
- UCAS course code
- GG14
- UCAS institution code
- M20
This course is unavailable through clearing
BSc Computer Science and Mathematics
Year of entry: 2022
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Overview
- Degree awarded
- BSc
- Duration
- 3 years
- Typical A-level offer
-
A*A*A* with an A* in Maths, and a minimum of one Science subject at A*.
- Typical contextual A-level offer
-
A*AA including A* in Maths, and a minimum of one Science subject.Find out more about contextual admissions.
- Refugee/care-experienced offer
-
Applicants who have been in local authority care for more than three months or have refugee status may be eligible for an offer two grades below the standard requirements.Find out more about contextual admissions.
- Typical International Baccalaureate offer
-
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.
- Number of places/applicants
The Department of Computer Science receives in the region of 3000 applications per year for 300 places across our undergraduate degree courses.
- How to apply
Apply through UCAS .
This course is now closed to applications for 2022 entry apart from those flagged for contextual data .
- UCAS course code
- GG14
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course overview
- A broad and flexible course that provides the freedom to choose from an extremely wide range of Computer Science topics
- Equips students with skills that are in high demand from industry
- World's first stored-program computer developed here in 1948
Open days
Fees
Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2022 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £26,000 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.
Policy on additional costs
All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).
Scholarships/sponsorships
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 .
Contact details
- Department
- Department of Computer Science
- Contact name
- Undergraduate Admissions Officer
- Telephone
- +44 (0)161 543 4017
- ug-compsci@manchester.ac.uk
- Website
- https://www.cs.manchester.ac.uk
- School/Faculty overview
-
The School of Engineering creates a world of possibilities for students pursuing skills and understanding. Through dynamic research and teaching we develop engineering solutions that make a difference to society in an ethical and sustainable way. Science-based engineering is at the heart of what we do, and through collaboration we support the engineers and scientists of tomorrow to become technically strong, analytically innovative and creative. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .
Courses in related subject areas
Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.
Compare this course
Entry requirements
A-level
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.
Contextual 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
Unit grade information
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.
GCSE
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.
International Baccalaureate
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.
Other international entry requirements
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
Scottish requirements
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.
Welsh Baccalaureate
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.
European Baccalaureate
AQA Baccalaureate
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.
Foundation year
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 qualifications
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.
OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications
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.
Access to HE Diploma
Cambridge Pre-U
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.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Core Maths
A Core Maths qualification does not satisfy the requirement of achieving A level Mathematics for Department of Computer Science courses.
Home-schooled applicants
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.
Non-standard educational routes
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/ )
English language
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.
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 .
English language test validity
Application and selection
How to apply
Apply through UCAS .
This course is now closed to applications for 2022 entry apart from those flagged for contextual data .
Advice to applicants
Factors contributing to a successful application include:
- past academic performance;
- predicted academic performance;
- enthusiasm for, and realistic grasp of, chosen degree programme;
- evidence of interpersonal skills and non-academic interests/achievements.
How your application is considered
Applicants applying from outside the UK will be sent a link to access Virtual Visit Day content after you have received your offer.
Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications
Re-applications
Course details
Course description
Choosing the Computer Science and Mathematics programme allows you to combine the study of these two disciplines, each occupying half of your studies, and explores the reliance of each on the other.
This joint honours degree programme enables you to acquire a useful combination of mathematical and computer science knowledge and skills. It covers the knowledge needed to implement mathematical models in simulations that evaluate real world situations such as stress analysis in bridges and buildings, airflow over aircraft wings, or financial modelling.
The topics studied include a number of important ideas of mathematics, including the concepts of rigorous argument, formal proof and the power of abstract formulation of problems. This is combined with the core computer science topics of programming and software engineering, together with the study of mathematical principals underpinning the foundations of computing.
You will gain not only knowledge and practical experience of the latest technologies, but also a grounding in the underlying principles of the subject. It is this combination of skills that enable our graduates to keep pace with this fast moving subject, and secure top jobs in industry and research..
Detailed programme and course unit information is available here
Special features

The CS & Maths course has a real sense of community around it, which helps create a culture of students supporting each other.
The course covers exciting areas such as machine learning and data science which are maths heavy, so this enables students to go in careers or further studies in Maths or Computer Science.
Dr Andrea Schalk / Computer Science & Maths Programme Director
- By drawing staff from two 'excellent' rated departments students are taught by experts in each field.
- Traditional careers to which both computer science and mathematics graduates progress are open to you.
- Many of our projects and taught modules are supported by Industry
Teaching and learning
At Manchester we aim to provide a unique experience. Studying Computer Science with us will give you the chance to follow your academic curiosity and explore a fascinating subject.
A significant amount of your work will be project-based team work, tackling real problems. You will see how computer science is directly applicable to solving problems, across a broad range of areas.
The emphasis throughout is on independent learning, supported by regular meetings in small groups with personal tutors. You receive practical help and support from experienced staff and postgraduates, with leading experts guiding your learning and stimulating your interest. This approach is supported by conventional lectures and comprehensive on-line learning resources. We also provide excellent facilities, including specialist laboratories to support areas such as engineering and robotics.
Coursework and assessment
Unseen examinations account for about 60% of the assessment. These assess your abilities in the selection and application of knowledge, problem solving, and the design and evaluation of software or electronics. Other assessment is mainly through laboratory-based coursework that provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of computer science of electronic principles by tackling specific problems on a more realistic scale, both individually and in groups.
The remaining assessment is through presentations and essays where, in particular, you demonstrate the transferable skills you have acquired. In the third and final year, the non-examination assessment is mainly made up of the practical project.
Course content for year 1
Course units for year 1
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
First Year Team Project | COMP10120 | 20 | Mandatory |
Introduction to Programming 1 | COMP16321 | 20 | Mandatory |
Introduction to Programming 2 | COMP16412 | 10 | Mandatory |
Fundamentals of Computation | COMP11212 | 10 | Optional |
Data Science | COMP13212 | 10 | Optional |
Operating Systems | COMP15212 | 10 | Optional |
Course content for year 2
Course units for year 2
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Software Engineering 1 | COMP23311 | 10 | Mandatory |
Software Engineering 2 | COMP23412 | 10 | Mandatory |
Programming Languages & Paradigms | COMP26020 | 20 | Mandatory |
Algorithms and Data Structures | COMP26120 | 20 | Mandatory |
Real Analysis B | MATH20111 | 10 | Mandatory |
Algebraic Structures 1 | MATH20201 | 10 | Mandatory |
Logic and Modelling | COMP21111 | 10 | Optional |
Database Systems | COMP23111 | 10 | Optional |
Introduction to AI | COMP24011 | 10 | Optional |
Machine Learning | COMP24112 | 10 | Optional |
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Course content for year 3
Course units for year 3
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Third Year Project Laboratory | COMP30030 | 30 | Mandatory |
Giving Meaning to Programs | COMP31311 | 10 | Optional |
Agile Software Pipelines | COMP33312 | 10 | Optional |
User Experience | COMP33511 | 10 | Optional |
AI and Games | COMP34111 | 10 | Optional |
Cognitive Robotics | COMP34212 | 10 | Optional |
Natural Language Processing | COMP34711 | 10 | Optional |
Natural Language Understanding | COMP34812 | 10 | Optional |
Algorithms and Complexity | COMP36111 | 10 | Optional |
Mathematical Systems and Computation | COMP36212 | 10 | Optional |
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Scholarships and bursaries
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 .
What our students say
I always has the mind-set in my degree that I was learning how to learn. I feel like the BSc in Computer Science gives you a very holistic view of the subject, all the way from logic gates to high-level modules like Computer Vision.
Seb Masaru, BSc Computer Science
The community, the Department, the University, and the city itself are so vibrant in Manchester. You get the sensation that the people here are all extremely approachable.
Facilities

As you would expect from leaders in the field, we offer some of the most up to date facilities in the world. Amongst the wide range of facilities available to you are:
- Newly refurbished computing labs furnished with modern desktop computers, available with Linux and Windows
- Access to world leading academic staff
- Collaborative working labs complete with specialist computing and audio visual equipment to support group working.
- Over 300 Computers in the Department dedicated exclusively for the use of our students.
- Access to a hardware library, with top of the range equipment, including drones, robots and oculus rifts.
Disability support
Careers
Career opportunities
The world needs Computer Scientists, and as a graduate of the University of Manchester you will be in particularly high demand. One of the few Universities Most Targeted by Graduate Employers in 2021 , we equip students with the ability to tackle real-world problems and innovate for the future.
Example careers:
- Actuary
- AI Engineer
- Banker
- Cloud Computing Engineer
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Games Designer and/or Developer
- Software Engineer
- Web Designer and/or Developer
- And many more
90% of our BSc Computer Science and Mathematics graduates are employed or engaged in further study within 15 months and typically enjoy a starting salary of £36,000 or above (Graduate Outcomes Survey). Opportunities exist in fields as diverse as finance, films and games, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, consumer products, and public services - covering virtually all areas of business and society.
Which employers actively target our graduates?
- CERN
- EA Games
- IBM
- Microsoft
- And many more
Accrediting organisations
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).
Explore a global map of where our students have spent their internships - Graduate jobs and Industrial Experience Map .
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 .