COMPUTER SCIENCE (TOP-UP) BSc (Hons)

Overview

Why Computer Science at LSBU?

Our academics are dedicated to your success: 90% of students highly rate the teaching on this course (NSS 2025)
From joining a big tech firm to a smaller enterprise or launching your own business, we’ll help you find your version of success. We also offer a work-placement year option
Get hands-on experience with industry-standard software, operating systems, high performance computing labs and Raspberry Pi devices. We also have cutting-edge technology in AI, Data Engineering and Cyber Security.

Complete your degree, open new doors in tech

Not everyone takes the same route into university, and that’s ok. Whether you’ve completed a HND and want to top-up to a full degree, or you’ve completed two years of Computer Science elsewhere and are ready to finish your degree with us, then look no further. This course gives you the opportunity to complete your journey and achieve your goals.

In your top-up year, you’ll study a tailored mix of second and third year modules from our Computer Science BSc (Hons) degree, equipping you with the specialist knowledge and practical skills demanded in the tech industry. From Artificial Intelligence to Data Mining to Mobile Computing, you’ll also choose from a range of elective modules designed to help you build specialist expertise and shape your career path.

Discover real-world learning with industry-standard tools in high-performance computer labs, equipped with Intel Core i7 and i9 machines, NVIDIA GPUs and 16GB-32GB RAM. All of these tools are optimised for deep learning, VR rendering, large-scale data analysis and complex simulations. We also have tech and software to support your learning in AI, Data Science and Engineering, Software Development, Innovation Infrastructure and more. Click here for a full list of facilities and software.

You will be taught by an award-winning academic team recognised for teaching excellence and innovation. Our expert academics use cutting-edge technology and collaborative approaches to drive the future of education. When you’re not lin the classroom, you’ll get the chance to take part in a range of fun extracurriculars like specialist bootcamps, tech meet ups, national conferences and networking events, just some of the ways we help you start applying your skills to the working world.

You’ll get invaluable insight and support from our lecturers and staff, as they get to know you and your peers on a personal level, and helping you all achieve your goals and ambitions, all while setting you up for engaging and lucrative careers that can take you anywhere in the world. You have the option of undertaking a work placement  year in industry, and after graduating,  our students have gone on to work with the likes of F5, Framatome, JP Morgan and the NHS, taking on roles such as Computer Programmer, IT Consultants, Web Developers and App Designers.

I landed my first job as an IT Advisor at Solutionise. This was HUGE for me. With the confidence and skills I gained at LSBU, I stepped into the professional world, and let me tell you, it felt amazing. -  Zarin Shabab, Computer Science BSc (Hons) graduate

Our students have even gone on to start their own businesses, with Reward Gateway and Silicone Rhino to name a few. You don’t have to follow exactly in their footsteps though, as an LSBU Computer Science degree could be a stepping stone to almost any industry in the world.

Our Central London location puts the whole world on your doorstep, giving you access to placements, networking events and future career opportunities. As part of their degree course, past students have also helped design a chatbot for Southwark Council’s website and built an automated billing platform for RICS, while also benefiting from networking events and conferences all in the heart of London’s tech hub.

Is this course right for me?

If you’ve got the vision to see how advancements in tech can improve the world around you then this course is for you. If you’re ready to harness your entrepreneurial spirit, bringing your intellect and your innovation to the world, then this course is for you. If you’re ready to get stuck-in and build a community that lifts each other up, opening the tech industry to anyone from any background, then this is the course for you.

Above all though, if you’re hungry to create your own version of success then LSBU is right for you. Because the making of you doesn’t begin and end with just your degree, everything that’s brought you here today is part of your story; your experiences, the life you’ve lived, the skills you’ve gained and the goals you’re chasing.

Not only do we see this, but we value that in you. We’re not in the business of forcing you into moulds, instead we’re here to help you break them. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of hard work, fulfilment and self-discovery, then Computer Science at LSBU is definitely right for you.

Does this sound like the right fit for you? Then read on to discover our course content.

Explore life as a Computer Science and Informatics student

Mode Duration Start date Application code Application method
ModeFull-time Duration1 year Start dateSeptember Application codeG408 Application method UCAS

Course Accreditations

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Watch our video to see how you can make yourself at home studying at LSBU.

Location

London South Bank University student union is located at 103 Borough Rd, London SE1 0AA.

If you are visiting our Southwark Campus, you may wish to use our downloadable campus map (PNG File 466 KB). For information on accessibility, see our DisabledGo access guides. See our location page for more details.

Entry Level Requirements

Need further information? Call us on 0800 923 8888 to discuss entry requirements.

In order to be considered for entry to the Top-up course, applicants will be required to have the following qualifications:

  • Higher National Diploma with at least 60 credits at merit in second year modules, or
  • other equivalent Higher Education qualification

We welcome qualifications from around the world. English language qualifications for international students: IELTS score of 6.0, Cambridge Proficiency or Advanced Grade C.

Missing English and Maths qualifications?

If you do not have the required English and Maths qualifications needed to satisfy the entry requirements for this programme, we have courses available at our partner College that you can take to upskill in these areas. Find out more at South Bank College.

United Kingdom

£9790

Tuition fees for home students

International

£17880

Tuition fees for international students

Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.

  • Full-time

    full-time

    BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top Up) (FT) - Year 1

    The fee shown is for entry 2026/27
    UK fee: £9790 International fee: £17880
    AOS/LSBU code: 5455 Session code: 1FS00

For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.

Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by reading the UKCISA regulations.

See our Tuition Fees Regulations (PDF File 391 KB) and Refund Policy (PDF File 775 KB).

Possible fee changes

The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.

The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees in line with the RPIX measure of inflation up to 4 per cent.

Scholarships

We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on our scholarships page.

International students

International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.

Course delivery modes and application methods

Mode Duration Start date Application code Application method
Mode Full-time Duration 1 year Start date September Application code G408 Application method UCAS

Accommodation

Once we have made you an offer, you can apply for accommodation. You can rent from LSBU and you’ll deal directly with the university, not third party providers. That means we can guarantee you options to suit all budgets, with clear tenancy agreements and all-inclusive rents that include insurance for your personal belongings, internet access in each bedroom and on-site laundry facilities.

Or, if you’d rather rent privately, we can give you a list of landlords – just ask our Accommodation Service.

Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.

Finance

You don't need to wait for a confirmed place on a course to start applying for student finance. Read how to pay your fees as an undergraduate student.

Prepare to start

Applicant events

After you’ve received your offer we’ll send you emails about events we run to help you prepare for your course.

Enrolment

Before you start your course we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our Enrolment pages.

What will I learn?

You’ll study a diverse range of computing-related topics on this course, each providing a unique set of skills and perspective on the world of Computer Science.

You’ll get the best of both worlds here, exploring the ‘why’ and putting the ‘how’ into practice, taking theory and applying it with top industry-standard tech. From day one you’ll cover a wide mix of topics, from algorithms and hardware basics to cutting-edge areas like AI, cloud computing and mobile development. You’ll get hands-on with programming, software development, databases and more, all while building an understanding of the principles that power all computer systems, understanding how they work, what their limitations are and how we can innovate beyond them.

With so much guidance from academics who are just as passionate as you, you don’t have to have everything figured out when you join LSBU. Just bring your curiosity and a desire to get stuck in and we’ll help you build your skills and find your niche.

After choosing an AR/VR module, I've improved my skills in project management, AR/VR application development, problem solving skills, public speaking and doing workshops." -  Nelmar Blanco Papa, BSc student

  • Big Data and Database Systems
    This module covers the concepts and practice of Database Systems Management as well as the fundamentals of Big Data processing. The subject of the database field is concerned with how to use computers to store and manage data, usually large quantities of data, that is accessible locally and remotely via the web, the cloud etc. Assessment method: 60% coursework, 40% exam.
  • Computer Science Project
    The project contributes significantly towards the final degree. In the final year you spend about 2 days a week on your project. Future employers will probably ask you about your project and use performance in the project as one of the most reliable guides to your potential. Requests for references often ask about the project. As a final year level 6, 40 credit module for the Honours degree, the project allows you to demonstrate, through a practical application, the extent of theoretical knowledge gained in the first two years of study, practical skills acquired in the subsequent year of industrial or commercial training and further theoretical and practical skills acquired during the final year of study. The project is therefore a very important piece of work. The project is intended to demonstrate to the examiners your ability to undertake and complete, to a satisfactory standard, all the parts of a professional piece of work. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
  • Object-oriented programming
    This module will introduce the more sophisticated programming constructs associated with object-oriented programming, the dominant programming paradigm in current use. It will also introduce event-driven programming and how it relates to the development of graphical user interfaces. This module will explore practical application development using graphical user interfaces and will cover the use of classes and objects of a kind found in many real world applications. The use of professional development tools will give a rounded picture of the development process. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
  • ICT project management in practice
    This module provides students with an opportunity to work collaboratively with students from other disciplines on ICT projects. Students will work in teams and will go through the full ICT development lifecycle from requirements elicitation, feasibility study, design and development, testing and deployment. The module involves real clients and users who have genuine expectations that the developed digital solution will address their needs.

Optional modules:

  • Artificial intelligence
    This module covers the history and contemporary development of artificial intelligence systems and looks forward to likely near-future developments. It will cover all the major techniques of problem description, knowledge representation and data searching that represent the current toolkit for developing intelligent applications. Assessment methods: 60% coursework, 40% exam.
  • Data mining and big data analytics
    This module provides a broad introduction to the basic theory, concepts, and techniques of data mining, and its role in business intelligence. It will cover the main topics in the area. The focus of the practical aspect of this module is business analytics. SAS® Enterprise Miner and SAS® Enterprise Guide will be taught and used throughout in order for you to develop practical skills in solving real world data mining problems. Assessment methods: 60% coursework, 40% exam.
  • Smart internet technologies
    Smart Internet Technologies comprise set of enablers to deal with the limitation of existing Internet. This includes but not limited All-IP Networking Architectures, evolution towards Cloud Computing and 5G networking architectures, open-based networking technologies, SDN/NFV challenges and IoT technologies and its interworking with Cloud and 5G networks.  
  • AR/VR technologies
    This module covers the technologies and the algorithms required to develop and deploy virtual reality and augmented reality applications. The module will cover VR and AR hardware, stereoscopic vision, rendering, AR/VR software development, 3D user interfaces and presence and 360 video.

Careers

What's in it for me?

This is your future. Your career. Your success. And we’re here for it.

Going to university might just be the biggest investment you ever make, but with us by your side you can turn a degree into a bright future, full of purpose, passion and career you can be proud of (which may be why our graduates earn the highest average salaries across London Modern universities).

With Computer Science at LSBU you get:

  • Access to kind of tools you’ll use as a professional like Python, Raspberry Pi, AWS and Kali Linux
  • The option to specialise, with pathways in AI, Data Engineering, Cyber Security, plus there’s an optional work placement year
  • Plenty of extracurricular activities like Hackathons, AI Boot Camps and Silent Film Processing
  • Professional accreditation with the Chartered Institute for IT (meaning you’ll be recognised all over the world as an expert Computer Science professional)
  • The chance to build a professional portfolio you can pitch to future employers

Tunji Akintokun, Senior Director, Head of Enterprise Solutions at LinkedIn UK and Ireland, paved his own way in his career. And it all started at LSBU, with a degree in Computer Science! Find out more below.

Recent graduates from the BSc (Hons) Computer Science programme have gone on to start tech careers at companies including:

  • Accenture
  • F5
  • Framatome
  • JP Morgan
  • NHS
  • PWC
  • Skanska.

I always encourage students to see the practical assignment we give them as something they can potentially pitch to future employers. - Dr Brahim El Boudani, lecturer

LSBU CareerSmart

LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:

  • AI Powered Career Sets - Get instant personalised feedback on your CV and cover letter by submitting it via our AI powered career tool.
  • Gamification Interviews - Get ready to pass those interviews with unlimited training access to our gamification interviews and psychometric tests!
  • Personalised Career Development Dashboard - Keep up with your skills progression with free access to practical assessments, LinkedIn learning, mentoring, and industry-standard facilities.

We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.

Find out more

After completing this course you'll understand how to specify, develop, design and test software and use industry-standard software for the specification, design, simulation and prototyping of computer systems.

Career opportunities include computer programming, software and web development, IT consultancy, and application design. You could work in any number of sectors, or choose to start your own business.

Teaching and Assessment

How will I learn?

You’ll learn through a mix of lectures, tutorials and hands-on computer lab sessions, working to understand the key concepts in real-life settings and developing your skills through discussion, problem-solving and practical activities, all in our industry-standard facilities.

All of your lecturers are renowned computer scientists with a range of industry experience. Meet Dr. Safia Barikzai, who was recently named a Finalist in the 2025 Women in Tech Awards, below!

As well as exploring the technical side of things, you’ll develop essential skills in communication, self-management and teamworking, sometimes even working with students from other courses. Peer-to-peer learning will play a big part in your journey as well, as we encourage second and third years to help first year students get to grips with more complex topics, giving you the opportunity to do the same when it comes your time to lead by example.

Register your interest

Contact information

Course Enquiries - UK

Tel: 0207 815 7500

International team enquiry

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7815 6189