Overview

Computing now shapes nearly every part of modern life, and mastering it means combining rigorous theoretical foundations with the practical ability to solve genuine real-world problems. The BSc (Hons) Computer Science at the University of York explores everything from digital hardware and operating systems to programming languages, data and artificial intelligence, with a curriculum shaped directly by industry input. Teaching takes place in the purpose-built Ian Wand Building, giving students access to software and hardware laboratories, collaborative spaces and specialist research facilities. The course suits students who want a broad, principled computer science education with genuine flexibility to specialise in their final year, with the option to add a placement year for real workplace experience.

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What You'll Learn

• Core programming, software engineering and the mathematical foundations of computer science

• Human-computer interaction and object-oriented data structures and algorithms

• Computer architecture, operating systems, security and networking

• Machine learning, optimisation and introductory data science

• A specialist individual project in an area of your choosing

• Advanced option modules such as deep learning, cryptography and quantum computation

• Ethical hacking, network security and high-integrity systems engineering

• The legal, ethical and societal implications of computing technology

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Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to apply computational thinking to complex problems, using strong analytical skills in algorithm selection, representation and abstraction across the breadth of computer science. They will be equipped to design and build computer-based systems that meet real user needs, drawing on both theoretical and practical knowledge of programming and software engineering. Through a specialist individual project and advanced option modules, students will develop deeper technical expertise in areas of personal interest, while gaining experience of multidisciplinary teamwork. Graduates will leave able to communicate complex computational problems clearly to technical and non-technical audiences alike, and to operate as responsible computing professionals attentive to the wider legal and ethical implications of their work.