computer science phd manchester

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PhD Computer Science

University of manchester, different course options.

• Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, similar courses at different universities, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Subject areas

Computer Science

Course type

Programme description

The PhD is a three-year (or six year, if taken part-time) degree resulting in a substantial thesis.

As one of the largest Departments of in the UK we cover a huge spectrum of Computer Science topics. We currently have ten individual research groups ranging from Advanced Processor Technologies to Text Mining. Our core Computer Science research is augmented by interdisciplinary research taking place at the interface with discipline areas including mathematics, physics, medicine and biology. A detailed overview of the Department's research groups and core and interdisciplinary research themes can be found in the 'research' section of our website .

We're keen to receive applications from potential research students in all areas. Although your application is through the Department, you are basically applying for a place in a research group or with a particular supervisor. You therefore need to look through the research groups to find a suitable topic or potential supervisor. Alternatively you can identify a possible PhD project from our list of available projects.

The Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded by the University in recognition of the successful completion of a period of supervised research and training, the results of which show convincing evidence of the capacity of the candidate to pursue research and scholarship and make an original contribution and substantial addition to knowledge. The results of this research shall then be embodied in a thesis or other appropriate form and must contain material of a standard appropriate for peer-reviewed publication.

Coursework and assessment

As a research student you would typically work in an office with three/four other researchers from your group. You would be encouraged to present papers at conferences and publish your results in academic journals. We run several research training course-units and you can take course-units on a number of our Masters programmes. Opportunities are also provided to supplement income by undertaking laboratory demonstrating and other teaching support work.

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

Students need to have minimum academic entry requirements for a Doctorate programme are either: a 2:1 UK Honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD; an undergraduate degree at 2:1 or above and Masters award at Merit level in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD, or equivalent international qualifications. Whilst the most common first degree is Computer Science, we also consider students with backgrounds in an appropriate subject for the research topic (e.g. mathematics, physics, engineering, biology and medicine). The school may require a 1st Class Honours degree or international equivalent for some research projects. This requirement is specified at the discretion of the academic supervisor involved under the relevant advertised project.

MSc Data Science

London south bank university, ma games design, university for the creative arts, computing science and informatics phd, msc applied artificial intelligence, ma independent & serious games.

PGR Handbooks 2022/23

• PhD handbook 2022/23 [ PDF ] [ HTML ] [ EPUB ]
• Resources & VLEs
• Study & curriculum
• Student support
• Teaching assistants
• Technical Support

We have 10 The University of Manchester, Department of Computer Science PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

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Department of Computer Science  The University of Manchester

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The University of Manchester, Department of Computer Science PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Machine learning with bio-inspired neural networks, phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Competition Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

This project is in competition for funding with other projects. Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be successful. Unsuccessful projects may still go ahead as self-funded opportunities. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but potential funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

VariantVisualiser: Ensuring precise diagnoses of genetic disorders through the development of intuitive software that facilitates the integration and visualisation of complex informatics with biological and clinical data.

Self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Skyrmionic Devices for Neuromorphic Computing

Interpretable machine learning to identify biomarkers from multi-omics data of human cancer, generative ai for video games, design principles for glancing at information by visually disabled users, data lake exploration with modern artificial intelligence techniques, controlled synthesis of virtual patient populations with multimodal representation learning, continual learning and its applications, collaborative probabilistic machine learning.

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Department of Computer Science

Making a difference

Discover more about our Department's focus on social responsibility.

Course and programme finder

• Undergraduate courses (2025 entry)
• Undergraduate courses (2024 entry)
• Taught master's courses
• Postgraduate research programmes

Research Spotlight

Discover more about the latest research into robotics and AI. 

Computer science at Manchester

Study computer science at manchester and create software and hardware systems to change the way we live and work..

Why study here?

Careers and employability

Latest news, leading research on the fundamentals of artificial intelligence in manchester, university of manchester recognised as academic centre of excellence in cyber security research, research progress reveals faster, more accurate blood flow simulation to revolutionise treatment of vascular diseases, italy’s ambassador meets manchester robots during official tour.

Our research themes help us investigate the fundamental nature of new computing paradigms and feed it around into real-world impact.

• Centres and institutes

The Department has close links and strong relationships with various research centres and institutes.

The Department continues to build on its history of important, impactful research.

Follow our social media channels

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Locate where we are on campus

Get in touch with the Department

Search for the academic and support staff who make the Department of Computer Science what it is.

History and heritage

Manchester has played a major role in the development and evolution of computing.

Women and gender-diversity in computer science

We value students and academics of all genders and identities. Learn more about our community.

• Business engagement

We welcome new opportunities for engaging and collaborating with businesses of all shape and size.

Social responsibility

We're committed to promoting and adhering to socially responsible values throughout the Department.

• Schools, colleges and the public

The adoption and expansion of computing among young people and the wider community is central to what we do.

Quick links

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• Department of Computer Science
• Faculty of Science and Engineering
• School of Engineering
• 1 - 50 out of 234 results
• Last Name (descending)

Search results

Fatima Abacha

Person: Doctor of Philosophy

Hossein Abdi

Manith Adikari

Alaa Alahmadi

• Human Computer Systems - Honorary Research Fellow

Person: Academic

Mohannad Aldughaim

Seham Alghamdi

Nour Alhariqi

Areej Alhassan

Nura Aljaafari

Alaa Al Jamea

Salem AlJanah

• Systems and Software Security - Honorary Research Fellow

Abdullah Khalid A AlMasaud

Eman Alqahtani

Fai Alsaykhan

Ashwaq Alsuhaymi

Hadeel Altameemi

Mauricio Alvarez

• Information Management - Senior Lecturer in Machine Learning

Sophia Ananiadou

• Natural Language Processing and Text Mining - Chair in Computer Science

Andreas Andronikakis

• Advanced Processor Technology - Research Assistant

Person: Academic, Doctor of Philosophy

Terri Attwood, BSc, PhD

• Computer Science Teaching - Emeritus Professor

Bardia Babaei

Finn Bacall

• Information Management - Senior Research Software Engineer

Person: Technical

Richard Banach

• Systems and Software Security - Senior Lecturer

Mohammed Basheikh

Naji Bassil

Tharindu Batawala Acharige

Riza Theresa Batista-Navarro

• Natural Language Processing and Text Mining - Senior Lecturer in Text Mining

Talgar Bayan

Sean Bechhofer

• Computer Science Teaching - Reader

Diana Benjumea Hernandez

Davide Bertozzi

• Advanced Processor Technology - Reader in Advanced Processor Technology

Ahmad Bilal

• Human Computer Systems - Research Assistant

Hizal Hanis Bin Hashim

Stewart Blakeway

• Computer Science Teaching - Lecturer (Teaching Focused)

Andrew Brass, BSc, PhD

• Human Computer Systems - Professor of Bioinformatics
• Division of Informatics, Imaging & Data Sciences (L5) - Professor of Bioinformatics

Gavin Brown

• Machine Learning and Robotics - Professor of Computer Science

Angelo Cangelosi

• Machine Learning and Robotics - Professor of Machine Learning & Robotics

Michele Caprio

• Machine Learning and Robotics - Senior Lecturer in Machine Learning

Thomas Carroll

• Computer Science Teaching - Lecturer (TF) in Computer Science

Yiannis Charalambous

Barry Cheetham

• Computer Science Teaching - Honorary Senior Lecturer

Jiaoyan Chen

• Department of Computer Science - Lecturer in Data Intensive Systems

• Machine Learning and Robotics - Senior Lecturer in Machine Learning & Perception

Zhongyan Chen

Kelvin Chung

Sarah Clinch

• Human Computer Systems - Senior Lecturer in Computer Science

Emily Collins

• Department of Computer Science - Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw Fellow

Lucas Cordeiro

• Systems and Software Security - Professor of Computer Science

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

Download our course brochure

Discover more about our new Home of Engineering

BSc Computer Science / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

A*A*A* with an A* in Mathematics, and a minimum of one Science subject at A*.

A*AA including A* in Maths, and a minimum of one Science subject.

Find out more about contextual admissions .  

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

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.

Full entry requirements

The Department of Computer Science receives in the region of 3000 applications per year for 300 places across our undergraduate degree courses.

Apply through UCAS .

This course is now closed to applications for 2022 entry apart from those flagged for contextual data .

Find out how this course aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals , including learning which relates to:

Goal 4: Quality education

Goal 8: decent work and economic growth, goal 9: industry, innovation and infrastructure, goal 17: partnerships for the goals, course overview.

• Birthplace of the world's first stored-program computer and home to the first graduates in Computer Science!
• Number-one targeted university by top UK employers (Graduate Market, 2022)
• Enjoy the freedom to choose from an extremely wide range of Computer Science modules and curate your skillset
• Ranked shared first place for best Computer Science research environment in the UK (REF 2021)

Please enable JavaScript to watch this video.

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2024 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £34,500 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 .

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our courses address.

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development

Contact details

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.

• Computer Science
• Informatics

Compare this course

Regulated by the office for students.

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

Download our course brochure

Discover more about our new Home of Engineering

BSc Computer Science

Year of entry: 2025

• View full page

A*AA including A* in Mathematics, and a minimum of one Science subject.

38 points overall with 7,7,6 in Higher Level subjects, including 7 in Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches. Applicants should be studying a minimum of one Science subject at Higher Level. Science subjects include Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

For this programme of study, we will only accept the following to meet our Mathematics requirement: Higher Level Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches.

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.

Full entry requirements

Find out how this course aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals , including learning which relates to:

Goal 4: Quality education

Goal 8: decent work and economic growth, goal 9: industry, innovation and infrastructure, goal 17: partnerships for the goals, course overview.

• Birthplace of the world's first stored-program computer and home to the first graduates in Computer Science!
• Number-one targeted university by top UK employers (THE Graduate Market, 2022 and 2023)
• Enjoy the freedom to choose from an extremely wide range of Computer Science modules and curate your skillset
• Ranked shared first place for best Computer Science research environment in the UK (REF 2021)

Please enable JavaScript to watch this video.

Fees for entry in 2025 have not yet been set. For entry in 2024 the tuition fees were £9,250 per annum for home students, and are expected to increase slightly for 2025 entry.

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 .

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our courses address.

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development

Contact details

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.

• Computer Science
• Informatics

Compare this course

Entry requirements.

A*A*A including A* in Mathematics, and a minimum of one Science subject at A* or A. 

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

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

Practical skills are a crucial part of science education and therefore there will be a requirement to pass the practical element of any Science A-Level taken. Where applicants are applying for science and related degrees, this is likely to be made explicit in the offers you will receive.

Contextual offer

Duration of a-level study.

Your application will be considered against the standard selection process of your chosen course if you either: 

a) sat your examinations early; 

b) followed an accelerated curriculum and spent three years studying A-levels where the examinations were taken over two years. 

If you are studying an advanced curriculum where the examinations are spread over three years, consideration for an offer will be at the discretion of the admissions tutor for that subject. 

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

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 your offer conditions.

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including:

5 GCSES/iGCSES at Grade A/7 or B/6:

• 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.

International Baccalaureate

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, please see  Accepted Entry Qualifications from your country .

Scottish requirements

We require Advanced Highers, or Advanced Highers combined with Highers, in one of the following combinations:

Three Advanced Highers with grades AAA, including Mathematics and a Science subject

Two Advanced Highers with grades AA including Mathematics and a science subject, and three Highers with grades AAA in any subject

Two Advanced Highers with grades AA including Mathematics and a science subject, and two Highers with grades AA, achieved in different academic subjects to the Advanced Highers

Please note we will accept Mathematics of Mechanics to meet the science requirement at Advanced Higher level.

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 Credit level grade2).

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification, please contact the Department Admissions Team.

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 Mathematics and one Science subject, to be included within this. 

The minimum grade required will normally be the same as the lowest grade listed in the A-Level entry requirements.

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 at A* or 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

Applicants completing the Northern Consortium (NCUK) International Foundation Year or INTO Manchester International Foundation in Science and Engineering are required to achieve A*A*A with A* in Mathematics, and A*A in any order from Physics or Further Mathematics, and a third academic subject (not including Research and Communication Skills or EAP).  An EAP score of A is required.

An excellent performance in local examinations before starting the NCUK Foundation Year, particularly in mathematics and physical science subjects, is also required. Your qualifications prior to the NCUK Foundation Year will be benchmarked against the entry requirements for The University of Manchester BSc (Hons) Computer Science with an Integrated Foundation Year.

The University also recognises a number of external foundation courses as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme. Assessment will be made on a case-by-case basis and applicants will be expected to meet the entry requirements for The University of Manchester BSc (Hons) Computer Science with an Integrated Foundation Year in their academic qualifications prior to the foundation course. Applicants studying other foundation programmes should contact the academic department 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 Engineering with grades D*DD, in combination with a grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in a second A-Level subject.

The National Extended Diploma in any subject with grades D*DD, in combination with a grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in A Level Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma

We consider the National Foundation Diploma for entry provided it is in Engineering with Grades D*D in combination with grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in a second A-Level subject. 

The National Foundation Diploma in any subject with grades D*D in combination with grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in A-Level Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

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 grade 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, and Physics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate

We do not consider the National Certificate for entry to this course.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification, please contact the academic department(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 Engineering with grades D*DD, in combination with a grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in a second A-Level subject.

The Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma in any subject with grades D*DD, in combination with a grade A* in A Level Mathematics and grade A in A Level Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC)  

We consider the Cambridge Technical Diploma for entry, provided it is in Engineering with grades D*D in combination with a grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in a second A-Level subject. 

The Cambridge Technical Diploma in any subject with grades D*D, in combination with a grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in A-Level Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

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 grade A* in A-Level Mathematics and grade A in A-Level 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-Level Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate (CTEC)

We do not consider the Technical Certificate for entry to this course.

Access to HE Diploma

Each application is considered individually. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances. 

Our standard academic requirements include 60 credits in a science or engineering-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.

Cambridge Pre-U

D2, D2, D3 in three Principal subjects, including D2 in Mathematics, and a minimum of one Science subject at D2 or D3. Science subjects include Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

We also consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A-Level, in three distinct subjects.

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Cambridge Pre-U Global Perspectives and Research (GPR) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. However, the qualification will not form part of your offer conditions.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

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. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.  

We advise students to contact the academic Department, who will clarify whether their specific portfolio of qualifications is acceptable for entry on to their chosen course.

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 department 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.  

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the Department of Computer Science directly.    

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 85% in 60 credits from the following Open University modules: MST124 Essential Mathematics 1 and MST125 Essential Mathematics 2. Other online courses are not accepted.  

Find out further information for 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. GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.
• IELTS 7.0 overall, with no subscore below 6.5
• TOEFL iBT 100 overall, with no subscore below 22
• 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.

English language test validity

Application and selection, how to apply, 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

Further guidance on how to apply can be found on our  How to Apply webpage .

It is only possible to hold an offer for one course in the Department (for Year 1 entry). Please do not apply for more than one course in the Department of Computer Science, as this will use up multiple UCAS choices and will not be considered. If you wish to apply for Year 1 entry and our Integrated Foundation Year, then this would be two separate choices on your UCAS application.

Where you have mitigating circumstances, these should be reported to your education provider and relevant exam board, as we cannot make further allowances.

We would normally only consider applicants who obtained the relevant academic qualification within the two years prior to entry. Applicants who left education more than two years ago should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances.

Applicants studying qualifications above RQF Level 3 may be required to achieve high grades in their most recent relevant studies, in addition to meeting our Level 3 entry requirements.

How your application is considered

Aptitude test requirement.

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation.

Deferred entry is granted at the discretion of admissions staff and is normally granted for one year only and up to two years maximum (in exceptional circumstances). In order to be granted deferred entry, you must be able to meet your offer conditions in the admissions cycle in which you apply. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications

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 advertised Clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and Clearing, places will be subject to availability.

Policy for applicants who take their examinations in more than one sitting

Re-applications.

We are unable to accept applications for second year entry with the exception of those coming through our advanced entry programmes with partner institutions.   

Please note we do not offer transfers into the third year of our courses.  

If you are applying for a transfer into first year entry from studies at another university, you will be required to achieve high grades in your most recent relevant studies, in addition to meeting our Level 3 entry requirements.

Course details

Course description.

Through the development of new applications in science, engineering, and business, Computer Science is radically changing the way in which we experience our world. This programme equips students with the skills needed to contribute to this exciting and rapidly evolving field.

Computer Science is our most flexible programme, allowing you to choose course units to reflect your developing and changing interests. Furthermore, a wide range of themes from across the discipline allow you to specialise in the second and third years.

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 rewarding careers that can be pursued almost anywhere in the world.

Special features

• A broad and flexible programme 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

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 or 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.

Course content for year 2

Course units for year 2.

Course content for year 3

Course units for year 3.

Scholarships and bursaries

What our students say.

Todd Davies, BSc Computer Science

I always had 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.

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

Career opportunities.

The world needs Computer Scientists, and as a graduate of the University of Manchester you will be in particularly high demand. As the Number-One Most Targeted University by Employers in 2023 , we equip students with the ability to tackle real-world problems and innovate for the future.

Example careers:

• AI Engineer
• Cloud Computing Engineer
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Games Designer and/or Developer
• Software Engineer
• Web Designer and/or Developer
• And many more…

On average, our graduates earn £40,000 within 15 months (The Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021). 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?

To see more of where our students have completed internships and where our graduates have gone on to work, explore our Graduate jobs and Industrial Experience Map .

You can also be inspired by students and academics sharing their journey on our Women and Gender-Diversity in Computer Science page, and gain career specific advice from our very own Podcast .

Accrediting organisations

This course is fully recognised by the British Computer Society - BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

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