Computer Science Degree Entry Requirements
Computer science is one of the most popular subjects in the UK. It is a subject that combines general information technology and the advanced areas of machine learning and coding.
The entry requirements for a computer science degree change wherever you go. Some universities are more selective over their subjects and qualification requirements, however. This is a slightly more complex degree, so the requirements will be higher than other subjects.
What is Computer Science?
Computer science is a degree that focuses on computational processes, theory, design, and development. Specifically, a Computer Science degree will focus on software creation, implementation, and application-building.
Computer science is a highly-skilled degree. You will be learning new areas of information technology that you won’t have touched on before. This will include elements of machine learning, artificial intelligence, software design and different coding languages, such as Python, Java, Perl and Bash, as well as logic programming and imperative programming.
What are the Computer Science degree entry requirements?
The entry requirements for a computer science degree will change depending on where you are applying. The entry requirement will vary depending on where you are applying.
The most common entry requirements for a computer science degree are:
| Type | Min. grades/points required overall | Max. grades/points required overall | Average grades/points required |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCAS points | 80 | 144 | 112 |
| A Levels | CCD | AAA | BBC |
| BTEC | MMP | DDD | MMM |
| International Baccalaureate | 27 | 38 | 30 |
Some universities may also have specific qualification types laid out. For example, a university may only accept A Levels for this subject, but may not accept other qualifications in their place. Do not place your faith entirely in the amount of UCAS points you have accrued. Some universities favour the subjects you have studied over the points you have.
A Levels
A Levels are, typically, the most common grades required for this degree. You will need to have studied maths and/or computer science. If you have not studied either of these subjects, then you must have studied a related technology subject in their place. Other subjects will be accepted, but only if you have one or both of the subjects as mentioned earlier.
BTECs
Most universities will accept a BTEC when applying. However, this will depend on the subject you have studied. Generally, you will need to have studied maths, computer science, or a science-based subject to be considered for this. Some universities may still deny you entry on their course if you do not have an A Level in maths, regardless of whether or not you have studied a BTEC.
GCSEs
Universities seldom ask for students to have GCSE results when applying. You will need to provide them with all of your qualifications when you apply anyway. However, it is not uncommon to find yourself needing these for a computer science degree. You must have at least five GCSEs of grade C/4 or higher before applying. These subjects must include English, maths and a science-based subject. Some universities have also been known to insist upon specific grades, such as a B/6 and for a grade in information technology (IT).
International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a qualification only for international students. Most university courses will require you to have a 6,5,5, at a Higher Level. Some universities may be stricter and ask you to have a 6,6,6 for their courses. Higher Level maths is a requirement and some universities have been known to ask for a 7.
T Levels
Not all universities currently accept T Levels as part of their university entry requirements. That is starting to change as T-Levels are slowly beginning to replace BTECs, which are being phased out. Universities will likely ask you to have a T-Level in subjects such as design, development and control; digital production, design and development; or management and administration. Check with the university first to see which T Levels they will accept or if they are even accepted in the first place.
What are the best universities to study Computer Science at?
The best university to study computer science courses depends on you and your needs. There is no definitive “best university” for you to study at, as every university is different.
You need to consider what you think to be the most important thing for you at a university. Do you prefer a university with the best resources? Or do you prefer a university with better links to the industry? Or one that industry professionals teach? Ultimately, you must pick the university that best represents your needs.
What do I need to include in my Computer Science personal statement?
Your personal statement should touch on why you want to study this subject. A computer science personal statement is no different than any other.
It is useful to speak about what milestones you have achieved relating to your degree. Speak about how your hobbies and interests tie into your love of the subject, what books you have read related to the course, and what films, TV shows or YouTubers have influenced your interest.
Work experience is a key aspect of any personal statement, regardless of the subject. Of course, it is preferable if your work experience is related to the subject you want to study. However, even if you only have experience waiting tables, it’s all useful in your statement.
Can I find Computer Science degrees in Clearing?
Even though computer science is a popular course, you will usually be able to find Clearing computer science courses. Although, not all universities will necessarily place their courses into Clearing.
The obvious advantage is that you may find courses with lower entry requirements. You may be able to find courses that require you to study a foundation year or have an HND or HNC attached to them as well.
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