Undergraduate 

Computing Science/Mathematics BSc/MSci

Computing science is wide-ranging: from programming and engineering software systems, to the design and evaluation of human-computer interfaces, algorithms, computer and network systems, artificial intelligence, information retrieval and big data systems. Mathematics is a vast and ever-growing subject which incorporates successful explorations of numerical, geometrical and logical relationships.

The Computing Sciences programmes have consistently been designed to teach fundamental principles of computation and computing systems (e.g. modelling and abstraction, problem-solving, analysis of algorithms, etc), principles that are likely to endure. At the same time, our students gain experience of state-of-the-art computing technologies through practical and project work, and placements where available; but, more importantly, you learn how to adapt to the rapid rate of technological change.

  • September start
  • Session dates
  • Computing Science/Mathematics BSc (Hons): GGK1 4 year degree
  • Computing Science/Mathematics MSci: GG4C 5 year degree

Programme structure

Year 1

Computing Science has a substantial emphasis on programming, which we view as a fundamental skill. We mostly use the Python language. We also provide a broad introduction to other key areas of the subject, including computer systems, databases, and human-computer interaction.

Mathematics covers matrices, linear equations, complex numbers, vectors, calculus and groups. You will develop mathematical communication skills through regular small group problem-solving activities.

You will also study other subjects in year 1: see Flexible degrees.

Year 2

In Computing Science the focus is on object-oriented programming, object-oriented software engineering, data structures and algorithms, algorithmic foundations, computer networks, operating systems and web application development. 

In Mathematics the focus is multivariable calculus, linear algebra, topics in applied mathematics, classical mechanics and mathematical modelling, introduction to real analysis, topics in pure mathematics including groups, transformations and symmetries. You can also choose to take optional mathematics courses on graphs and networks, and discrete mathematics. 

Years 3, 4 and 5 

If you progress to Honours (years 3 and 4), in Computing Science you will cover the essential aspects of computing science in depth. The Computing Science curriculum is driven by our world-leading research sections and we offer opportunities for programme specialisms from year 3 onwards. Together with team projects and a substantial individual project, the programme provides excellent preparation for professional computing scientists.

In the honours years for Mathematics, you will also study a wide range of topics from either Applied Mathematics, which concern the practical and applicable aspects of the subject or Pure Mathematics courses, which are ideal for students who prefer the abstract and logical aspects of the subject. Most students take a mix of both Pure and Applied Mathematics Courses.

There is also an opportunity to take an MSci degree with an additional fifth year, which explores both Computing Science and Mathematics in greater depth and includes an individually supervised research project in either Computing Science, Mathematics or both.

Programme alteration or discontinuation
The University of Glasgow endeavours to run all programmes as advertised. In exceptional circumstances, however, the University may withdraw or alter a programme. For more information, please see: Student contract.

Our international links

You will have the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities as part of your degree. This won’t add any extra time to your studies; see Study abroad.

Entry requirements

for entry in 2025

Summary of entry requirements for Computing Science/Mathematics

SQA Higher entry requirements

  • AAABB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer
  • Offers are not guaranteed to applicants who meet the minimum from S5
  • Typically offers will be made at AAAAAA by end of S6. B at Advanced Higher is equivalent to A at Higher
  • Additional requirements: Higher Mathematics (AH recommended) and Computing (if Higher Mathematics A grade is not achieved in S5).

SQA Higher adjusted entry requirements* (by end of S5 or S6)

  • MD20: ABBB (also other target groups*)
  • MD40: AABB (ABB S5 minimum for consideration)
  • Additional requirements: Higher Mathematics (AH recommended) and Computing (if Higher Mathematics A grade is not achieved in S5). Successful completion of Top-Up or one of our Summer Schools.

* See Access Glasgow for eligibility.

A-level standard entry requirements

  • AAA – AAB
  • Additional requirements: A-level Mathematics.

IB standard entry requirements

  • 38 (6,6,6)
  • Additional requirements: HL6 Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches).

Admissions guidance

English language

For applicants from non-English speaking countries, as defined by the UK Government, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

English language requirements

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic and Academic Online (not General Training)

  • 6.5 with no subtests under 6.0
  • IELTS One Skill Retake Accepted
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

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Common equivalent English language qualifications for entry to this programme

TOEFL (ibt, mybest or athome)

  • 90 overall with Reading 20; Listening 19; Speaking 19; Writing 21
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements, this includes TOEFL mybest.

Pearsons PTE Academic

  • 59 with minimum 59 in all subtests
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

Cambridge Proficiency in English (CPE) and Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)

  • 176 overall, no subtest less than 169
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

Oxford English Test

  • 7 overall with no subtest less than 6
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

LanguageCert Academic SELT

  • 70 overall with no subtest less than 60
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

Password Skills Plus

  • 6.5 overall with no subtest less than 6.0
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

Trinity College Tests

  • Integrated Skills in English II & III & IV: ISEII Distinction with Distinction in all sub-tests
  • Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

University of Glasgow Pre-sessional courses

  • Tests are accepted for 2 years following date of successful completion.

School Qualifications

  • IGCSE English First Language, grade C
  • IGCSE English Second Language, grade A
  • A Level English, grade C
  • International Baccalaureate English A SL5 or HL5
  • International Baccalaureate English B SL6 or HL5
  • SQA National 5 English or ESOL, grade B
  • SQA Higher English or ESOL, grade C

International School Qualifications

  • Brunei: O-Level English Language 1120 grade B and above
  • Denmark: Studentereksamen English at 7
  • European Baccalaureate: English as Language 1 pass, if taken as Language 2 grade 7, if taken as Language 3 grade 7.5
  • Finland: Ylioppilastutkinto / studentexamen English grade C or 4
  • France: International Option Baccalaureate (OIB) / Baccalauréat Français International (BFI) grade 12
  • Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone: West African Examination Council (WAEC) / Senior Secondary School Certificate English grade C6
  • Germany: German Abitur English Grade 11
  • Hong Kong: Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education, English Language grade 4
  • India: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) / All India School Certificate (ISC) English at 80%
  • Kenya: Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) English grade B
  • Netherlands: Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO) grade 7
  • Norway: Vitnemal English grade 4 or above
  • Singapore: Cambridge International O Level English Language (1128 Singapore only) at Grace C; Singapore Integrated Programme Secondary 4 English Language at grade B
  • South Africa: National Senior Certificate (NSC) / Independent Exam Board (IEB) Grade 4 (English as Home Language) OR Grade 4 (English as First Additional Language)
  • Sweden: Avgangsbetyg / Fullständigt Slutbetyg fran Gymnasieskolan English grade VG
  • Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe General Certificate of Education at English at Ordinary Level grade C

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Alternatives to English Language qualification

  • Degree from majority-English speaking country (as defined by the UKVI including Canada if taught in English)
    • students must have studied for a minimum of 2 years at Undergraduate level, or 9 months at Master's level, and must have completed their degree in that majority-English speaking country within the last 6 years.
  • Undergraduate 2+2 degrees from majority-English speaking country (as defined by the UKVI including Canada if taught in English)
    • students must have completed their final two years study in that majority-English speaking country within the last 6 years.

For international students, the Home Office has confirmed that the University can choose to use these tests to make its own assessment of English language ability for visa applications to degree level programmes. The University is also able to accept UKVI approved Secure English Language Tests (SELT) but we do not require a specific UKVI SELT for degree level programmes. We therefore still accept any of the English tests listed for admission to this programme.

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Pre-sessional courses

We would strongly encourage you to consider the pre-sessional courses at the University of Glasgow's English for Academic Study (EAS) Unit. Our Pre-sessional courses are the best way to bring your English up to entry level for University study. Our courses give you:

  • direct entry to your University programme for successful students (no need to take IELTS)
  • essential academic skills to help you study effectively at University
  • flexible entry dates so you can join the right course for your level.

For more detail on our pre-sessional courses please see:

We can also consider the pre-sessional courses accredited by the below BALEAP approved institutions to meet the language requirements for admission to our postgraduate taught degrees:

  • Heriot Watt
  • Kingston Upon Thames
  • Middlesex University
  • Manchester University
  • Reading University
  • Edinburgh University
  • St Andrews University
  • UCL
  • Durham

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FAQs

What do I do if...

my language qualifications are below the requirements?

The University's School of Modern Languages and Cultures offers a range of Pre-sessional courses to bring you up to entry level. The course is accredited by BALEAP, the UK professional association for academic English teaching.

my language qualifications are not listed here?

Please contact External Relations

If you require a Tier 4 student visa, your qualification must be one of the secure English language tests accepted by UK Border Agency:


Visa requirements and proof of English language level

It is a visa requirement to provide information on your level of English based on an internationally recognised and secure English language test. All test reports must be no more than 2 years old. A list of these can be found on the UK Border Agency website. If you have never taken one of these tests before, you can get an initial idea of your level by using the Common European Framework self-assessment grid which gives you a level for each skill (e.g. listening B1/writing B2 etc.) However, please note that this is not a secure English language test and it is not sufficient evidence of your level of English for visa requirements.

Further information about English language: School of Modern Languages & Cultures: English for Academic Study


Career prospects

Many of our graduates go on to careers in the financial services sector or computing, or undertake postgraduate study. Others are employed in industry, using the modelling and problem-solving skills gained on the programme. Our graduates are employed by worldwide names as well as local and international startup companies. We encourage you to explore the School of Computing Science LinkedIn Channel for a flavour of where our graduates work and the DiscoverUni platform to explore our impressive graduate employment and salary statistics.

Degrees and UCAS codes

When applying you will need to know the UCAS code for the subject or subject-combination that you wish to apply to:

BSc (Hons)

Computing Science/Mathematics: GGK1 (4 years)

MSci

Computing Science/Mathematics: GG4C (5 years)

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

How and when you pay tuition fees depends on where you’re from: see Tuition fees for details.

Scholarships

The University is committed to supporting students and rewarding academic excellence. That's why we've invested more than £1m in additional scholarship funding in recent years.

The scholarships above are relevant to this programme. For more funding opportunities search the scholarships database

How to apply

Full-time students must apply through the Universities & Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). 

SQA applicants who are eligible for our Widening Participation programmes are encouraged to participate in one or more of these programmes, including Summer School, to support your application and the transition to higher education.

International students to Arts, Engineering, Law, Nursing, Science, and Social Sciences can also apply using The Common Application: however, if applying to more than one UK university, we recommend using UCAS. Applications to Dentistry, Education, Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine must be made through UCAS.

Application deadlines

  • 15 October: if including Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or also applying to Oxford or Cambridge
  • 29 January: all other UK applicants (unless otherwise stated on the UCAS website)
  • 30 June: international students.

We do not usually accept any applications after these deadlines.

It's your responsibility to ensure the accuracy of your application before submission. Requests to correct application content, change degree programme or change college of entry, will not be accepted after these deadlines. This policy is in place to ensure fairness and consistency to all applicants, and no exceptions will be made.

ATAS: Academic Technology Approval Scheme

Please note that this programmes in this subject at Masters level require ATAS. If yours is not one of the exempt nationalities,  then you will need to apply for an ATAS certificate before commencing your programme of study and applying for your visa or extension of stay.

Please apply as early as possible as the process can take a number of months to complete.

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) was introduced on 1 November 2007. It is used to help stop the spread of knowledge and skills that could be used in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. This is in common with other governments around the world.

The ATAS is designed to ensure that people who are applying to study certain sensitive subjects in the UK do not have links to WMD programmes.


Apply via UCAS