Computer Science BSc (Hons)

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Gold award

Our commitment to high quality teaching has been recognised with a TEF Gold rating. The University has received an overall rating of Gold, as well as securing a Gold award in the framework's two new student experience and student outcomes categories.

Why choose this course?

Are you considering a career in computer science? Whether you have knowledge of the subject or not, this course at Kingston can make you an expert.

You can study specialist areas of computer science that are relevant to the career you want. There are modules that reflect the most in-demand sectors in the industry, such as software engineering, project management, user experience design, web and mobile app development, networking, and network security.

You'll graduate having gained experience of applying your expertise to real-world problems. With a portfolio of products and artefacts to showcase your work, you'll be ready to begin a professional career.

Apply for this course

Attendance	UCAS code/apply	Year of entry
3 years full time	G401	2025
4 years full time with professional placement	G400	2025
4 years full time including foundation year	G403	2025
6 years part time	Apply direct to the University	2025

Please note: Teaching on this course may take place on more than one KU campus.

Main Location

Penrhyn Road

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Reasons to choose Kingston University

The course is informed by our academics' expertise in topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics, user experience design, digital healthcare, mobile networks and computer vision.
The course features guest lectures from leading industry practitioners, such as Sony, Google and IBM.
Develop your programming skills with our exclusive NoobLab online learning environment, which makes programming accessible and fun regardless of your prior expertise.
Kingston University is ranked No.5 in London for Computer Science and Information Systems (The Guardian University Guide 2024).

What you will study

Our programme structure is centred on student learning and development, to encourage you to become an effective, independent and confident self-directed learner – attributes which appeals to employers. Supported by a set of guided learning journeys, you will learn theoretical and practical aspects of system design and development, and gradually develop a portfolio of 'products' and 'artefacts' of different levels of complexity as the outputs of assignments in dedicated modules.

They will be integrated into an online portfolio of applications and design solutions that reflect your professional readiness. The first year of the course consists entirely of core modules to provide the fundamental computer science knowledge; you will examine computer architectures, and the tools and techniques used to build systems.

You will learn principles, techniques and tools common to the analysis and design of software development, and study the impact of technologies on the workplace, economy and society. In the second and third years you will focus more on the chosen specialist area, and using a combination of core and optional modules you will be exposed to the latest software innovations, design patterns, algorithms, programming languages, data structures and tools. For example, you will learn the latest agile project management approaches, data modelling using UML, relational and object-oriented database systems, data processing platforms used for big data applications, processing of data sets with adaptive algorithms driven by machine learning, visualisation of data for business insight.

The guided route you select will enable you to gain expertise of the chosen area and explore the latest innovations associated with a specific domain in-depth, building on the foundation set by the core modules. If you do not wish to follow a guided route you can choose any of the available options where the pre-requisites are met and are always guaranteed a broad grounding in computer science. You can use the individual project module in the third year to showcase the knowledge and skills you have gained.

You will study four modules in each year, for example:

Students wishing to pursue the software engineering and database guided option routes will take in Year 2 Computing Systems and Professional Environments 2 as core modules and option modules Programming 2 - Software Development and Database-Driven Application Development, and in Year 3 the core module is Individual Project, the guided option is Programming 3 - Patterns and Algorithms plus recommended option modules Advanced Data Modelling and Software Development Practice.

Year 1

Year 2

Optional professional placement year

Year 3/4 Core modules

Year 3/4 Optional modules

First year provides a broad exposure to the essential domain topics; computing fundamentals, programming, professional practice and system designing.

Core modules

Computing Fundamentals

30 credits

In this module, you will develop a strong foundation of how computers work in terms of hardware and software, and the formal logic behind it. You will have the opportunity to meet several different experts in the topics that form the basis of modern-day computer science.

To equip you to excel in your course, the subject experts will guide you in an exploration of digital logic, data processing, representation and storage, essentials of computer software and hardware including architectural concepts and relevant data structures and algorithms.

You will develop this knowledge further through the introduction of databases, web development, and the underlying technologies of modern-day communication, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi and the Internet.

Programming I: Thinking Like a Programmer

30 credits

We designed this module to establish a foundation for key Programming Concepts. We do not assume prior experience of programming, as we know you will all have widely different levels of existing knowledge. The module is designed to be accessible to a beginner while still being exciting for an experienced coder.

We are excited to be able to deliver this module using Kingston's own home-grown learning environment for programming, NoobLab. NoobLab gamifies your learning, making programming enjoyable and accessible for all existing ability levels – no other university offers this platform or unique approach to learning:

You will learn a variety of programming languages. In the first few weeks, we will use visual blocks that will allow you to construct programs and focus on thinking like a programmer rather than getting bogged down in grammar and syntax. Then, with these skills established, you will learn Python, Javascript and optionally Java, solving "Code Kata" style programming challenges on a weekly basis. This will equip you to build a graphical card game as your capstone project for the module.

Requirements Analysis and Design

30 credits

Good design is the key to good software, and at the heart of good software design is Requirements Analysis.

You will learn how to identify project stakeholders and your prospective target audience of a software project, and carry out an effective stakeholder and user analysis. This will entail learning how to capture, evaluate, validate, and document requirements, using appropriate industry-standard methods, techniques, and tools.

Additionally, you will learn the principles of software project management using Agile, iterative methodologies and have the opportunity to develop hands-on experience in an Agile project team.

Another key aspect of this module is learning and applying the elements of good user experience (UX) design. By the end of the module you will be able to use a prototyping tool to build wireframes, user interfaces and interactive prototypes, incorporating specific usability requirements and UX design principles. These skills will be applied when you build a high-fidelity prototype using contemporary software tools.

Finally, you will learn how to conduct usability evaluations and analyse results to draw subsequent design recommendations to iteratively improve your work and make it better fit for purpose.

Professional Environments 1

30 credits

The goal of the Professional Environments module is to prepare students for professional practice. It will firstly ensure they acquire suitable employability assets and secondly equip them with an understanding of the role of a professional in society and the role of professional bodies.

While the bulk of the taught programme focuses primarily on domain knowledge, the Professional Environments module focuses on developing key skills, personal qualities (e.g. commercial awareness, reliability and punctuality, understanding the centrality of customers and clients), and professional knowledge including the need to engage with continuing professional development. With such assets, students will generate a CV, an employment portfolio, and a professional online presence.

Being a professional also means understanding the key legal, ethical and societal issues pertinent to the domain, and understanding the need for continuing professional development (CPD) especially when technology develops at such a rapid pace. The module is designed to support different domain areas and to integrate experience from other professions. The subject areas being studied demand a global perspective which encourages the inclusion of our diverse of communities and national practices.

Reflecting the fact that team working is ubiquitous in the modern workplace, a significant proportion of the assessment work on the course is based around group work. There is considerable evidence that group work promotes a much deeper engagement with taught content and the Future Skills report shows how it is embedded in working practices. It also encourages the development of diverse learning communities with computer science, cybersecurity and digital media students working in close proximity. This module will therefore introduce students to best practice in group working covering how to approach group work, how to understand yourself, how to deal with different types of people, and methods of selecting and managing groups.

Core modules

Computing Systems

30 credits

This module takes you on a journey, from underlying computer architecture through to operating systems and networking and finally on to cloud computing. We designed this module to enhance your understanding of how modern computer systems are designed and used.

You will explore the essential features of each of these technologies and acquire both theoretical and practical knowledge. In addition, you will also develop knowledge of containerisation, parallel programming and algorithm complexity to make use of new parallel and cloud computing architectures to design application scenarios for today's modern computing environments.

Professional Environments 2

30 credits

This module is designed to encourage you to look outwards to industry and employability, and make you more confident when facing the job market upon graduation. You will develop excellent group working skills, broaden your understanding of industry and its requirements, and enhance your project management skills.

It is always exciting to watch the groups collaborating as they produce their entrepreneurial projects for Kingston University's "Bright Ideas" scheme; students involved in this have won awards, producing fascinating artefacts for their remaining term and exploring new and different areas within their course field.

The module is an opportunity to work with many different students, working in subject areas that are innovative and unusual. Very often, a student may discover something they did not know that they could achieve. This triggers new learning and an added confidence that was not previously there. Those are the times that the learning is strongest, and our pride in the student, the greatest.

Optional modules

Programming II - Software Development

30 credits

This module takes what you did in Programming 1, where you started to think like a programmer, and focuses on one programming language to develop software applications that people can interact with.

You will continue to use Kingston's bespoke NoobLab in the first term – no other university offers this platform or unique approach to learning – to go into more depth in creating models of "real world" objects, as well as data structures like arrays, lists and maps, and reading/writing files. In the second term you will build simple applications (graphical user interfaces).

You will use Java Swing as the basis for a graphic user interface, drawing on the Java Collections Framework as needed to build data structures for your applications. We will introduce industry-standard development environments such as NetBeans and Visual Studio Code, alongside GitLab for source and version control of your code.

Human Computer Interaction Design and Evaluation

30 credits

This is an optional module intended for undergraduate students who are studying computing-related subjects.

HCI is the core academic discipline that examines the relationship and interface between human and computer. It informs and provides the theoretical and methodological foundation for user experience, the professional discipline which is practically applied. Although this module forms part of the user experience guided pathway it can be taken as a standalone module.

You will explore major themes in HCI from both a theoretical and a practical perspective. The module will establish an understanding of key concepts within HCI theory and methods, and examines techniques for HCI design and evaluation. It offers you a practical domain in which to apply knowledge and skills, including those from other modules, to the design, implementation and analysis of interfaces between people and computer systems. You will undertake practical exercises in which you will evaluate real-world problems to identify user experience issues. You will utilise the synthesis of data from methods which explore user needs and requirements and also users' cognitive models to build a suite of artefacts e.g. personas, user journeys, empathy maps etc which will inform a prototyping phase. This process involves iteratively building on low, medium and high fidelity prototypes of increasing complexity and levels of iteration. Thus you will synthesise theory and empirical data to build your prototypes of a redesign solution to usability issues. These artefacts will iteratively and incrementally inform a user centred design.

Database Driven Application Development

30 credits

In this module you will learn to design and build full stack web applications. The first half of the module will be dedicated to relational databases which are crucial to any company or organisation, and form the back-end persistence layer of the vast majority of modern applications. You will learn the fundamental concepts and principles of database design before moving on to building the databases and writing queries to extract data from the database.

Once you have the foundation of database development, the module will move on to teaching you to develop and deploy web based applications that use an MVC design pattern. You will learn server- and client-side development, how to access the database/persistence layer, and techniques and technologies that span the whole stack. By the end of the module you will have gained the skills to build a complex, scalable and robust web application driven by a back-end database.

Networking Concepts

30 credits

With a strong emphasis on understanding the Internet protocols, the Networking Concepts module will develop your understanding of the basic principles of networking.

You will become familiar with current LAN and WAN technologies and their role in building domestic and corporate networks. This knowledge will underpin the skills required to design and simulate small company networks including identifying the physical components required and to design an appropriate IP addressing schemes for such network.

It will also underpin your understanding of how network services such as mobile apps and network-based games are implemented.

Core modules

Industrial Placement

60 credits

This module is an essential course programme component for students on the sandwich route of an honours degree "with professional placement". It is a key element in providing an extended period in industry gaining real world employability skills. Students are supported both before and through their placement by the Placement Team. Students that successfully complete their placement year will graduate with a four-year sandwich degree.

Core for all guided routes

Individual Project

30 credits

The goal of the module is to further develop skills in organisation, timekeeping, research literature, developing and critically analysing results as well as reporting work verbally and in a written format. The end result will be an artefact or artefacts which demonstrate creativity and technical competence as well as a technical report.

Software Engineering route

Programming III – Patterns and Algorithms

30 credits

Programming is a central activity of software development, which encompasses a wide range of languages, environments and specialisms.

This module will offer students the opportunity to acquire a useful competence across this range. The first teaching block will cover aspects of language, algorithms, tools, test-driven methodologies, and a range of user interface technologies.

The second teaching block will apply these themes across a range of technologies and application environments, focusing on web and mobile in particular. Assessment will include computer-based in-class tests and e-portfolios of student achievement that allow them to curate and share their passion for programming.

User Experience Design route

User Experience Design Thinking

30 credits

This is an optional module intended for undergraduate students who are studying Computing-related subjects. Although it forms part of the User Experience guided pathway it can be taken as a standalone module and previous experience of UX is not assumed. This module will focus upon the skills, methods and tools required in careers such as UX Architect, UX Designer, Service Designer, Information Architect or Digital Product Designer. The curriculum is finely balanced between theory and practice. Students are directly immersed in organisational practices and skills used in industry and will make use of academic theory in this practical context. Students will learn to develop investigative, analytical, technical, communication and advocacy skills to help them shape interactive technologies that augment people's abilities, enhance their creativity, connect them to others and protect their interests. They will also become aware of the impact of levels of digital literacy, availability of and access to technology, economic and business drivers, regulations, and regional/cultural norms. The module will also develop methods and skills required to understand current users, to investigate non-use, and to imagine future users.

Networking and Network Security route

Cryptography and Network Security

30 credits

This is a core module in the Cyber Security and Computer Forensics field which explores the major challenges to computer security.

It familiarises students with a range of cryptographic algorithms and protocols, firewall and access-control architectures and methods to assess and improve network and application security. This knowledge will allow students to implement and evaluate security controls and develop secure policies for corporate networks.

Web and Mobile App route

Mobile Application Development

30 credits

While this module provides a foundation for careers in mobile application development, mobile is becoming increasingly ubiquitous and the skills taught also have applications in UX, web development and software engineering in general. Although there are no prerequisites, it is assumed that students have acquired a general familiarity with programming and software development principles through their previous study.

The module is divided into two phases. In the first phase of the module students will be introduced to software development for the two major mobile platforms. This will cover development environments for these platforms, UI conventions, building and deploying simple applications. Students will then be introduced to cross platform development environments for mobile development.

Finally, standard frameworks for mobile web development will be introduced. The second phase of the module is organised around a practical project. Students will choose one of the platforms on which to build a mobile application of their choice. This project gives students the opportunity to specialise and explore their chosen platform in greater depth, acquiring the knowledge and proficiency to be able to design and build complex mobile apps. Students will be encouraged to publish their apps in one or both (in the case of a cross-platform app) of the two major app stores, thus providing an introduction to mobile application delivery and distribution.

Optional module

Digital Entrepreneurship

30 credits

Entrepreneurship is a major driving force in creating economic growth and this module illustrates how to work in an entrepreneurial fashion. At the heart of entrepreneurship is innovation, which can come in many forms. Sometimes this can be an incremental but generally gives significant improvement to the customer. Alternatively it is a new breakthrough or transformational innovation. Incremental innovation is aimed at increasing the value of a product or service, to add more value and thereby creating new and superior value chains. Breakthrough innovation often creates new categories of product, or transforms the historical ways of doing things.

From this foundation, the module proceeds to explain how to develop a strategy, not only to satisfy the critical needs that organisations have, but also to explore the application and use of improved value chains using the concepts of corporate venturing (spin-out/intrapreneurship) and entrepreneurship (new venture creation).

However it is not simple to start a new company. Especially the tech branch is characterised by fast developments, shifts of focus and low barriers to entry, where holding back from "bleeding edge" is essential and is one of the important differentiating factors between Tech Entrepreneurship and other forms of entrepreneurship. This means that one can no longer count on "good luck", and insight, understanding, knowledge and a systematic approach all have to be learnt.

This module will convey the concepts needed for roles in analysis, consultancy and management in technology environments, plus the necessary knowledge to work successfully in an innovative company, as well as providing a good background for new venture creation (Entrepreneurship) for those considering self-employment or founding new technology firms

Recommended for Software Engineering route

Software Development Practice

30 credits

This module will expand your skill set and your awareness as software industry professional, using industry-relevant tools, know-how, as well as theoretical areas. Our focus is on real-world experience, and preparing you to become a skilled graduate, regardless of the job roles you are considering or the skills you want to expand on within the computing domain.

This will empower you to become better at whichever role you are aiming at; developer, analyst, designer, project manager and so on. This is not a code-centric module; the skills in this module are more concerned with efficiently working within a software development team and managing the code produced rather than necessarily writing code yourself.

You will explore the latest practices for making more dependable, reusable and scalable software systems, and how to configure, maintain and support such systems. We will also discuss topics on software architecture, and how to select the right architecture based on the system requirements. We will also cover popular industry practices like refactoring, software measurements, DevOps, Microservices, and software testing approaches, and even a bit of Quantum computing.

The workshop activities promote collaborative learning. Within the first teaching block you will explore a specific topic or tool every two weeks. In the second teaching block, you will work as a team, taking up a role as a manager, developer, analyst, designer, security expert or tester and work on a software development case study.

Most of the topics and tools you come across in the module are linked to skills advertised as essential or desirable by software industry employers. They are also closely linked to interview questions or assessment centre activities. Overall, the main focus of this module is to equip you to become a skilled and knowledgeable IT professional capable of facing challenges, while maintaining a holistic, practical perspective on the issues at hand.

Recommended for User Experience Design route

Mobile Application Development

30 credits

The module is divided into two phases. In the first phase, students will be introduced to software development for the two major mobile platforms. This will cover development environments for these platforms, UI conventions, building and deploying simple applications. Students will then be introduced to cross platform development environments for mobile development.

In the second phase, standard frameworks for mobile web development will be introduced. The phase is organised around a practical project. Students will choose one of the platforms on which to build a mobile application of their choice. This project gives students the opportunity to specialise and explore their chosen platform in greater depth, acquiring the knowledge and proficiency to be able to design and build complex mobile apps. Students will be encouraged to publish their apps in one or both (in the case of a cross-platform app) of the two major app stores, thus providing an introduction to mobile application delivery and distribution.

Recommended for Networking and Network Security route

Internet Protocols and Services

30 credits

This module focuses on enterprise networks; the internet protocols and services which will develop the understanding of how the TCP/IP internet protocol suite achieves the interconnection of geographically separate computers over networks of arbitrary topology and technology. This knowledge will underpin the design skills required to design such company networks including identifying the physical components required and designing appropriate IP addressing schemes. The module introduces wireless and high-speed networks and how these are used to deliver a variety of business applications.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:

Explain the basic principles of internetworking, and describe the role of each protocol within the TCP/IP protocol stack.
Identify the main hardware network components used to construct enterprise networks, and be able to design a network for a small enterprise.
Demonstrate a thorough understanding of IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, sub-network addressing, and be able to design an IP addressing scheme for a domain.
Demonstrate how internet application services (e.g. HTTP) available on any of today's advanced operating systems depend on and interact with other TCP/IP protocols, and explain the role of DNS and DHCP services in the configuration of network hosts.
Demonstrate an awareness of the services available from the internet and network providers to support business and homes and be able to critically reflect on the legal, social, economic and ethical issues associated with the use broadband services.

Recommended for Web and Mobile App route

Advanced Data Modelling

30 credits

This module will consolidate and build on previously acquired knowledge of databases by analysing and evaluating important issues in the database area. In addition, advanced aspects of data warehousing and data mining will be studied, encompassing the principles and commercial application of the technologies.

Please note

Optional modules only run if there is enough demand. If we have an insufficient number of students interested in an optional module, that module will not be offered for this course

Foundation year

If you would like to study computing at Kingston University but are not yet ready to join the first year of a BSc (Hons) course, you can include an extra foundation year within your chosen degree. Please see the foundation year course page for details of modules.

Find out more about our Computing and Mathematics foundation year

Computer Science at Kingston

Future Skills

Knowledge to give you the edge

Embedded within every course curriculum and throughout the whole Kingston experience, Future Skills will play a role in shaping you to become a future-proof graduate, providing you with the skills most valued by employers such as problem-solving, digital competency, and adaptability.

As you progress through your degree, you'll learn to navigate, explore and apply these graduate skills, learning to demonstrate and articulate to employers how future skills give you the edge.

At Kingston University, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it.

Learn employability-enhancing Future Skills

A female engineering student, in the engineering lab.

Future Skills for computing

Accreditation

This degree has been accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by BCS. An accredited degree entitles you to professional membership of BCS, which is an important part of the criteria for achieving Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status through the Institute. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords. This degree is accredited by BCS for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

This degree has been accredited by BCS, on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer (CEng). Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). An accredited degree will provide you with some or all of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT

Entry requirements

Typical offer 2025

UCAS tariff points: BSc (Hons): 112-128 UCAS points from A-levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications; BSc (Hons) including foundation year: 64 UCAS points from A-levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications

BSc (Hons) including foundation year: Candidates are also required to hold a GCSE Mathematics at grade C/4 or above or a recognised equivalent.

Typical offer 2024

UCAS tariff points: 112-128 for BSc (Hons); 64 for BSc (Hons) including foundation year from Level 3 qualifications.

A-Levels, BTEC Extended Diploma with grades DMM or BTEC Diploma with grades D*D* in computing, science, engineering or mathematics subject area.

Candidates are normally required to hold five GCSE subjects at grade C/4 or above, including Mathematics and English Language.

Alternative routes

We will consider a range of alternative Level 3 qualifications such as an Access Course in a relevant Science, Computing, Maths or Engineering subject which has been passed with 112 UCAS points.

Applications from those that have undertaken a Computing foundation year will also be considered.

International

We welcome applications from International Applicants. View our standard entry requirements from your country.

All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.0, with no element below 5.5.

Country-specific information

You will find more information on country specific entry requirements in the International section of our website.

Find your country:

Typical offer and UCAS points explained

Like most universities, we use the UCAS Tariff point system for our course entry requirements.

Find out more about UCAS Tariff points and see how A-level, AS level, BTEC Diploma and T-level qualifications translate to the points system.

Teaching and assessment

Scheduled learning and teaching on this course includes timetabled activities including lectures, seminars and small group tutorials.

It may also include placements, project work, workshops, workshops in computer labs, and laboratory workshops.

Guided independent study (self-managed time)

Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.

Academic support

Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.

Dedicated personal tutor

When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.

Your workload

A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.

One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 120 credits across a year (typical for an undergraduate course) would equate to 1,200 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below for each year of study. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.

Year 1: 32% scheduled learning and teaching
Year 2: 33% scheduled learning and teaching
Year 3: 30% scheduled learning and teaching

The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.

Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.

How you will be assessed

Types of assessment

Year 1: Coursework 60%; exams 40%
Year 2: Coursework 50%; practical 20%; exams 30%
Year 3: Coursework 90%; practical 10%

Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. If your course includes optional modules, this breakdown may change to reflect the modules chosen.

Feedback summary

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.

Your timetable

Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled learning and teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.

Class sizes

To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 140 students and lecture sizes are normally 140-290. However this can vary by module and academic year.

Facilities

This course is taught at the Penrhyn Road campus, which offers a range of facilities. A modern environment with the latest hardware and software will be available to you, including:

state-of-the-art computer laboratories with high-performance workstations, including some with dual large-screen monitor configurations
access to a High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility for more complex computation
our home-grown NoobLab environment, only available at KU, which is designed to make learning programming accessible and fun
high-spec gaming PCs, with powerful dGPUs
the latest integrated development environments for games and software development, including the latest games console dev kits
access to VR and AR headsets
platforms and components for embedded systems development
Cisco Networking Software IOS, which is the world's most widely deployed networking software
Network Simulator 3 (NS-3) and MATLAB for Wireless (WiFi, 5G and Beyond) and Multimedia Networks
our dedicated team of IT technicians, supporting the labs and always on hand to provide assistance.

Who teaches this course?

The course is taught at the School of Computer Science and Mathematics.

The School of Computer Science and Mathematics is driven by the philosophy of 'learning through making'; we focus strongly on facilitating a hands-on experience, student led and owned product portfolios and producing industry-ready graduates.

We utilise a range of innovating teaching and learning approaches in our invigorated and modernised degree programmes; combining studio practices, project-based learning, and context driven lectures to facilitate an informed approach to problem solving.

Postgraduate students may run or assist in lab sessions and may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.

Dr Pushpa Kumarapeli

Course leader

Dr Jad Abbass

Dr Neda Ahmadi

Mr Graham Alsop

Professor Sarah Barman

Dr Michal Bosy

Dr Islam Choudhury

Professor Jamshid Dehmeshki

Dr James Denholm-Price

Professor Tim Ellis

Dr Jarek Francik

Dr Andreas Hoppe

Dr Beryl Jones

Professor Graeme Jones

Professor Dimitrios Makris

Professor Maria Martini

Dr Robert B. Mellor

Professor Jean-Christophe Nebel

Mr Paul Neve

Professor Nada Philip

Course fees and funding

2025/26 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2025/26 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250* Foundation Year: £9,250
International	Year 1 (2025/26): £18,500 Year 2 (2026/27): £19,200 Year 3 (2027/28): £19,900 Year 4 (2028/29): £20,700

For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.

* For full-time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.

Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.

2024/25 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2024/25 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250* Foundation Year: £9,250
International	Year 1 (2024/25): £17,800 Year 2 (2025/26): £18,500 Year 3 (2026/27): £19,200 Year 4 (2027/28): £20,100

Note for EU students: UK withdrawal from the European Union

The Government has announced that new students from the European Union and Swiss Nationals starting their course after August 2021 will no longer be eligible for a student loan in England for Undergraduate or Postgraduate studies from the 2021/22 academic year. This decision only applies to new EU students starting after 2021/22. If you are an existing/continuing EU student, you will continue to be funded until you graduate or withdraw from your course.

Need to know more?

Our undergraduate fees and funding section provides information and advice on money matters.

Additional costs

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.

Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.

Textbooks

Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to buy your own copy of key textbooks; this can cost between £50 and £250 per year.

Computer equipment

There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan. You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residence. Free WiFi is available on each campus. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost between £100 and £3,000 depending on your course requirements.

Photocopying and printing

In the majority of cases, written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees, this may cost up to £100 per year.

Travel

Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston upon Thames train station, Norbiton train station and halls of residence.

Placements

If the placement year option is chosen, during this year travel costs will vary according to the location of the placement, and could be from £0 to £2,000.

Field trips

All field trips that are compulsory to attend to complete your course are paid for by the University. There may be small fees incurred for optional field trips such as travel costs and refreshments.

After you graduate

This degree is excellent preparation for a wide variety of careers, such as systems and business analysts, software engineers, programmers and network specialists.

Examples of recent graduate destinations

Solutions architect
Software engineer
User experience designer
Usability engineer
System analyst
Technical analyst
Security expert
Security analysis
Data scientist
Business analysis
Business intelligence analysts
Software developer
System support manager
Software administrator
IT consultant
IT developer
Database administrator
Network support executive
Internet developer
Project manager
Web master
Analyst programmer
Web designer
Network analyst

Careers and recruitment advice

The Faculty has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques. Specific advice is also available for international students about the UK job market and employers' expectations and requirements.

The team runs employer events throughout the year, including job fairs, key speakers from industry and interviews on campus. These events give you the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.

Employability preparation at Kingston University

In addition to building expertise in your own discipline, our courses will also help you to develop key transferable skills that you'll need for professional life or further study once you graduate.

As well as a range of careers and employability activities at Kingston, we also offer you the chance to apply and develop your skills in live contexts as an integral part of your course. Opportunities include:

placements;
working or studying abroad;
volunteering;
peer mentoring roles; and
internship opportunities within and outside the University.

In your final year, you'll get the opportunity to complete a major 'capstone' project where you can apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired to a range of real issues in different contexts. This is a great way to learn and is a valuable bridge to employment or further research at masters level.

Courses available after you graduate

If you decide that you would like to go on to postgraduate study after your undergraduate course, we offer a 10% discount on our postgraduate course tuition fees to our alumni.

What our students say

I chose to study BSc Computer Science at Kingston University due to its exceptional teaching and facilities available. During the three years I was able to gain knowledge and understanding in four major areas: programming, networking & operating systems, internet security and project management.

I was able to see the theoretical side in action in my workshop sessions, using various software and applications. This helped me appreciate how these skills would be applied in my future job role. Alongside obtaining a degree, I achieved a certificate in Agile Project management through the course which is highly acknowledged by employers.

I was able to receive guidance and support from my lecturers as well as access to sources and facilities available in the library, ensuring my individual project was the highest quality possible, resulting in me graduating with a first class. Overall, my journey with Kingston University was fantastic, enjoyable and full of unforgettable memories.

Simran Randhawa – Computer Science BSc (Hons)

I've enjoyed increasing my knowledge of computer science and the use of practical lab work and workshops during the modules. It makes study more varied and allows you to see the subject theory in action. The lecturers are approachable and will help with any problems. They provide you with a clear understanding of what they are teaching. Another good thing about Kingston is the social aspect - you make a whole new group of friends.

I wanted to do the year's industrial placement for the experience of working at an IT-based company, being in a team environment, carrying out IT-related duties and putting the skills I had learnt on the course into practice.

I got the job at Sun Microsystems through the University's Industrial Placements Office. It has extensive contacts with IT companies, so there was a big list of jobs to choose from. The support that I received from Kingston during the application process was invaluable. I got help constructing a professional CV, was notified of potential jobs and was able to seek advice on all stages of the recruitment process.

Richard Mullins – Computer Science BSc (Hons) (4 year sandwich)

I chose to come to Kingston because I went to an open day and loved the location – right next to a river and 30 minutes from London. The teaching staff were really friendly, so I thought it would be a great place to be. I've since found out that the nightlife in Kingston is brilliant. There's also lots to do at the University. I played hockey for the first year. This year I joined the Kingston Chinese Association.

In the second year, I went to the USA on an exchange programme for a semester. It was a bit nerve-racking at the start. But I made some really good friends and thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was a great opportunity to see another culture and meet people in a different environment.

The year's placement was also a major highlight of the course. I wanted to do it because there are so many graduates with good degrees. You need to separate yourself from the competition. The University's Placement Office was very helpful. I had a few rejections, but the staff encouraged me to keep trying and eventually I got a job I really wanted at a company called ReportLab.

William Ng – Computer Science BSc (Hons) (sandwich course)

Computer Science at Kingston University

What our graduates say

Kingston has a great social scene. I was an active member of the University Karting Club, where I can still be found helping out. We raced all over the UK and Europe and I was a team captain for the British University Karting Championships. I also joined the Mountaineering Club so was off most weeks to a new climbing centre.

All the clubs at the University are closely linked and as soon as you are part of one, you will soon meet up with other club members on nights out. There are social events for all tastes, from balls to paint balling.

Kingston as a town is a great place with plenty of places to go and things to do – it's great for bars, restaurants and shopping and has plenty of open spaces like the Royal Parks nearby. If Kingston doesn't have what you want, you can always jump on a train and you're in central London in 30 minutes.

After graduation I decided that I needed to do something to help me stand out from the crowd and give myself an advantage over all the other people with degrees. I was eager to learn more too, so I joined the Networking and Data Communications MSc at the University. Now I'm working at the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry as IT team leader.

Rob Williams – Computer Science BSc(Hons)

My degree has given me the base knowledge and key skills I still use every day in my job. Networking and databases are two examples of this, along with programming in Java.

I have always really liked the creative side of programming, but the thing I enjoy most about my job is working with customers and meeting different people. I find it immensely satisfying to be able to use my knowledge to help their businesses.

Studying computer science at Kingston has changed my life. I think the key thing about choosing a degree course is to be passionate about the subject you are studying. If you are passionate about what you are doing, then you are going to succeed.

Darren Bassett

Links with business and industry

Computing qualifications are amongst the most versatile and enable graduates to find employment in a wide spectrum of careers ranging from systems and business analysts, and software engineers, through to programmers and network specialists in a wide range of public and private sector industries.

Our curriculum is largely applied in nature with many case studies chosen for their topicality and relevance to industry such as information systems design, programming, networking, and implementation issues. Working on case studies designed to simulate the working environment, typically in teams, gives students experience of applying their skills to real-world problems.

To further set the material in context as well as inspire our students leading practitioners from industry, such as Google and IBM are invited to give guest lectures and workshops. The school hosts a local BCS chapter and several members of the School are involved with the Institute at corporate level.

Placement case study – Jake Berry

We spoke to Jake about his experience on a work placement.

Why did you decide to do an industrial placement as part of your degree?

A degree puts you in a position where you can apply for graduate jobs, a placement gives you the experience and respect that makes you stand out from other candidates. For many graduates who do not have any experience in industry, a hypothetical project is the only thing which can be spoken about in a job interview. I wanted to have the chance to make an impact for a real work environment and have something on my CV which gave me more options after graduation.

What was the process for getting a placement and what support did you get from the University?

Many workshops and visits from companies were held, with a lot of interest at the beginning. The numbers began to thin as people found employment or lost interest. I had been very nervous about my job interviews and spent a lot of time with my placement coordinator. The level of support Neeta gave me was well above what I had expected. Getting a placement meant a lot to me and I went through many practice interviews before the real thing.

What does your placement role involve?

Process management, Python development, database management, application development, image manipulation, creating service desk solutions for a service desk team, asset management, working with vendors and running communications for GE Corporate.

What key elements of your job will involve what you had learned from your course?

Programming skills and database management. Teamwork can be transferred, so some extent, but it is then complemented by the professionalism you learn to adopt in the 12 months of experience.

From your experience working at your placement employer is there anything that you will utilise when you go back to your study?

I have learned many new skills which I can take back to university with me. It has given me time to think through my next steps, with a view to working on my final year project. It has offered some breathing space, allowing me to set my sights for the work ahead.

How do you feel that your placement has benefited your course?

You gain a different perspective on everything you learn at University when it is used at your internship. To put theory into practice makes you realise why you have been taught something. Finding solutions on your own is another skill which I've learned. Depending on the work environment, you might find that there is less structure around developing a solution. In my experience, I have been asked for a solution, but I haven't been instructed on how to solve this problem. It's daunting at first but what matters is that you are able to utilise your learning and adapt it to fit the requirements of the task.

Are there any other benefits of doing a placement?

When you network with people and show them the impact you have made, you will not be regarded as an intern. Because of this, what you are actually getting is a year in full-time employment, which you wouldn't necessarily be able to get if you have just rolled out of university and start to look for a graduate job. You are also allowed to make mistakes because you are not being held to your degree. These are two opportunities which you will never get again in your working life.

What job will you be seeking when you graduate?

I have enjoyed programming, which is a main focus of my degree. I don't think I will pursue this route, but instead, use it as a platform to go into other areas of business. I have enjoyed the way in which a corporate business operates. After I have graduated (and even in my final year) I will look for the opportunities which I can apply my new skill set.

What advice would you give to the students who are thinking of applying for placement?

Choose somewhere you believe you will be happy, don't be afraid to go to a job interview just to find out what that place is like. Do your research; know the company before you get there. Forget that you are a student.

Work placement year

How you can work in industry during your course

Placements:

provide work experience that is relevant to your course and future career
improve your chances of graduating with a higher-grade degree
enhance your CV
lead to a graduate job
enable you to earn a year's salary whilst studying (the vast majority of placements are paid)
help you to select your final-year project.

"To be successful, tomorrow's leaders will need to be far more rounded individuals than ever before. They will collaborate in pursuit of shared goals. They will guide, challenge and support...They will have an appetite for change and a hunger for continuous improvement, and they will have an ethos of learning and development..." Jeremy Darroch, Former Chief Executive, Sky.

"Doing a placement year effectively gives you one foot in the door of a future job and to stand out from the crowd... as well as enhancing my CV... and future interviews. It's a great motivator to be successful in my studies as it only serves to open even more doors and gain more skills." Placement student at Jagex Games Studios Ltd.

There is a lot of support available for students looking to secure a placement (e.g. a jobs board with placement vacancies, help with writing CVs and mock interviews). Getting a placement and passing the placement year are ultimately the student's responsibility.

Examples of placements

Placements can be with large multinational companies, international companies, local companies and small start-ups; offering a diverse range of posts. Here are some examples of employers and roles:

Construction-based placement employers	Construction-based placement roles
RG Group Multiplex Costain Willmott Dixon Fluor	Assistant site manager Assistant trades package manager Assistant logistics manager Health and safety officer Construction engineer
Science-based placement employers	Science-based placement roles
Reckitt and Benckiser GSK Drug Control Centre Minton Treharne and Davies Ltd Various local and international hospitals	Bioanalytical sciences Lab assistant Pharmacy assistant Sports coach
Engineering-based placement employers	Engineering-based placement roles
Airbus BAM Nuttall Nissan Bosch Wozair	Analysis of aircraft structure Construction resources specialist Site engineer assistant
Computing and IS-based placement employers	Computing and IS-based placement roles
Disney Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe IBM McKinsey Intel	Database coordinator Software developer Website developer App developer
Mathematics-based placement employers	Mathematics-based placement roles
Lloyds Banking Group AXA Allianz PAU Education, Spain	Analyst Investment solutions Research analyst Accounts assistant

Key information set

The scrolling banner(s) below display some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).

Course changes and regulations

The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Course changes explained.

Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.

Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.