Computer Science

What is a BEng Computer Science degree?

As a computing student at ARU, you'll learn how to work in a team, think independently, and solve problems creatively in our state-of-the-art computing labs. Our courses are very much hands-on and the assessment is based less on traditional exams and in-class tests (about 30%) and more on coursework assignments, reports and presentations.

Our specialist facilities include a fully-kitted Cisco lab and a virtual Netlab accessible 24/7 from anywhere in the world, being the perfect places to develop practical skills and get experience of working with industry-standard tools, such as Microsoft Imagine Premium and VMware IT Academy. We encourage collaboration, so you'll also learn through activities with your peers, as well as lectures and seminars from industry experts.

Whether you want to work in software engineering, programming, application development, computer design, graphics, gaming or artificial intelligence, studying our BEng (Hons) Computer Science degree in Cambridge will give you the knowledge and skills to succeed.

Double accredited by two professional bodies, the BCS and the IET, our degree course will help you stand out to employers in a range of industries, both in the UK and overseas. With further study, you can become a Chartered Engineer, or you might choose to continue your academic career with a PhD in Computer Science.

Located within the Silicon Fen, the name given to the region around Cambridge, and home to a large cluster of high-tech businesses focusing on software, electronics and biotechnology, such as Apple, Microsoft, Samsung AI, Qualcomm, Astra-Zeneca, etc., our BEng Computer Science degree course will give you the opportunity to meet and engage with a wide range of employers. There is also an option to study the course with a placement year giving you the opportunity to put your skills into practice at one of the many regional top technology firms.

Employability is embedded in the curriculum, providing access to a curated selection of industry-approved training materials. These resources offer enhanced opportunities to experience real-world professional training as part of your degree. You’ll also be engaging with real-world projects through a range of Live Brief assessments, set and driven by local companies, across all years of your course.

Computing forms the backbone of almost every organisation, and computer science graduates can expect an average salary of between £25,000 (Save The Student, 2022) and £35,000 per year (Glassdoor, 2022).

When you graduate from our BEng (Hons) Computer Science course, you’ll have software and development skills that are in demand in a wide range of industries. You could be interested in positions in large tech firms or industries that require robust network systems, such as telecommunications or security. Plus, additional industries like aerospace, financial services, marketing, public service, the creative industries and teaching.

By choosing particular modules, you’ll be able to apply for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) status after you graduate – a valuable addition to your CV.

Graduation doesn’t need to be the end of your time with us. You might choose to stay at ARU and study for a Masters degree, such as our MSc Computer Science. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Employability and personal career development

ARU ranked in the top 10% in the country for graduates in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024), and 5th in the country for the proportion of UK undergraduates who are employed as managers, directors, or senior officials 15 months after graduating. We're also in the top 10% in the country for the number of graduates in employment and further study who agreed they are using what they learnt during their studies.

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.