UCAS code G403
From the underlying principles to the very edge of modern technology, this programme will cover all aspects of Computer Science and ensure that when you graduate you will know exactly what is and isn't possible with computers.
Study Computer Science at Liverpool and develop a deep understanding of the technology that underpins much of modern life and society. Computer Science is a great choice for those with a keen interest in computers, software and technology. You’ll create functional applications as well as how to consistently iterate and improve your work.
After learning core theory you can choose to maintain a balanced mixture of modules throughout your degree or opt to follow a specialist pathway in artificial intelligence, algorithms and optimisation or data science.
In the first two years you will cover programming, computer systems, databases, software engineering, algorithmic foundations, complexity of algorithms & decision and computation & language. You will also spend a year on industrial placement acquiring experience and awareness of practical business and industrial environments.
The course is accredited by the British Computer Society which means that the course is continually updated and adapted to reflect new technologies and emerging trends.
After you’ve covered the core elements, we give you the flexibility to tailor your own learning to your own interests, offering specialisms in in artificial intelligence, algorithms and optimisation, data science, and software development.
Accredited by BCS, so opens up a wide variety of career opportunities with excellent employment prospects.
The Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
In year one you will learn the fundamentals of Computer Science. Starting with an introduction to procedural programming using commonly found language platforms, you’ll move on to learn about the importance of hardware and software components within the operation of computer systems, formal analytic techniques and the development of artificial intelligence.
In year one students will typically undertake either COMP101 (Introduction to Programming) or COMP105 (Programming Language Paradigms) based on prior exposure to programming (eg Computer Science A level). Students without a background will normally study COMP101, however in some instances may be permitted to enrol on COMP105 instead.
All other year one modules are required.
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING (COMP101) | 15 |
| PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE PARADIGMS (COMP105) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
In year two you will expand your knowledge of key concepts and skills related to software development and database development. You will also begin to choose which wider elements of computer science you want to engage with such as cyber security, computer based trading in financial markets and principles of computer game design.
You will take the compulsory modules listed, in addition to selected optional modules. Depending on your choice of optional modules you will be able to graduate with one of the following degrees
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| COMPLEXITY OF ALGORITHMS (COMP202) | 15 |
| DATABASE DEVELOPMENT (COMP207) | 15 |
| GROUP SOFTWARE PROJECT (COMP208) | 15 |
| SOFTWARE ENGINEERING I (COMP201) | 15 |
| PLANNING YOUR CAREER (COMP221) | 7.5 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year three of the programme is taken up with a placement in a professional software industry environment.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| INDUSTRIAL PLACEMENT Y3 (COMP299) | 120 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year four is where you will start to build on what you’ve learnt to far with your own research and exploration by undertaking an individual project. Whilst guided, you will work independently to explore a substantial computer science problem in depth, making use of the principles, techniques and methodologies acquired elsewhere in the programme.
You will take the compulsory modules listed, in addition to selected optional modules. Depending on your choice of optional modules you will be able to graduate with one of the following degrees
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| HONOURS YEAR COMPUTER SCIENCE PROJECT (COMP390) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching is a mix of formal lectures, small group tutorials and supervised laboratory-based practical sessions. Students also undertake individual and group projects. Key problem solving skills and employability skills, like presentation and teamwork skills, are developed throughout the programme.
The main modes of assessment are through a combination of coursework and examination, but depending on the modules taken you may encounter project work, presentations (individual or group), and specific tests/tasks focused on solidifying learning outcomes.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
This course is also available without an included year in industry.
View Computer Science BSc (Hons)
To spend a year in industry, you'll need to secure a placement with an organisation. If you're unable to find a placement, you'll continue with the standard version of the course without a year in industry.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
This course is also available as a five year MEng programme.
Computer science is housed in a grade II listed building which has been extensively refurbished for 21st century needs and challenges and provides state-of-the art equipment and high-speed communication links.
Dr Terry Payne talks you through what you can expect studying Computer Science at the University of Liverpool and shows you some of the facilities and equipment you will be using.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
The University has also provided me with the best opportunities to meet amazing people in my field through networking events.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Liverpool’s computer science graduates go onto well-paid graduate jobs and careers such as: computer programmer; software developer; systems analyst; software engineer; technical consultant; web designer.
Computer science graduates will enter a high-in-demand pool in the field with possible roles in:
Recent employers include:
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Graduating from Computer Science in 2020, Nachi describes her time at the University of Liverpool and how it has prepared her for first role after University.
Graduating from Computer Science in 2013, Kirsty describes her time at the University of Liverpool and how she is now running her own tech startup.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £9,535
Year in industry fee - £1,905
Full-time place, per year - £29,900
Year in industry fee - £1,905
The tuition fees shown are correct for 2025/26 entry. Please note that the year abroad fee also applies to the year in China.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Apply for an Asylum Seekers Scholarship and you could have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with study costs. You’ll need to have applied for asylum in the UK, or be the dependant of an asylum seeker, and be joining an eligible undergraduate degree.
If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.
Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Joining a School of Biosciences degree and have a household income of less than £25,000? If you’re a UK student, you could apply to receive £4,500 per year for three years of your undergraduate course.
Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? If you’ve participated in an eligible outreach programme, you could be eligible to apply for a Rigby Enterprise Award worth £5,000 per year for three years of your undergraduate degree.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
Joining a degree in the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science? If you’re a UK student with household income below £25,000, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000 a year for three years of study. Two awards will be available per academic year.
If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
AAA incl. A-level Maths or Computer Science. BTEC D*D*D* plus A-level Maths or Computer Science. If A-level Maths isn’t taken, require GCSE Maths Grade A (7) or above.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| A levels |
AAA including Maths or Computer Science. Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is AAB with A in the EPQ. You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work. Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers. If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course. Available foundation years: |
| T levels |
T levels are not currently accepted. |
| GCSE |
4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics |
| Subject requirements | A level Mathematics or Computer Science. For applicants from England: For science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required. |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate | Acceptable at grade Distinction* (any subject) alongside AA at A level (including Mathematics or Computer Science). |
| BTEC Level 3 Diploma | Acceptable at grade Distinction* Distinction (any subject) alongside A at A level (including Mathematics or Computer Science). |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma | D*D*D* plus A level Maths or Computer Science. If A level Maths isn’t taken, require GCSE Maths Grade A (7) or above. |
| International Baccalaureate | 36 overall including 5 in Higher Level Mathematics or Computer Science. |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | H1,H1,H2,H2,H2, H2, including H1 in Higher Maths or Higher Computer Science. We also require a minimum of H6 in Higher English or O3 in Ordinary English |
| Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher | Scottish Advanced Higher: Acceptable on the same basis as A levels |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | Welsh Bacc: Acceptable at grade A alongside AA at A level including Maths or Computer Science. |
| Cambridge Pre-U Diploma | Principal subjects acceptable in lieu of A levels. D3 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A level grade A M2 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade B. Global Perspectives and Short Courses are not accepted. |
| Access | Considered if taking a relevant subject. 45 Level 3 credits at Distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Mathematical or Computer Science subjects is required. GCSE English and Mathematics grade C/grade 4 or above also required. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our direct entry requirements. Although there is no direct Foundation Certificate route to this course, completing a Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, can guarantee you a place on a number of similar courses which may interest you. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 78 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| TOEFL Paper | Grade 6 at Standard Level or grade 5 at Higher Level |
| Duolingo English Test | 115 overall, with speaking, reading and writing not less than 105, and listening not below 100 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 59 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 65 overall, with no skill below 60 |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 | Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate. |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 | Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 | 0510: Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade C overall. |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 | 0993: Grade 5 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 5 overall. |
| Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced | 169 overall, with no paper below 162 |
| LanguageCert | Grade 4 at Standard Level or grade 4 at Higher Level |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.0 overall, with no component below 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5, for further details.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 27 September 2024 / / Programme terms and conditions