Location

Farnham

Start date

Sept 2026, Sept 2027

Duration

3 years full-time

UCAS logo

UCAS codes

Course: G400
Institution: C93

+1

Foundation year

Optional extra year of study

+1

Placement year

Optional extra year of study

Entry requirements

Check qualifications

Computer Science at UCA

Code, create, and collaborate – with creativity at the heart of your skills.

The art school advantage

The developers who go furthest aren't just technically brilliant – they understand how their code connects to the process of making. At UCA Farnham, artists and designers are your classmates from day one, and working alongside them changes the software you write, and the kind of developer you become.

Built for creative industries

Games, film, immersive media, interactive systems – this course is built with those destinations in mind. You’ll collaborate with students in these industries and get first-hand feedback on your work from potential future colleagues (or customers.)

Part of something bigger

At UCA you study alongside postgraduate and PhD researchers, not just fellow first years. That proximity to people testing ideas at a higher level brings a different kind of intellectual energy to your learning – and a sharper sense of where the field is heading.

What you'll study

The content of the course may be subject to change. Curriculum content is provided as a guide.

UCA’s Integrated Foundation Year is designed to give you the skills you’ll need to start your degree in the best possible way – with confidence, solid knowledge of creative practice, study skills and more.

You’ll explore a range of creative techniques and develop your portfolio, with your chosen subject in mind. We’ll work with you throughout the year to ensure you’re on the right track and give you the tools to achieve your highest potential on your degree.

Find out more about the Integrated Foundation Year

Foundations of Programming and Computer Systems; 30 credits
This module introduces the core foundations of computer science through programming, algorithmic thinking, and an understanding of how software operates within computer systems. You will learn how computational problems are framed, decomposed, and solved through structured code while developing confidence in logic, abstraction, and systematic problem-solving.

Through hands-on programming exercises and small application projects, you will design, implement, test, and debug software using modern development tools. You will explore key programming constructs including control flow, functions, collections, and object-oriented programming, learning how these structures support the creation of reliable and maintainable software.

Alongside programming, the module introduces essential computer systems concepts, including how programs interact with operating environments, processors, memory, and runtime systems. You will also gain experience in professional development practices such as version control, debugging workflows, and iterative improvement.

Career Catalyst: Skills & Capability; 30 credits
You focus on developing the core skills that underpin effective computing practice: problem-solving, collaboration, reflection, and communication. Working through structured but open-ended tasks, you will learn how to manage projects, respond to feedback, and iterate ideas through practice.

You will work independently and collaboratively, developing professional habits such as time management, constructive use of feedback, and documentation of practice.

The module builds confidence and professional literacy, preparing you to apply your skills across disciplines and laying the foundations for collaboration, industry engagement, and more complex creative challenges.

Networked Applications and Data; 30 credits
This module introduces how modern digital services operate across networks through the interaction of interfaces, servers, and data systems. You will explore the principles of client–server architecture, learning how web applications communicate across networks and how software systems exchange and manage information.

The module emphasises applied understanding, helping you see software as an integrated system rather than isolated code. By the end of the module, you will understand how data-driven applications are structured and how networked technologies support scalable digital services.

Hybrid Practices; 30 credits
You will be introduced to hybrid approaches to problem-solving that combine technical, creative, and reflective ways of working. You will explore how ideas evolve as they move between different tools, platforms, and modes of making, developing flexibility in how you approach computing challenges.

Through guided experimentation and iterative development, the module encourages safe failure, reflection, and adaptation. Hybrid Practice establishes core habits of experimentation and resilience, preparing you to engage confidently with complex and unfamiliar technologies later in the course.

Human-Centred Intelligent Systems; 30 credits
You will explore how digital systems are designed to interact with people and how intelligent technologies can interpret and respond to human behaviour. You will learn the principles of human–computer interaction and user-centred design, developing an understanding of how users experience digital systems and how those experiences can be analysed and improved.

The module emphasises the relationship between human needs and intelligent technologies, encouraging you to design systems that are both technically effective and socially responsible. By the end of the module, you will understand how interaction design, data, and intelligent systems combine to shape contemporary digital experiences.

Career Catalyst: Communities & Influence; 30 credits
In this module you will focus on applying your computing skills in real-world social, cultural, and professional contexts. You will work collaboratively on projects that respond to specific communities, organisations, or external partners, applying technical knowledge beyond the classroom.

You will collaborate to deliver shared outcomes, including workshops, events, participatory works, or digital platforms, developing experience of teamwork, communication, and professional engagement. Alongside practical delivery, you will reflect on ethics, collaboration, and responsibility, building confidence in working beyond the university. By developing professional agency, networks, and real-world impact, the module helps you understand how creative practice creates value, influence, and opportunity across industry, civic, and global contexts.

Advanced Software Engineering; 30 credits
This module develops your understanding of how complex software systems are designed, built, and maintained within professional development environments. You will explore key software engineering principles including software architecture, modular design, and design patterns, learning how large applications are structured to remain reliable, scalable, and maintainable over time.

Alongside development practices, the module introduces essential operating system concepts and basic security principles that support robust software systems. By the end of the module, you will understand how professional teams design, test, deploy, and maintain software systems while balancing technical reliability, scalability, and responsible engineering practice.

Digital Futures; 30 credits
In this module you will explore how emerging technologies are reshaping society, industry, and professional practice. You will critically examine developments such as AI, automation, platforms, immersive systems, and data-driven technologies, considering both your technical foundations and wider implications.

Through speculative and research-informed approaches, you will reflect on how computer science shapes the future, and how computer scientists can act responsibly within it. The module supports forward-thinking, adaptability, and critical judgement in the face of rapid technological change.

If you opt to complete a professional practice year, this will take place in year three. You will undertake a placement within the creative industries to further develop your skills and CV.

While on your Professional Practice Year, you will be required to pay a reduced tuition fee for that year. This fee will be determined using government funding regulations. Based on current regulations, we expect this to be a maximum of 20% of the tuition fee rate that you are charged for your second year of study. You will also incur additional travel and accommodation costs during this year. The University will provide you with further advice and guidance about this as you approach your Professional Practice Year.

Please note: If you are an international applicant, you will need to enrol onto the course ‘with Professional Practice Year’. It will not be possible to transfer onto the Professional Practice Year after enrolment

Creative Research; 30 credits
Centred on independent, research-led enquiry, you will design and undertake a self-directed investigation into a computing-related topic, combining technical exploration with critical and contextual research.

Alongside practical work, you will develop skills in research methods, analysis, and academic writing, situating your work within contemporary technological discourse. The module strengthens critical thinking, ethical awareness, and sustainability considerations, preparing you for advanced project work and postgraduate study.

Career Catalyst: Futures & Direction; 30 credits
This module supports you in defining your professional identity and planning your next steps beyond university. You will reflect on your skills, interests, and ambitions while exploring career pathways across computing, technology, research, and interdisciplinary practice.

Through portfolio development, research, and industry engagement, you will produce materials that clearly articulate your work, positioning, and direction, preparing you for your final major project and future opportunities. The module develops autonomy, confidence, and resilience, equipping you to navigate and shape your future professional pathways.

Major Project; 60 credits
The Major Project is the culmination of the course, bringing together technical expertise, research, and professional development into a substantial, self-directed body of work. You will define your own problem space, design and implement a significant computing project, and critically evaluate its outcomes.

This course is designed to offer you (if eligible) the opportunity to study part of your degree aboard at a UCA partner university, while still earning credits towards your UCA degree.

For more information please visit the Study Abroad section

Integrated foundation year

  • Independent study: 72%
  • Scheduled teaching: 28%
  • Maximum percentage of scheduled delivered online: 20%

Year one

  • Independent study: 72%
  • Scheduled teaching: 28%
  • Maximum percentage of scheduled delivered online: 20%

Year two

  • Independent study: 74%
  • Scheduled teaching: 26%
  • Maximum percentage of scheduled delivered online: 20%

Year three

  • Independent study: 76%
  • Scheduled teaching: 24%
  • Maximum percentage of scheduled delivered online: 20%

Professional placement or International year (if undertaken)

  • Independent study: 98%
  • Scheduled teaching: 2%
  • Maximum percentage of scheduled delivered online: 100%

Please note: these details are for 2026 entry and could be subject to change for other years of entry.

Course specifications

Please note, syllabus content indicated is provided as a guide. The content of the course may be subject to change in line with our Student Terms and Conditions for example, as required by external professional bodies or to improve the quality of the course.

Explore our gradshow

Each year, we’re privileged to be able to share our graduates’ incredible work with the world. And now’s your chance to take a look.

Visit the online showcase

Upcoming webinars

We offer a range of webinars throughout the year that you may be interested in.

You can also view recordings of all previous sessions through the UCA webinar archive.


Fees & financial support

Tuition fees - 2026/27

  • Integrated Foundation Year: £9,790
  • BSc course: £9,790

    If you opt to study the Professional Practice Year, you will be required to pay a reduced tuition fee, for 2026/27 this is £1,955. You will also incur additional travel and accommodation costs during your Professional Practice year. The University will provide you with further advice and guidance about this.

    Government guidance indicates that tuition‑fee caps will rise annually with inflation from 2026, subject to legislation, so tuition fees are likely to increase each year of study. 

Tuition fees - 2026/27

  • Integrated Foundation Year: £9,790 (see fee discount information)
  • BSc course: £9,790 (see fee discount information)

If you opt to study the Professional Practice Year, you will be required to pay a reduced tuition fee, for 2026/27 this is £1,955. You will also incur additional travel and accommodation costs during your Professional Practice year. The University will provide you with further advice and guidance about this.

Government guidance indicates that tuition‑fee caps will rise annually with inflation from 2026, subject to legislation, so tuition fees are likely to increase each year of study. 

Tuition fees - 2026/27

  • Integrated Foundation Year: £18,000
  • BSc course: £18,000

If you opt to study the Professional Practice Year, for 2026 you will be required to pay a reduced tuition fee of £3,490. You will also incur additional travel and accommodation costs during your Professional Practice year. The University will provide you with further advice and guidance about this.

The fees listed here are correct for the stated academic year only, for details of previous years please see the full fee schedules.

UCA scholarships and fee discounts

At UCA we have a number of scholarships and fee discounts available to assist you with the cost of your studies.

Financial support

There are lots of ways you can access additional financial support to help you fund your studies - both from UCA and from external sources. Discover what support you might qualify for please see our financial support information.

Additional course costs

In addition to the tuition fees there may be other costs for your course. The things that you are likely to need to budget for to get the most out of a creative arts education will include books, printing costs, occasional or optional study trips and/or project materials.

These costs will vary according to the nature of your project work and the individual choices that you make. Please see the Additional Course Costs section of the Course Information Document for more details of the costs you may incur.

Find out what's included in your tuition fees.

Computer Science career opportunities

Graduates will have had the opportunity to study from a range of elective units to broaden their knowledge in specialist subjects, while also being able to explore their specific interests. This tailored approach to studying computer science means a variety of job roles are of high interest to our graduates.

These include:

  • Software developer
  • Web developer
  • IT project manager
  • Information security analyst
  • Systems architect
  • AI engineer
  • Video game developer.

You may also like to consider further study at postgraduate level.


What’s it like being a student at UCA?

That’s a big question. Get some answers from people who are studying right here, right now.

Chat to a student

Computer Science entry requirements

These courses don't require a portfolio but, if you're UK-based and you receive an offer, we'd still like to meet you at an Applicant Day. Further information will be provided once you have applied.

We’re interested to know if you have any background in computing and why you wish to study at a creative university, so we recommend you include this information in your personal statement.

UCAS applicants should also check our UCAS personal statement guide for Computer Science applicants.

 

Select your country to find the equivalent requirements

Apply to BSc (Hons) Computer Science

Please use the following fields to help select the right application link for you:

UCAS codes

  • UCA institution code: C93
  • Three year degree: G400
  • Plus professional practice year: G401
  • Plus integrated foundation year: G40A
  • Plus integrated foundation year and professional practice year: G40B

BSc (Hons) Computer Science key statistics

Courses related to Computer Science