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 Undergraduate Course 

Why study Computer Science at Derby?

  • Spend the first year learning the fundamentals of computer science and finding out where your passions and talents lie
  • Benefit from the flexibility of having the option to transfer to another course in our Computing portfolio after your first year
  • Learn from our expert academic staff who are acknowledged as leading scientists in their field
  • Work on real projects
  • Placement year opportunity - previous placements have been at Microsoft, IBM, Intel and BT
  • You won’t have any written exams as all assessment is through coursework

Become a skilled graduate 

Software is everywhere, running everything from our desktop computers and mobile phones to home appliances, games consoles, cars, planes and industrial machinery. On this course, you’ll be exposed to a wide range of current issues in Computing and Mathematics. You will study applied computer science with a strong emphasis on practical programming skills using cutting-edge software development tools in our industry-standard laboratories. 

A student working with the network cabinet
A student working at a computer in the lab

Industry connections 

The University is renowned for the strength of its contacts with employers. Our course has been designed in close collaboration with industrial practitioners, technologists, specialists and professional bodies. 

We collaborate with local and international industries on a wide range of challenging projects including Rolls-Royce, Toyota, CERN, Bloc Digital, Alstom, Bentley Motors and JCB. 

Undertaking a placement year will give you substantial experience to understand the possible careers open to you. Plus you’ll build your confidence and improve success and progression in jobs or in starting a business. 

Specialist facilities

You’ll get to use cutting-edge software development tools in our industry-standard laboratories. Facilities include: 

Flexibility 

You'll cover the fundamentals of computing in your first year where you'll gain an essential foundation of knowledge. At the end of this year, you’ll have the option to transfer to any one of the following courses: 

In your second year, you’ll study specialist modules specifically for your chosen degree, with your final year offering further options to tailor your studies to an area of your interest. 

Computer Science student interview

Interview with final year Computer Science student, Sam Voltolini

View Computer Science student interview video transcript

What you will study

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

Build, Create, Innovate

Whether it's computing, photography, or engineering, our top-tier facilities — including a new suite of recording studios and a £12 million STEM Centre — provide the perfect setting to excel.

Kedleston Road, Derby Campus entrance

Undergraduate Open Days

The best way to find out if studying at Derby is right for you is to experience an Open Day. Get a feel for the city and campus, tour our first-class facilities and see where you could be living.

Book your Undergraduate Open DayBook your Undergraduate Open Day

Building Strong Industry Connections

We believe that real-world experience is an essential part of academic success. Our partnerships with leading organisations across various sectors ensure our students gain valuable insights, hands-on opportunities, and access to the latest industry innovations.

Through collaboration with our industry partners, we bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, preparing our graduates to thrive in competitive global markets.

Getting you career ready

Your degree is only part of your story.

We're here to help prepare you for life after university.

Career Support Image

94%
of UK graduates are in employment or further study.

2nd
for employability.
Uni Compare Annual Student Review Rankings 2026.

87%
of UK graduates say their current activity is meaningful.

Getting you career ready

Your degree is only part of your story. We're here to help prepare you for life after university. We'll tailor your talents and help you build the tools that will set you apart when you are ready to look for your first graduate role.

Our staff have valuable and varied experiences in the workplace and beyond. And we have great links to industry. This means you'll have opportunities to apply your learning. You'll find work experience that's directly relevant to your studies, including placements and real projects set by businesses.

Our promise

We promise to provide an inclusive approach; supporting, advising and guiding you on your employability journey to success. We will listen to your needs and signpost opportunities for you to engage with up to three years after graduation.

Find out more about our Careers and Employability services

Entry requirements

Fees and funding

Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to

Additional costs and optional extras

Additional costs and optional extras

We're committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.

Included in your fees
  • Access to free software from major software vendors such as SAS, Microsoft, Adobe, Matlab and VMWare - some are available for student download
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
  • Some assignments are required to be submitted on CDROM/DVDROM approx. £2
  • Independent Study dissertations are normally submitted electronically, but individual supervisors have the right to request bound copies. In that case, printing and binding expenses are covered by the student approx. £6 per copy
Optional costs not included in your fees
  • External hard drive and memory card approx. £50 -£100
  • Not required but useful: personal computer and or tablet computer. From £100 upwards depending on specification
  • Text books approx. £20

How to apply

UK students

If you are in Year 13 and applying for a full-time undergraduate course (including our joint honours courses), we recommend that you apply through UCAS.

International students

The quickest and easiest way to apply is through our online application portal.

If you'd like support with your application, you can contact one of our trusted local representatives.

If you're currently living in the UK and applying for a full-time undergraduate course, we recommend using UCAS.

Additional information about your studies

Course updates

The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.

If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.

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