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School of Computer Science
and Informatics
Undergraduate Degree Programmes
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science
www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy
1
Welcome to our School
“The School has
Over 220 a world-class
reputation and
academic and
industrial partners innovative
across the globe. courses.”
Rob Hemsley, former student
93% of our
graduates are
in employment
or further study
within 6 months of
graduating.
Source:
HESA Destination of Leavers Survey 2016/17
2
Welcome to our School
Contents
Choose Cardiff 2
Why study with us? 4
Plenty of Location and facilities 6
opportunities to Extracurricular activities 9
work and study Year in industry and
abroad. year of study abroad options
Computer Science or
10
Software Engineering? 12
Beginning your career 13
Student and alumni stories 14
Our degree programmes 16
• Applied Software Engineering 17
• Computer Science 19
Accredited • Computer Science with
Security and Forensics 21
by the BCS, Teaching, learning and
development 22
The Chartered Institute
Research 23
for IT.
A capital city 24
A leading university 25
Living in Cardiff 26
How to start your journey with us 27
How to find the School 29
“I fell in love
with the practical
approach that the
course took.”
Caitlin Burns,
current student
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 3
1
Choose Cardiff
We offer a supportive environment in which to learn, think and
develop vital professional skills and knowledge.
2
4
Choose Cardiff
We aim to share the excitement of current
technological trends with our students,
educating and inspiring the next generation
of leaders in Computer Science.
I am delighted that you are considering I think it’s important that when you choose a
studying at the School of Computer Science university and degree, you find somewhere
and Informatics at Cardiff University. With a where you will be happy and have the best
tight network of industry partners, a cutting- chance of success. To help you make the
edge research community, and wide-ranging best decision for you, I invite you to visit us at
courses and modules for you to choose from, one of our Open Days where you can see for
there has never been a better time to join us. yourself what it’s like to study at Cardiff.
During your time with us, we will do everything In this brochure, you’ll find specific
we can to help you achieve your potential; information on your specialist subject and
giving you the knowledge, skills and the opportunities available to you during your
experiences for a fulfilling career and future. studies and after you graduate. If you have
any further questions, please get in touch and
Led by passionate computer scientists
we will do everything we can to help.
and technologists at the forefront of their
fields, we provide outstanding education I hope to welcome you to Cardiff in the near
and careers support to provide you with an future and on behalf of all of the staff here
exciting range of opportunities. at the School of Computer Science and
Informatics, I wish you every success with
your studies.
Professor Stuart Allen
Head of School
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 5
3
Why study with us?
From innovative teaching to flexible courses, there are plenty of
reasons to study at the School of Computer Science and Informatics.
6
6
4
Why study with us?
With our support and your commitment,
we believe we can help you to build the
future you want.
Here are our top five reasons to study at the Student competition, Technocamps, CyberSoc
School of Computer Science and Informatics: (Cyber Security Society), and the STEM
(Science, technology, Engineering,
Connections with industry Mathematics) Ambassador Scheme. CompSoc,
Take advantage of our strong links with our award-winning Computer Science Society,
industry and go on a placement as part of also organise a range of events throughout the
your studies. Short-term summer placements year.
are a key component of all of our degree To help you settle into your first year, you will
programmes. Our Computer Science degrees be allocated an academic member of staff as
also have the option to complete a one-year a Personal Tutor and an experienced student
placement during year three. as a Student Mentor.
A placement is a great way to gain valuable
work experience with a company like Admiral, Academic excellence
Airbus, CERN, GSK, Hewlett Packard, Lloyds As a Russell Group University, we’re committed
Bank, Estée Lauder or Red Bull Racing. to maintaining the very best research, an
You will gain a clearer understanding of outstanding teaching and learning experience,
what it’s really like to work in your chosen and strong links with industry.
field, as well as developing key skills such as In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework,
communication, teamwork, leadership and (REF) 99% of our submitted research was
self-management. Many placements are paid, rated at least of international standard with
so you will also have the opportunity to earn a 79% classed as “internationally excellent” or
wage, to help support your studies. “world-leading”.
Our teaching was awarded the highest
Flexible courses
rating in our most recent UK Teaching and
Our courses are highly flexible, and allow Quality Assessment and all our degrees are
you to mould your career as your aspirations professionally accredited by the BCS, The
develop. You can keep your degree broad Chartered Institute for IT.
with a three-year BSc or a four-year MSci in
Computer Science, or specialise in an area of Excellent job prospects
your choice, from Applied Software Engineering Everything we do at the School of Computer
to Security and Forensics. Science and Informatics is about setting
Most of our degrees have a common first year, you up for a successful career, which is
so in most cases you’re free to switch between why more than 93% of our graduates are in
programmes at the end of year one if your employment or further study within six months
interests change. of graduating.
Alongside learning core topics, you can In an increasingly competitive job market, our
specialise your degree through a range of courses will give you the specialist knowledge
optional modules as you progress through the and professional skills that make you attractive
course. to potential employers.
Our graduates go on to work in a wide variety
Great student experience
of careers, ranging from web and software
We offer a supportive, well-equipped development to systems analytics, cyber
environment, with so many activities available security and academic research.
there’s bound to be something for you.
Our Careers and Employability service is here
Our School has a host of extracurricular to help and support you, offering everything
activities including Cardiff Autonomous from CV workshops, one-to-one advice,
Racing - a student team established to tackle interview practise sessions and careers fairs
driverless racing as part of the Formula with top employers.
AUTUMN 2016 7
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 7
5
Location and facilities
We’ve made sure that our environment and facilities meet all of your
needs to ensure you achieve your potential.
6
8
Our Courses
Location and facilities
The School of Computer Science and Informatics is
moving into an exciting new purpose-built facility
in the academic year 2021/2022.
Shared with the School of Mathematics, Research facilities
the new building has been designed in
A diverse range of facilities and systems
collaboration with students and lecturers to
underpin our cutting-edge research, including
create interdisciplinary, flexible and creative
clusters and cloud environments, a dedicated
workspaces, with innovative teaching areas
GPU processing farm, and a face and motion
and practices being a key feature.
tracking laboratory. Researchers can also take
The new facility will also allow: advantage of the resources of the University’s
• Support of student community by multi-million-pound Advanced Research
encouraging peer support with spaces for Computing facility (ARCCA).
academic mentoring, a MakerSpace to test We also have dedicated resources for:
ideas, and dedicated spaces for student • Motion capture
projects.
• 3D data capture
• Greater collaboration with industry in
• Knowledge representation and reasoning
teaching, research and engagement.
• Cloud computing
• Opportunities for greater interdisciplinary
collaboration, underpinned by world-class • Computational modelling
research in areas such as data science. • Internet of Things research
This is part of the University’s biggest campus • Computational music
upgrade for a generation, including an
investment of £260m in its teaching, learning
and student experience.
The School will still be located close to the
Students’ Union, two student residences, and
a short walk from the city centre.
Artist’s impression of our exciting new
purpose-built facility
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 7
9
Extracurricular activities
We encourage all of our students to take part in extracurricular
activities. It’s a great way to meet new people and have some fun.
It can also help you break out of your comfort zone, and in some
cases, even improve your future career prospects.
Final year student Kara Bennett highlights how she CompSoc
In our students' award-winning society,
has made the most of what is on offer: members mix across all degree programmes,
year groups, and even come from other
In my first year:
Schools. The society’s main goal is to bring
I became a STEM ambassador helping with students together to network, socialise and
Offer Holder and Open days and Networking above all, have a fantastic time at Cardiff.
events. They have regular socials; last year they
During the summer, I participated in the visited Bletchley Park, did some karaoke,
CUROP/CUSIEP scheme, developing a hosted film nights, pub quizzes and a
Microsoft Word Add-In to help students in the hackathon.
Chemistry department format their scientific
reports. Cardiff Autonomous Racing
I also participated in a Global Opportunities Autonomous vehicles are the next milestone
project to Namibia, myself and nine other in the technological development of our
students helped to raise awareness of Heart civilisation, and will likely be a crucial part of
Health alongside 40 students from a local our smart city future.
school. My specific role included developing Cutting edge research and development
a website for the campaign and teaching web within motorsport is a perfect platform on
design to some of the students. which
I worked the Summer Schools (Discovery, to test solutions to these future challenges.
Confident Futures, and Step Up) organised by Formula Student (FS), Europe’s most
the Outreach team. established educational engineering
competition, have recently announced the
In my second year: introduction of an autonomous (driverless)
racing category as part of the competition.
I was promoted to Lead STEM Ambassador,
where I was responsible for training new The Cardiff Autonomous Racing team was
ambassadors, developing new workshops, For my placement: established in 2017 following the stellar
helping to organise the calendar of events, and I worked for the University as a Development success of the Cardiff Racing team in order to
leading a variety of teaching workshops for and Delivery Officer as part of the Institute of tackle this challenge. The team is comprised
students age 7+. Coding programme. of students from the schools of Computer
Science and Informatics, and Engineering,
I also continued working with the Outreach During my placement, I secured a summer
with combined expertise in computer vision,
team, assisting with their masterclass events internship with Admiral Group as a web
AI, machine learning, robotics, and
and again helping with the Summer School developer which I began at the end of my
electronics. Cardiff Autonomous Racing are
programme. placement. At the end of this internship, I was
determined to tackle autonomous racing
I was a student mentor in my second year offered part-time work which I currently do
challenges with their innovative engineering
and won the Student Mentor of the Year for alongside my final year studies and have been
solutions. Preferring, as always, elegance and
Computer Science. offered a full-time job with Admiral Group upon
simplicity of their designs, Cardiff Autonomous
graduating.
I began attending Languages For All classes Racing chose an apt motto for this year: to
for Japanese, which I also attended over the build #SomethingThatWorks
I am currently working towards completing my
course of my placement year and into my final
Cardiff Award.
year progressing to Intermediate Stage part 2
thus far.
10
8Our Courses activities
Extracurricular
being the highly successful production and Our students deliver Technocamps workshops
deployment of an Open Source Intelligence- using introductory programming languages
based CTF game, which CyberSoc then such as Logo, Python, Scratch, and Greenfoot,
released for the public to play, attracting providing a gentle and fun introduction to
hundreds of people from around the world. computer science.
Twitter @CUCyberSoc Institute of Coding
Cardiff University is a partner in the UK-wide
CyberSoc Engagement activities Institute of Coding led by the University of Bath.
Since its pizza-filled launch in November 2019 Give a little back to the local community The Institute of Coding has been set up by the
with the debut ‘Step into Cyber’ event, backed by supporting our events with our industry UK Government to promote digital skills and
by Big Four giant PwC’s Ethical Hacking team, partners. Your contribution can bring long- digital careers and Cardiff University is one of
CyberSoc has gone from strength to strength, lasting benefits to our aspiring communities. two Welsh universities involved in the group. A
securing super interesting events with leading It’s also an opportunity to strengthen your skills number of the aims of the Institute of Coding in
employers. and a nice addition to your CV. Wales are linked with the Techocamps initiative
Alert Logic, PwC, Tarian, BT and more are STEM Ambassador Scheme and the STEM Ambassador scheme.
strongly connected with the society to be Our team of student STEM (Science, School support
able to provide truly leading sessions for the Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Contribute to activities within the School by
student community. Students are always well Ambassadors engages and encourages young joining our Student Ambassador Scheme.
fed and watered, and best of all completely for people to study STEM subjects and progress As an ambassador, you can assist at our
free. into related careers, through coding and weekend Computing Club for children aged
Strong relationships have been forged in both computer science workshops at local primary 8-15, Teacher CPD workshops, University Open
industry and academia to introduce those and secondary schools. Days and College events such as the STEM
from all degree disciplines into the world of Technocamps Conference and STEM Live events. We provide
cyber and provide everybody with fantastic This Welsh Government programme provides you with all the training, advice and support
networking opportunities to learn about the computing-based outreach sessions for young you need to join the scheme at the start of
industry from those who already have vast people aged 8-19. The outreach programme your studies with us, usually during induction
experience of the sector. supports the new computer science curriculum week.
The society has worked together as a team to in Welsh schools and raising the profile of the
act in the best interests of its members, with subject at university level.
perhaps the most substantial achievement
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 11
9Year in industry and
year of study abroad options
Develop your employability skills with a salaried year working in
industry, or learn while you travel and experience a different
country by studying at one of our partner universities abroad.
10
12Year in industry and year of study abroad options
Year in industry Summer placements
In a competitive graduate job market, industry Short-term placements are a key component
experience can help you gain extra skills of all of our degree programmes. We will
and experience to make you stand out from encourage you to complete these during the
the crowd. It could help you to secure a summer months to help you gain valuable
permanent role after you graduate, as well as experience in the workplace. Many of our
providing real-world context to support your summer placements are paid positions, and
studies. If you’re not sure what career path you will receive help in securing a suitable
to follow, it’s a great opportunity for you to post.
figure out what you want to do. It might help Students at the National Software Academy
you make those all-important decisions about have the option to undertake two summer
your future. work placements, between the first and
Where can I complete my placement? second, and second and final years of the
We have links with over 300 institutions degree programme.
and can provide you with the opportunity to We have a great tradition of being involved
embark on placements across the world. with CUROP (Cardiff Undergraduate Research
Our students have completed exciting Opportunities Programme), which provides
placements at organisations such as Admiral, summer placements for Cardiff University
Airbus, CERN, GSK, Hewlett Packard, Lloyds undergraduates in the University research
Bank, Red Bull Racing, and many more. environment.
How does it work?
Your placement will last typically between Year of study abroad
10-12 months and takes place in year three. Studying abroad as part of your university
Our School has a dedicated Placement experience is a great way to broaden your
Officer that will help you find and apply for academic knowledge, immerse yourself in
suitable placement opportunities. You will another culture, and gain skills that could
also have close contact with our placement be valued by employers. An international
coordinators, through email and face-to-face experience will not only enhance your
visits, to discuss your progress and help CV by demonstrating key skills such as
you get the most out of the year. We will communication, flexibility, and collaborative
encourage you to reflect on your experiences working but can provide you with valuable
by posting weekly entries to an online journal. networking opportunities.
You will return to Cardiff following the Above all, it’s the start of a new adventure.
successful completion of your work You will experience other cultures and
placement at the start of the autumn viewpoints, make new friends and share
semester ready for your final year of studies. unforgettable experiences during your time
abroad. You may also have the chance to
A Year in Industry will extend the three-year
embrace a new language.
BSc degree programmes to four years and
the four-year MSci degree programme to Where can I study?
Don’t just take our five years. You don’t need to commit to a
We have developed numerous partnerships
word for it . . . placement until the start of your second year,
with top universities, which means that you
so there’s plenty of time to add this on at a
have the opportunity to study in some of the
later date if you’re not sure what you would
most iconic and inspiring cities in the world.
I would definitely recommend the Year like to do yet.
in Industry to any student thinking Destinations include Paris, Berlin, Milan and
Sadly, we can’t guarantee that all students
about it. I worked as a Software Barcelona, as well as many other universities
will find a placement and the responsibility for
Developer for a company based in further afield in the United States, Canada,
securing a placement lies with you.
London and I loved it. The placement Australia and Hong Kong.
gave me the opportunity to blossom
and become a developer.
Find out more about our placement Find out more about studying abroad on
Viktoria Idakieva,
options on our website at: our website at:
graduated from BSc Computer Science www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science/ www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science/
with a Year in Industry courses/undergraduate/year-abroad courses/undergraduate/year-abroad
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 11
13Computer Science
or Software Engineering?
Two of the most common degree paths for the What are the key differences
between the degree programmes?
computer savvy are Computer Science and If you want the flexibility to build depth or
Software Engineering, but how do you choose breadth in a variety of topics, our Computer
Science courses are flexible. You can choose
between them? from a range of optional modules in areas
such as security, forensics, graphics, computer
A simplified way to understand the key software engineering subjects, such as
vision, artificial intelligence and large-scale
differences is to look at the degree type. software development.
database management.
Computer Science is a science degree which A Computer Science graduate is proficient in
covers a broad range of principles rather If you’re looking for a hands-on practical
designing and building software, developing
than a single application of these principles. approach, our Applied Software Engineering
computing solutions and innovating better
Software Engineering is an engineering degree degree is centred on developing software
approaches to addressing computing
offering a more singular focus on the design solutions to real-world client problems.
challenges.
and creation of software products, a focussed You will use a systematic approach and apply
Much of this will also be taught to Software engineering principles to the entire software
sub-set of Computer Science.
Engineering students, though there will be development process, from concept to
Let’s take a look at some of the core some difference in emphasis. Software completion. Our Applied Software Engineering
differences and similarities to help you choose Engineering focuses on designing and graduates have the practical skills and
the best degree for you. building software systems. It teaches you to academic knowledge required to become
manage the whole software development immediately effective in a range of software
What will you learn? life-cycle such as requirements gathering, development and maintenance roles.
Computer Science concentrates on core software architecture, building prototypes,
concepts and technologies involved in implementation, testing, deployment and
programming a computer. Students will maintenance, with an emphasis on agile
study how data is stored, processed, applied project management and working to customer
and kept secure by information processing requirements. If you’re still not sure which degree is
systems. It involves learning programming Software Engineering does involve learning best for you, please contact our team:
languages, databases, operating systems, certain core Computer Science concepts and Email: comsc-ug@cardiff.ac.uk
graphics, robotics and other sophisticated programming, but it does not explore as much Tel: +44 (0)29 2087 4767
technologies as well as briefly exploring in depth as done in the Computer Science
course.
12
14Our Courses
Computer
Beginning your career
Science or Software Engineering?
Our students have an excellent reputation for • communications specialists, including
Metaswitch, BT and Vodafone
finding employment after they graduate with • local consultancies frequently supporting
93% of our graduates in employment or further or designing e-systems for local or national
organisations, including Target IT, Advance
study within six months of graduating. Secure, Tiger Bay, government agencies, as
well as the Government Communications
Our degrees combine theoretical study and Employability skills Headquarters (GCHQ), QinetiQ (a Ministry
practical projects, helping you to develop of Defence agency) and Her Majesty’s
The skills you will have gained are varied and
subject-specific knowledge and professional Government Communications Centre
can include: team-work, problem-solving,
skills that are in demand for a wide range of (HMGCC).
analytical skills, numeracy, leadership,
careers.
communication (written and oral), being Careers and Employability Services
Career options innovative and creative and receptive to new
ideas. We offer advice and guidance for our students
IT and technology has a wide range of and graduates on building skills, experience
specialties and potential career options. Types of employer and contacts to improve employability,
These include computer architecture, software including:
The range of interests and scale of
systems, graphics, artificial intelligence, • Employability masterclasses, covering CV,
organisations within the IT and technology
computer gaming, computational science, cover letter and application form support,
sector is enormous, with workforces varying
software engineering, data science, technology interview techniques and an introduction to
in size from small consultancies to large
consultant, telecommunications, health data, LinkedIn
multinationals.
project management and cyber security.
Examples of employers include: • One-to-one advice sessions and daily drop-
You could also use your degree towards a in sessions with qualified careers advisors
career in teaching. The BCS, the Chartered • major consultants who design and operate
Institute for IT, offer teacher training bursaries. large systems for major third-party clients, • The Cardiff Award Employability Scheme
including CGI, Capgemini and Thales • Help and advice finding work experience
An undergraduate degree in Computer Science
and Informatics might whet your appetite for • commercial organisations with large IT set- and placements
further study at postgraduate level. We offer a ups, including ExxonMobil, Ford and IBM • Careers fairs and employer-led events
range of master’s degrees in Cybersecurity, • consultants working on embedded systems where you can network with top graduate
Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and e.g. ARM Holdings and HP employers.
Analytics and Advanced Computer Science. • niche system designers typically with
interests in health, aviation, rail, transport,
Whether your future is in IT or elsewhere, finance or defence, including BAE Systems
some form of related work experience - as a and General Dynamics
summer job, placement, or 12-month
• financial sector, including large banks
sandwich year - will certainly enhance your
and insurance organisations such as JP
prospects of getting interviews for graduate-
Morgan, AXA, Deloitte and PwC
level jobs after you finish your degree. Find out more at:
www.cardiff.ac.uk/careers
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 13
15Student and Alumni stories
Not long ago they were in the same position as you; about to embark
on one of the most exciting chapters of their lives at Cardiff University.
From top-quality research to robotics engineering, our students go on
to do some amazing things.
Hasna Al Jufaili
2018 - BSc Computer Science with
Security and Forensics
Why did you choose to study at Cardiff
University?
One of my aunts did her bachelors degree in
Cardiff in the 1980s, and I could see the good
education she gained, and how she applies
it in her job; this really inspired me. I also
saw how Cardiff is a safe and nice city for an
international student to live in. As a 17 year-old-
student traveling abroad alone for the first time,
Cardiff was the right choice.
What’s your favourite memory of your time as
a Cardiff student?
Graduation day - walking in the streets of
Cardiff with the graduation gown was like a
dream! And then hearing my name called in
the ceremony with some loud hand claps and
happy cheering from my family and friends is
an unforgettable memory and it brings back all
the memories of my four years in Cardiff.
Tell us about your career: what’s your
current role? What’s a normal day like?
After two months of graduation, I got a job as
a System Developer in Occidental Petroleum
There is so much potential in the real world Corporation, which is one of the largest oil and
gas producer companies in my country Oman
for Cardiff University’s computing graduates and in the world. During my day in the office,
and our former students have an excellent I do work on developing web applications,
automated reports and some mobile
track record of finding their first job or taking applications, which helps to digitize the oil field
and facilitates the operators daily activities. In
their next career steps. addition, I work with teams that are located in
the main branch in Houston USA and in our
branch in Oman.
Where are they now
You might meet our alumni completing further Airbus Group, Amazon, BBC, BT, Cardiff
education and research at Cardiff and other University, Capgemini, Confused.com, GCHQ,
top universities. Others have gone on to IBM, Lloyds Banking Group, MoD, Morgan
work as Systems Development Engineers, Stanley, Sky, South Wales Police, Thomson
Games Developers, Cyber Security Analysts, Reuters
CAD Technicians, Data Scientists, Software Take a look at what some of our former
Developers and Business Analysts at major students are doing now, and what they have
companies, including: to say about their time at Cardiff University.
14
16Student and Alumni stories
Caitlin Burns Lauren Heymer Oliver Storey-Young
BSc Computer Science BSc Applied Software Engineering BSc Computer Science (Year in Industry)
Why Computer Science at Cardiff? Why Applied Software Engineering at Why Computer Science at Cardiff?
I actually came to Cardiff University through Cardiff?I chose ASE because I thought I would Coming into university I didn’t know a lot about
the UCAS Clearing process and fell in love with enjoy Cardiff at all, but after visiting on an open day I
the practical approach that the course took. it and that it would put me in a strong place to felt really welcomed and liked the atmosphere
As someone who learns through lab work and get a job once I graduate. I’ve not been and facilities that were available to me.
examples, it seemed the perfect fit for me. disappointed. Getting industry experience on How did you find the transition from
How did you find the transition from the course with client projects really helped me school to University?
school to University? when applying for summer internships. Both of The transition wasn’t too bad for me as I had
It can be quite isolating, as going from an my internships were with companies already become quite independent and got
environment where you know everyone and I met at a networking event hosted by the used to sorting things out myself. The first
you’ve grown up with those around you, to National Software Academy. My last internship module which all students are on together was
a new city with new people, can be quite developed into a graduate position. a great way to ease everyone into the actual
daunting. However, the first few weeks were a How did you find the transition from school subject and the learning styles that would be
nice introduction to the university and weren’t to University? needed throughout the rest of the degree.
too taxing, giving students time to explore the It took time to adjust to producing work at a Meeting my personal tutor and student mentor
city, attend socials and make friends, alongside higher standard, but lecturers were greatly also made me feel even more welcome.
the degree. Within the first day, we were given supportive. I appreciate all the time they gave. Are you involved in any extracurricular
the information of Student Support, Advice Support was on hand in practical sessions and activities?
and other welfare services available to us, both you could always approach lecturers for advice The main society that I am a part of is the
within the School of Computer Science and the and feedback outside of class. Snowsports society after attending the Give
university as a whole. Are you involved in any extracurricular it a Go session. Very quickly I became well
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities? known and have since always been a core
activities? I was a student mentor in my second year. member of their club. Give it a go/Freshers
I’m Production Managing a show for the Every year the head of the scheme gives a talk Fair is a great way to find new clubs to join.
University’s drama society, Act One; working to all cohorts explaining how students can I’ve also participated in some more academic
as a STEM Ambassador in my spare time and apply. or Computer science related activities such
running the occasional radio show for the What do you enjoy most about your course? I as Student Mentor, Placement Pal and a Gold
University’s radio station – Xpress. I’m also enjoy the practical assessments. Most of them STEM Ambassador. I am also studying
heavily involved in the LGBT+ community at the have been really interesting to work Beginner Spanish.
University, helping run campaigns and events to on and they’re a great way to truly learn as What do you enjoy most about your course?
spread awareness. opposed to exams. I mostly enjoy learning about new technologies
What do you enjoy most about your course? What piece of advice would you give anybody available and their real-world applications. I like
I enjoy the lab sessions the most. Being able considering applying to study for a degree at the hands-on side of the course and labs are a
to actively program, build and test different the School? great way to learn.
systems is always a joy, especially when you My advice is pick something you think you What piece of advice would you give anybody
have others around you to give assistance if will enjoy. considering applying to study for a degree at
needed. the School?
What piece of advice would you give anybody Get stuck in, Cardiff is a great city and the
considering applying to study for a degree at University offers so much more outside of the
the School? classroom. Make the most of freshers, meet
Make sure you can juggle effectively. Computer new people and try new things. The friends
science can be a lot to handle, but you are you make at University will likely stick with you
more than capable of it, as long as you can forever.
work independently outside of timetabled
hours.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 15
17Our degree programmes
It’s great being able to work on real
projects that may actually be used in
industry after we have finished with
them. I would say that having the
experience of working with industry is
definitely going to help when I graduate.
James Ackland, BSc Applied Software Engineering
16
18Applied Software Engineering BSc (Hons)
Our degree programmes
UCAS Code: 4JVD Duration: 3 years
Based at the National Software Academy in Year three
In the final year, you will learn about
Newport, this is a hands-on course for those who emerging trends, and use them to develop
a product with an appreciation of the latest
want to learn how software is built and maintained frameworks, languages, and tools. You may
through real-world development projects. collaborate with other development teams
and will lead customer meetings as part of a
We work closely with large organisations such About the course large team project. This year builds upon the
as Admiral, Gcell, and Acorn to offer project- experiences of years one and two and brings
Year one
focused courses exposing you to the latest together all of the elements you will need
You will begin the course by learning to
commercial tools and techniques. in order to think and work as a commercial
think like a programmer. This involves
software engineer.
During your time here, you will learn through designing web applications and working
case studies, networking events, guest with databases. You will begin to code
presentations, and real-world projects, and with languages such as Java and Python The most up-to-date module information
leave the Academy with the qualifications using industry-standard tools and best- can be found on our website at:
and professional skills you need to find your practices, as well as applying the principles www.cardiff.ac.uk/courses
job as a software engineer. of agile development whilst developing your
You will get many opportunities to meet and communication and project management
work with practicing professionals from a skills.
wide range of organisations. Our previous Year two
students have managed to secure work In year two, you will get to work on larger,
placements, and even graduate jobs from more complex and technically difficult
relationships they have built during their projects, expanding your knowledge in
studies. areas such as performance and scalability,
Our purpose-built home in Newport feels security, and DevOps. This will be necessary
less like a lecture theatre and more like a to support the scale, resilience and security
start-up tech company. Beginning with a needs of your cloud-based enterprise
morning commute to work, you will travel to solutions. You will also develop and deploy
the Academy via a 12 minute, fully-funded mobile and web applications according to
train ride from Cardiff. The Academy is the needs of customers. At this point, you
right next to Newport train station. You will are expected to be leading project meetings
belong to the School of Computer Science to plan and manage development work for
and Informatics and can enjoy access to the a team and regularly holding meetings with
School’s extensive range of facilities and customers.
student support services in Cardiff.
Don’t just take our
word for it . . .
Over my years in IT management
I’ve found that we need to spend a
significant amount of time getting
graduates up to speed with what it’s
like working in an office. On a course
like this, you get more experience of
what it’s like to actually work in an IT
environment.
Matt Wintle, Head of Change, Admiral
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 17
19The course is really varied and I feel
like I’ve gained a lot of new skills that
have helped me to improve the way
I approach my projects. I’ve made a lot
of contacts on the course that I hope
will lead to a job opportunity when
I graduate. James Grant, Computer Science with a Year in Industry
20
18Computer Science
Our degree programmes
BSc (Hons) UCAS Code: G400 Duration: 3 years
MSci (Hons) UCAS Code: G404 Duration: 4 years
This course is taught as a broad subject, where you While we assume only minimal prior
background in computer science,
cover theory as well as practicing the transferable “Computational Thinking” convincingly
demonstrates that even complete beginners
technical, analytical and professional skills can be taught to program computers in a
required by employers. matter of weeks: the highlight of the module
is a sizeable programming project (usually, a
Computer Science is an exciting and dynamic About the Course computer game) on which the students work
field, full of open problems and opportunities in teams, often with impressive results.
Our Computer Science courses prepare you
for creative discovery and invention that Further modules will introduce programming
for entry into relevant professions and are
touch almost all areas of life. It is about algorithms using languages such as Python
also a solid base for pursuing a research
understanding computer systems and and Java, an understanding of internet and
career. You don’t need to have any prior
networks and how they work at a deeper web technologies, computer architecture
knowledge or experience of Computer
level, mostly from a theoretical, mathematical and operating systems, software engineering
Science to complete this course, however
and applied perspective. Because computers principles and mathematics for computer
A Level Mathematics is required for the four-
solve problems to serve people, there is also science.
year MSci degree.
a significant human element to the subject. Year two
Year one
The course covers a mixture of core Building on the foundations of the first
Computational Thinking
concepts and evolving, technology-based year, the modules taught in the second
The first year at the School of Computer
subject matter. Not only will you develop year expand your understanding, skills, and
Science and Informatics welcomes students
the technical, analytical and professional experience by introducing more advanced
with a “Computational Thinking” module that
skills that graduate employers are looking topics in the School’s main research areas.
runs for the first four weeks of Year One.
for, you will also be able to analyse Some choice is also introduced through
problems objectively to develop appropriate This module aims to excite and enthuse optional modules.
computational solutions. students in the field of IT, information
The structure and processing of data are
systems, software engineering, and computer
Industry projects and placements are a key further explored and simple algorithms are
science. It provides an introduction to
component of this degree and will help you expanded into applications that are able to
some of the fundamentals of computing,
gain valuable experience in the workplace. communicate via networks.
explores applications of computing, and
Plus, you also have the opportunity to You will apply the skills you’ve developed
develops the relevant intellectual and
complete a year in industry or a year abroad. so far during a team project where you will
learning skills. The module addresses this
from both a theoretical and a practical design and implement a software system.
viewpoint, and helps students coming from Year three
a variety of backgrounds to master the You will focus on emerging technologies and
most fundamental intellectual skills they advanced topics which are informed by the
will require in the remainder of the degree School’s research. There are a number of
programme. optional modules to choose from depending
on your specific interests. Contemporary
topics include Cybersecurity, Artificial
Intelligence, and Computer Graphics.
You will complete an individual project under
staff supervision, driven by your interests.
Year four (MSci students only)
If you opt for the four-year MSci course,
you will complete a major team project
developing new research and technology
under the supervision of one of our academic
staff. This will compound all the knowledge
you have learnt on the course, and help you
to develop crucial soft skills.
The most up-to-date module information
can be found on our website at:
www.cardiff.ac.uk/courses
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 19
21The course is challenging but it helps
you to improve as a professional.
Through extracurricular activities and
projects I have improved my team
working and presentation skills.
Iryna Bernyk, Computer Science with Security and Forensics
20
22Computer Science with Security and Forensics
Our degree programmes
BSc (Hons) UCAS Code: G4F4 Duration: 3 years
This course provides a mix of business context About the course
Our Computer Science with Security and
with the core security, trust and privacy issues that Forensics course will prepare you for entry
challenge the IT sector. into relevant professions. It also provides a
solid base for pursuing a research career.
Cardiff University has been named as an Through a mixture of core concepts and You don’t need to have any prior knowledge
Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber evolving technology-based subject matter, or experience of Computer Science to
Security Research by the UK’s National Cyber you will cultivate the technical, analytical and complete this course.
Security Centre (NCSC), becoming the first professional skills that graduate employers
Using current-generation tools and
institution in Wales to be given this status. are looking for.
techniques, you will develop, maintain and
In an increasingly networked world with rising Industry projects and placements are a key monitor secure computer systems. In the
computer-based crime, cyber risk is firmly component of this degree and will help you third-year, you will have the opportunity to
at the top of global business agendas. The gain valuable experience in the workplace. explore topics such as network security,
worldwide shortage of skilled cybersecurity Plus, you also have the opportunity to systems hardening, computer crime, forensic
and forensics practitioners places graduates complete a Year in Industry or a Year Abroad. methods, and evidence collection.
who understand the technologies and You will have access to our Cybersecurity
practices that underpin secure systems in and Digital Forensics Laboratory, where you
high demand. can investigate incidents and explore the key
Our broad and inspiring curriculum will security threats facing today’s professionals
expand your understanding of Computer through experiments with attacks in real- The most up-to-date module information
Science and provide the ideal preparation world scenarios. can be found on our website at:
for specialist employment or further study in www.cardiff.ac.uk/courses
computer security/forensics.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 21
23Teaching, learning
and development
At Cardiff, we aim to provide a supportive learning Plus, your lecturers are always on hand to help
with subject-specific queries and will support
experience that gives you a chance to explore your your learning through example classes,
tutorials and help sessions.
academic curiosity in a fascinating subject.
How will I be assessed?
You will learn through a wide variety of Lectures form the backbone of your studies in
Your progress in each module will be assessed
activities including lectures, small-group the first year when you will be taking up to six
during and/or at the end of the semester.
tutorials, practical computer labs, and self- modules at any given time. Each module will
directed study. typically involve around three hours of study There are a variety of modes of assessment,
per week, combining a mix of formal lectures, including traditional examinations, practical
Our Computer Science students have around
tutorials or computer labs. coursework and other activities, such as
twenty-five formal contact hours a week during
project demonstrations, appropriate to the
year one. There will be fewer contact hours
Personal tutors and study support subject matter and level. The most significant
during the latter stages of your degree as you
You will be allocated a personal tutor to help open assessment which you will undertake
take control of your own learning experience.
and advise you during your time at university. is your final year project which contributes
Our Applied Software Engineering students significantly towards your final mark.
Your tutor is one of your first ports of call in the
have fifteen hours of contact time a week for
school if you have any problems or questions.
the duration of the degree.
They can offer help, encouragement, and
Teaching is organised in modules, split over feedback on your performance on the course.
two semesters (Autumn: 14 weeks, Spring: 17
As well as receiving support from your personal
weeks); in each, there are 11 teaching weeks,
tutor we also run a Student Mentoring Scheme
followed by weeks dedicated to revision, some
where first years can get advice and support
project work, and exams.
from other students.
22
24Teaching, learning and development
Research
Our longstanding, strong and dynamic research Our work is having an impact on a number of
diverse areas, such as:
culture has given rise to our international reputation • Cybersecurity (security, trust, and privacy
for world-class research. issues)
• Healthcare (patient record systems and
Our research is organised into three groups: Priority areas information visualisation)
complex systems, data and knowledge • The environment (biodiversity
Significant investment has gone into the
engineering, and visual computing. management and geospatial information
creation of seven new research priority
systems)
Complex Systems areas to focus on emerging trends within our
Research in this area explores cybersecurity, rapidly-evolving discipline. • Telecommunications (communications
social and mobile computing, parallel and network design and virtual organisations)
These priority areas have been selected to
distributed systems, multi-criteria optimisation, • Engineering design (especially reverse
complement our three existing research
mathematical modelling, and human factors. engineering of solid shape)
groups, aiming to provide additional vitality
and agility in which we can respond to • High-performance and grid computing
Data and Knowledge Engineering (distributed processing, knowledge
Our work in this field specialises primarily in emerging trends.
management, and immersive
knowledge representation and reasoning, • Data privacy and cybersecurity
visualisation).
machine learning and data mining, and mobile • Distributed and parallel systems
and spatial informatics. • Human factors technology Collaboration
Visual Computing • Knowledge representation and reasoning Much of our research is interdisciplinary,
This research area spans a wide range • Social computing in collaboration with Schools at Cardiff
of topics in the fields of computer vision, • Text and data mining and other top universities, across the full
computer graphics, geometric computing, and spectrum of engineering and physical
• Quantum technologies and engineering
both image and video processing. A significant sciences, biomedical and life sciences, social
sciences, arts, and humanities.
theme in our work considers the input, Research impact
description, and editing of solids, surfaces and Our collaborative partnerships include the
Our knowledge and expertise are being
curves represented analytically as CAD models Human Factors Technology Centre, and
applied in innovative ways to drive forward
and as meshes. the Wales Institute of Mathematical and
the research agenda and help our industrial
Computational Sciences (WIMCS) .
and public sector partners solve complex
real-world problems.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 23
25A capital city
Cardiff is a compact city with an enormous to please every palate, you can enjoy fine true wonder, while the iconic Wales Millennium
character. Nestled between the rugged dining, plant-based treats and exotic cuisines Centre in the idyllic setting of Cardiff Bay is
coastline and breathtaking mountainous from almost every corner of the globe, without simply not to be missed.
scenery of Wales, the country’s capital is forgetting Welsh cakes for dessert! Bustling with personality, Cardiff is a city made
a cornucopia of culture, marrying historical Wales is the land of song, and Cardiff certainly for students, offering an endless string of
delights with cosmopolitan amenities. contributes heftily to this legacy. This city is entertainment opportunities while remaining
Providing an endless array of activities, one built with music running through its veins, from inexpensive and easy to navigate.
stroll through its cobbled streets can see the oldest record store in the world, Spillers The modern shopping centres, aesthetic
you learn about the rich tapestry of Cardiff’s Records, which is tucked away in Morgan arcades, luscious green parks and thriving
past at Cardiff Castle before soaking in the Arcade, to more contemporary and intimate nightlife are a huge draw for living in Cardiff,
atmosphere as the crowds spill from the venues which host some of the world’s most though you’ll always find your way back to our
Principality Stadium after one of the many exciting new musical talent. Students’ Union, which is the true home of the
sporting events it holds year round. Though your Cardiff bucket list may be bursting student scene in the city.
The vibrant and independent culinary scene at the seams, be sure to make a little room
is the heartbeat of the city. With something for our National Museum which is a place of
“The official capital of Wales only since 1955, the buoyant city of Cardiff
(Caerdydd) has, since the turn of the millennium, witnessed a remarkable
evolution from a large town to a truly international city, with massive
developments in the centre as well as on the rejuvenated waterfront.
With a reputation as a party town, allied to lots of top-class sport and
cultural attractions, it is one of the UK’s most enticing destinations.”
Rough Guide 2020
24
26A capital city
A leading university
Part of the
“Cardiff University is highly rated on a local and global scale.”
The Telegraph, 2018
Our students learn from leading researchers in Supporting you
Our student support and wellbeing centres
over 300 courses across the University. As Wales’ deliver a substantial range of services
only Russell Group institution, we have gained an available to all students that are free,
impartial, non-judgemental and confidential,
international reputation for excellence in teaching aimed to help you make the most of student
life and support you during your study.
and research, which is built from our history of We are also rated as one of the best
achievement since 1883. universities for supporting LGBT+ students
and are proud to be ranked highly in the
Cardiff University becomes home for computing facilities to name a few, with more Stonewall Workplace Equality Index.
approximately 5,500 new undergraduate exciting developments continuously underway.
students every year. While competition for We take our environmental, safety and
places is strong, we pride ourselves on being security responsibilities seriously, embracing
an inclusive university, welcoming applications our comprehensive Energy, Water and Waste
from everyone who wishes to study with us. Policy, which is already making great savings in
We are a global university with over 7,900 energy consumption and helping us to do our
international students from more than bit to tackle climate change.
100 countries and open our doors to all
applications, irrespective of background. Global Opportunities Virtual campus tour
We are partnered with over 300 leading Discover more about the University
Facilities and development institutions across the world, and our Global and the city of Cardiff through our
Committed to investing in our services, Cardiff Opportunities team will help you to gain interactive online tour at:
University is home to new and well-equipped valuable international experience, through
laboratories, lecture theatres, libraries and study, work or volunteering. virtualtour.cardiff.ac.uk
www.cardiff.ac.uk/computer-science www.cardiff.ac.uk/software-academy 25
27Living in Cardiff
“Cardiff has one of the biggest, best and
most active students’ unions in the UK,
with high quality facilities including Y
Plas, a 2,150 capacity nightclub; and
the Great Hall, a major concert venue.”
Complete University Guide, 2019
Cardiff is the perfect place to be a student. It mirrors the hive of activity a big
city offers, but in an intimate and compact setting with endless character.
Drink in the atmosphere, soak up the culture and get stuck into the host of
activities available in our city; your new home.
A guarantee of accommodation They also help foster a strong sense of
If you accept your offer of a place at Cardiff community through social events, and cultural Find out more . . .
on a firm basis, you are guaranteed a single activities, as well as practical support too.
Accommodation
occupancy place in University accommodation
Students’ Union For further information please visit our
during your first year, living with other first year
Our Students’ Union is at the heart of the website: www.cardiff.ac.uk/residences
undergraduate students.
Cardiff student experience. It’s a student-
The residential dates for your particular You can also watch our residences
led and independent part of the University,
accommodation will be confirmed in your Offer film online at: www.youtube.com/
dedicated to making your time with us the best
of Residence. watch?v=hxzX-dYLfB8
it can be.
Residence Life Built on the foundation of inclusion, diversity, Students’ Union
While staying in Cardiff student personal development and friendship, the
facebook.com/cardiffstudents
accommodation, you will have access to the Students’ Union runs a range of activities
incredible service provided by the Residence and services to help enhance your Cardiff snapchat.com/add/cardiffstudents
Life Team, who work tirelessly to enhance your University experience. instagram.com/cardiffstudents
student experience. These include advice, training, skills
@cardiffstudents
Working in partnership with Student Support development, entertainment, volunteering
opportunities and employment throughout your www.youtube.com/cardiffstudents
and Wellbeing, the Residences Office and the
Students’ Union, Residence Life will welcome time at Cardiff and to prepare you for a career
you to Cardiff and help you to make a smooth after University.
transition into University.
26
28You can also read
