society – the Chartered Institute for IT.
We also offer joint programmes with the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, which are accredited by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications.
How are your programmes structured in terms of teaching weeks?
The following overview applies to BSc Computer Science and BSc Computer Science with Industrial Year. There are two semesters in an academic year with 15 weeks per semester.
- Weeks 1-12: instruction (including Week 6/4 for self-study)
- Weeks 13-15: summative assessment (coursework/examination)
Each student enrols in modules totalling 120 credits per academic year, with a combination of compulsory and optional modules. Each module is worth 20 credits or a multiple of 20 credits. For example, a degree project in the final year of studies is 40 credits.
Lectures
- In-person delivery
- Supported by learning systems
- Some lectures are screencast
- Timetabled
- Typical contact hours: 2-3 per week
Lab practicals / tutorials
- In-person practicals in computer labs
- Tutorials in flat rooms
- Interactive learning with continuous feedback
- Timetabled
- Typical contact hours: 2-3 per week
Assessments
- Written assessments
- Examinations (online, flexible limited time)
- Timetabled
- Number of pieces: 2-3
Throughout the year you will be in contact with an Academic Tutor. Academic Tutors work in partnership with students and the University’s support services to enhance your academic, personal and professional development. You can speak to your Academic Tutor about any academic or personal matter which may be impacting your ability to study.
Are there opportunities to connect with industry professionals?
Our curriculum is informed by the demands of industry, with companies such as Microsoft, IBM, Sony and Eli Lilly contributing to our Industrial Advisory Board.
We connect you with industry through work experience such as placements, work shadowing and industrial projects. Careers fairs will also give you the opportunity to make contact with the many companies who attend.
Learn more about work experience opportunities
How can I benefit from online short courses?
Our short online courses are free to access, flexible and open to everyone. The Department of Computer Science at Reading offers a beginner course via FutureLearn – Begin Robotics. This course provides a great introduction to the world of computer science – whether you're learning for fun, to develop a new skill, or to prepare for an undergraduate degree in our Department.