Computer science preparation
Welcome to the Computer Science programmes within the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering.
Computer Science equips you with the skills to innovate and solve complex problems in areas such as AI, Machine Learning, Cyber Security and Data Science. Whatever path you choose, we are delighted you have decided to start your computer science journey with us, and we look forward to meeting you in September.
This page contains some useful information about your chosen programme prior to your arrival at the University of Surrey. If you still have any questions before you arrive, please contact the Undergraduate Programme Leader, Dr Andrew Crossan.
Your time at university is not just about learning Computer Science, it’s about preparing for the future. At the University of Surrey, we provide outstanding academic and pastoral support and help develop your wider transferable skills. Within your programme, you will gain not only technical skills, but you will also get the opportunity to master skills such as problem-solving, communication, team-working, sustainability, employability and using AI. To learn more about how AI will be used, view our AI at Surrey page.
Course information
We have three programmes within the School at undergraduate level:
- Computer Science
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Science and Cyber Security.
We have designed your degrees with flexibility in mind. That means you may be able to change programme once you are here; typically up to Semester 1 of Year 2 you can decide to specialise in Cyber Security or AI, switch to an integrated Master’s programme (MEng) or decide to add a professional placement year to get work experience.
The academic year is split into Semester 1 (October to January) and Semester 2 (February to June).You will have mid-semester tests and exams in both semesters with an excitinga capstone project at the end of semester 2
First year is common and is all about building a strong foundation; you will learn about mathematics for computing, programming and algorithmic foundations, database design, software engineering, and much more. You will also take a deep dive into low level computer logic and operating systems.
First Semester Modules
Data and Database Systems (COM1035)
Foundations of Computing (COM1026)
Second Semester Modules
Data Structures and Algorithms (COM1029)
Foundations of Computing II (COM1033)
Year-Long Module
Software Engineering and Object-Orientated Programming (COM1034)
Re-familiarise yourself with notes from your A-level Mathematics studies (and Computer Science if you took it). This will help to make sure you hit the ground running since it is easy to forget things after the long summer break.
We will start from the basics in programming fundamentals but if you want a head start you can go over the trails covering the basics of Java in the Oracle Java documentation or work through the W3Schools interactive tutorial.
You will be asked to take a Mathematics diagnosis test when you arrive. This will give you an idea of where you may have weaknesses. But don’t worry, whatever your mathematical ability, we have support sessions in place to help you along the way.
It would be useful for you to look at the material supplied by the University Library on general skills such as referencing and technical writing, as these will be invaluable to you throughout your degree and in future careers.
It’s not all work! We have some wonderful student societies, CompSoc, Women in Computer Science Society (WiCYS), and HackSurrey to name a few, which we hope you will join and get involved in their activities.
Before you arrive, you can also explore the range of other societies that the university offers: Clubs and Societies - Surrey Students' Union.
Recommended Reading
Each module descriptor (see the list above) will have a list of required and recommended resources. You do not need to purchase any textbooks for your studies. All required resources are available electronically and/or physically through the University Library. If you still wish to purchase textbooks, we recommend you wait until you have started your studies and discuss this with the relevant module leaders who can advise you.
Computer Science Welcome