Computer Science (Extended Degree) BSc (Hons)
Option for Placement Year
Option for Study Abroad

International
Ideally situated in the 5th best student city in the UK (QS Best Student Cities 2026), Northumbria University is a UK Top 40 University (Complete University Guide 2026) with a diverse community of 34,500 students from over 140 countries.
View our Global FootprintBusiness
Northumbria University is proud to offer a range of Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) approved & accredited courses and programmes. Explore our list of courses and programmes under our Education and Training page.
More on our Business ServicesResearch
Northumbria is a research-rich, business-focused, professional university with a global reputation for academic quality. We conduct ground-breaking research that is responsive to the science & technology, health & well being, economic and social and arts & cultural needs for the communities
Discover more about our ResearchAlumni
Northumbria University is renowned for the calibre of its business-ready graduates. Our alumni network has over 253,000 graduates based in 178 countries worldwide in a range of sectors, our alumni are making a real impact on the world.
Our AlumniIf you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.
* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here
Option for Placement Year
Option for Study Abroad

As new information and computer systems emerge, Computer Scientists are increasingly called upon for their knowledge and skills in applying theoretical and practical knowledge to ever-changing, real-world challenges.
Through Northumbria University’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree, you will be immersed in an exciting, innovative environment where you will gain this theoretical and technical knowledge and develop skills which will be directly relatable to your future career.
You will study core computer science topics - from programming to architecture - and graduate as an expert in software development and engineering. As well as this, you will also have the choice to tailor the degree to your interests and career aspirations. Optional modules span AI, data science, virtual reality, and business computing.
Throughout these modules, you will discover the impact of computers on people and society, with modules exploring essential questions around privacy, attack prevention, and the effects of globalisation.
Throughout the course, you will use specific software packages and gain industry certifications that are in high demand with employers. You will have plenty of chances to practice your skills too.
At Northumbria, every undergraduate course guarantees real-world experience. For example, on this course, you will take part in a business consultancy project, delivering solutions to real-world problems. This can be here in Newcastle or at our partner campus in London.
As well as this, you can opt for an optional year in industry or studying abroad. This can be a great opportunity to develop and enhance your intellectual and professional skills, broadening your overall learning experience.
See other similar courses you may be interested in: Artificial Intelligence BSc, Networks and Cyber Security BSc, Games Computing BSc.
As new information and computer systems emerge, Computer Scientists are increasingly called upon for their knowledge and skills in applying theoretical and practical knowledge to ever-changing, real-world challenges.
Through Northumbria University’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree, you will be immersed in an exciting, innovative environment where you will gain this theoretical and technical knowledge and develop skills which will be directly relatable to your future career.
You will study core computer science topics - from programming to architecture - and graduate as an expert in software development and engineering. As well as this, you will also have the choice to tailor the degree to your interests and career aspirations. Optional modules span AI, data science, virtual reality, and business computing.
Throughout these modules, you will discover the impact of computers on people and society, with modules exploring essential questions around privacy, attack prevention, and the effects of globalisation.
Throughout the course, you will use specific software packages and gain industry certifications that are in high demand with employers. You will have plenty of chances to practice your skills too.
At Northumbria, every undergraduate course guarantees real-world experience. For example, on this course, you will take part in a business consultancy project, delivering solutions to real-world problems. This can be here in Newcastle or at our partner campus in London.
As well as this, you can opt for an optional year in industry or studying abroad. This can be a great opportunity to develop and enhance your intellectual and professional skills, broadening your overall learning experience.
See other similar courses you may be interested in: Artificial Intelligence BSc, Networks and Cyber Security BSc, Games Computing BSc.
This extended degree provides an alternative route to higher education and supports those who don’t meet the standard entry requirements for an undergraduate degree. It includes a foundation year offering a wide-ranging and rigorous introduction to the various facets of computing and information science. From day one, you will be immersed in an exciting, innovative environment where you will develop your theoretical and technical knowledge and skills which will be directly relatable to your future career.
You will learn that computing and information technology has changed both the world of business and the everyday lives of huge segments of the world's population and explore the rapid evolution of computing technology and how this challenges many aspects of society and offers a potential to change the world.
The foundation year of the course delivered at level 3 which develops your ability to study in Higher Education is not accredited. Subsequent levels and years are accredited and deliver the knowledge, competencies, and skills required to meet the specific course accreditation requirements that relate to the approved accredited award title.
UCAS Code
Z063
Level of Study
Undergraduate
Mode of Study
4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
School
Computer Science
Location
City Campus, Northumbria University
City
Newcastle
Start
September 2026 or September 2027
Fees
Fee Information
Hear what it is really like to study Computer Science from our students and staff
Find out more about our Department.
School
Business
Northumbria University launches Centre for Responsible AI.
Read the news story.Northumbria graduate entrepreneur takes the AI industry by storm.
Read the news storyNorthumbria to host Digital Civics Exchange in spring.
Read the news story.Sensors built into wearable patches could signal the future.
Read the news storyWearable device provides support for Parkinsons patients.
Read the news story
Throughout your time at Northumbria University, you will be provided with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic learning environment. You will study core knowledge in computer programming, algorithms and data structures, data management, artificial intelligence and cloud computing.
Modules in software architecture and human-computer interaction will further strengthen your skills in developing human-centred computer software. The social and professional issues in computing will also be part of the curriculum, to highlight the responsibility that computer professionals and users should have.
In a dynamic learning environment with an expert team of staff, you will be taught theoretical and practical research skills such as information literacy, as well as problem solving skills around project management, self-directed learning and communication skills. You will develop an understanding of important research methods and approaches which could be directly relatable to the demands of future careers.
As you progress further in your studies, you can tailor your learning experience by having a wide range of optional modules to choose from.
During your course, the assessments are designed to help you develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required of a computer science graduate. You will be assessed through a variety of different methods including exams, reports, presentations, individual, group and project work.
You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience from the computer science sector.
As well as teaching you and conducting research, your tutors work with other organisations and regularly publish work in prestigious publications, contributing solutions to computer science challenges.
Computer Science programmes at Northumbria take place in a dynamic learning environment where you will have access to an expert team of staff - developing in-depth technical expertise as well as career-ready skills like teamwork, communication and critical thinking.
Our students learn from the best inspirational academic staff with a genuine passion for their subject. Our courses are at the forefront of current knowledge and practice and are shaped by world-leading and internationally excellent research.
The Computer Science facilities at Northumbria will provide you with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic learning environment.
During your studies, you will have the opportunity to access state of the art facilities and equipment which will encourage your individual intellectual freedom and allow your creative vision to become a reality.
Our £7m Computer and Information Sciences building was opened in 2018, especially for our computing students, and it is packed with high quality services to support your learning. Here, you will have access to dedicated computing areas which you can use during free periods and into the evenings and weekends. These areas are useful spaces for completing your coursework, stocked with the latest PC, Mac and Linux machines. Plus, our award-winning Library has lots of resources and study spaces to support your learning, with professional support services for students at all levels of study.
We are proud to say that the Computer and Information Science building at Northumbria University is a sustainable ‘Smart Building’, which is able to run itself efficiently and sustainably. This ‘Living Lab’ supports student learning and provides useful links between sustainability and technology.
Northumbria also contributes to the Institute of Coding - a £40m collaboration between 25 UK universities – delivering education to people of all ages, helping them gain the skills they need to become the next generation of digital talent.
Take a Virtual Tour.
The Department of Computer and Information Sciences is home to a variety of facilities and equipment to help enhance your studies.
At the heart of each Northumbria campus, our libraries provide a range of study space and technology to suit every learning style.
We are living in a digital age where all of our lives are impacted by computer sciences and digital technologies, from cyber security and computational intelligence to games and visual effects, meaning it is essential that research continues to broaden our understanding.
In studying Computer Science at Northumbria University, you will be immersed in a research-rich environment with new and exciting insights into the discipline by our rapidly expanding Computer Science research groups, helping to overcome challenges and understand the future of technology.
You will be taught by staff with a strong academic background in research-informed areas.
With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria.
Find out more below about our Computer & Information Science research groups.
Digital Health & Wellbeing
Network Systems and Security (NetSyS)
Computer and Information Sciences
See more research from this department
Find out what innovative research our students and staff are involved in.
Almost every industry relies on computer hardware, software and systems to function and grow, meaning they need highly skilled Computer and Information professionals to maintain and develop everything.
As a computer science graduate, you may wish to enter a career in areas such as software engineering, systems analysis and design, consultancy, computer networks, database development and management, software testing, artificial intelligence, embedded systems, web development and IT management, and more.
This work could be in a wide range of sectors such as: Financial services, Healthcare, Technology, Media, Marketing, Government, Military, Agriculture, Gaming, and Retail.
We place a real emphasis on developing the transferable skills that will open doors to a range of careers in computer science. These include communication, analytical and problem-solving skills, technical skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Yes. You will have the chance to take up to a year-long work placement. This will give you a real head-start in your career because you will understand how your learning applies to real-life problems that businesses face, have more confidence about working life and what it involves, and could gain valuable contacts.
Thanks to Northumbria’s excellent professional links, you will have the opportunity to apply for a placement in the public or private sector, in the UK or abroad. Previous students from across the department have been on placement with blue-chip companies such as Hewlett Packard and GlaxoSmithKline and at CERN in Geneva.
An alternative option could also be study abroad. This option allows you to get a global perspective on your subject, which could pave the way for an international career in the future.
Discover some of our masters course to see where your next steps in academia could be: Computer Science MSc.
From first year through to final year and beyond graduation, we are here to help.
Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study at Northumbria. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
56 to 72 Tariff Points
From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions and we understand that every applicant’s circumstances can be different, which is why we take a flexible approach when making offers for this course. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our university regardless of personal circumstances or background. Typically, offers range from 56 to 72 UCAS tariff points, but we’ll assess your individual circumstances and potential when reviewing your application
To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo
Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course.
GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.
Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course.
International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.
If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry
English Language Requirements:
International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).
*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications
56 to 72 Tariff Points
From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions and we understand that every applicant’s circumstances can be different, which is why we take a flexible approach when making offers for this course. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our university regardless of personal circumstances or background. Typically, offers range from 56 to 72 UCAS tariff points, but we’ll assess your individual circumstances and potential when reviewing your application
To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo
Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course.
GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.
Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course.
International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.
If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry
English Language Requirements:
International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).
*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications
UK Fee in Year 1: £9,790
* In relation to fees for UK students: £9,790 is the tuition fee. The remaining fees relate to the International Soccer Academy, and accommodation fees. Tuition fees in the academic year 2027/28* will be £10,050. Fees are set in line with the UK Government's tuition fee cap. The University may increase fees in subsequent years in line with any changes to the tuition fee cap. Increases will be linked to inflation. For example, increases may be linked to RPIX (Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments) Students will be notified of any increase ahead of it taking effect. Student fee loans rise in line with the tuition fees cap. *if your course is longer than one year
* Fees subject to annual increases over the course of the period of study. Students will be liable for payment of any/all tuition fees which are not sponsored by their employer or other third party.
International Fee in Year 1:
This is the tuition fee for your first year of study. You should expect to pay tuition fees for every year of study. The University may increase fees in the second and subsequent years of your course at our discretion in line with any inflationary or other uplift. Students will be notified of any increase ahead of it taking effect.
Tuition fees in the academic year 2027/28* will be £10,050. Fees are set in line with the UK Government's tuition fee cap. The University may increase fees in subsequent years in line with any changes to the tuition fee cap. Increases will be linked to inflation. For example, increases may be linked to RPIX (Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments) Students will be notified of any increase ahead of it taking effect. Student fee loans rise in line with the tuition fees cap.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
There are no Additional Costs
UK Fee in Year 1*: TBC
The University may increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of your course at our discretion in line with any inflationary or other uplift, as decided by the UK Government, up to the maximum amount for fees permitted by UK law or regulation for that academic year. To give students an indication of the likely scale of any future increase, the UK government has suggested that increases may be linked to RPIX (Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments). If the University intends to exercise this right to increase tuition fees, notification will be communicated with all students affected by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which we intend to exercise that right. Student fee loans have risen in line with the level of uplift decided by the UK Government.
Extended Degrees: Students will pay the applicable Foundation Year fee in Year 0. Tuition fees will follow the Year 1 (Level 4) cap in the first year of Undergraduate study, with tuition fees in subsequent years increasing as per the above information.
International Fee in Year 1: TBC
International fees for the 2027/28 academic year will be confirmed in due course. As an indication, tuition fees in the 2026/27 academic year were £19,850 or £21,500 depending on the course of study. Fees are charged for each year of study and may be subject to an inflationary or other uplift in the second and subsequent years of study as decided by the University. Students will be notified of any changes by the end of June each academic year.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
TBC
* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here
else
To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.
Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS
International applicants please apply using the links below
Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.
We are proud to work in partnership with AccessAble to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.
You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need.
We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:
If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.
* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here