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: 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
TBC by Admissions
Admissions guidance
English language
For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.
English language requirements
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training)
- 6.5 with no sub-test under 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
- IELTS One Skill Retake accepted.
Common equivalent English language qualifications
All stated English tests are acceptable for admission to this programme:
TOEFL (ib, my best or athome)
- 90 with minimum R 20, L 19, S 19, W 23.
- Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Combined scores from two tests taken within 6 months of each other can be considered.
PTE (Academic)
- 60 with minimum 59 in all sub-tests.
- Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Combined scores from two tests taken within 6 months of each other can be considered.
Glasgow International College English Language (and other foundation providers)
- 65%.
- Tests are accepted for academic year following sitting.
University of Glasgow Pre-sessional courses
- Tests are accepted for academic year following sitting.
Cambridge English Qualifications
- Cambridge Advanced English (CAE): 176 overall, no subtest less than 169
- Cambridge Proficiency in English (CPE): 176 overall, no subtest less than 169
School Qualifications
- iGCSE English or ESOL 0522/0500, 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
- Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education, English Language grade 4
- West African Examination Council, Senior Secondary School Certificate, English grade C6
Alternatives to English Language qualification
- Undergraduate degree from English speaking country (including Canada if taught in English)
- Undergraduate 2+2 degree from English speaking country
- Undergraduate 2+2 TNE degree taught in English in non-English speaking country
- Masters degree from English speaking country
- Masters degree (equivalent on NARIC to UK masters degree) taught in English in non-English speaking country.
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 an IELTS test (Academic module) from any of the 1000 IELTS test centres from around the world and we do not require a specific UKVI IELTS test for degree level programmes. We therefore still accept any of the English tests listed for admission to this programme.
Pre-sessional courses
The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the English for Academic Study Unit Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:
- School of Modern Languages & Cultures: English for Academic Study
- BALEAP guide to accredited courses
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:
- UK Border Agency Tier 4 English Language requirements
- UKBA list of approved English language tests [pdf]
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
MSci
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 specific 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.
- Apply at www.ucas.com or through your school or college
- Contact UCAS on 0871 468 0468
- Apply at commonapp.org (international students to certain areas only)
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.
- more information about the scheme and ATAS certificate (UK Government website).
How to apply for Advanced Entry
Apply for year 2 (Y2) on your UCAS application. If the specific subject is unavailable for Advanced Entry or your application for year 2 entry is unsuccessful, you will be automatically considered for year 1 entry. You do not have to submit a separate UCAS application.
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