BSc Computer Science and Mathematics

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.

For information about scholarships and bursaries please visit our  undergraduate student finance pages .

A*A*A* with an A* in Mathematics, and minimum of one Science subject in the remaining A-Levels at A*.

This should include Mathematics with a significant pure element (the Use of Mathematics or Core Mathematics does not satisfy this requirement).

Science subjects include Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

General Studies welcome, but is not normally included as part of the standard offer.  

A*AA including A* in Mathematics, and a minimum of one Science subject in the remaining A-Levels. 

This should include Mathematics with a significant pure element (the Use of Mathematics or Core Mathematics does not satisfy this requirement).

Science subjects include Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Practical skills are a crucial part of science education and there will be a requirement to pass the practical element of any science A Level taken. 

General Studies welcome, but is not normally included as part of the standard offer. 

AS level results are not considered as part of the standard admissions process at The University of Manchester.

The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available.  Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application.  Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including:

5  GCSES/iGCSES at Grade  A/7 or  B/6 (both numeric and letter grade).

• Mathematics (please note we do not accept Applied GCSE Mathematics courses e.g. WJEC Mathematics - Numeracy)
• Two Science subjects from Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Science and Additional Science. 

English Language is required at GCSE/iGCSE level with a minimum Grade of B/6. GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language. Students eligible for a contextual offer will be required to evidence English language proficiency at GCSE English Language grade C/5.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic School for clarification.

41  points overall.  7,7,7 in Higher Level subjects including 7 in Mathematics. Applicants should be studying a minimum of one Science subject at Higher Level. Science subjects include Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry or Biology.

Changes to International Baccalaureate Diploma Mathematics Courses from September 2019, first examination 2021.

We are aware of the planned changes to the IB Mathematics curriculum. IB students will be able to choose from Mathematics: analysis and approaches and Mathematics: applications and interpretation from September 2019.

For this programme of study we will accept: Higher Level Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches only.

Applicants studying the International Baccalaureate Career Related Programme (IBCP) should contact the academic School prior to applying so that their academic profile can be considered.

We accept a range of qualifications from different countries. Detailed information on our international entry criteria is available on the  Department of Computer Science website   

For general requirements not listed above see Accepted entry qualifications from your country

We normally require grade A in Highers Mathematics and grades AAAA in four further Highers subjects including at least two Science subjects.  The Highers must be taken in one sitting. 

Or:Three Advanced Highers at grades AAA, including Advanced Highers Mathematics with grade A and an Advanced Highers Science subject with grade A.  Two Highers in different subjects can replace the third Advanced Higher subject.

We also require grade 1 in five academic Intermediate 2 subjects, or grade A in five National 5 subjects, including mathematics and a physical science subject

English Language not taken at Higher/Advanced Higher must have been achieved at SCQF level 5 (minimum National 5 grade B / Intermediate 2 grade B / Standard Grade 2).

 If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact the Academic School(s) you plan to apply to.

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and requires two A Levels including Maths and one Science subject to be included within this.

Our entry requirements are grades A*A* at A Level including A* in Mathematics, A* in Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics, and grade A* in the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate. 

The University of Manchester welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate. Acceptable on its own or in combination with other qualifications, applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all applicants will be considered on an individual basis. We require an average of 90% including 9 in mathematics studied for at least 5 periods per week and assessed by a final written examination.  A scientific bias to the remaining specialist subjects studied.

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.

In making offers, the University will focus on the three A Levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. The A-Level requirements for the Department of Computer Science are A*A*A*, including A* in Mathematics, and a minimum of one Science subject in the remaining A-Levels, at A*.

The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.

The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme:

Applicants completing the Northern Consortium (NCUK) International Foundation Year or INTO Manchester International Foundation in Science and Engineering in 2021/22, are required to achieve  A*A*A* with grade A* in Mathematics, A* in Physics or Further Mathematics and A* in the third subject, and an EAP score of  A*.  A good performance in local examinations before starting the foundation year, particularly in mathematics and physical science, is also required. You are also encouraged to apply prior to the UCAS equal consideration deadline. 

Applicants studying other Foundation programmes should contact the academic School to check if their qualification is recognised for entry to this programme and for specific entry requirements.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

We consider the National Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in IT or Engineering with Grades D*D*D in combination with a Grade A* in A Level Mathematics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma

We consider the National Foundation Diploma for entry provided it is in IT or Engineering with Grades D*D* in combination with a Grade A* in A Level Mathematics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma

We consider the National Foundation Diploma for entry in any subject provided it is in combination with two A Levels including Mathematics and one Science subject. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Foundation Diploma with Grade D* plus two A levels at Grades A*A* including A* in Mathematics and A* in Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

We consider the National Extended Certificate for entry in any subject at D* provided it is in combination with two GCE A Levels at Grades A*A* including A* in Mathematics and A* in a Science subject. Science subjects include Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy BTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the BTEC Extended Diploma, BTEC Diploma, BTEC Subsidiary Diploma, and BTEC Certificate. The grades required are likely to be the same or vary similar to the new BTEC qualifications (first teaching 2016, awarded 2018). Please contact the Academic School for clarification.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact the academic School(s) you plan to apply to.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma (CTEC)

We consider the Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in IT or Engineering with grades D*D*D in combination with a grade A* in A level Mathematics.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC) We consider the Cambridge Technical Diploma for entry provided it is in IT or Engineering with grades D*D* in combination with a grade A* in A level Mathematics.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma (CTEC) We consider the Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma for entry in any subject provided it is in combination with two A levels including Mathematics and one Science subject. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma with grades D*D plus two A levels at grades A*A* including A* in Mathematics and A* in Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate (CTEC) We consider the Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate for entry in any subject at grade D* provided it is in combination with two A levels at grades A*A* including A* in Mathematics and A* in a Science subject. Science subjects include Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy CTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the CTEC Extended Diploma, CTEC Diploma, CTEC Subsidiary Diploma, and CTEC Certificate.  The grades required are likely to be the same or vary similar to the new CTEC qualifications (first teaching 2016, awarded 2018). Please contact the Academic School for clarification.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact the Academic School(s) you plan to apply to.

Applications are considered on an individual basis, e.g. additional educational achievements, life experience and skills. Please contact the University for further information.  Our standard academic requirements include 60 credits in a science-related subject, with 45 credits at Level 3 with a Distinction grade.  A minimum of 15 credits must be in Mathematics.  Students are also required to have a grade A* in A-level mathematics with a pure element.

We consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A Level subjects, provided a minimum of three distinct subjects are taken including Mathematics and one Science subject. Science subjects include Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Our entry requirements include grade D2 in three Principal Subjects including mathematics.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact the Department of Computer Science.

The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. Although the Extended Project will not be included in the conditions of your offer, we strongly encourage you to provide information about the EPQ in your personal statement and at interview

The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (e.g. AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies). Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student.

A Core Maths qualification does not satisfy the requirement of achieving A level Mathematics for Department of Computer Science courses.  

If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course. We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. Please refer to UCAS for further information: UCAS reference guidelines.

If you are a home schooled student and would like further information or advice please contact the academic School for your chosen course who will be able to help you. 

Mature applicants who are returning to studies after a break from formal education will be considered on a case-by-case basis.  As a general guide, you will need an approved English language qualification, the equivalent of a good A-level in mathematics and experience of relevant study in the year prior to entry. Applicants may also be required to evidence sufficient scientific background. The mathematics requirement may be met by achieving 70% in 60 credits from the following Open University modules: MST124 Essential Mathematics 1 and MST125 Essential Mathematics 2.  Other online courses are not accepted.

Please note that Access to HE courses do not provide the equivalent breadth and depth to an A-level in mathematics.

Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences.  Students come from a whole array of backgrounds, study every kind of course, undertake full-time and part-time learning and are motivated by career intentions as well as personal interest.  There is no such thing as a typical mature student at Manchester. The application process is the same as for other prospective undergraduates. 

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the Department of Computer Science directly.  Further information for mature students can be found here ( http://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/mature-students/ )

All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency.  The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:

• GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade B/6 , or;
• IELTS 7.5 overall, 7.0 Speaking, 7.0 Listening, no other sub-test below 6.5, or;
• An acceptable equivalent qualification.

Students eligible for a contextual offer will be required to evidence English language proficiency at GCSE English Language grade C/5.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic School for clarification.

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa (Tier 4 visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the 'B2 level'.

Additionally, our individual Schools may ask for specific English Language proficiency levels that are necessary for their academic programmes. In most cases these requirements are likely to be higher than the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found  here .

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Your application will be assessed on the factors listed above. If you receive an offer through UCAS and are currently living in the UK, you will then be invited to attend an applicant Virtual Visit Day. The Visit Day will provide an opportunity to engage with our students and academic staff and to find out more about what life is like as a student in the Department. You will also take part in a Year 1 group tutorial taster session run by one of our lecturers.

Applicants applying from outside the UK will be sent a link to access Virtual Visit Day content after you have received your offer.

If you have re-sat individual modules to improve your grades, we will consider your application according to the standard selection process. If you are planning to re-sit the final Year 13 examinations, or have already done so, the University will consider your application, but we may require further information in order to make an informed judgment on your application.

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry.  In your new application you should demonstrate how your application has improved.  We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course.If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through clearing you are required to meet the clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing the places will be subject to availability.

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.

For information about scholarships and bursaries please visit our  undergraduate student finance pages .

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk

This course is fully recognised by the BCS - the British Computer Society.

Upon completing your BSc (Hons), you will also have partially met the requirements for Chartered IT Professional status (CITP).

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Like to learn more about life after University of Manchester? Be inspired by our Women in Computer Science page, hear from our graduates on the Department Blog , and get useful careers advice via our very own Podcast .