Computer Science,
Study in the UK

The world of computers continues to change dramatically, particularly as we approach the next century. Not so long ago, typewriter keyboards and printers were the usual ways of getting information into and out of computer systems. As electronics and computer science have developed, new and fascinating forms of interactions are now possible.

Modern machines can respond to verbal commands and reply in a realistic voice. Multi-media systems make use of photographic quality moving colour images and high fidelity stereo sound. Virtual reality systems allow users to immerse themselves in a computer-generated, three-dimensional environment, grasping and manipulating synthetic objects.

Britain's computing and electronics industry has played a significant role in the advancement of these new technologies. The UK is internationally recognised in the fields of Very Large Scale Instrumentation (VLSI) and Computer-Aided Design (CAD).

British Universities, too, remain quick to respond to technical developments and other ideas, offering a range of courses designed to establish and nurture careers in the world of computing science.

Computing courses in Britain reflect the diversity of the industry, covering a range of disciplines: artificial intelligence, computer systems, digital systems design, computer modelling, electronic systems design, information systems management, software engineering and concurrent engineering.

Course names do not always sufficiently cover the content you'll study and because each University is set up differently, courses will be found in a variety of departments. Some institutions may even spread their computer-related courses across a host of departments.

Previous knowledge of computers and systems is often desired but not always required for entry into a UK based course. Many institutions do, however, specify that incoming students bring A-Level or its equivalent in mathematics or a science subject. Additional qualities, such as creative flair, combined with methodical thinking, can also provide prospective students with an edge when applying for a course.

Qualifications range from Bachelor's and Master's or Science or Engineering degrees. The UK is also a prime country for fulfilling your interest in pursuing a degree in computing science by research, ultimately achieving MPhil or PhD awards.

Whatever your choice of degree or specialist subject, try to ensure that the course you embark on will suit your career aspirations and needs. Whilst the field of degree offered by computing science contains technologically competent engineers, the industry now demands prospective employees who are knowledgeable on a business level as well. This interaction between professional skills and technical knowledge is an overriding theme in many British computer courses, giving their graduates an edge over other countries. By linking theory closely to practice, students have an opportunity to develop the practical skills and personal qualities which employers value - problem solving, decision making, enterprise, communication, teamwork, computer literacy and business awareness.

Students are encouraged to develop themselves as individuals and improve their abilities to contribute within the management of an enterprise. The challenge is to look beyond the immediate course content and explore a range of opportunities which could contribute to personal development.

Computing students in Britain are also given unique opportunities to encounter practitioners in their field of study, through visits, work placements and often by working in their universities alongside visiting experts. The universities often tap into the industry to encourage high-calibre professionals to join their teaching staffs as they encourage a combination of quality in consultancy and teaching with substantial 'real world' experience.

A number of institutions directly benefit form excellent links with industry. Many of these partners, particularly those in computing, have a high international profile and yet maintain strong bases of sales, marketing and manufacturing activity within the UK. Companies such as Intel, IBM, Philips, Siemens, Smith Industries, GEC and Hewlett Packard all have close ties to British Universities.

It is not just computing-based industries who benefit form these partnerships. Multi-national companies in financial services, manufacturing and management consultancy also seek to fulfil their information technology and computing needs by turning to UK Universities as a source of technical advice and potential recruits.

The diversity of the people you will meet in the UK, including fellow visitors from overseas, bring further opportunities for cultural enlightenment and exchange.

The qualifications you obtain now will have a direct bearing on the course your future career will take. In this respect, British Universities are well ahead of institutions in other countries as students are presented with opportunities to develop themselves professionally and personally.

Karen Hughes
Education Liaison Coordinator
Bournemouth University