Computer Science BSc/BSc (Hons)



We are the top UK modern university for Computer Science.
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Overview

Our computer science course at Edinburgh Napier will help you gain a full understanding of computing tools, techniques and practices across a wide range of application areas.

Unlike computer science courses elsewhere, at Edinburgh Napier you will be taught by world leading scientists in specialist facilities which contain high-speed computers with all essential software. Our course will teach you computer programming fundamentals that will propel you into employment after university.

Want to get more from your studies? You can opt for a placement year to gain valuable hands-on experience working with a company of your choice.

Students working in Apple computer studio

Mode of Study:

Full-time (available as part-time)

Duration:

4 years

Start date:

Sep

UCAS code:

I101

Course details

This course will allow you to develop a critical understanding of Computer Science, in particular the use of Artificial Intelligence to solve problems and software engineering skills to build software solutions. During your first year, you will develop software design and engineering skills which will later be used to allow you to develop software algorithms ad make use of artificial intelligence based tools and concepts.

In addition, you will develop a critical understanding of problem solving using a range of analysis techniques to design and implement software that will solve a wide range of complex problems.

In your final year, you will have the opportunity to study a range of modules based on specialised topics within artificial intelligence, which are delivered by staff who are internationally recognised experts.

  • calendar

    How you’ll be taught

     Lectures and tutorials.
  • note and pen

    Assessments

     Mixture of practical assessments, development reports, academic essays and exams.
  • briefcase

    Work placement

    A year long Work Based Learning module is available for this programme which can be undertaken in 3rd year which consists of 60 credits.

    In 2nd year, students attend timetabled Placement Preparation sessions which provides comprehensive information about sourcing a placement, tips for enhancing CVs, cover letters and interview preparation. A Student Futures Placement Coordinator is available to support students with their placement applications and approving placements as part of the course. Whilst on placement, students undertake work-related assessments alongside gaining valuable work experience. If this option is chosen, the course duration will be extended by one trimester.

    If students are not undertaking the yearlong placement, then there is a Group Project or the Professional Internship Module in Year 3 (one trimester) which gives students the opportunity to complete a project for an external client.

    Find out more about Computing Placements here.
  • study abroad

    Study abroad

     International study is available, and is intended to develop overall graduate attributes and global citizenship. The School has several agreements with overseas partner institutions, both in the EU and further afield, providing varied and exciting opportunities tailored around your individual study and cultural interests. Currently, links are established with universities in the USA, Canada, Spain, Denmark, Singapore, and Germany, where programmes are delivered in English, whilst additional links are planned with other European countries and Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Popular modules

Year 1

  • Software Design & Development (Java, C & Design Techniques)
  • Mathematics (Foundation Mathematics and Mathematics for Software Engineering)
  • Computer Systems (Hardware, Networking & Operating Systems)
  • Introduction to Human Computer Interaction 

Year 2

  • Object Oriented Software Development (Includes C, Object Orientation & Software Engineering methods)
  • Operating Systems 
  • Database Systems 
  • Algorithms
  • Optional Modules: Mobile Applications Development, Web Technologies Or Computer Graphics

Year 3

  • Data Analytics 
  • Artificial Intelligence 
  • Group Project 
  • Computing in Contemporary Society 
  • Optional Modules: Physics Based Animation, Advanced Web Technologies, Software Engineering, Sensing Systems for Mobile Applications, Advanced Databases or Professional Internship 

(Some options are not available to those who take a work-based placement)

Year 4

  • Honours Project 
  • Multi Agent Systems 
  • Computational Intelligence 
  • Formal Approaches for Software Engineering
  • Optional Modules: Software Architecture or Emergent Computing for Optimisation
 

Disclaimer

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Full information is available in our disclaimer.

Entry requirements

What are the entry requirements for Computer Science?

Our entry requirements indicate both Standard and Minimum qualifications with which we normally accept students. Competition for places varies from year to year and you aren't guaranteed a place if you meet the minimum qualifications.

Can you go straight into second year of university?

Advanced entry into Year 2 of this course is possible for students with suitable qualifications. See the individual year tabs for more information.

Can I make an appointment with an advisor to discuss further about the admission process?

If you want to get more information on the admission process, please get in touch with the undergraduate admissions team by submitting an enquiry form above.

Minimum year 1

SQA Higher

  • Standard Entry Requirement: BBBB to include Maths or Science/Technical subject* at grade B. National 5 grade C in Maths OR Applications of Maths.
  • Minimum Offer Entry Requirement: BBCC to include Maths or Science/Technical subject* at grade C. National 5 grade C in Maths OR Applications of Maths.

You may be given an adjusted offer of entry if you meet our specified minimum entry requirements within our widening participation criteria, and outlined in our Contextual Admissions Policy. Click here for further information about our entry requirements and admissions policies.

*Science/Technical subjects - Physics, Engineering Science, Design & Manufacture, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Graphic Communication or Computing Science 

A Level

  • BCC to include Maths or Science/Technical subject
  • GCSE grade C/4 in Maths.

Irish Leaving Certificate

  • H2, H2, H3, H3 at Higher Level to include Maths or Science/Technical subject and grade O4 in Ordinary Level Maths. 

HNC

  • HNC with C in the graded unit in one of the following; Computing, Computer Games Development, Software Development, Data Analytics plus Higher Maths at grade B
  • Unrelated HNC/Ds may be considered and in addition have Higher Maths or Science/Technical subject at grade B and National 5 Maths OR Applications of Maths at grade C

BTEC (QCF) Extended Diploma Level 3

  • Minimum grades DMM (Distinction, Merit, Merit) in a related subject
  • GCSE grade C/4 in Maths. 

BTEC (QCF) National Diploma Level 3

  • Minimum grades D*D* (Distinction*, Distinction)
  • GCSE grade C/4 Maths.

BTEC (QCF) National Diploma Level 3 plus A-Level

  • Minimum grades DM 
  • Minimum A level grade C.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

  • Award of Diploma with 28 points overall with three HL subjects at grades 6, 5, 4 to include Maths or Science/Technical subject at 5.
  • Grade 4 in SL Maths.

European Baccalaureate

  • Pass at 70% or above with grade 7 in three subjects to include Maths or Physics.
  • Grade 6 in Maths and English.

T Levels

  • Merit - T Level with additional A Level in: Maths or Physics grade B 
  • GCSE grade C/4 in Maths.

Minimum year 2

HNC

  • Pass in Computing, Computer Games Development, Software Development, Data Analytics with B in the graded unit plus Higher Maths at Grade B.

Other HNC qualifications may be considered, please contact Undergraduate Admissions for advice.

SQA Advanced Higher

  • BBC to include Higher Maths or Physics.
  • BB and SQA Higher BB to include Maths or Physics.

A Level

  • BBB to include Maths or Physics.

BTEC (QCF) Extended Diploma Level 3

  • Minimum grades DDD (Distinction, Distinction, Distinction) in a related subject.

If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test and our minimum English language requirements will apply.

This may not apply if you have completed all your school qualifications in English. Check our country pages to find out if this applies to you

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.
Entry requirements by country

Please note that international students are unable to enrol onto the following courses:
  • BM Midwifery/MM Midwifery
  • All Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

See who can apply for more information on Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study. 

Our admissions policies will help you understand our admissions procedures, and how we use the information you provide us in your application to inform the decisions we make.

Undergraduate admissions policies
Postgraduate admissions policies

Fees & funding

The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you will depend on a number of factors including your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying. We also have a number of bursaries and scholarships available to our students.

Tuition fees
Students from 2024/25 2025/26
Scotland £1,820 £1,820
England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland £9,250 £9,250
Overseas and EU £19,340 £20,310
Students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland will be invoiced the tuition fees for 3 years of their 4 years of study.
Please note tuition fees are subject to an annual review and may increase from one year to the next. For more information on this and other Tuition Fee matters please see Frequently Asked Questions about Fees Click this link for Information of Bursaries and Scholarships
If additional compulsory costs other than the tuition fees are applicable, these will be detailed in the course details.
Please note that the tuition fees liable to be paid by EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be the Overseas fee rate. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here.


Careers

Wires and circuit board on a device

What can you do with a BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree?

In this dynamic Computer Science programme, you will explore the endless possibilities of computer science, from algorithm design to artificial intelligence. You will get an amazing opportunity to dive into the realms of coding, software development, database systems etc as you unlock the secrets of this ever-evolving field. This course may lead you into the following career paths:

  • Computer software Engineer
  • Software Designer
  • Software Developer
  • Data Analyst
  • In-house Web Design
  • Network Manager
  • Mobile App Developer

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of computer science theory and hone your practical skills through hands-on projects and internships. From building innovative software applications to optimizing complex algorithms, you'll develop the expertise needed to thrive in today's digital landscape.

Upon graduation, you will emerge as a versatile and adaptable professional, ready to make your mark in a variety of industries. Whether you dream of developing cutting-edge software, creating groundbreaking AI solutions, or leading technological innovation, this course will empower you to turn your aspirations into reality.

What does a Software Developer do?

As a software developer, you will be at the forefront of innovation, designing and developing software applications that power various aspects of our lives. Whether it's crafting intuitive user interfaces, optimizing algorithms for efficiency, or building scalable backend systems, your contributions will have a profound impact on how people interact with technology.

You will be collaborating with diverse teams of fellow developers, designers, and stakeholders to bring ideas from concept to reality. Your days will be filled with coding, testing, and refining software solutions to address real-world challenges across industries. From mobile apps that streamline daily tasks to enterprise software that drives business operations, your work will enhance efficiency, improve user experiences, and propel organizations toward success.

As a Software Developer, you will constantly push the boundaries of what's possible, staying abreast of the latest technologies and methodologies to stay ahead in this dynamic field. Your passion for innovation and problem-solving will drive you to create software that not only meets but exceeds expectations, leaving a lasting impact on the digital world.

Computing student working in front of dual monitors