What Grades Do I Need to Apply for Computing & IT?
In the digital age computer based degree courses have become increasingly popular a degree in this field could lead to an interesting, and well-paid, career after graduation.
In our modern world we depend on computer technology for everything from keeping in touch with friends to curing disease. If you enjoy maths, love technology, and are a creative thinker then a degree in Computing & IT might be the right choice for you.
Here’s more about studying Computing & IT:
What are my study options for Computing & IT?
Computing and IT is an incredibly diverse field and it’s important to double check the modules and requirements for each degree that you’re interested in to be sure of your choice.
Don’t assume that because the degree has the word “computer” in the title it’s exactly the same as another “computing” degree.
Here are just some of the computer related degrees on offer:
- Computer Science
- Computer Studies
- Software Engineering
- Computing
- IT
- Information Systems
- Computer Engineering
- Data Science
- Computer Technology
Although all of these degrees will be based around computers they will have very different modules and could lead to very different careers. Be sure to research each degree and make sure you know what’s involved before applying.
What are some of the modules on offer for Computing & IT?
The exact modules you take will be dictated by the course you apply for but there are some modules that will be fairly similar regardless of which university you attend.
After all, you’ll need to learn the basics somehow!
Potential modules available include:
- Basic Programming
- Data Structures & Algorithms
- Compilers and Operating Systems
- Principles of Computer Hardware
- Computer Graphics
- Artificial Intelligence and Artificial Life
- Computer Vision
- Software Development and Testing
As you can see there are an incredible number of modules on offer, so do your research and ensure that you’re choosing a course that best suits your talents and interests.
Where can I study Computing & IT?
You’ll find computer based courses all over the UK, so your location depends entirely on the exact course you’re looking for.
Some of the universities that rank highly for Computing & IT, or similar subjects, include:
- University of South Wales
- Teesside University
- Birmingham City University
- Bangor University
- University of Kent
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- London Metropolitan University
What A Levels do I need to take to apply for Computing & IT?
You’ll need to check the individual entry requirements for each university that you’re interested in but generally speaking universities offering computer based degrees will want you to have A Level Maths.
It might surprise you, but a computer based A Level often isn’t essential. However, the things you’d learn by taking the A Level may better prepare you for the first year of your degree by introducing you to the kind of course material you’ll cover.
A Levels that are often considered desirable, but not essential, are:
- Further Maths
- Physics
- Computer Science
- ICT
- Philosophy
What grades do I need to apply for Computing & IT?
Entry requirements vary between universities so again, double check the entry requirements for each university to make sure that your predicted grades match up.
For example, Southampton, Birmingham, and Glasgow all ask for AAA.
On the other hand Gloucester, Chester, and Oxford Brookes all ask for BBC.
Other universities give their entry requirements in UCAS points rather than grades:
- Greenwich – 160 points
- Kingston – 160 points
- Huddersfield – 180 points
Are there any other entry requirements for Computing & IT?
Generally speaking you don’t need to have any previous experience to be accepted on a computer based course.
However, you’ll find that experience, or at least a basic knowledge, of areas such as programming will give you a little more insight when you begin the course.
That said, some universities have said they prefer students without any prior experience in programming as they won’t have learned any bad habits!
What are the career prospects for Computing & IT graduates?
Obviously the majority of graduates of computer based courses go on to work in the computer industry, but the range of career options is as diverse as the degree courses available.
Further study is another popular option with many students opting to continue on and gain their Masters and/or PhD.
