Computer Science

Computer science with a specialisation in software engineering is a degree that takes the mathematical and theoretical foundations of computing and connects them to the specific discipline of building reliable, well-structured software systems at scale. Software engineering is concerned with the processes, methods, and tools that allow teams to produce software that works, that can be maintained and extended, and that meets the real requirements of users and organisations. Combining this specialisation with a broad computer science foundation gives you both the deep technical knowledge and the systematic approach to development that the industry values.

At Newcastle University, this three-year full-time BSc offers a flexible programme that gives you the opportunity to explore the full breadth of computer science in your early years before moving into the software engineering specialisation. You will learn both the fundamental principles of computer science, including algorithms, data structures, programming paradigms, and computational theory, and the specific skills of software design, testing, project management, and quality assurance that define software engineering practice. The programme includes a sandwich year and opportunities for study abroad, as well as a work placement, giving you professional and international experience before you graduate.

The flexibility to choose between different routes within the programme means you can tailor your degree as your interests and strengths develop. With a typical entry tariff of 120 UCAS points, the programme is accessible to strong students.

Computer science software engineering graduates are in demand across the entire technology sector and well beyond it. Software developer, software engineer, systems analyst, QA engineer, DevOps engineer, and technical project manager are all common roles. The financial services, healthcare, defence, retail, gaming, and public sector industries all need graduates with this combination of skills.

Postgraduate study in computer science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or data science is a natural option for those who want to go deeper academically.