Creative Computing at Birkbeck, University of London combines the principles of computer science with the creative arts to equip students with the skills necessary to innovate at the intersection of technology and creativity. This innovative programme is designed for individuals interested in exploring how digital technology can be used as a tool for artistic expression, media production, and interactive experiences. Throughout the course, students will gain a strong foundation in programming, software development, and digital design, alongside an understanding of the cultural and societal implications of technology. The curriculum is carefully structured to foster both technical competence and creative thinking, encouraging students to develop projects that push the boundaries of conventional digital media. Students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects, collaborate with industry partners, and engage in interdisciplinary research that spans the arts, design, and computing. The programme emphasizes hands-on learning, with practical workshops, studio sessions, and access to state-of-the-art facilities that enable students to experiment and bring their ideas to life. Graduates are prepared for careers in creative industries such as digital media, game design, interactive installation art, digital animation, and software development for artistic projects. The programme also provides a solid foundation for those wishing to pursue further academic research or to develop their own entrepreneurial ventures in the creative technology sector. With London's vibrant arts and digital scene as a backdrop, students will be immersed in a dynamic environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and professional development. Whether you come from a background in arts, media, or computing, Creative Computing at Birkbeck offers a unique opportunity to bridge these disciplines and become a pioneering creator in the digital age.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline 1 October in the year before you intend to sit your first examinations Tuition fee- GBP 1675 Year (EEA)
Independent study demands that you are motivated, well-organised and focused. We advise that to complete in the minimum study period you will need devote at least 250 hours of study to each full course. Fees are payable as you progress rather than as a single lump sum. The following are examples of University fees for the whole programme of study: £5,025 for the BSc and £2,616 for the Diploma (you should also budget for the Diploma-teaching institution's fees). Please note that these examples are calculated using current fees for 2014-15, and do not reflect any annual change to fees and assume completion in the minimum time permitted.
Start date August 2015 Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test- English
Course Content
Bachelor of Science degree in Computing and Information Systems The BSc comprises 12 courses. Take the 4 courses from Level 1, 4 courses from Level 2 and choose 6 half courses and the project from Level 3.
Diploma in Computing and Information Systems The Diploma in Computing comprises 5 courses. Take the 4 courses from Level 1 and a Mathematics for business course. You must study at a teaching institution and also take a Study Skills in English course.
Work Experience Entry Route: This route comprises 2 courses: Information systems: foundations of e-business, and Introduction to Java and object-oriented programming.
Level 1
Four compulsory full courses
- Mathematics for computing
- Information systems: foundations of e-business
- Introduction to Java and object-oriented programming
- Introduction to computing and the internet
Level 2
Four compulsory full courses
- Database systems
- Graphical object-oriented and Internet programming in Java
- Data communications and enterprise networking
- Software engineering, algorithm design and analysis
Level 3
Six half courses chosen from the following
- Artificial intelligence
- Neural networks
- Information systems management
- Electronic commerce
- Data compression
- Computer security
- Interaction design
- Operations research and combinatorial optimisation
- Software engineering project management
- Introduction to natural language processing
- Advanced graphics and animation
Plus a compulsory project
ProjectRequirements
BSc Computing and Information Systems
To be eligible for the BSc degree you must:
- normally* be at least 17 years old and either have passes in:
- two subjects at GCE 'A' level plus at least three further subjects at GCSE/GCE 'O' level (at not less than grade C or a 'pass' if taken prior to 1975) or
- three subjects at GCE A level (with one A level at not less than grade D) or
- three subjects at GCE 'A' level, plus one further subject at GCSE/GCE 'O' level (at not less than grade C) or- two subjects at GCE 'A' Level and two further subjects at GCE 'AS' Level and - have a level of competence at least equivalent to a pass at GCE 'AS' level in a mathematical subject. GCSE/GCE 'O' level in mathematics at no less than grade B will also be considered for admissions purposes (the University will consider qualifications of a comparable standard to GCE 'AS' and GCSE/GCE 'O' levels - the decision on comparable qualifications is taken at the discretion of the University) and
- have fluent comprehension and writing skills in English.
Diploma in Computing and Information Systems
To be eligible for the Diploma you must:
- normally* be aged 17 years or older before 1 September in the year you first register with the University (there can be no exceptions to this requirement) and
- EITHER have passed a minimum of four separate subjects at GCSE/GCE O level (at not less than grade C) including Mathematics or equivalent examination and
- provide proof of competence in English acceptable to the University (it may be necessary for you to have passed a recognised test of proficiency, at the appropriate level, within the past three years) and
- have been admitted to a full- or part-time course of instruction at a recognised centre, which is listed offering this programme on the Directory of Institutions.
- OR must have been admitted to a full- or part-time course of instruction at an institution with 'Advanced' status, having successfully completed the entry test of that institution.
Work Experience Entry Route to BSc Computing and Information Systems
To be eligible for the Work Experience Entry Route you must:
- normally* be aged 21 years or older before 1 September in the year you first register with the University and
- have passed a minimum of four separate subjects at GCSE/GCE O level (at not less than Grade C) including Mathematics and
- provide proof of competency in English acceptable to the University (it may be necessary for you to have passed a recognised test of proficiency, at the appropriate level, within the past three years) and
- have at least two years relevant work experience (i.e. with computing or IT elements either from a job in a computing-oriented company or a job in computing or IT).
*Applications will be considered from applicants who do not meet the normal minimum age requirement for admission. Each application will be considered on an individual basis, and the decision taken at the discretion of the University of London.
Note: applicants with other qualifications not listed above and/or suitable work experience will be considered by the University on an individual basis. There are many other acceptable entrance qualifications[PDF: 9pgs, 160KB], both from the UK and overseas, which the University accepts instead of British 'O' and 'A' levels. If you do not satisfy the criteria for automatic acceptance we will still consider your application on an individual basis under our Special Admissions procedures. If we cannot accept you with your current qualifications and experience, we will advise you what qualifications you could take in order to become eligible in the future.
Work Experience
At least 2 year(s) of work experience are required.
Work Experience Entry Route: at least two years relevant work experience (i.e. with computing or IT elements either from a job in a computing-oriented company or a job in computing or IT).Technological Requirements
You must have regular access to a computer with an internet connection to use the University of London International Programmes website and the Student Portal. These are where your programmes study resources are located. Through the Student Portal you can register as a student, enter exams and use your programmes Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The VLE provides you with electronic learning materials, access to the University of London Online Library, networking opportunities, and other resources. Additional computer requirements for Computing and Information Systems Whether studying on your own or at an institution, all Computing and Information Systems students will need access to the following equipment and software. Hardware The recommended minimum configuration is as follows: Processor: 2GHz Hard drive: 10GB free Screen resolution: 1024 x 768 colour Networking: Network adapter Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet RAM: 2GB Audio output Soundcard: stereo Sound card and speakers are also recommended for playing audio material. At Level 2, access to a suitable network is very important for full learning benefit. If you do not have such access, it will not be impossible for you to complete the degree, but you would not have the same study experience as a student with this access. The highest level of access you will require for effective study will be as a (temporary) network manager so that you can experiment with configuration. In particular, lack of appropriate network access will affect your ability to study Data communications and enterprise networking in the most effective way possible. Other machines, apart from those that are PC-compatible, are acceptable provided they run equivalent software. Software You are advised to make use of common operating systems, as follows: Windows, Linux or OSX. Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, etc. Word processor, spreadsheet and database. No systems are recommended specifically, but under Windows, an integrated package such as Microsoft Office is sufficient, while under Linux, OpenOffice is adequate. A Java resource. To enable site functionality, Acrobat Reader, Flash plug-in, Shockwave plug-in, JavaScript-enabled, Java-enabled may be required. Linux is recommended (for example, Ubuntu Linux; free to download; or request a CD from www.ubuntu.com). For Level 3, additional software is required for some courses. This information is given under the course outlines concerned in the Regulations.
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 London.
Creative Computing at Birkbeck, University of London, is an innovative program designed to explore the intersection of creative arts and digital technology. This course offers students the opportunity to develop practical skills in programming, digital media, and interactive digital design, while also cultivating their creative thinking and artistic expression. The curriculum combines theoretical understanding with hands-on projects, enabling students to experiment with new forms of digital art, interactive installations, and multimedia storytelling. Students are encouraged to engage with current technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, coding for creative applications, and digital fabrication. The program aims to prepare graduates for roles in digital media production, game design, interactive arts, and various creative industries that demand both technical proficiency and artistic innovation. Birkbeck's flexible evening study format allows working professionals and mature students to pursue their interests without disrupting their careers. The teaching staff include experts in digital arts, computer science, and multimedia design, providing a multidisciplinary perspective that enhances learning. Students also benefit from Birkbeck’s strong links with industry partners and cultural institutions, offering opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and networking events. The course culminates in a final project where students can showcase their innovative digital creations to a broader audience. Overall, Creative Computing at Birkbeck aims to foster a vibrant community of creative practitioners equipped with the skills to navigate and shape the evolving digital landscape, emphasizing both technical competence and artistic expression in the digital age.
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