Computing

Computing degree programmes at Aberdeen are influenced by our internationally recognised research in Artificial Intelligence, Bio and Medical Informatics, and Advanced Web Technologies.

Why Aberdeen?

• Computing degree programmes at Aberdeen are influenced by our internationally recognised research in Artificial Intelligence, Bio- and Medical Informatics, and Advanced Web Technologies
• Special emphasis is given to Distributed Information Systems and Knowledge Technologies
• Study provides a breadth of coverage which encompasses both the theory as well as the practice of Computing
• Students are given the opportunity to develop their transferable skills and abilities as independent learners
• Strong links with industry at local, national and multi-national levels lead to industrial placements (in certain programmes) and ensure relevance of the curriculum

• Prizes for academic excellence are awarded in each year of study. These are sponsored by O’Reilly, the British Computer Society, LogicaCMG, EDS and Amazon. Projects are often successfully entered for national competition.

Programmes

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BSc Artificial Intelligence, BSc Computing Science, BSc Information Systems,BSc Geographical Information Systems, MA Information Systems and Management

Accreditation

The British Computer Society (BCS) recognises our Single Honours degrees for professional membership without additional examinations.

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

Courses are available from first to fourth year. There is an Honours degree and a Designated degree in Computing.

First Year

First year students focus on the foundations of Computing Science, including: how to design and implement programs; relevant mathematical concepts and some of the grand challenges of Computing. They also study two other subjects, depending on their degree choice.

Second Year

In second year, students are introduced to core topics in modern computing, with courses in Algorithmic Problem Solving, Data Management and Human Computer Interaction. Students further develop significant programming skills in a number of languages, and also gain a deeper understanding of related issues.

Third and Fourth Year (Honours)

The third year includes a year-long Software Engineering Project. Working in teams, students develop a major software system, from an initial analysis to the final delivery. The course emphasises interpersonal teamwork skills as strongly as technical topics. Taught courses cover essential computing topics relevant to the chosen degree, with all Single Honours (Computing) students studying Knowledge-Based Systems, Distributed Systems and Security, Operating Systems, Adaptive Interactive Systems, Languages and Computability and Enterprise Computing.

The fourth year also involves a substantial project, but this time students work individually on a specific topic of interest to them; most projects are research-related, and some involve working with local companies. Many of the taught courses are also related to research activity, including Semantic Web Engineering, Peer-to-Peer and Agent-Based Computing, eScience and Natural Language Processing.

Industrial Placement

Industrial Placements are taken between third and fourth year, or after fourth year.

Teaching and Assessment

All courses are supported by web-based material, usually including full course notes. Lectures in the first two years commonly include live computer demonstrations. In third and fourth year, as well as completing a project, students enjoy a variety of lectures and practicals. Assessment is by a mixture of coursework and examination.

Careers

The employment record of our graduates is excellent with the vast majority entering occupations of their choice within three months of graduation, in sectors as diverse as banking, pharmaceuticals and computer game development. Recent employers include IBM, Amazon, BP, Conoco, Hewlett Packard, EDS, LogicaCMG, SAIC, Scottish Hydro Electric, Scottish & Newcastle Breweries, British Telecom, QinetiQ, the Health Service and local councils.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Computing.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB
A Levels - BBB
IB - 30 points, 15 points at HL
ILC - BBBB (B2 or above)

Advanced entry is considered on an individual basis depending on prior qualifications and experience. Applicants wishing to be considered for advanced entry should contact directly the Director of Studies (Admissions) at our Student Recruitment and Admissions Service office.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide