Practical, hands-on learning
Be part of the team
Strong industry links




Details
Year 1

Core modules
BPIE111
Stage 1 Computing Placement Preparation
0 credits
Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.
COMP1000
Software Engineering 1
20 credits
In this hands-on module, you’ll explore how computers make decisions, repeat actions, and store data while building your own programs step by step to solve real-world problems using programming languages. Along the way, you'll use professional tools and techniques to write clean code, test, and debug. Whether you're dreaming of games, apps, or AI, this module is your first step into the world of software engineering.
100% Coursework
COMP1001
Computer Systems
20 credits
Explore the hidden machinery behind every computing device. In this foundational module, you'll uncover how computers really work - from digital logic to hardware architecture, operating systems, and assembly language. Build the understanding needed to work confidently across platforms and systems.
100% Coursework
COMP1002
Cyber Security & Networks
20 credits
Step into the world of secure digital infrastructure. You'll learn how devices connect, how data flows, and how to defend networks against cyber threats. From configuring routers to exploring malware and encryption, this module builds the skills to protect and manage today's interconnected systems.
100% Coursework
COMP1003
Algorithms, Data Structures and Mathematics
20 credits
Discover the logic that powers computing. This module dives into essential data structures and algorithms, showing how they solve real problems efficiently. From recursion to graph traversal, you'll combine theory and coding to develop analytical skills that form the core of computational thinking.
100% Coursework
COMP1004
Computing Practice
40 credits
Develop confidence in the day-to-day tools and workflows of modern computing. In this foundational module, you'll use real development environments, track code changes, write effective documentation, and collaborate on small projects. You'll gain essential habits that support software development, problem-solving, and teamwork from day one.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
Year 2

Core modules
BPIE211
Stage 2 Computing Placement Preparation
0 credits
A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.
COMP2000
Software Engineering 2
20 credits
Go beyond coding to master the craft of software development. This module builds on foundational skills by exploring agile practices, version control, test automation, and software quality. You'll learn how professionals deliver reliable, maintainable systems in dynamic real-world environments.
100% Coursework
COMP2001
Information Management & Retrieval
20 credits
In a world where data is everywhere, learn to find what matters. This module explores how to structure, store, and retrieve meaningful information using modern databases. You'll design queries, optimise search performance, and understand the backbone of intelligent data systems.
100% Coursework
COMP2002
Artificial Intelligence
20 credits
Unlock the foundations of machine intelligence. This module introduces core AI concepts including decision trees, neural networks, and heuristic search. You'll explore how machines learn, adapt, and solve problems, building intelligent systems that mimic human thinking.
100% Coursework
COMP2003
Computing Group Project
40 credits
Knowledge gained in earlier stages of the computing programmes is consolidated and integrated into a substantial project. Students work in teams, champion professional roles, design and develop a software solution for a given scenario. The project integrates and expands upon software development stages covered on the course (project management, analysis, design, construction, communication, security and/or networking).
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
Optional modules
COMP2005
Software Development Tools and Practices
20 credits
Master the everyday tools of professional software development. This module covers version control, issue tracking, build automation, and documentation workflows. You'll gain the practical habits that enable teams to work efficiently, collaboratively, and with confidence.
100% Coursework
COMP2006
Security Architectures & Cryptography
20 credits
Build secure systems from the inside out. In this module, you'll study cryptographic techniques, authentication mechanisms, and secure architectural design. You'll learn to evaluate risk, apply encryption, and design layered defences - gaining the skills to build systems that protect data, ensure trust, and withstand evolving threats.
100% Coursework
COMP2007
Game Development
20 credits
Turn ideas into interactive experiences. In this hands-on module, you'll design and build digital games using industry-standard tools. Explore gameplay mechanics, visual storytelling, and user interaction while collaborating on engaging, playable prototypes that bring creativity to life.
100% Coursework
Optional placement year

Core modules
BPIE330
Computing Related Placement (Generic)
A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.
Final year

Core modules
COMP3000
Computing Project
40 credits
This module provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to work independently on an in-depth project with an implementation element that builds on their established knowledge, understanding and skills to provide a problem solution. Self-management, innovation, creativity, ability to synthesise information, ideas and practices are key concepts, as is the ability to engage in critical self-evaluation.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
COMP3003
Machine Learning
20 credits
Dive into the world of machine learning, where data becomes insight and algorithms learn from experience. You'll explore supervised and unsupervised models, build neural networks, evaluate results, and apply industry-standard tools - gaining hands-on experience in one of the most transformative fields in computing today.
100% Coursework
COMP3018
Human-Robot Interaction
20 credits
Explore the cutting edge of collaboration between humans and machines. This module dives into Human-Robot Interaction, where technology meets empathy. You'll investigate the challenges of designing intuitive robotic systems and evaluate real-world interactions to build the future of responsive, intelligent agents.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
COMP3006
Full-Stack Development
20 credits
Build complete web applications from front to back. In this module, you'll design interfaces, implement server logic, and connect databases using industry-standard tools. You'll develop and deploy full-stack systems that power interactive, data-driven digital experiences.
100% Coursework
COMP3008
Big Data Analytics
20 credits
Work with data that doesn't fit in a spreadsheet. In this module, you'll use big data frameworks to process, analyse, and visualise vast datasets. You'll learn a range of big data analytical techniques and technologies, explore distributed storage, and develop scalable analytics solutions - building practical skills for industries where data drives discovery, decision-making, and innovation.
100% Coursework
COMP3007
HCI, Usability and Visualization
20 credits
Design technology that works for people. In this module, you'll explore the science and art of Human-Computer Interaction, usability engineering, and interactive visualisation. Learn how to build intuitive interfaces, evaluate user experiences, and visualise data in ways that are clear, accessible, and impactful.
100% Coursework
COMP3001
Parallel Computing
20 credits
Ever wondered how to make software run faster—on a laptop or even a supercomputer? In this module, you’ll learn to spot performance bottlenecks and speed up real-world applications on modern multi-core CPUs and GPUs. From PCs to high-performance systems, you’ll gain hands-on experience writing efficient parallel code and even test it on the University’s brand-new supercomputer used by real researchers.
100% Coursework
Optional pathways
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BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT accreditation
Accredited by, and entitles membership to, the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT
Experience
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Develop your computational theory and practice
Gather requirements
Collaborate within a team
Manage the pressure of deadlines


I don’t think there’s been a single week where I haven’t used the computing lab at least five out of seven days. Having free, full access to specialised software like MATLAB, VirtualBox, Azure and Eclipse has been a significant boost to my education.
BSc (Hons) Computer Science student
Research-informed teaching

Dr Rory Hopcraft
Lecturer in Cyber Security

Dr Fatma Bouabdallah
Lecturer in Computer Science

Dr Vasilios Kelefouras
Lecturer in Computer Science
Passionate about all things computing?
- participate and learn together in collaborative coding sessions. Perfect for both improving your skills and helping others with their coding challenges
- gain insights from industry professionals through our guest speaker events, providing valuable industry connections and real-world perspectives on what it's like working in tech.
- build your professional network at our events. Meet peers, alumni, and professionals from the tech industry, opening doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations.

Life in Plymouth
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Current student



Careers

The professional skills I learned at Plymouth, coupled with the technical expertise in certain areas, allowed me to move directly into a Software Developer role
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Software Developer at PenCarrie Ltd
We regularly have students securing placements and jobs at FTSE 100 companies. There is a perception that only students from red brick universities go to these places. It simply is not the case – our students are massively competitive and win these placements as well.
Professor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
The placement year taught me how to interact with different people throughout the company at differing levels and how to approach conversations to get the maximum amount of information out of them.
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Senior Machine Learning Engineer at Just Eat.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
£9,535 per year
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
£18,650 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Additional costs
Fund your studies
Supporting students with the cost of living

Apply
Entry requirements
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
A levels
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
BTEC National Diploma modules
All Access courses
T level
International Baccalaureate
Extended entry requirements
Ready to apply?
I400
P60
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning computer science through an additional foundation year, gaining hands-on skills across a range of topics.
Entry requirements
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
English language requirements
Ready to apply?
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
I400
P60
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth