Computer science preparation
Welcome to the Computer Science programmes within the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering.
Studying computer science equips you with the skills to innovate and solve complex problems in a technology-driven world, opening doors to a wide range of high-demand, lucrative careers spanning industries such as commercial, financial and health. Whatever path you choose, your journey starts with us; and we can’t wait to meet you in September!
This page contains some useful information about your chosen course 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 learn to master communication, sustainability, employability, team-working, problem-solving, and many other useful topics.
Course information
The academic year is split into Semester 1 (October to January) and Semester 2 (February to June), with coursework throughout the year and examinations at the end of each semester.
First year is all about building a strong foundation; no matter which course you are on you will learn about discrete mathematics, programming and algorithmic foundations, database design, software engineering, and much more.
Our Computer Science Bsc/MEng and CS with AI students will also take a deep dive into low level computer logic and operating systems. Our Computing with Business Management Bsc students will also explore accounting and marketing.
Common Modules
Data and Database Systems (COM1035)
Foundations of Computing (COM1026)
Data Structures and Algorithms (COM1029)
Foundations of Computing II (COM1033)
Software Engineering and Object-Orientated Programming (COM1034)
Computer Science BSc/MEng & Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence BSc/MEng
Computing with Business Mangement Bsc
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: https://docs.oracle.com/javase/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.