Creative Computing

Creative Computing at Birkbeck, University of London is an innovative interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the intersection between technology, creativity, and human expression. The programme aims to develop versatile professionals who can design, develop, and implement creative digital solutions in a variety of contexts, including arts, media, entertainment, and technological innovation. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, students explore core areas such as programming, digital media, interactive design, game development, and multimedia production, all within a stimulating academic environment that fosters experimentation and creative problem-solving. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on projects, collaboration, and critical thinking, preparing graduates to thrive in dynamic industries that demand both technical proficiency and creative insight. Delivered by experts in the fields of computer science, digital arts, and media, the programme benefits from Birkbeck's reputation for flexible evening study, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other commitments. Graduates of the Creative Computing programme will be well-equipped to pursue careers in digital media development, user experience design, game design, interactive installation art, software development for creative industries, and entrepreneurial ventures in innovative digital solutions. The programme also provides a solid foundation for further research or postgraduate study in areas related to digital technology, arts, and computing. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic community, students will engage in both individual and team-based projects that mirror real-world challenges. Overall, Birkbeck’s Creative Computing offers a comprehensive and dynamic educational experience that combines creativity, technology, and applied skills, empowering students to become leaders and innovators in the digitally-driven creative sectors worldwide.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline 1 October in the year before you intend to sit your first examinations Tuition fee

• GBP 1625 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, do not reflect any annual change to fees and assume completion in the minimum time permitted.

Start date August 2015 Duration full-time 35 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode Online Educational variant Part-time Intensity Flexible Student interaction Online group works/assignments Attendance Exams and graduation only Teacher support Continuous support with feedback on request More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

Bachelor of Science degree in Creative Computing

The BSc comprises 12 courses. Take 4 courses from Level 1, 4 courses from Level 2 and 6 half courses and the project from Level 3.

Diploma in Creative Computing

The Diploma in Creative Computing comprises 5 courses. Study at a teaching institution and take 4 courses at Level 1, a Mathematics for business course and 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
• Introduction to Java and object-oriented programming
• Introduction to computing and the internet
• Creative computing 1: image, sound and motion

Level 2

Four compulsory full courses

• Database systems
• Graphical object-oriented and Internet programming in Java
• Software engineering, algorithm design and analysis
• Creative computing 2: interactive multimedia

Level 3

Three compulsory half courses from

• Sound and music
• Interaction design
• Advanced graphics and animation

Plus three half courses chosen from the following

• Artificial intelligence
• Neural networks
• Software engineering project management
• Information systems management
• Electronic commerce
• Data compression
• Computer security
• Operations research and combinatorial optimisation
• Introduction to natural language processing

Plus a compulsory project

Project

Requirements

BSc Creative Computing

To be eligible for the BSc degree you must:

• normally* be aged 17 or above by the 30 November in the year of registration and satisfy the University’s General Entrance Requirements and

• have a level of competence at least equivalent to a pass at UK GCE 'AS' level in a mathematical subject or a UK GCSE/GCE 'O' level in Mathematics at no less than grade B (equivalents can be found within the above link).

Diploma in Creative Computing

To be eligible for the Diploma you must:

• normally* be aged 17 years or above before 1 September in the year you first register with the University and
• have passed the equivalent of at least four separate subjects at UK GCSE/GCE ‘O’ level (at not less than grade C) including Mathematics and
• been admitted to a course of instruction at a teaching institution which has been given 'Diploma Teaching Status'

Work Experience Entry Route to BSc Creative Computing

To be eligible for the Work Experience Entry Route you must:

• normally* be aged 21 years or above before 1 September in the year you first register with the University and
• have passed the equivalent of at least four separate subjects at UK GCSE/GCE ‘O’ level (at not less than grade C) including Mathematics and
• have at least two years relevant work experience (i.e. with computing or information technology elements either from a job in a computing-oriented company or a job in computing or information technology).

*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.

If you are not automatically eligible then you will be individually considered by the University of London’s Special Admissions Panel. The Special Admissions Panel will consider qualifications which are not published under the Qualifications for Entrance Schedule, incomplete qualifications (e.g. diplomas / degrees) and substantial relevant work experience. 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.

English language requirement

The language of instruction, reading and assessment is English. To succeed on our programmes you need a good level of competence in English. If you doubt your ability in written or spoken English we advise you take a course and test in English language before enrolling on the programme.

Required standard of English

You will usually meet the English language requirement for undergraduate programmes if you:

• hold a UK GCSE / GCE O level in English at grade C or above
• have five years secondary schooling taught solely in English or have passed GCE A levels or IB in essay-based subjects
• have passed an International Foundation programme that permits entry onto a recognised UK bachelor degree
• hold a full Postgraduate award, or a full first degree or Associate degree taught and examined in English from an institute that is acceptable to the University
• have passed, within the past three years, an Associate degree, Diploma or Higher Diploma awarded by an acceptable institute / polytechnic / university in Hong Kong, Malaysia or Singapore, or
• have passed, within the past three years, a test of proficiency in English language from an organisation acceptable to the University.

Where an applicant does not meet the required English language level but believes they can demonstrate the required level for admission the University may, at its discretion, consider the application.

Please note if an applicant satisfies one of the above conditions yet provides evidence of a test of proficiency in English language, awarded within the past three years, which is below the University’s minimum requirements then they will be required to retake such a test before being offered admission.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Work Experience Entry Route to BSc Creative Computing

• at least two years relevant work experience (i.e. with computing or information technology elements either from a job in a computing-oriented company or a job in computing or information technology).

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 programme’s study resources are located. Through the Student Portal you can register as a student, enter exams and use your programme’s 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 all Creative Computing students Whether studying on your own or at an institution, you 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 materials. 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 and software, as follows: Windows™, Linux or Macintosh. Mozilla Firefox or 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, Flashplug-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 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 interdisciplinary programme that explores the intersection of digital creativity, programming, and artistic practice. The course is designed to enable students to develop a comprehensive understanding of computer programming, digital arts, and creative problem-solving, fostering a skill set suitable for careers in digital media, interactive arts, software development, and innovative design. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, emphasizing the importance of creativity in the technological domain. Students engage with programming languages, digital tools, and creative coding techniques, allowing them to produce interactive installations, digital artworks, and multimedia projects.

The programme emphasizes hands-on learning, with projects encouraging experimentation and innovation. Students learn to critically analyze digital works, understand the societal implications of technology, and develop original creative solutions. Birkbeck’s unique evening classes format allows students to balance their studies with work commitments, making it accessible to working professionals seeking to enhance their skills in emerging creative technologies. The faculty comprises experienced researchers and industry professionals who bring current trends and real-world insights into the classroom.

Throughout the course, students also explore topics such as human-computer interaction, digital aesthetics, media arts, and computational creativity. By the end of the programme, graduates possess a portfolio of digital projects demonstrating their skills in coding, design, and artistic experimentation. They are well-equipped to pursue careers in digital arts, creative industries, freelance digital design, or further academic research. The programme emphasizes innovation, critical thinking, and practical skills, aligning with the evolving demands of the creative technology sector.