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Home The Role of Technology in Education and Training in the UK
Next Date: October 2026
Here at Cambridge, we pioneered computer science and we continue to lead its development today.
Our links to Computing go back to the 1930s when Alan Turing developed the theoretical foundations for computation. We've been at the forefront of Computer Science research ever since.
This is a broad and deep course that covers all aspects of modern computer science.
We have 3 and 4 year course options:
- the 3-year course is a BA honours degree
- the 4-year course includes a Masters, leading to a BA and Master of Engineering (MEng) degree
Whichever option you choose, you will develop practical skills in:
- programming, in various languages such as OCaml, Java, C/C++ and Prolog
- hardware systems, such as chip design
Teaching and facilities
Established over 80 years ago, we were the first Computer Science department in the country. Our research helped lay the foundations of modern computing. We built the first programmable computer to come into service and lead the early development of programming languages and operating systems. We continue to innovate and advance the field, in areas from AI to quantum computing to computer architecture.
We offer a learning environment that is creative, stimulating, modern and entrepreneurial. You will be taught by pioneers and leading researchers in this fast-moving field.
You'll also take part in group projects that offer the chance to work with and present to external companies.
There are more than 1,000 specialist computing and advanced technology companies and commercial laboratories in the Cambridge area. known as Silicon Fen.
A number of local firms and start-ups support our teaching and employ our graduates, in areas from chip design to mathematical modelling and AI.
As a graduate, you¿ll have knowledge and skills that embody principles which will outlast today¿s technology. This makes you highly sought after by industry and commerce alike.
Many of our graduates go on to work as:
- programmers
- software development professionals
Other graduates decide to pursue:
- further study
- careers in teaching and research
Many have also founded companies, or gained employment in:
- software
- hardware
- the games industry
- finance
- communications
- commerce
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Minimum offer level
A level: A*A*A
IB: 41-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level
Other qualifications: Check which other qualifications we accept.
To apply to any of our Colleges for Computer Science, you will need A levels/IB Higher Levels (or the equivalent) in:
- Mathematics
- Further Mathematics to AS or A level if your school offers it. Check the guidance on this page
If you're studying IB, we ask for Analysis and Approaches for this course. If this isn't an option at your school, please contact your shortlisted College(s) for advice.
Colleges usually require A* in Mathematics and/or Further Mathematics. Colleges may also require an A*/7 in specific subjects (usually Chemistry or Physics, if taken) as part of your offer.
If your school offers Further Mathematics to AS or A level, you should take it. Additional mathematics is helpful. All candidates are strongly encouraged to take up opportunities to develop their skills.
If you are not able to take Further Mathematics because it is not available at your school, contact your shortlisted College(s) before you apply. They will confirm whether you are eligible to apply to their College for Computer Science.
Apply for partial scholarships
There are more than 1,000 specialist computing and advanced technology companies and commercial laboratories in the Cambridge area. known as Silicon Fen.
A number of local firms and start-ups support our teaching and employ our graduates, in areas from chip design to mathematical modelling and AI.
As a graduate, you¿ll have knowledge and skills that embody principles which will outlast today¿s technology. This makes you highly sought after by industry and commerce alike.
Many of our graduates go on to work as:
- programmers
- software development professionals
Other graduates decide to pursue:
- further study
- careers in teaching and research
Many have also founded companies, or gained employment in:
- software
- hardware
- the games industry
- finance
- communications
- commerce
Teaching is provided through lectures, practical classes and small-group supervisions.
In your first year you will typically have 9 to 12 lectures, one to 2 practical classes and 2 to 3 supervisions per week.
Assessment
In your first and second year you will be assessed through 3-hour examinations, taken in the final term of each year.
In your third year you will be assessed through coursework and 3-hour examinations.
Practical work is undertaken in all years of the degree programme.
You won't usually be able to resit any of your exams.
Year 1 (Part IA)
You'll study a range of foundation topics in computer science including:
- Discrete and Continuous Mathematics
- Programming Languages including functional and object-orientated
- operating systems
- Hardware
- interaction design
- machine learning
Year 2 (Part IB)
You'll study a range of core topics in computer science including:
- theory – including logic and proof, computation theory
- systems – including computer architecture, computer networking
- programming – including compiler construction, Language Design
- human aspects – including Human Interaction design, Artificial Intelligence
- You also undertake a group project, which reflects current industrial practice.
Year 3 (Part II)
You choose from a large selection of topics which allows you to concentrate on an area of interest to you, such as:
- computer architecture
- applications (including bioinformatics and natural language processing)
- theory
New topics inspired by current research interests include computer architecture, data science and robotics.
You will also work on a substantial project that demonstrates your computer science skills, and write a 10,000 to 12,000 word dissertation on it.
Projects are often connected with current Cambridge research, and many utilise cutting-edge technology.
Year 4 (Part III, optional Masters)
The fourth year is designed for students looking to explore more advanced areas of Computer Science.
You will:
- explore issues at the very forefront of computer science
- undertake a substantial research project
Progression to fourth year depends on how well you do in your third year exams.
If you successfully complete the fourth year, you'll get the MEng qualification, as well as the BA degree associated with the first 3 years.
- For further information about this course and the papers you can take see the Faculty of Computer Science and Technology website.
Changing course
It's really important to think carefully about which course you want to study before you apply.
In rare cases, it may be possible to change course once you've joined the University. You will usually have to get agreement from your College and the relevant departments. It's not guaranteed that your course change will be approved.
You might also have to:
- take part in an interview
- complete an admissions test
- produce some written work
- achieve a particular grade in your current studies
- do some catch-up work
- start your new course from the beginning
- For more information visit the Faculty website.
You can also apply to change to:
- Management Studies at the Judge Business School
You can't apply to this course until you're at Cambridge. You would usually apply when you have completed one year or more of your original Cambridge course.
You should contact your College's Admissions Office if you're thinking of changing your course. They will be able to give you advice and explain how changing courses works.
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