Overview

Computer science underpins almost every part of modern life, from healthcare and finance to entertainment and public services, and it continues to open up new possibilities as technology advances. Studying BSc (Hons) Computer Science at Keele University places students at the forefront of this field, with a curriculum that covers artificial intelligence and coding alongside practical problem solving. The course uses hands-on projects and encourages students to carry out their own research, so that learning goes beyond the lecture room. Computing labs provide industry-standard software, Windows and Linux systems, a high-performance computing cluster and JupyterHub access for designing, building and testing solutions. A dedicated cyber security lab, with a virtualised environment and over 70 high-specification PCs, adds further scope for practical exploration. Work placements are supported by an academic advisor and a placements and project manager based within the School of Computer Science and Mathematics. The course suits students who want to innovate and lead in technology, and graduates are prepared to move into industry, the public sector or further study.

What You'll Learn

Artificial intelligence and its applications

Coding and software development

Designing, building and testing practical technical solutions

Working across Windows and Linux systems

High-performance computing and JupyterHub-based analysis

Tackling real-world computing challenges through applied projects

Independent research skills

Cyber security practice in a virtualised lab environment

Professional experience through work placements and optional international study

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to write and develop code with confidence and apply artificial intelligence techniques to a variety of problems. They will understand how computing systems operate at different levels, from individual programs running on standard machines to demanding workloads handled by high-performance computing resources. Students will learn to evaluate technical problems critically and to design solutions that respond to real-world needs rather than treating computing as an abstract exercise. Practical work in the computing labs builds the skills to design, build and test systems using industry-standard software across Windows and Linux environments, while independent research develops analytical and investigative abilities. Experience in the cyber security lab introduces safe, hands-on exploration of security concepts in an isolated setting. Optional placements and international study allow students to gain professional exposure and a wider perspective, and these experiences, together with project work, help them focus on the areas of computing they wish to pursue in industry, the public sector or further study.