Computer Science

Welcome to the School of Computer Science. Join a community engaged in this exciting and global industry, using cutting-edge facilities, software and technologies.

The School of Computer Science

Be inspired and supported by staff who have a wide range of expertise in fields such as cybersecurity, game development, user experience, data science and artificial intelligence.

With access to state-of-the-art technical facilities and specialist labs, you’ll develop the practical application alongside the theory whilst studying with us, meaning that you'll be more than ready to embark on your career journey after graduation. 

Computer Science courses

We offer an exciting selection of courses suitable for all levels of experience and interest. At undergraduate level, we have Computer Science, which is ideal if you want to gain a fundamental understanding of computing, alongside Game Development and Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics if you'd like to specialise.

At postgraduate study and beyond, you'll have the opportunity to specialise and hone your interests further, in areas such as Cybersecurity, Data Science.

 

Why us?

State-of-the-art facilities and equipment.

You’ll have access to specialist laboratories filled with industry-standard equipment for you to practice your skills. 

We've carefully crafted applied course content to instil real-world industry skills. 

You'll acquire a high level of software-related transferable skills that will make you attractive to local, regional, national and international companies.

Annual Digital Showcase

Our students can network with potential employers and digital professionals at the annual Digital Showcase. The event allows second and final-year students to showcase their projects to some of the region’s best digital businesses. 

Outstanding student support

We have excellent support systems in place for our students, provided by dedicated academic and support staff.

Our facilities at a glance

We've invested heavily in our Computer Science facilities and equipment to ensure our students have access to the very latest and state-of-the-art technologies. 

New Game Development Lab

Explore your creative side and get into the details in our fully-equipped Game Development lab.

Forensics Lab

Get hands-on and learn how to secure different operating systems and practice forensic examinations in the Forensics Lab.

Networks and Cybersecurity Lab

Dive into physical networking and virtual networking in this space, as well as learning how to secure networks.

Our Computer Science courses

Take a look below to find the right course for you.

Undergraduate courses

Student looking at a computer screen
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Computer Science

The broadest of our computing courses. Learn the fundamentals of how computers work the way they do, as well as models in software development, system programming and programming languages. Previous graduates have gone on to work for British Airways and Sage, so how far will you go in this highly rewarding industry?

Find out more about Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics

In a world where cybercrime is on the rise, the need for highly-skilled professionals has never been higher. Gain vital industry experience and contacts with a paid, one-year placement, unlock information using ethical hacking and learn the fundamentals of programming with modules in C#, Java and SQL.

Find out more about Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
Games Development software and VR
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Game Development

Thrive in one of the fastest growing regions for games software development, perfect your craft using Sony's Dev Kit software, and learn how to develop simple point and shoot mini-games all the way up to exhilarating 3D games for major consoles. Connect with some of the biggest names in the industry though a one-year placement and leave with a dynamic portfolio.

Find out more about Game Development
Student looking at a computer screen
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Integrated Foundation Year

This is a four-year version of our popular BSc (Hons) Computer Science course, with an integrated foundation year. The broadest of our computing courses. Learn the fundamentals of how computers work the way they do, as well as models in software development, system programming and programming languages. Previous graduates have gone on to work for British Airways and Sage, so how far will you go in this highly rewarding industry?

Find out more about BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Integrated Foundation Year
BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics with Integrated Foundation Year

This is a four-year version of our popular BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics course, with an integrated foundation year. In a world where cybercrime is on the rise, the need for highly-skilled professionals has never been higher. Gain vital industry experience and contacts with a paid, one-year placement, unlock information using ethical hacking and learn the fundamentals of programming with modules in C#, Java and SQL.

Find out more about BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics with Integrated Foundation Year
Games Development software and VR
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Game Development with Integrated Foundation Year

This is a four-year version of our popular BSc (Hons) Game Development course, with an integrated foundation year. Thrive in one of the fastest growing regions for games software development, perfect your craft using Sony's Dev Kit software, and learn how to develop simple point and shoot mini-games all the way up to exhilarating 3D games for major consoles. Connect with some of the biggest names in the industry though a one-year placement and leave with a dynamic portfolio.

Find out more about BSc (Hons) Game Development with Integrated Foundation Year
Two students sitting at a computer
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up)

Enhance your skills with our industry-standard software to build a range of software systems, hone your talents in project management, and put your knowledge to the test to find solutions to real-life problems, all while working towards a BSc Honours degree.

Find out more about Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up)
BSc (Hons) Network Systems (1 Year Top-Up)
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Network Systems Engineering (Top-Up)

Top-up your HND or Foundation Degree in a computer networking discipline to a BSc (Hons) with our one-year course. You'll still have access to our state-of-the-art Cisco networking equipment and a Microsoft Visual Studio, placing you at the cutting edge of industry which will allow you to make an impact in your chosen field straight away.

Find out more about Network Systems Engineering (Top-Up)
Applied Business Computing (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Full-time/Part-time

BSc (Hons) Applied Business Computing (Top-Up) via Study Centres

Benefit from Sunderland’s teaching of computing from your home country. Like all courses taught at the University of Sunderland, this one-year course develops a blend of theory and practice, allowing you to boost your career by ‘topping-up’ your existing knowledge and skills while earning a BSc Honours degree.

Find out more about Applied Business Computing (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Students sat in a lecture theatre facing the front
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Mobile and Web Technologies (Top-Up) via Study Centres

This course aims to produce highly motivated, technically competent individuals who can effectively utilise technologies and tools used in mobile and web technologies. The course is informed by human-computer interaction (HCI) and user experience design (UXD). You will use a range of industry standard software such as Swift, Android Studio and Cisco OS. You will graduate as a competent programmer and/or developer opening up a wide range of employment opportunities in a rapidly evolving and competitive computing industry.

Find out more about Mobile and Web Technologies (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Full-time/Part-time

BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres

Do you want to study Computer Systems Engineering delivered by a respected UK university? Benefit from Sunderland’s expertise without leaving your home country. Enhance your skills, build a range of software systems, and work with industry-standard software. We’ll encourage you to develop your skills and support you while you work towards earning a BSc Honours degree.

Find out more about Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Business Intelligence Data Analytics (Top-Up) via Study Centres

This course will produce highly-motivated, technically-competent individuals who can effectively utilise technologies and tools used in business intelligence and data analytics. You will develop expertise in a range of industry-standard software such as Oracle, Python (Anaconda Navigator), RStudio and Weka. You will graduate as a technically-competent data and information systems analyst with experience of up-to-date methodologies, opening up a wide range of employment opportunities.

Find out more about Business Intelligence Data Analytics (Top-Up) via Study Centres
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Computer Science via Study Centres

The broadest of our computing courses. Learn the fundamentals of how computers work the way they do, as well as models in software development, system programming and programming languages. Previous graduates have gone on to work for British Airways and Sage, so how far will you go in this highly rewarding industry?

Find out more about Computer Science via Study Centres
The back of a computer base which is linked up to network wires
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Network Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres

This course will equip you with the knowledge and abilities to embark on a career in a networking environment, working in large enterprises and for service providers. You will be provided with a solid grounding in advanced routing, telecommunications and cyber security, so that you can contribute to the efficient operation and management of complex networks and network services.

Find out more about Network Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Student working on app on their mobile phone
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Information and Communication Technology (Top-up) via Study Centres

Gain the knowledge and abilities to embark on a career as a confident IT manager who has wide experience not only in hardware and in software development but also in business processes, decision making, ethics and professionalism, systems admin, forensic auditing and service management. You will be able to forge a career managing the deployment of ICT in business and industry to enable and drive business strategy for competitive advantage.

Find out more about Information and Communication Technology (Top-up) via Study Centres
Customised Awards Scheme
Full-time/Part-time

Customised Awards Scheme

Pick and choose the modules you want to study to build a tailor-made course. Available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, this course allows you to gain a qualification that closely matches your particular needs.

Find out more about Customised Awards Scheme
View all

Postgraduate courses

Computing equipment
Full-time

MSc Data Science

Learn the technical and practical skills to analyse big data that is key to success in future business, digital media and science. Study industry-specific topics and specialise in areas such as data mining, machine learning, data analytics and visualisation, and security of big data.

Find out more about Data Science
Full-time

MSc Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a fast developing and exciting subject. There is an unprecedented rise in cybercrime, cyber attacks and cyber threats to individuals, businesses and society. Resilient cybersecurity systems and infrastructures attempt to prevent attack and protect individuals and businesses from such attacks.

Find out more about Cybersecurity
Full-time

MSc Computing

This MSc in Computing will enhance your knowledge in topics such as software development, networks, database systems and web development. Develop the necessary skills to undertake a Masters-level project in designing and implementing IT systems, without previous experience, and graduate with the skills to make a significant contribution to IT research and team-based IT projects.

Find out more about Computing
Students in a computing lecture
Full-time

MSc Applied Data Science

On the Applied Data Science MSc course, you'll study subjects including the fundamentals of data science, data mining, machine learning, data analytics and visualisation, and security of big data. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to undertake a placement and put your skills into practice.

Find out more about Applied Data Science
Two students labeling evidence in the Forensics Lab.
Full-time

MSc Applied Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a fast developing and exciting subject. There is an unprecedented rise in cybercrime, cyber attacks and cyber threats to individuals, businesses and society. Resilient cybersecurity systems and infrastructures attempt to prevent attack and protect individuals and businesses from such attacks.

Find out more about Applied Cybersecurity
A student working at a computer, smiling. Two other students are visible in the background.
Full-time

MSc Applied Computing

This MSc in Applied Computing will enhance your knowledge in topics such as software development, networks, database systems and web development. Develop the necessary skills to undertake a Masters-level project in designing and implementing IT systems, without previous experience, and graduate with the skills to make a significant contribution to IT research and team-based IT projects.

Find out more about Applied Computing
Information Technology Management via SC PT
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Information Technology Management via Study Centres

This Masters course is a direct response to the increasing demand for highly effective IT managers. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge to become a valued professional who combines advanced technical expertise with strong managerial skills.

Find out more about Information Technology Management via Study Centres
Computing via Study Centre
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Computing via Study Centres

Study in an outstanding high-tech computing environment without leaving your home country. This MSc in Computing will enhance your knowledge in topics such as software development, networks, database systems and web development. Develop the necessary skills to undertake a Masters-level project in designing and implementing IT systems, without previous experience, and graduate with the skills to make a significant contribution to IT research and team-based IT projects.

Find out more about Computing via Study Centres
Two students are sitting in a forensic lab, putting items into an evidence bag
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Cybersecurity via Study Centres

Study in an outstanding high-tech computing environment without leaving your home country. This Cybersecurity course will provide you with the technical and practical skills to make a difference to society by providing safe and secure digital environments, allowing the public, business and industry, and the economy to function safely. 

Find out more about Cybersecurity via Study Centres
Male student sitting at computer in David Goldman building
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Business Technology Management via Study Centres

Our MSc in Business Technology Management course combines modules from our existing courses in Cybersecurity and Data Science – you will explore both of these cutting-edge topics from a technology management perspective. The course is designed to meet the current needs of employers giving you the knowledge and skills to deal with organisational data management requirements.

Find out more about Business Technology Management via Study Centres
Student fixing cables into the back of computing kit
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Data Science via Study Centres

Learn the technical and practical skills to analyse big data that is key to success in future business, digital media and science. Study industry-specific topics and specialise in areas such as data mining, machine learning, data analytics and visualisation, and security of big data.

Find out more about Data Science via Study Centres
Student sat at a desk looking at computer screen
Part-time

MSc Computer Science

This 100% online MSc Computer Science has been designed for ambitious individuals who aren’t from a computer science background and who want to launch a new career in computer science or want to incorporate computer science expertise and knowledge into their current field as a means of accelerating their career progression. This online Computer Masters is also open to professionals who work in computer science roles and want to gain an academic qualification to enhance their credentials and career prospects.

Find out more about MSc Computer Science
Two male students using a computer
Part-time

MSc Computer Science with Data Science

100% online MSc Computer Science with Data Science is ideal for professionals who want to develop data science skills to apply to their current role as a means of progressing their career and is open to professionals who work in computer science roles and want to gain an academic qualification to enhance their credentials and career prospects. Studying the course, you will gain the knowledge and skills required to succeed in one of the numerous and high demand data scientist roles in today’s employment market.

Find out more about MSc Computer Science with Data Science
A male student using a smartphone
Part-time

MSc Computer Science with Cybersecurity

This 100% online MSc Computer Science with Cybersecurity has been designed to provide individuals who don’t have an academic or professional background in IT or cybersecurity with the specialist knowledge and skills to launch an exciting new career in cybersecurity. The course represents an excellent opportunity for you to develop cyber skills to apply to your current role as a means of progressing your career. You'll learn to effectively specify, design, implement and support secure computing systems in the real world.

Find out more about MSc Computer Science with Cybersecurity
A stack of books
Part-time

Higher Doctorate

Take your academic career to the highest level. Make a very significant and sustained contribution to your subject. Gain an elite qualification that will mark you out as an outstanding contributor to your field.

Find out more about Higher Doctorate
Medicine
Full-time/Part-time

PhD Doctor of Philosophy

Refine your own agenda and do what you find interesting every day. Develop mastery of research methods that are appropriate to your chosen field. Discover things that no-one else has ever discovered.

Find out more about PhD Doctor of Philosophy
Student in the library
Full-time/Part-time

MPhil Master of Philosophy

Take your education to the next level. Choose the areas you want to study, and which questions you want to research. Take the initiative while we support you with advice, guidance and facilities.

Find out more about MPhil Master of Philosophy
A book
Part-time

PhD by Existing Published or Creative Work

Take the fastest route to a PhD. Convert your previous research outputs into a qualification which will increase your employability and open up new opportunities. Progress your academic career and add credibility in applications for research funding.

Find out more about PhD by Existing Published or Creative Work
A book
Part-time

DProf Professional Doctorate

Study for a doctoral qualification based on your professional role. Reflect on contemporary issues in the workplace.

Find out more about DProf Professional Doctorate
View all

Research courses

View all

Partner Centres

Applied Business Computing (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Full-time/Part-time

BSc (Hons) Applied Business Computing (Top-Up) via Study Centres

Benefit from Sunderland’s teaching of computing from your home country. Like all courses taught at the University of Sunderland, this one-year course develops a blend of theory and practice, allowing you to boost your career by ‘topping-up’ your existing knowledge and skills while earning a BSc Honours degree.

Find out more about Applied Business Computing (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Students sat in a lecture theatre facing the front
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Mobile and Web Technologies (Top-Up) via Study Centres

This course aims to produce highly motivated, technically competent individuals who can effectively utilise technologies and tools used in mobile and web technologies. The course is informed by human-computer interaction (HCI) and user experience design (UXD). You will use a range of industry standard software such as Swift, Android Studio and Cisco OS. You will graduate as a competent programmer and/or developer opening up a wide range of employment opportunities in a rapidly evolving and competitive computing industry.

Find out more about Mobile and Web Technologies (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Full-time/Part-time

BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres

Do you want to study Computer Systems Engineering delivered by a respected UK university? Benefit from Sunderland’s expertise without leaving your home country. Enhance your skills, build a range of software systems, and work with industry-standard software. We’ll encourage you to develop your skills and support you while you work towards earning a BSc Honours degree.

Find out more about Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Business Intelligence Data Analytics (Top-Up) via Study Centres

This course will produce highly-motivated, technically-competent individuals who can effectively utilise technologies and tools used in business intelligence and data analytics. You will develop expertise in a range of industry-standard software such as Oracle, Python (Anaconda Navigator), RStudio and Weka. You will graduate as a technically-competent data and information systems analyst with experience of up-to-date methodologies, opening up a wide range of employment opportunities.

Find out more about Business Intelligence Data Analytics (Top-Up) via Study Centres
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Computer Science via Study Centres

The broadest of our computing courses. Learn the fundamentals of how computers work the way they do, as well as models in software development, system programming and programming languages. Previous graduates have gone on to work for British Airways and Sage, so how far will you go in this highly rewarding industry?

Find out more about Computer Science via Study Centres
The back of a computer base which is linked up to network wires
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Network Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres

This course will equip you with the knowledge and abilities to embark on a career in a networking environment, working in large enterprises and for service providers. You will be provided with a solid grounding in advanced routing, telecommunications and cyber security, so that you can contribute to the efficient operation and management of complex networks and network services.

Find out more about Network Systems Engineering (Top-Up) via Study Centres
Student working on app on their mobile phone
Full-time

BSc (Hons) Information and Communication Technology (Top-up) via Study Centres

Gain the knowledge and abilities to embark on a career as a confident IT manager who has wide experience not only in hardware and in software development but also in business processes, decision making, ethics and professionalism, systems admin, forensic auditing and service management. You will be able to forge a career managing the deployment of ICT in business and industry to enable and drive business strategy for competitive advantage.

Find out more about Information and Communication Technology (Top-up) via Study Centres
Information Technology Management via SC PT
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Information Technology Management via Study Centres

This Masters course is a direct response to the increasing demand for highly effective IT managers. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge to become a valued professional who combines advanced technical expertise with strong managerial skills.

Find out more about Information Technology Management via Study Centres
Computing via Study Centre
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Computing via Study Centres

Study in an outstanding high-tech computing environment without leaving your home country. This MSc in Computing will enhance your knowledge in topics such as software development, networks, database systems and web development. Develop the necessary skills to undertake a Masters-level project in designing and implementing IT systems, without previous experience, and graduate with the skills to make a significant contribution to IT research and team-based IT projects.

Find out more about Computing via Study Centres
Two students are sitting in a forensic lab, putting items into an evidence bag
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Cybersecurity via Study Centres

Study in an outstanding high-tech computing environment without leaving your home country. This Cybersecurity course will provide you with the technical and practical skills to make a difference to society by providing safe and secure digital environments, allowing the public, business and industry, and the economy to function safely. 

Find out more about Cybersecurity via Study Centres
Male student sitting at computer in David Goldman building
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Business Technology Management via Study Centres

Our MSc in Business Technology Management course combines modules from our existing courses in Cybersecurity and Data Science – you will explore both of these cutting-edge topics from a technology management perspective. The course is designed to meet the current needs of employers giving you the knowledge and skills to deal with organisational data management requirements.

Find out more about Business Technology Management via Study Centres
Student fixing cables into the back of computing kit
Full-time/Part-time

MSc Data Science via Study Centres

Learn the technical and practical skills to analyse big data that is key to success in future business, digital media and science. Study industry-specific topics and specialise in areas such as data mining, machine learning, data analytics and visualisation, and security of big data.

Find out more about Data Science via Study Centres
View all

Online

Student sat at a desk looking at computer screen
Part-time

MSc Computer Science

This 100% online MSc Computer Science has been designed for ambitious individuals who aren’t from a computer science background and who want to launch a new career in computer science or want to incorporate computer science expertise and knowledge into their current field as a means of accelerating their career progression. This online Computer Masters is also open to professionals who work in computer science roles and want to gain an academic qualification to enhance their credentials and career prospects.

Find out more about
Two male students using a computer
Part-time

MSc Computer Science with Data Science

100% online MSc Computer Science with Data Science is ideal for professionals who want to develop data science skills to apply to their current role as a means of progressing their career and is open to professionals who work in computer science roles and want to gain an academic qualification to enhance their credentials and career prospects. Studying the course, you will gain the knowledge and skills required to succeed in one of the numerous and high demand data scientist roles in today’s employment market.

Find out more about
A male student using a smartphone
Part-time

MSc Computer Science with Cybersecurity

This 100% online MSc Computer Science with Cybersecurity has been designed to provide individuals who don’t have an academic or professional background in IT or cybersecurity with the specialist knowledge and skills to launch an exciting new career in cybersecurity. The course represents an excellent opportunity for you to develop cyber skills to apply to your current role as a means of progressing your career. You'll learn to effectively specify, design, implement and support secure computing systems in the real world.

Find out more about
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Explore

Why study a degree in computer science?

Technology has transformed how we live our lives, and graduates with degrees in computer science are in substantially high demand. So, we’re delving into everything you need to know about studying for a degree in computer science.

Upgrading our Engineering & Computing facilities

In the Faculty of Technology, we appreciate that advancements in technology are happening at an incredibly fast pace, so we are continually searching for new and innovative technologies to benefit our student’s experience. We’re delving into some of the most exciting additions we’ve recently made as the Faculty has invested significantly in equipment to benefit our courses and students.

Why I chose the University of Sunderland to study Computer Science

As a person who lives in Newcastle, I knew that I wanted to go to a university that was close to home. This meant applying to Sunderland was something beneficial to me as I can be close to home, just a metro journey away.

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