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BEng Mathematics and Computer Science

Overview:

Computing is an innovative and diverse field that combines foundational principles with logical thinking to design and build functional, cutting-edge systems. This course will teach you how modern computer and communication systems operate and how they can be adapted to create the next generation of computing applications.

Specialisations

You’ll have the opportunity to focus on areas such as artificial intelligence and knowledge engineering, machine learning, and the development of computational and engineering models that simulate complex cognitive and social behaviors.

Programme Overview

In your first two years, all Computing courses follow a similar structure, covering core modules that build a solid foundation in computing principles and concepts. You’ll gain a strong understanding of discrete mathematics (logic, sets, relations, and grammars)—the underlying mathematics of computing—as well as classical mathematics and statistics essential for applications in engineering and management.

The courses are designed to provide a broad overview of computing while ensuring you develop the ability to adapt to evolving technologies. Practical experience in applied computing is emphasized, with a focus on the engineering principles involved in the design, implementation, and use of computing systems. Alongside learning about software development, you’ll also explore computing architecture and hardware.

Your learning experience will include laboratory sessions, problem-solving classes, and hands-on project and design work integrated throughout the course. As you progress, you’ll delve into advanced techniques and modules influenced by the department’s cutting-edge research.

In your third year, you’ll complete an industrial placement, gaining invaluable real-world experience and practical skills. The final year elevates your studies to Master’s level, offering a wide selection of optional modules and the chance to undertake a substantial, independent project on a topic of your choice.

Flexibility in Course Transfer

Thanks to the shared content across Computing courses in the first two years, transferring to a different Computing course within the department is often possible during this time. However, transfers to Joint Mathematics and Computing courses are rare and reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

For international students, course transfers may affect your Tier 4 visa status. Please refer to our International Student Support webpage for guidance.

This programme equips you with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise, preparing you to tackle the challenges of the rapidly evolving field of computing.

Duration:

  1. Duration: 3 years (full-time)
  2. ECTS Credits: 180

Careers:

Our degrees open the door to diverse and exciting career opportunities. Many of our graduates join leading software companies, while others thrive in smaller enterprises or even launch their own startups. Some pursue careers in management consulting or accounting, while others excel in corporate strategy, marketing, or as business analysts in investment banking or stockbroking. A number of our alumni also choose to advance knowledge and innovation through research.

Here’s where some of our recent graduates have found success:

  • Software Engineers at Apple, Google, and Amazon
  • Technical Analyst at JP Morgan
  • Software Developer at BAE Systems
  • PhD student at Northampton College, USA
  • Managing Director at Introversion Software

Teaching & Assessment:

The teaching methods you can look forward to include:

  • Engaging lectures
  • Interactive class tutorials
  • Focused small-group sessions
  • Hands-on laboratory instruction
  • Practical problem-solving workshops

  • You can expect the following assessment methods:

    • Individual projects
    • Group projects
    • Laboratory tests
    • Individual and group coursework
    • Individual and group laboratory work
    • Written reports
    • Oral presentations
    • Written examinations

In addition to your primary degree from Northampton, completing this course will also earn you the Associateship of the City and DETC. The City and DETC is one of three historic institutions that merged to establish Northampton College USA in 1907.

Structure:

Core Modules

  • Foundations of Computer Systems
  • Fundamentals of Databases
  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Principles of Computer Architecture
  • Computing Practical I
  • Logical Reasoning
  • Mathematics I: Foundations
  • Program Reasoning Techniques
  • Graph Theory and Algorithms

Extracurricular Activities

  • Advanced Programming Skills
  • Training for Programming Competitions

Core Modules

  • Web Application Development Project
  • Algorithm Design and Analysis
  • Compilers
  • Computing Practical 2
  • Models of Computation
  • Networks and Communications
  • Operating Systems
  • Mathematics 2: Probability and Statistics
  • Software Engineering Design
  • Symbolic Reasoning

Extracurricular Activities

  • Programming Competition Training

Core Modules

  • Software Engineering Group Project
  • Introduction to Machine Learning
  • Industrial Placement (Part One)

Optional Modules

Choose from a diverse range of optional modules to tailor your learning experience:

  • Advanced Computer Architecture
  • Advanced Databases
  • Communicating Computer Science in Schools
  • Computer Vision
  • Custom Computing
  • Distributed Algorithms
  • Computer Graphics
  • Information and Coding Theory
  • Logic-Based Learning
  • Network and Web Security
  • Operations Research
  • Pervasive Computing
  • Robotics
  • Simulation and Modelling
  • Systems Verification
  • Type Systems for Programming Languages
  • Concurrency
  • Mathematics 3: Computational Mathematics
  • Performance Engineering
  • Computer Architecture
  • Business School modules (up to one)

Additionally, you may select:

  • An external course

Extracurricular Opportunities

  • Programming Competition Training

This structure allows you to build a robust foundation in core areas while exploring specialized topics and extracurricular activities that enhance your skills and career prospects.

Entry Requirements:

We welcome students from around the globe and evaluate each application on an individual basis—details of our selection process are outlined below.

For guidance regarding the qualifications listed here, we encourage you to reach out to the Department (see Contact Us).

We also recognize a broad range of international qualifications. If your specific qualifications are not mentioned, please visit our Academic Requirements by Country page for detailed information on the qualifications we accept.

A-levels

Entry Requirements for 2020

Minimum Standards

To be considered for 2020 entry, applicants must meet the following minimum A-level requirements:

  • AAA overall, including:
  • A* in Mathematics
  • A* and A in two other accepted subjects

While Further Mathematics is preferred, it is not mandatory.

Please note: ICT, Business Studies, General Studies, and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Recommended and Useful Subjects

We recommend certain subjects that provide a strong foundation for a computing degree at Northampton:

  • Recommended:
  • Computer Science
  • Further Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Useful:
  • Ancient Languages
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Economics
  • Electronics
  • English Literature
  • History
  • Law
  • Modern Languages
  • Philosophy
  • Politics
  • Psychology

Applicants offering other subject combinations may still be considered.

Typical Offers

For reference, 80% of applicants in 2017-2018 received the following offers:

  • Three A-levels: A*AA
  • Four A-levels: A*AAA

For 2020 entry, offers may range up to A*A*A for those taking three A-levels. Some offers may also include STEP requirements.

Practical Endorsement

If offered a place, applicants must achieve a pass in the practical endorsement for all relevant science subjects included in their offer. This assessment forms part of the reformed English linear A-levels.

Additional Mathematics Support

To support students in succeeding with A-level Mathematics, we offer a free online A-level Mathematics course via EdX. This optional course covers key topics, helping to develop critical thinking, fluency, and confidence in mathematics.

Note: This course is not mandatory and does not form part of the entry requirements. It is self-paced and can be started at any time.

The International Baccalaureate

Minimum Entry Requirements

For 2020 entry, our minimum requirement is 39 points overall, which must include:

  • 7 in Mathematics at Higher Level
  • 7 in another relevant subject at Higher Level

Typical Offer Range

As a reference, 80% of IB applicants in the 2017-18 cycle received typical offers of 41-42 points overall.

These offers often include STEP requirements.

Mathematics Higher Level (2021 Entry)

For 2021 entry, we accept both the Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches and Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation syllabi at Higher Level. However, students taking the Applications and Interpretation pathway will also need to complete STEP.

Additional Mathematics Support

We now offer a free A-level Mathematics online course through the EdX platform. While designed for the A-level syllabus, this course is also relevant to your curriculum.

Important Note: This course is entirely optional, self-paced, and not a requirement for entry. You are welcome to access it at any time.

Advanced Placements

The following outlines the minimum entry requirements for students applying to Northampton with only Advanced Placements (AP) as their qualifications.

If you are also completing a High School Diploma that is recognized by Northampton alongside your AP exams, additional requirements may apply to both your diploma and AP results. Please refer to our country index to verify if your High School Diploma is accepted for admission.

Minimum AP Requirements

To be eligible for this course, you must achieve grades of 5, 5, 5 in the following subjects:

  • 5 in Calculus BC
  • 5 in Physics
  • 5 in one additional subject

Preferably, we encourage achieving a grade of 5 in two additional AP subjects for a stronger application.

Supplementary Mathematics Support

For students looking to strengthen their mathematics skills, we now offer a free online A-level Mathematics course, available through the EdX platform.

While this optional course is based on the A-level syllabus, it is also suitable for students following other curricula, including Advanced Placement. This course is self-paced, allowing you to start at any time.

Important Note: Participation in this course is entirely optional and does not form part of the entry requirements for admission to this program.

By providing flexibility and tailored academic resources, Northampton is committed to supporting your journey toward academic excellence.

English Language Proficiency Requirement (Applicable to All Applicants)

All applicants are required to meet a minimum English language proficiency standard to be considered for admission to the College.

For this course, you must fulfill the standard College requirement by achieving the necessary grade in an approved English language qualification. Detailed information on the minimum grades needed can be found in the College’s English language requirements for undergraduate applicants.

How to apply?

The BEng Mathematics and Computer Science program, offered through online learning, welcomes new students in both September and January each academic year. We strongly encourage prospective applicants to apply early, especially those who may need additional time to complete an English language test.

Applications for the program must be submitted online through the University Application Service, EUCLID. To ensure a smooth application process, please carefully follow the instructions and include the following documents:

  • Degree certificates confirming the award of your degree.
  • Academic transcripts for all previously completed degree programs.
  • An academic reference supporting your application, dated no earlier than one year prior to the start of the LLM program.
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable.

If you are still completing your degree or do not yet have your English test results, you are welcome to apply. However, it is your responsibility to provide the required documents by the specified deadlines.

Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress through the University’s applicant hub.

While processing times may vary, the admissions team aims to review and process applications within four to six weeks of submission. Please note that any missing documentation may delay this process.

You will be notified of the decision as soon as it is made. There are three possible outcomes:

  • Unconditional Offer: You are offered a place with no further conditions.
  • Conditional Offer: You are offered a place, provided you meet specific conditions outlined in your offer letter. If you receive a conditional offer, it is your responsibility to inform the College Postgraduate Office once you have fulfilled the required conditions.
  • Unsuccessful Application: If your application is not successful, you may request feedback or refer to the University’s guidance for unsuccessful applicants, which outlines common reasons for this decision.

For further details, please consult the University’s guidance for unsuccessful applicants.

The University’s terms and conditions are an integral part of your contract with us. We strongly encourage you to review them carefully, along with our data protection policy, before submitting your application. Northampton University Admissions Terms and Conditions.

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