Computer Science and an Arts Subject Joint Honours

Explore the dynamic intersection of Computer Science and Arts through the Joint Honours programme at the University of Birmingham. This innovative degree is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of computing technologies alongside a deep appreciation of artistic and cultural perspectives. By integrating technical expertise with creative insight, students will develop a versatile skill set that prepares them for a wide range of careers in today's digital and creative industries.

The Computer Science component offers rigorous training in programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and systems design. Students will learn to develop, analyze, and implement software solutions, gaining practical experience through hands-on projects and collaborations. The curriculum also covers emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data analysis, providing a solid foundation for technological innovation.

Complementing this is the Arts subject, which delves into visual arts, creative writing, media, and cultural studies. This facet encourages critical thinking, artistic expression, and an understanding of the cultural contexts that shape technology's role in society. Students can engage with contemporary art practices, explore digital media, and develop their own artistic projects, fostering creativity alongside their technical skills.

Throughout the programme, students will benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that emphasizes problem-solving, innovation, and communication. The blend of arts and computing prepares graduates for diverse fields including digital media, game design, user experience, arts management, and technology-driven creative industries. They will also acquire skills in teamwork, project management, and critical analysis, vital for careers in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The University of Birmingham offers state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated teaching staff, and support for student research and industry placements. With flexible modules and opportunities for specialization, students can tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations. The program culminates in a final year project that synthesizes learning from both disciplines, demonstrating their integrated expertise.

Graduates of this Joint Honours degree will be well-positioned to lead innovative projects at the nexus of technology and the arts, contributing to cultural, educational, and commercial sectors. Whether pursuing postgraduate study or entering the workforce, students will leave equipped with a unique combination of skills that reflect the changing demands of the digital age.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 3805 Year (EEA)
• EUR 16520 Year (Non-EEA)

Home/EU £3,375; International £14,650

• English

Course Content

First year

In this year you are introduced to computer science and software engineering. You work in our software laboratories developing your analytical, design and programming skills. You also study the mathematical fundamentals underpinning efficient software.

Second year

Work in the second year develops your skills in building software in teams. You also explore databases, graphics, logic programming and software engineering. If you are taking a degree with a language, you will also be able to spend an additional year between Years 2 and 3 in the relevant country, either studying or working.

Third year

In your final year you will work on an individual project, often related to your other area of study. You also study modules from a range of options such as Commercial Programming, Intelligent Robotics, Virtual Reality, Databases, Natural Language Processing, Computer Networks and HumanComputer Interaction.
The strong practical elements of these degrees benefit from excellent facilities including a variety of sophisticated networked computers and extensive online information services.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching is by lectures, tutorials and laboratory demonstrations. There are also some online teaching and discussion groups. We assess your work through your laboratory assignments, case studies and essays, as well as examinations.

Career opportunities

You graduate with an understanding of the essential science and engineering of computers and software. You have job prospects, therefore, with computer manufacturers and software companies, in the manufacturing industry, communications, business and commerce, banking, local government, the Civil Service, education and training.

Please read the entry for the Arts subject you wish to combine with Computer Science.

Related links

School of Computer Science website: www.cs.bham.ac.uk

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 5.5 CAE score : 80(Grade A) TOEFL iBT® test : 80

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Number of A levels required: 3

Typical offer: AABBBB

Required subjects and grades: Mathematics GCSE grade B

General Studies: not accepted

Additional information:

Other qualifications are considered
It is desirable, but not essential, to have some experience of writing computer programs.
Typical offer grades are for guidance only, and will depend on the subjects you are combining. Please read the entries for both subjects. Where there is a disparity between the typical offer for Subject A and the typical offer for Subject B, the higher offer should be taken as the usual offer for the combination of the two.

International students:

International Baccalaureate Diploma: 3436 points including Mathematics at SL

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Birmingham.

The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science (joint honours) in Computer Science and an Arts subject at the University of Birmingham offers students a unique opportunity to develop a broad skill set that spans the technical and creative aspects of computing and arts disciplines. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to provide a comprehensive education, combining the analytical and problem-solving skills of computer science with the cultural, historical, and theoretical insights of an arts subject. Students enrolled in this course benefit from the university’s well-established reputation for excellence in both computing and arts education, ensuring a balanced curriculum that promotes both technical proficiency and artistic understanding.

The programme typically begins with foundational modules in computer science, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and systems, alongside introductory courses in the selected arts subject, which could range from history, languages, or other humanities disciplines. As students progress, they can choose from a wide array of modules tailored to their interests, allowing them to specialize further in areas such as software development, artificial intelligence, digital media, or cultural studies. Combining these disciplines encourages students to think critically about the interaction between technology and society, fostering innovative approaches to contemporary issues through a blend of creative and technical perspectives.

The course is designed with a flexible structure, enabling students to undertake optional modules that match their academic interests and career ambitions. Work placements, industry projects, and research opportunities are often incorporated into the programme to provide practical experience and enhance employability. Graduates from this joint honours programme are well-equipped for careers that require a cross-disciplinary approach, including roles in digital media, software development, arts and cultural management, education, or further postgraduate study.

Furthermore, the programme emphasizes developing strong communication skills, teamwork, and project management abilities, vital for success in complex, multidisciplinary environments. The university’s vibrant campus life, state-of-the-art facilities, and access to computing labs and arts studios support a dynamic learning experience. Students also have opportunities to participate in clubs, societies, and conferences that broaden their academic and professional networks. Overall, the Computer Science and Arts joint honours programme at Birmingham aims to produce versatile graduates capable of innovating at the intersection of technology and culture, prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital world.