Computer Science

Computer science is the discipline that underpins the digital world. It is concerned with the principles, methods, and applications of computing, from the theoretical foundations of algorithms and data structures to the practical skills of software development, system design, and data management. As computing has become central to every sector of the economy and society, the ability to understand and build digital systems has become one of the most sought-after sets of skills a graduate can possess.

At the University of Derby, this full-time programme includes a foundation year, a sandwich year, a year abroad, and work placement opportunities, providing both a supported academic starting point and substantial professional and international experience. You will study applied computer science with a strong emphasis on practical programming skills, working with industry-standard development tools in well-equipped laboratories. The curriculum covers a wide range of current issues in computing, including software engineering, networking, databases, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interaction, developing both breadth of knowledge and genuine technical depth.

The combination of academic rigour and practical application is designed to produce graduates who can step confidently into professional roles from day one. The typical entry tariff is 104 UCAS points.

Computer science graduates are in demand across every sector. Technology companies, financial services, healthcare, government, retail, media, and the public sector all need people who can develop, manage, and innovate with digital systems. Roles include software developer, web developer, data engineer, systems analyst, cybersecurity specialist, and product manager.

The sandwich year and placement experience make graduates particularly competitive. Postgraduate study in computer science, data science, cybersecurity, or artificial intelligence provides a natural route for those who want to go deeper or move into research.