Computer Science (Integrated Degree)

Get prepared for the technology jobs of the future. You'll master in-demand programming, computing and mathematical skills through project-based modules where you'll develop your own software.

Our BSc Computer Science (Integrated Degree) is an alternative entry route for students without the formal academic profile to enter into degree level study.

Why study the BSc Computer Science (Integrated Degree) at Goldsmiths

• We will help you develop your undergraduate academic skills, while also teaching you the foundations of programming, problem solving and maths.

• Teaching on the programme is strongly focused on practical work in real-world situations, so you'll develop excellent technical and interpersonal skills that will enhance your employability.

• You don’t need to know how to code before you start. You'll begin by creating simple software programs, before gradually building your expertise.

• Your practical work will be underpinned by theory ranging from problem-solving strategies to professional software development models.

• You’ll benefit from Goldsmiths’ unique interdisciplinary approach to teaching computing. You'll explore how computing interacts with the arts, humanities and social sciences.

• When you successfully complete the Foundation Year, you’ll be eligible to progress onto the first year of the degree.

• The degree prepares you for a range of careers across the tech industry, such as software engineer, technology consult and data scientist. It covers key technical skills such as algorithmic thinking, full-stack web development, and machine learning, as well as industry-relevant soft skills like project management frameworks, user-centred design, and digital venture creation.

• The degree is hands-on and practical from the start. You'll be creating your own web and mobile applications, data visualisations, and games. You will explore your potential through these practical projects while learning relevant technical skills for your future career.

• In your fourth year, you'll have the opportunity to undertake a year-long industry placement. This gives you valuable experience to build confidence and contacts, further develop your skills and industry insight, and enhance your career prospects.

• You’ll program in multiple languages, use industry-standard tools, learn about analytical skills and problem-solving strategies, and explore topics such as machine learning, data mining, and artificial intelligence. You will also develop professional working practices such as design documentation, testing cycles, version control and issue tracking.

• By the end of your degree, you’ll have built a portfolio of work to kickstart your career in the technology industry.

Year 0 (the foundation year) is designed to prepare you for undergraduate study in computing. During the year you’ll learn the foundations of how to program a computer. You’ll work on practical examples of computing applications and learn to develop simple software programs which gradually increase in complexity. You’ll also work on your mathematical and problem-solving skills, as well as more general study skills.

Year 0 includes four integrated units of study:
Studying Computers
Foundations of Problem Solving
Foundations of Programming
Foundations of Mathematics for Computing

Year 1
In your first year you'll take the following compulsory modules :
Introduction to Programming
User Experience and the Web
Logic and Computer Architecture
Computing Project 1
Graphics 1
Algorithms 1
Identity, Agency & Environment 1
Identity, Agency & Environment 2

Year 2
In your second year, you'll take the following compulsory modules.
Software Development and Design
Computing Project 2
Object Oriented Programming
Algorithms 2
Fundamentals of Computer Science
The Goldsmiths Elective

Optional modules
You'll then take 3 optional modules from the following list:
Data Programming for Artificial Intelligence
Interaction Design
Networks and Operating Systems
Information Security
Goldsmiths’ Social Change Module

Optional placement year
Our degrees include an optional industrial placement year after the second year of study. You'll be responsible for securing a placement, but we can support you through this process.

The industrial placement year is a great opportunity for you to gain work experience, build confidence and contacts, develop your skills and industry insight, and enhance your career prospects.

You'll be supported throughout your placement year by a placement tutor, who will provide you with guidance and liaison between you and your employer.

Although we encourage you to take the opportunity of a placement year, you can also complete your degree in three years.

Year 3 (or Year 4 with placement year)
In your final year, you'll complete the following compulsory modules:
Final Project in Computer Science
Dynamic Web Applications

You'll also take up to 60 credits of optional modules from a list produced annually by the Department of Computing. Some of the optional modules previously available on this programme have included:
Neural Networks
Computer Security
Data Mining
Physical Computing

Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.

You’ll be assessed by a variety of methods, depending on your module choices. These may include coursework, examinations, group work and projects. If you progress and opt for an industrial placement year, your placement tutor will assess your work. If you complete the placement year successfully, you earn the endorsement 'with work experience' on your degree certificate.