Computer Science

The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to provide students with a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of computing. The program is geared towards those who are passionate about technology, innovation, and problem-solving, and aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Throughout their studies, students explore core topics such as programming, algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, and software engineering, alongside advanced subjects like artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer graphics, and cybersecurity. The curriculum balances hands-on practical experience with theoretical foundations, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. Students benefit from world-class teaching, extensive research opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. The program emphasizes the importance of fundamental concepts while encouraging creativity and interdisciplinary approaches, preparing graduates for diverse careers in technology companies, research institutions, and entrepreneurial ventures. The collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment at Cambridge promotes not only technical proficiency but also ethical and societal awareness regarding computing impacts. With a strong emphasis on innovation, students are encouraged to undertake projects, internships, and interdisciplinary collaborations that enhance their practical knowledge and prepare them for leadership roles in the tech industry. The degree program integrates a broad foundation in computing with specialized options, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations. Graduates of the program leave equipped with a robust understanding of computer science principles, the ability to adapt to new technologies, and a commitment to lifelong learning in a field that continues to shape the future of society.

Teaching is provided through lectures, practical classes and supervisions. In Year 1, you can typically expect 20 hours of teaching every week, including up to 12 lectures and practical classes.

Assessment is by three-hour examinations taken in the final term each year. Practical work is also assessed 

in the second and third years, and you submit a dissertation on your third-year project.

Please note that successful applicants are required to do some preparatory reading and complete a pre-arrival online course before the start of the first term. Students will be sent details after their place is confirmed.

Year 1 (Part IA)

You take four papers, including two compulsory Computer Science papers – covering topics such as foundations of computer science

(taught in ML), Java and object-oriented programming, operating systems, and digital electronics – and at least one Mathematics paper.

• The fourth paper is chosen from:a third Computer Science paper (students not taking this paper in Year 1 must take it in Year 2)
• a social psychology paper from the Psychological and Behavioural Sciences course
• one of Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Evolution and Behaviour, Physics or Physiology of Organisms from Natural Sciences

Alternatively, you may take the compulsory first-year Computer Science papers alongside two of the first-year papers of the Mathematics course. This is known as Computer Science with Mathematics, and some Colleges require applicants who want to take Computer Science with Mathematics in their first year to take STEP Mathematics.

You should indicate which combination you wish to take in your first year - Computer Science, Computer Science with Social Psychology, Computer Science with Natural Sciences, or Computer Science with Mathematics - in your Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ).

Year 2 (Part IB)

Core technologies and theories

You take four papers, spanning the core discipline through topics including:

• theory – including logic and proof, computation theory
• systems – including computer design, computer networking
• programming – including compiler construction, advanced algorithms
• applications and professionalism – including artificial intelligence, graphics, security

You also undertake a group project which reflects current industrial practice. 

Students who don’t take the third Computer Science paper in Year 1 must take it in Year 2, instead of one of the Part IB papers (which must then be taken in Year 3).

Year 3 (Part II)

Specialisation

You can choose 15 topics from a large selection (some options may not be available to those students taking a Year 2 paper in Year 3). These are examined across three papers to allow you to concentrate more on systems, theory or applications. The advanced topics are wide-ranging and usually include: 

• mobile and sensor networks, principles of communication
• specification and verification of hardware and software, semantics
• quantum computing, bioinformatics
• human-computer interaction, natural language processing, e-commerce
• advanced artificial intelligence, advanced graphics

All students also work on a substantial project demonstrating their computer science skills, writing a 12,000 word dissertation on it. Projects are often connected with current Cambridge research and many utilise cutting-edge technology.  

Year 4 (Part III, optional integrated Masters)

Research preparation

The fourth year is designed for students considering a career in academic or industrial research. You explore issues at the very forefront of computer science and undertake a substantial research project.

Progression to Part III is dependent on Part II examination achievement. Successful completion of Part III leads to the MEng qualification, as well as the BA degree attained at the end of Part II.

• All applicants to the University of Cambridge must submit an application to UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) by the relevant deadline.
• The Attestat o (polnom) Srednem Obshchem Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) is not considered to be suitable preparation for a competitive application to the University of Cambridge. We strongly recommend that you undertake further study if you wish to apply for an undergraduate degree. Examples of the qualifications that would be considered suitable for admission to Cambridge are A Levels, the International Baccalaureate (IB), five or more Advanced Placement (AP) courses, or possibly the first year of an undergraduate degree at a university outside the UK. We recommend that you contact the College that you wish to apply to directly for further advice and guidance.
• IELTS – normally a minimum overall grade of 7.5, usually with 7.0 or above in each element.
• Cambridge English: Advanced – grade A or B.
• Cambridge English: Proficiency – grade A, B or C.
• Required by all Colleges: A Level/IB Higher Level Mathematics

Admissions assessments

All applicants for Computer Science are required to take the Computer Science Admissions Test (CSAT) at interview if interviewed.

Assessment format

• CSAT Maths-based problems (100 minutes)

You do not need to register or be registered in advance for the assessment at interview – the Colleges provide details of arrangements in the letters inviting applicants to interview.

Please see the dedicated CSAT website for full details, questions and preparatory material.

Please note that your performance in the assessment at interview will not be considered in isolation, but will be taken into account alongside the other elements of your application.

In addition to the at-interview assessment, applicants who are invited to interview are required to take a College-set written assessment at interview at the following Colleges (see individual College websites for details): King's (Computer Science with Maths).

For Computer Science candidates interviewed overseas, a written Maths assessment will be administered by the overseas interviewing team instead of the CSAT. This will then be made available to the Cambridge College along with the overseas interview report.  

Submitted work

Applicants are not typically asked to submit examples of written work. Some may be asked by their College to do some reading in advance of their interview, but if this is required the College will provide full details in the letter inviting the student to interview.

The University of Cambridge offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the Computer Science programme. The primary sources of funding include government-sponsored scholarships, university-specific bursaries, and external scholarships awarded by charitable organizations and industry partners. UK students may be eligible for government loans and grants, such as the Student Loans Company funding, which covers tuition fees and provides maintenance loans to assist with living costs. International students are encouraged to seek external funding opportunities, including scholarships from international foundations, government-sponsored schemes from their home countries, and partnerships with industry sponsors that may offer sponsorship or internship opportunities to offset costs.

Cambridge also provides its own financial aid programs, including College-specific bursaries and scholarships designed to support students demonstrating financial need or exceptional academic merit. These awards vary in amount but can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying at the university. The University also participates in the Cambridge Trust scholarships, which are highly competitive and available for both home and international students pursuing various degree programmes, including Computer Science.

Furthermore, numerous external organizations offer funding specifically targeted at students enrolled in STEM fields, which include Computer Science. These may include industry-sponsored scholarships from technology companies and foundations committed to supporting diversity and inclusion within the tech sector. Students are advised to explore alternative funding sources such as part-time work options, research or teaching assistantships, and external summer internships that provide stipends.

Additionally, Cambridge consistently advises students to plan their finances early, utilizing the university's dedicated financial support services for guidance on planning, budgeting, and applying for various financial aid programs. While the university's own funding options form a core part of financial support, the availability and eligibility criteria for each source vary, and applicants are encouraged to consult the university's official website and contact the admissions or financial aid office for personalized and current information.

Overall, the diverse spectrum of funding options, combined with targeted scholarships and grants, aims to ensure that students enrolled in the Cambridge Computer Science programme can access high-quality education regardless of financial background. The university remains committed to providing financial support to talented students and fosters an environment where economic barriers are minimized to enable academic success and innovation.

Your living expenses may be higher than for a Home student (eg if you stay in Cambridge/the UK during vacations). The minimum resources needed in Cambridge for the year (excluding tuition and College fees) are estimated to be approximately £10,080 in 2017-18 and £10,310 in 2018-19, depending on lifestyle (you should allow for increases in future years).