“Learning computing was obviously a massive help with my job choice now, but Solent wasn’t just about the degree.”
BSc (Hons)Computer Science
Apply through Clearing
Available through clearing
- 2026
- 2027
- 3 years
- 4 years with foundation year
- 4 years with year in industry
- 5 years with foundation and industry years
UCAS code: CS02
Institution code: S30
UCAS points: 104-120Flexible entry options available
Campus: Southampton City CentreView on Google Maps
Why study a computer science degree at Solent University
Find your specialism on this BCS-accredited degree. Gain problem-solving skills, create innovative technologies, build intelligent systems, and prepare for a career leading in AI-enabled industries.
- Top0%of UK unis for teaching quality, out of 130 institutions (Times Good Uni Guide 2026)
- 0thin the UK for First/2:1 degrees, out of 130 institutions (Times Good Uni Guide 2026)
- £0minvested in our campus estate and facilities
- This BCS-accredited programme provides a clear pathway to Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status and recognised professional standing.
- Gain industry-recognised professional qualifications alongside your degree, such as PCAP Python Fundamentals.
- You'll have access to high specification computing labs, GPU workstations, and academic cloud licences (AWS, Azure, GCP) throughout your studies.
- Our close links with industry ensure this course is informed through a range of guest speakers, live briefs, and access to regular BCS meetings (The Chartered Institute for IT), held at Solent University.
- Tailor your degree to your career ambitions with specialist pathways in your final year.
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
Email: Call:Course overview
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science is a future‑focused degree designed for students who want to shape the next generation of intelligent technologies. You’ll build a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, networking, and cybersecurity before progressing into advanced areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data‑driven computing.
As you move through the course, you’ll specialise in the technologies transforming the global digital economy. Whether your interests lie in cloud computing, IoT, natural language processing, generative AI, cloud security and automation, or autonomous systems, you’ll develop the expertise needed to thrive in high‑growth sectors.
Throughout the programme, you’ll work on practical, industry‑aligned projects that build a strong professional portfolio. By the time you graduate, you’ll be equipped with the technical skills, creative problem‑solving abilities, and innovative mindset required to succeed in AI‑enabled industries.
If you’re looking to study our computer science degree but don’t have the relevant qualifications or experience, the STEM foundation year will help you develop the core skills and knowledge to progress. Find out more about the STEM foundation year.
This course also offers the option of a placement year. A placement year allows you to put what you've learned in your first and second years into practice in the workplace, gaining valuable real-world work experience before you graduate. Our course and placements teams will help you find the perfect industry placement in your chosen field.
This course is part of the South Coast Institute of Technology (IoT), a partnership of colleges, universities and industry-leading employers to create new career opportunities in the technology sector. IoT courses like this one are precisely tailored to the needs of employers in the maritime, engineering and digital industries – industries which are hungry for talented new engineers, technologists, technicians and creatives like you.
Accreditations, recognitions and memberships
Accredited by:
Part of:
Who is this course for?
This degree is ideal for students who are curious about how intelligent systems and data‑driven technologies work, and who want to develop the expertise to engineer them. This course is for you if you enjoy problem‑solving, are fascinated by artificial intelligence and data, and are motivated to design, build, and scale the computational systems shaping the modern world.
You do not need prior programming experience, the course is designed to take you from foundational principles through to advanced specialisation. What matters most is analytical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to developing technical mastery.
Applicants from all educational backgrounds are welcome, and the block‑teaching model provides structured support for students from both traditional and non‑traditional pathways.
What does this course lead to?
Graduates are prepared for a diverse range of high-value roles in a global economy increasingly defined by artificial intelligence, data, and cloud-native systems. The programme's focus on intelligent systems, machine learning, and advanced computational methods ensures graduates are equipped for specialised, future-facing careers.
Recent course graduates have gone on to various roles in the software industry, in roles at organisations such as IBM, Si Digital, LeadStream, Fujitsu UK and Guernsey Post.
Graduate stories
Hear from Solent alumni about where their careers have taken them and how studying at Solent prepared them for their future.
Read more storiesMeet the team
Learn from a specialist academic team with broad expertise across AI, data science, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
The University cannot guarantee any particular members of staff will teach specific aspects of the course in the future, but will endeavour to ensure the teaching team maintains their balance of experience and qualifications.
Facilities
We have up-to-date IT laboratories and a usability lab with eye-tracking facilities, used to test and refine interfaces. Students also have the opportunity to learn to program robotic devices such as robotic arms and drones, and can develop apps for android devices. You’ll have access to our devices lab, a special test area integrated within one of our existing software development spaces. It consists of a range of real mobile devices mounted on flexible tethers, giving you the chance to test your websites and apps on real equipment.
Our vibrant campus brings state-of-the-art facilities to enhance your learning and elevate your student experience. Our award-winning teaching building, The Spark is centred around students and offers a stimulating study environment with flexible learning spaces. Away from studying, why not try out the gyms, fitness studios and sports halls in our £28 million Sports Complex, or watch a blockbuster film at our student-run cinema with Dolby Atmos audio.
International opportunities
Broaden your horizons by adding an international dimension to your CV – essential to achieving success in today’s fast-changing, global environment.
Studying, working or volunteering in another country could be the experience of a lifetime. Enhance your degree by developing important global skills such as knowledge of other countries, language skills, intercultural awareness, adaptability and confidence.
For more information, please email international.mobility@solent.ac.uk.
What you'll study
Core modules
Problem Solving though Programming
This module will introduce you to software implementation through the process of understanding how to solve problems using programming.
Introduction to Networks and Security
In this module you’ll explore networks by using a network simulator to learn what devices and connections are used. These will then be applied to various principles of networking, protocols and associated technologies.
UX
On this module you will learn the techniques (Qualitative and Quantitative) and tools to design, plan and develop a user research strategy.
Introduction to Databases
In this module you are introduced to the skills and concepts required to develop and use relational databases. You will learn how to write programs interacting with databases and how to create them.
Data Analysis, Tools and Application
Explore how digital technology has fundamentally reshaped traditional business, and how businesses try to keep up. Learn to collect, analyse, and interpret data, and to present your findings effectively.
Web Technologies
On this module you’ll be introduced to common client server-side scripting technologies used in the development of web applications, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP.
Core modules
Research Methods Project
This module will align you with the forefront of scientific knowledge, and, in doing so, you will hone your research skills.
Web Application Development
This module looks at the technologies necessary to develop the highly-interactive and mobile-compatible web applications in use today.
Advanced Database Systems
Through this module you will research novel database management systems such as NoSQL databases and continue more advanced relational databases by using object relational mapping libraries.
Analytics and Business Intelligence
Modern organisations use data to help them review, plan, and forecast, as well as for fraud detection, risk management, marketing and more. This module incorporates advanced analytical and modelling techniques – as well as their practical applications.
Object Oriented Design and Development
This module will enable you to undertake a small-scale OO software development project which interacts through web services with other SaaS components.
Human Computer Interaction
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) requires a great deal of thought into the design, implementation and intended use. This module draws upon demographic, accessibility, cognitive science and social and ethical principles, providing essential skills for analysis and design of efficient, easy-to-use systems.
Placement Year
The work placement variant of the course provides you with the chance to gain valuable real-world experience, often in a paid role. While you will be expected to secure your own placement, you will be given extensive support in finding a suitable position between years two and three, as well as guidance on carrying out your placement. We also encourage and support you to gain industrial experience during vacations, or develop your final-year project in conjunction with industry.
Core modules
Dissertation Project
Your dissertation may be practical or investigative in nature, but all projects must produce specific artefacts that demonstrate your intellectual and practical skills in the subject area.
Data Science
On this module you will explore the use of visualisations, data cleaning and pre-processing, data science programming libraries, and prediction amongst others.
Industrial Consulting Project
The module will deliver ‘Real-world’ learning which involves interaction with employers and external organisations to allow you to prepare, rehearse and reflect on your experiences.
Optional modules
Please note: Not all optional modules are guaranteed to run each year.
DevOps
This module explores combining the skills of those who develop the software with the skills to support these systems in a live environment.
Contemporary Web Applications
Through this module you will learn how to construct web-applications using a modern industry aligned approach.
Immersive Technologies
On this module you will learn how to design and develop your own prototypes in response to typical immersive scenarios involving virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) or mixed reality (MR).
UX Strategies
Discover user experience (UX) and the principles of user-centred design. Develop skills in planning, design, prototype and test for web, mobile and more; explore information architecture and content strategy; and learn to analyse and work to client budgets and objectives.
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
Email: Call:How you will learn and be assessed
You will learn by:
You may be assessed by a combination of:
- Coursework
- Individual presentations
- In-class tests
- Project work
- Practical activities
Solent’s curriculum framework builds on our unique, creative and applied approach to teaching. The transformation of students’ lives is at the heart of our mission as a university, and our curriculum – informed by the latest theory – reflects this shared educational vision.
Find out more
Study support
The student achievement team are on hand to help you succeed during your studies at Solent. They aim to contact you at key times during your time here with personalised information, advice and guidance, by email or phone.
The disability advice team provides information, advice and guidance for disabled students.
All students can access Succeed@Solent, Solent's online guide to getting better grades. It offers extensive, practical information and advice on topics such as academic writing, research and presentations.
Why choose a career in computing?
The global computing industry is in a period of profound transformation. Driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data-driven decision-making, organisations across every sector from healthcare and finance to aerospace and government are investing heavily in high-level computing talent.
The UK Government's National AI Strategy and the Tech Nation Digital Economy Report consistently identify a critical skills shortage in machine learning, data analytics, cloud security, and autonomous systems. This programme positions graduates at the centre of that demand. By embedding BCS-accredited technical excellence with industry-informed learning, the course ensures students are not passive observers of the digital revolution, they become the engineers who architect it.
Our links with industry
You could earn:
Data scientist
Entry level £25,000 to £30,000
With a few years' experience you can expect to earn between £40,000 and £60,000 in a data scientist role. Lead and chief data scientists can earn upwards of £60,000, and in some cases £100,000+.
IT consultant
Graduate salary £22,000 to £31,000
With experience, you can earn over £38,000. At a more senior level, if you've identified a specialist area, salaries range from anywhere between £47,000 and £75,000.
Network engineer
Entry level £19,000 to £20,000
With experience, you can expect to earn around £35,000 to £55,000+.
Machine learning engineer
Graduate entry level £35,000
With three to five years experience, this can rise to £50,000 to £80,000. At senior level or in a specialised or lead role, this can rise to £120,000. In some cases, even as much as £170,000 if you work for a large multinational company.
The stated salaries are published on prospects.ac.uk. Income figures are intended as a guide only.
Graduate stories
Hear from Solent alumni about where their careers have taken them and how studying at Solent prepared them for their future.
Read more stories“Learning computing was obviously a massive help with my job choice now, but Solent wasn’t just about the degree.”
Solent Careers
The Solent Careers team is committed to getting students into great careers.
While you are studying, the team can help you with finding work experience or placements, link you with a mentor, check your CV, or offer one-to-one guidance.
We also have graduate job opportunities just for Solent graduates.
Top 25%
of UK unis for sustained employment
Longitudinal Educational Outcomes, 2025
Certificate in Practical Artificial Intelligence
Every student at Solent University will also have the option to study an additional Certificate in Practical Artificial Intelligence qualification alongside their course. Free of charge, the course ensures you'll be prepared for a fantastic and varied career after graduation.
Further study
Thinking about studying further than an undergraduate degree? Alumni can get 20% off their postgraduate study.
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Advance your career with this cyber security conversion course, gain expert skills, industry insights, and hands-on experience to tackle real-world cyber threats and network security.
Find out moreTuition fees
The tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are:
- UK, ROI, EU (settled status) and Channel Island full-time fees: £9,790 per year
- UK, ROI, EU (settled status) and Channel Island placement year fee: £1,850
- International full-time fees: £19,081 per year
- International placement year fee: £1,850
For further information, please visit our tuition fees page.
Extra course costs
While most course costs are covered by your tuition fees, some essential resources and optional extras may need to be paid for separately. For advice on budgeting and managing your money, please contact student.funding@solent.ac.uk.
Bursaries, scholarships and financial support
Solent University offers a range of bursaries and scholarships that provide financial assistance or waive fees for tuition or accommodation. Each bursary or scholarship has specific eligibility criteria. Check out our bursaries and scholarships pages to find out more.
Cost of living support
At Solent, we understand that the cost of living crisis may be of some concern. To help, we've put together some detailed information to show what support is available and how to make your money go further.
Graduation costs
There is no charge to attend graduation, but you will be required to pay for the rental of your academic gown (approximately £45 per graduate, depending on your award). You may also wish to purchase official photography packages, which range in price from £15 to £200+. Graduation is not compulsory, so if you prefer to have your award sent to you, there is no cost. Extra guest tickets will go on sale after results publication and will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis. The cost per ticket is currently £20. Please note, we do not guarantee there will be any extra tickets available to purchase.
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
Email: Call:Entry requirements
Please select an option below:
Key entry requirements
104-120 UCAS tariff points
- A minimum of two completed A-levels, a BTEC Extended Diploma at DMM or BTEC Diploma at D*D, T-level Merit or equivalent, which comply with the minimum entry requirement of 104 UCAS points.
- A BTEC Subsidiary Diploma will be considered in conjunction with other qualifications.
- Note: Students should have a strong interest in learning computer programming as this forms a large part of the course.
- Direct entry to year two may be offered to holders of an HND or HNC in an appropriate subject.
- For further information about UK qualifications, please contact admissions.
Key entry requirements
As a general guide, we look for qualifications that are equivalent to the British high school A-levels.
If you are applying from outside the UK, find information about entry requirements, visas and agents for your country here.
For further information about EU qualifications, please see our course entry requirements document.
For international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, our trusted partner, QA Higher Education offers the following pathway programme designed to develop your academic and English language skills:
- International Foundation Year - for progression to the first year of an undergraduate degree
Key entry requirements
As a general guide, we look for qualifications that are equivalent to the British high school A-levels.
If you are applying from outside the UK, find information about entry requirements, visas and agents for your country here.
For further information about international qualifications, please see our course entry requirements document.
For international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, our trusted partner, QA Higher Education offers the following pathway programme designed to develop your academic and English language skills:
- International Foundation Year - for progression to the first year of an undergraduate degree
Note to all international students requiring a visa
All international applicants need to be aware that the English language requirements to attend Solent University, and the English language requirements to obtain a visa from the Home Office, may be different. This means that if you meet the Solent University language requirement to gain a place on the course, you may still have to meet additional requirements to be granted with a visa by the Home Office.
We strongly advise all applicants to visit the Home Office website which outlines all the requirements for a successful visa application
How to apply
Full-time
Any student applying for the first year of a full-time/sandwich undergraduate course must apply through UCAS (University and Colleges Admissions Service). This includes mature, overseas and EU students.
Nearly all schools and colleges offer their students the facility of applying electronically through the UCAS website using 'Apply'; it may also be used by those applying independently in the UK and overseas. This facility and all course information can be found on the UCAS website: www.ucas.com.
Your application should reach UCAS by 14 January if you hope to enter a course the following autumn. Early application is advised for the most popular subject areas. Late applications may be made until the end of June. The UCAS Code for the University is S30, code name SOLNT.
Find out what happens after you apply
Contextual offers
Solent endeavours to offer learning opportunities to students from all backgrounds. When we receive and review an application, we take into consideration the context and personal circumstances of applicants when making a decision, which means our advertised entry tariff could be reduced.
Find out more about Solent's contextual offers
Alternative entry options
Top-up route:
We welcome applications from students currently studying a Foundation Degree, DipHE, HNC, HND or modules of an undergraduate degree course at another university, who wish to enter directly into Years 2 or 3 of one of our undergraduate degree courses. Please contact our admissions team for more information: contact us
Language requirements
Applicants who do not have English as their first language will be required to demonstrate an approved level of proficiency in the use of the English language. The agreed minimum requirements for this course are:
- IELTS minimum 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each individual component.
- Duolingo English Language Test - 115 overall with minimum of 95 in each component or equivalent.
TOEFL IBT tests taken prior to 21 January 2026
- Minimum overall score of 80 with a minimum of 20 in each individual component.
TOEFL IBT tests taken from 21 January 2026
- Minimum overall score of 4.5 with a minimum of 4 in each individual component.
Qualifications are checked before enrolment, and international students must bring their original certificates or certified copies when coming to study at the University.
Pre-Sessional English programme
The University also offers a pre-sessional English programme for international students who wish to improve their level of English before starting a degree course.
UCAS points: 104-120
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
Email: Call:Make your application
- 3 years
- 4 years with foundation year
- 4 years with year in industry
- 5 years with foundation and industry years
