What Qualifications Do You Need to Study Computer Science at University?

  Computer Science is an extremely highly sought-after degree by employers, with only 5.5% of students unemployed and seeking work fifteen months after graduating. The average salary of those in employment is £24,217, hovering healthily around the mean graduate salary. Surprisingly, though, the minimum grades required to get onto one of these courses are relatively attainable, especially when measured against other comparable courses like the sciences or economics. Perhaps this reflects the large number of employment opportunities in this field.

Minimum Entry Requirements for Computer Science Undergraduates 

 To study at a UK institution, applicants are required to have passed three A-levels withgrades of at least CDD, as well as 5 GCSEs. In many cases, Maths and English GCSE or similar qualifications are required as a minimum to gain entry into the least selective universities. At the University of Aberdeen, for example, one of the most highly regarded institutes for Computer Sciences, the entry criteria are surprisingly reasonable, with applicants required to attain ABB at A-level for consideration.

Other Considerations 

 You may be surprised to learn that A-level ICT and IT are less desirable than the physical sciences. This is simply a reflection of the difficulty and level of required technical understanding being more akin to a science A-level than an IT one. However, any kind of Computer Sciences or technology-based A-level can be a sufficient substitute for Maths or Science as a requirement for entry to some institutions. Although not all institutions have a required A-level subject, most of the more theoretical courses will likely require Maths or Sciences, whereas a more business-related course may be less strict. General studies, Critical Thinking or Citizenship Studies are not counted by UCAS toward acceptance for Computer Science courses.

Prestigious Places to Study 

 At prestigious institutions such as Cambridge, Oxford, St. Andrews and Imperial, the bar is set higher to study some of the world’s best Computer Science courses. Requirements for considerations include subjects like Specialist Maths, as well as a typical offer of AAA to A*A*A or equivalent, with Maths required and Further Maths often either required or very desirable. The applicants will also have to undergo interviews with the colleges and possibly further testing.

Studying Online

 There are more Computer Coding courses online than ever before, with online universities growing in popularity and recognition. c available and even, in the case of The Open University, offer places on a BSc Computer Science degree without any entry requirements. Other online courses, such as the University of London, are slightly more selective, asking for 2 A-levels and only 4 GCSE’s of grade C and above, with a B in aths GCSE.

Among the most popular online universities for studyingComputer Sciences are:

• · The Open University
• · University of London
• · University of Hertfordshire
• · University of Derby

 Computer Science is a popular degree, with amazing employment opportunities that can take you all over the world. And the best thing is that you don’t have to be top of the class to get onto a course. You’ll learn skills that you can put into practice from your first day on the job, and that will serve you well whatever your next steps. Register with TutorExtra to find out more about the Computer Science, Maths and Science tutors who can help you towards your goal.