Courses

Why study Computer Science?

Shape tomorrow's digital world

Studying computer science at Manchester means gaining the skills to shape tomorrow’s world. From AI to software engineering, you'll explore the technology that underpins our daily lives – and develop the expertise to improve it.

  • Learn to solve real-world problems with creativity
  • Gain future-proof skills through hands-on projects and industrial experience
  • Explore topics like cybersecurity, machine learning, and robotics
  • Work with world-leading researchers at a university with a proud computing legacy
  • Graduate ready for careers in tech, research, entrepreneurship – and beyond!

What is computer science at Manchester

Listen to staff and students talk about the Department of Computer Science here at The University of Manchester.

How you’ll learn

Teaching

At Manchester, you’ll experience a diverse range of teaching methods, including traditional lectures, interactive workshops, group discussions, and personalised one-to-one sessions, supporting your development as a confident and independent learner.

Meet Amelie, a second year computer science student who gives you a sneak peak of a day in her life.

Coursework and assessment

From traditional exams to hands-on projects, you’ll experience a wide range of assessments. Some units are exam-based, others rely on coursework — many offer a mix of both.

Expect essays, lab reports, group or individual projects, and real-world problem-solving.

In your final year, you’ll take on a major individual project that forms a significant part of your assessment.

Facilities

As leaders in the field, we’re proud to offer some of the most advanced facilities in the world. Here’s just a glimpse of what you’ll have access to:

  • Modern computing labs with dual-screen desktops
  • Direct access to world-leading academic staff and expert support
  • Collaborative working labs equipped with specialist AV and computing tools
  • Over 300 dedicated student computers across the Department
  • A hardware library featuring drones, 3D printers, robots, and Oculus Rifts.

Peer support

Our Peer-Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) scheme is a fantastic resource for our students. Here, you’ll be matched with a mentor who runs weekly small-group sessions to support transitioning to higher education, developing a sense of belonging, academic success, and student health and wellbeing.

Learn more about PASS

Study options

Tailor your degree to your goals

At Manchester, you’ll find a range of flexible degree options to suit your ambitions – whether you're looking to gain industry experience, combine disciplines, or build your confidence before diving in. You’re in control: choose the path that works for you.

  • Industrial experience:
    Spend a paid year on placement with leading employers such as ARM, GlaxoSmithKline, or Microsoft. Develop in-demand skills, earn a salary, and gain valuable insight into real-world tech challenges.
  • Joint honours: Computer Science and Mathematics:
    Explore the close relationship between these two subjects, mastering skills in areas like simulation, modelling, and financial systems.
  • Integrated Foundation Year:
    Prepare for a degree by first undertaking our foundation year. This is the perfect option for students who may not yet meet the typical entry requirements for direct entry to an undergraduate degree.

Our course options offer you the chance to specialise, grow, and shape your future - supported by cutting-edge facilities, world-class teaching, and strong industry links.

Careers

What will you do with a degree in computer science?

A computer science degree from Manchester opens doors to a huge range of careers – from AI and cybersecurity to finance, the automotive industry, gaming and healthcare. You'll graduate with the technical and problem-solving skills employers need to tackle global challenges and drive innovation across industries.

Where our students go

Some recent graduates have gone on to work for:

  • ARM
  • CERN
  • EA Games
  • IBM
  • Microsoft

... and many more top graduate employers.

Accreditation

All our single honours degree courses are accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), meeting industry standards and recognised internationally. Accreditation supports your path to professional registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP), Chartered Engineer (CEng), or Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and is valued by employers in the UK and abroad. 

Supporting your future

From software development and AI to cybersecurity and data science, a computer science degree can lead to a wide range of careers – anywhere in the world. You’ll be supported every step of the way, with a personal tutor, peer mentoring, expert advice and support, and one of the UK’s largest careers services to help you plan your next move.

How to apply

Start your journey to an undergraduate degree in computer science

If you’re interested in applying to one of our computer science degrees at Manchester, here’s what you need to know.

Contact us

Have any questions? Get in touch

Computer Science course enquiries

General undergraduate enquiries