Computer Science studies in the United Kingdom
Information systems are everywhere. Day by day, they become more numerous, more extensive, and more complicated. The demand for specialists who can understand, develop, and manage them is growing day by day. If you are passionate about solving problems, computers, or technology, if you want to become a programmer open to working all over the world, or if the unimaginable potential hidden in this field excites you - both studies and a career in IT are wide open for you!
But why exactly in the United Kingdom?
For those who have doubts about their fundamentals in computer science, I have great news - in the UK, Computer Science courses are taught from the basics and the difficulty level is increased semester by semester. Universities in the UK provide assistance in obtaining a programming internship - summer or year-round. The British market is characterized by a constantly growing demand for IT specialists, and completing such an internship is usually associated with a job offer at a given company right after graduation.
Throughout the academic year across the country (and in Europe!) so-called Hackathons occur, which are 24-hour marathons during which small teams build software projects. These are great opportunities to develop your skills, get to know your course mates better, or meet computer scientists from other universities!
Most popular directions
Below we present courses that you will find at almost every British university:
Computer Science / Informatics / Computing
The structure of every computer science direction follows a similar path: in the first year, you will acquire extensive knowledge and experience in the basics of programming, algorithms, mathematics (statistics and logic), and software engineering methodologies. Over time, you will learn how to properly approach problems and construct their solutions, fully understand how computers are built, how computer systems and networks operate, what obstacles computer scientists encounter in their field, and what approaches are used to overcome them.
The vast majority of universities offer the possibility of expanding their computer science degree programs to include an additional field. Such studies usually begin very similarly (which allows us the possibility of a potential transfer), and over time, they provide the opportunity to gain a specialization in a specific field.
Artificial Intelligence (and Computer Science)
In the initial stage, it offers the choice of additional modules from the field of philosophy or psychology. In the further stages, it allows to obtain a specialization in text/speech processing, 'machine learning', or robotics. A great choice for those who are interested in intelligent systems, the philosophical issues of artificial intelligence, or algorithms inspired by nature.
Computer Science and Mathematics
The combination of mathematics and computer science should surprise no one - these two domains have been living in symbiosis since the inception of computer science. Expanding Computer Science with additional mathematics modules will significantly facilitate development towards Data Science and Machine Learning. This direction is usually enriched with mathematical material not covered in standard computer science, as well as with an extension of this material that appears.
Computer Science and Physics
Much less recognizable than its predecessor, the expansion of computer science to include physics does not have a direct application. Computer Science and Physics graduates leave the university with a degree in both physics and computer science, allowing them to develop a career in one of these fields. An alternative option is to use a Computer Science degree to learn Python and algorithms, and then to pursue a career in the field of physics research. In every case, this path is primarily designed for lovers of both physics and computer science, as well as for physicists who would like to enhance their programming skills.
Financial Computing
It combines aspects of finance, economics, and computer science, developing skills in the area of financial services, algorithm creation (e.g. accounting, stock market analysis, operations in the financial market).
Broadly understood computer science in business
Directions such as:
- Business Information Systems
- Information & Communication Technology
- Computing for Business
- Business Computing
... are for those who are encouraged by a thriving career in IT but are deterred by complicated mathematics and logic. These studies will teach you how to apply technical knowledge from computer science in a business environment, more precisely in IT projects for businesses. They will help you understand the operation of systems as well as methods of organization and management of their implementation - creating project managers or IT consultants. By studying these routes, you will also train in the approach to the development of software and information systems, automation of processes, and handling a large amount of information needed for the efficient and effective operation of businesses.
Software Engineering/Development
Software engineering, put simply, is computer science in practice. In these courses, you will learn the methodology used in building projects for a client, discover the secrets of 'clean code' and programming in a team, and find out what the process of creating software for a client looks like, from gathering requirements to its implementation.
If you dream of such a computer science education, remember that Software Engineering sometimes may not appear on the list of majors at your dream university. Some institutions incorporate all elements of SE into Computer Science programs, because software engineering is an essential field for anyone who wants to succeed in computer science.
Computer Science and Philosophy
A very interesting (and rarely encountered) choice, which constitutes standard computer science enriched with significant philosophical elements (such as: philosophy of language, mathematics, and artificial intelligence, logic). It allows for the development of excellent skills in analysis and problem-solving in both an algorithmic/implementational form and in writing.
Opportunities for further learning
Given that in the field of computer science, what employers value the most are practical skills, it is almost unheard of for a candidate to be required to have a Master of Science (MSc) degree. In most cases, when we talk about branches of computer science such as programming, databases, web design, and information systems design, various kinds of internships (e.g., a year-long placement or a summer internship) are much more useful. For those interested in gaining a more theoretical understanding of computer science, such as artificial intelligence (AI), game design, or broadly understood algorithms, British universities have prepared attractive development paths.
MSc, which means second-cycle studies
One-year master's degree programs offered by British universities are aimed at students who want to expand their theoretical knowledge acquired during their undergraduate studies in specific fields of computer science (Games Design, Big Data, AI, etc.) and also offer so-called "conversion programs" for students who have completed their bachelor's degree in fields unrelated to computer science.
PhD, which means doctorate
A PhD in computer science is for individuals who want to conduct research towards the development of this field, perhaps create something new, with a passion for mathematics and physics. These are 3-year studies, which are mainly based on individual, but supervised research. During these studies, students often publish their first articles on the subject of their activities and research.
Career paths after IT studies
What can you do after earning a degree in Computer Science? Thanks to the universality of the education just acquired, graduates can try their hand at virtually any Junior-level role in IT (those which do not require experience). Therefore, for example, one can become:
Software Developer
Software Developers, or programmers, are individuals responsible for developing and delivering software, involving themselves in contributing to every stage of software production (including design, implementation, and testing). Depending on the role they serve, we may deal exclusively with a particular stage (so, for example, to beSoftware Tester), specialize in a specific programming language (e.g., in Java or C++) or in a specific framework (a foundation for a specific language that allows for the development of software in a very specified field, e.g., Bootstrap for web development).
AsSoftware Developer, so you can deal with a whole range of fields - from designing and implementing websites (Web Developer) for the implementation of software for car prototypes. You can also be involved in creating mobile applications for iOS and Android systems – this role is referred to asMobile Application Developerand is a very popular and well-paid choice.
IT Consultant & Technical Support
Particularly great interest among students of courses such as Business Information Systems or Computer Science/Computing for Business is shown in roles:
- IT Consultant- this relies largely on contact with the client, to advise them on the best technological solutions to help in their business.
- Technical Support(technical support for networks, computers or software) – a job that allows for the constant application of problem-solving skills in practice.
Candidates for roles similar to the two mentioned above are required to have extensive knowledge and, most often, experience in the industry. It's worth trying to gain this experience during your studies – for example, by taking a summer internship at an IT company.
Data Scientist/Analyst/Architect & Big Data Professional & Database Administrator
In recent years, the IT industry has become very noisy aboutBig Data, which means huge data reserves that, thanks to the ubiquity of the internet, are constantly collected by companies. It quickly became apparent that analyzing data in large amounts, with the help of uncomplicated methods, can result in knowledge that surpasses contemporary pseudo-intelligent systems – attempts at raw implementation of intelligence to, for example, speech or image analysis. In the face of such a great discovery, an explosion of new positions occurred in the IT market. So, one can become:
- Data Scientist
Expert in the application of established methods, algorithms, andmachine learningfor drawing conclusions from vast data repositories and formulating predictions based on them - this role, evaluated by Harvard Business Review asthe sexiest job*, enjoys huge popularity. - Big Data Professional
Specializes in particularly large data sets, that is, producing systems capable of processing them and those that allow for their analysis. - Data Analyst
Analyzes data using programming and mathematical skills. - Data Architect
Creates or connects databases for businesses. - Database Administrator
Manages databases.
It's worth mentioning that in the face of this revolution, Machine Learning has gained tremendously in popularity and significance over the past few years, as a result of which a significant portion of universities in the United Kingdom have introduced subjects directly related to this technique.
UX Designer
One of the less recognizable, yet equally attractive, roles in IT isUX (User Experience) DesignerThis role is focused on creating software for specific user groups. As a less technical role, it relies on analyzing the audiences of a given product, and then modifying its design to maximize their satisfaction. UX Designers play a key role in the development of finished products. Above all, the role requires creativity and excellent communication skills.
There are many choices, and they are not critical – after a few years of work as a Java Developer, you can confidently switch to another language, or a completely different field of computer science. The nature of a programmer's work allows for constant changes, setting new challenges for oneself, and developing further skills. The fluidity and variability of the software development process make it practicable in so-called ‘9-to-5’ system, meaning regular working hours in a corporation, but also as a ‘freelancer’, meaning a person who is not permanently employed (employs 'themselves'), but carries out projects for individual clients. The most common example of such a ‘freelancer’ is a Web Developer.
Earnings after graduation
An undeniable advantage of studying IT is the high employment rate of freshly graduated students. During your studies, you are able to get a paid internship with a salary of about £18-20k per year. Starting a career in IT, you can receive from £20-25k to £40k, depending on factors including: the city where you start working, the profession you take up, the company you will work for. Salaries in cities like London, where the cost of living is significantly more expensive, are accordingly higher. Market giants such as Facebook or Google pay much higher salaries than smaller companies.
It's worth remembering, however, that in the case of IT, salary increases with experience - starting at 30k pro rata, after a few years of experience in a given field, we can receive £40-60k, and as a professional - even £80k - £100k.
Over time, what matters most is not which university we graduated from, but what experience we have - in other words, how attractive candidates for employment we are. Universities in the United Kingdom are a great choice for future IT specialists because throughout the duration of the studies, they help gain this experience and develop the skills necessary to acquire it.
Requirements for IT courses
Most universities do not require matriculation exams in specific subjects, so students from both science and humanities backgrounds can be admitted to computer science studies. Sometimes, however, universities send out offers requiring a matriculation exam in mathematics (advanced and/or basic).
Language
Language requirements are at a moderate level, meaning if IELTS is required, it is usually at a level of 6.0-6.5 (minimum 5.5-6.0 from each part of the exam). Some universities accept the extended-level English matriculation exam instead of IELTS with an appropriate score (often 60% or higher).
Experience
Since both students with prior experience and those completely new to computer science apply for computer science studies, the first year serves as a preparatory period and, for some, a review. This helps to level out the students' knowledge base and allows for accelerated progress in subsequent years. Universities usually do not require any skills related to programming or other computer science topics, but it's important to demonstrate creativity and a willingness to learn. The knowledge of Polish students (especially those from math-physics/math-informatics profiles) is at a high level, and they should not have any problem coping in the first year. Of course, individuals with more experience will also be able to develop thanks to additional classes and tasks offered by the lecturers.
How to choose a field of study and prepare for it?
Currently, most fields are primarily based on programming, as this area has the highest demand for specialists. Courses taught at universities are largely focused on practical skills, so both classes and many assignments/exams take place on computers.
Own computer - necessary or not?
British universities are well-equipped, and each of them offers laboratories designated only for computer science students, where we can find a sufficient number of computers needed for work with all the necessary software. The most important operating systems are within the student's reach - PCs with Microsoft Windows and Linux, as well as iMac computers for creating software on devices with systems from Apple. Having your own device is useful when we live far from the university and do not want to go to campus every time we have some credits to earn - in such cases, all the necessary software is provided for us to install on our own computer completely for free.
Accreditations
When choosing a course at a British higher education institution, it's important to check whether it is approved by organizations such as: British Computer Society (BCS) or Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). An accredited course is in line with contemporary standards and fully respected by employers.
Field of study
Computer science as a scientific discipline has developed greatly in recent years, and students are now being educated in narrower specializations. Therefore, it is important to choose a direction that matches our interests. Every applicant facing the choice of a university and field of study should check the university's website to see what the course includes, i.e., what subjects are taught, and what knowledge they will gain during its duration. However, it often happens that a student realizes during the first year that their chosen field of study doesn't fully match their interests – fortunately, in most cases, every major in the Computer Science faculty is taught the same way in the first year, and there is the possibility of changing courses.
IT studies in practice
Current students are probably the best source of information about selected studies and courses. Find out what computer science studies look like in practice - through the eyes of students who once applied for their dream studies with the support of UniEdu.
Sebastian (Student)
Choosing MComp Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science with a Year in Industry, I was guided by three things. Firstly, computer science has been and is my undisputed favorite among the sciences since high school, and I couldn’t imagine developing in any other field. Shortly before choosing my major, I became very interested in the incredible potential that lies in artificial intelligence. Knowing how crucial practical experience is in a computer scientist’s career, the choice between a Year in Industry and not having one was a ‘no-brainer’.
In the first year of my studies, I learned the basics of computer science – from software production, programming, computer and AI history, AI programming, to web development. The classes were so accessible that I managed to pass successive exams and projects without much effort on my part 'after hours' – it was enough to attend classes and laboratories, which were about 15 hours a week. In the second semester, I completed a modulePhilosophy of Mindwhich concerned issues such asmachine minds, animal minds, relations between mind and bodyI was so fascinated by this subject that ever since that time, I choose an optional module in philosophy every year. To those who are going to study Artificial Intelligence, I highly recommend getting interested in this field.
The second year turned out to be much more difficult and extensive, but because of that also more interesting and demanding. This year, among other things: I completed a project in Machine Learning, which involved implementing a system that recognizes characters on a sheet of paper (and, as a result, transforms a picture of text into text); I learned functional programming, robotics theory, andbio-inspired algorithms(algorithms inspired by, for example, the behavior of ants); I completed a module in ethics.
The material differed from that of the first year in terms of advancement level, required basics, and the difficulty of passing. However, I think I liked this year much more, and the amount of study didn’t too often overwhelm me. Throughout the whole year, I was able to work several to a dozen hours weekly at the university and still have free time.
My last year of studies will be highly personalized – I have decided to focus on the field of NLP (Natural Language Processing). In the third year, I am awaited byprojecto de tesis(undergraduate thesis), which will be about the development of a specific natural language processing method. Moreover, I have modules onText Processing as well as Speech Processing, a few other IT modules concerning data protection or smart web frameworks, and also a module on philosophy –Pain, Pleasure, and Emotions.I'm looking forward to the third year the most because I have chosen the majority of the modules myself, and I am excited about what they will contain!
Remigiusz (Student)
Studying At the University of Liverpool, we can expect around 24 hours of classes per week in the first year, including laboratories and seminars. This may seem like a lot, but it quickly becomes evident that most of the time in the laboratories is spent on tasks, which greatly facilitate passing the assessments required for a given module. This allows spending less time on self-study required to pass a subject at a high level. A very strong emphasis is placed on subjects directly related to programming, i.e.Java Programming, Advanced Object-Oriented Programming, Software Engineeringetc. The first year requires a very basic knowledge of mathematics (Polish students will not have problems) and a willingness to learn - all subjects are taught from scratch so that everyone can find their way without any problems. The second year involves more individual work, in groups with fewer classes per week, usually about 15h. However, most of the time is spent at computers, improving programming skills, because only through practice and making mistakes can one become a real specialist in this field.
By properly managing time, one can easily balance work with studies and extracurricular activities. Currently, I work 24 hours a week, my grades are high, and additionally, I represent my university in volleyball, so from my own experience, I can say that if you really want to – it's possible.
Summing up...
IT studies in the United Kingdom offer many opportunities and a multitude of career paths, so anyone who has considered pursuing computer studies for even a moment will find their niche. These studies are not only interesting but also highly profitable - there is still a shortage of IT specialists, so finding a well-paid job after graduating from a recognized university will not be a problem for anyone. At the same time, a diploma from a British university paves the way for an international career. If you're looking for studies that will give you the opportunity for self-development and secure a place in the job market worldwide - IT studies in the United Kingdom are just for you!
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