International Year Two Computer Science*
- Programme length: 2 semesters
- Entry dates: September, November (Enhanced Induction) or January
- Progress to: Third year of a four-year BSc degree or a five-year MEng degree
A pathway to study Computer Science
This pathway will prepare you for an undergraduate degree at the Department of Computer & Information Sciences at the University of Strathclyde.
When you successfully complete this programme, you can progress to the third year of a four-year BSc degree, or a five-year MEng degree at the University of Strathclyde.
*Subject to programme approval.
What you will study
Designed in collaboration with the Faculty of Science, you will study core subject modules at second University-level during the International Year Two Computer Science course while improving your academic English and study skills.
Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.
You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.
Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.
This module consists of topics in Logic, Algorithms and Functional Thinking. It is designed to equip you with computational modelling and measurement tools, deepening your grasp of the foundations of mathematical computation. It will also foster an analytical and empirical understanding of algorithm behaviour and the use of abstract data types. You will also be introduced to the core concepts and methods of contemporary functional programming, enhancing your skills with practical examples. This foundation will set you up for advanced functional programming coursework in your third year at the University of Strathclyde.
This module delves into computer architectures, exploring elements like instruction sets, CPU specifics, and core processors, crucial for design and performance. It also expands your knowledge on core computer components, such as memory and operating systems. Through practical tasks, you will understand the interactions between these elements, while enhancing your software design skills with targeted programming projects. The course also emphasises the professional, legal, and ethical aspects of Information Systems Engineering.
The module will start with an introduction to programming, covering object-oriented programming in JAVA (or Python). Followed by more advanced programming techniques. The module will give you hands-on software development experience and teach you key design principles. Ultimately, you should be able to develop programmes using specific data structures and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) that accurately match the provided specifications.
The Quantitative Methods and Data Modelling module seeks to equip you with a deep understanding of key quantitative methods and Data Modelling concepts. The focus is on imparting relevant knowledge and skills for modern Computer Science fields such as Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics. You will gain proficiency in essential quantitative and numerical techniques, enabling you to evaluate algorithms and software quantitatively. Additionally, the module emphasises the development of your abilities to critically understand and model user activities, and to design systems and databases that effectively support these activities.
Why study Computer Science at Strathclyde?
- Computer Science and Software Engineering are accredited by the British Computer Society, providing assurance that the courses are delivering relevant learning that's regularly updated and that meets the high standards set by the profession.
- Learn through lectures, tutorials, laboratory, coursework, and project work. You’ll be set challenging problems while further coursework and group/individual projects will help you enhance your practical and transferable skills. The programming language Python is introduced in year three at the University, alongside with other languages including Java, C and Haskell.
- Benefit from undertaking industry-linked projects. Several companies† including Argyll and Bute Council, Autonomous iOT, Barclays, Bute Fabrics, Mott MacDonald and Zero Waste Scotland have worked with the University to develop student projects, either individual or group projects; this will enable you to solve real-world problems.
- Employers like Amazon, Barclays, Disney, Google, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley and Siemens have taken on students for summer placements/internships, providing students with an opportunity to gain practical work experience in the field.**
†Based on previous years’ projects, companies may change each academic year.
**Placements are not assessed and there's more flexibility regarding duration and the nature of the work.
Ranked 15th in the UK
for Computer Science
(The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)
Degree progression
By completing the International Year Two Computer Science programme and achieving the required grades, you can progress to the third year of a four-year BSc degree or a five-year MEng degree at University of Strathclyde.
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Our Student Enrolment Advisors are available to answer any questions you may have and help you with your application. We can't wait to meet you!