Computer Science

Computer science is the study of computation, from the mathematical foundations of algorithms and logic through to the design of software systems, networks, and artificial intelligence. It is a discipline with extraordinary breadth of application: the skills and ways of thinking it develops are relevant to virtually every sector of the modern economy, from healthcare and finance to entertainment and public services.

At the University of Chester this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, giving you a thorough grounding in the mathematical and computational concepts needed before you engage with degree-level computer science. The foundation year makes the programme accessible to students who are coming from non-traditional backgrounds or who need to build their mathematical confidence before tackling more advanced material.

In the main degree you will study programming, data structures and algorithms, software engineering, computer systems, databases, networks, and artificial intelligence. You will learn to design, implement, and test software in a variety of languages and paradigms, and to think rigorously about the correctness, efficiency, and reliability of the systems you build. Project work is central to the programme, developing your ability to manage a technical task from conception through to completion.

Computer science graduates are among the most in-demand in the UK and globally. Careers span software development, systems engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, game development, UX engineering, IT consultancy, and technology management. The foundation year broadens the range of students who can access this career path, which is one of the clearest routes into well-paid, intellectually stimulating employment that higher education offers.

Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in computer science, data science, or artificial intelligence.