Computing at Imperial

Computing is at the heart of many of the technologies changing the world around us. From artificial intelligence and robotics to cybersecurity, healthcare and finance, computing is helping us solve some of the most complex problems we face.

At Imperial, you will study computing in an environment where research, teaching and real-world applications come together. You will learn from academics who are working at the forefront of their fields, while developing the knowledge and practical skills to tackle challenging problems of your own.

Our students come from a wide range of backgrounds and bring different interests and perspectives to the subject. You will have opportunities to work with others, explore ideas beyond your immediate area of study and see how computing connects with subjects across Imperial.

Based in London, Imperial also puts you close to a thriving technology and innovation community. Through projects, research and links with industry, you can apply what you learn to problems beyond the classroom and gain a sense of where a career in computing could take you.

Undergraduate study

An undergraduate degree in Computing at Imperial will give you a strong foundation in computer science while allowing you to develop your own interests as you progress.

You will start by building your understanding of the fundamental principles of computing, mathematics and programming. As you move through your degree, you will encounter more advanced topics and have increasing opportunities to explore areas that interest you.

Practical work is an important part of studying Computing at Imperial. You will work on projects that require you to apply what you have learned, solve problems creatively and work effectively with others. By your final year, you will have the opportunity to bring together your knowledge and skills through more substantial project work and advanced study.

Undergraduate course structure

Final year projects

In the final year (third year for BEng, fourth year for MEng) you will undertake an individual project spanning around eight months. This presents an exciting opportunity for you to apply the technical skills you have learned throughout the course, including also research, project management and presentation skills, under the supervision of an academic adviser. The topics covered by individual projects vary enormously, from the very theoretical to the very practical. Many projects address topical research problems and involve working closely with one of the Department’s research groups.

The best student projects from Imperial are among the most impressive of any academic institution in the world. It is quite common for project work to be presented at top international research conferences and/or published in academic journals. You can see some of our best student project work on the Department's Distinguished Projects pages.

Year 1

The first year comprises of core modules covering foundational mathematics, computer systems, databases and algorithms. There is also a coordinated programme of laboratory-based work centred around programming problems of gradually increasing size and complexity. Each is designed to teach a specific aspect of programming and, at the same time, reinforce some of the material taught in the core modules.

Year 2

The second year comprises of core modules focusing on computer and communication systems, language processing and foundations of computation There are also follow-on modules in algorithms, mathematics and reasoning. As in the first year there is also a coordinated laboratory programme centred around three major projects: an operating system, a compiler and a user-centric application design exercise. Each project is undertaken in small groups.

Year 3

The third year is made up mostly of optional elective modules, allowing you to specialise in those topics that are of interest to you, or, if you are enrolled on the MEng, which are core to your specialism.

You will also have the opportunity to undertake a major group project, which will exercise your ability to work as part of a larger software development team. This may also involve working with an industrial partner, as many of the group projects are proposed by our industry collaborators.

If you are enrolled on a BEng degree then you will also undertake a major individual project (see below).

If you are enrolled on an MEng programme then you will spend 6 months (4 months for JMC) on an industrial placement. These involve working on one or more technical projects in an approved organisation as part of a team. The placement gives you the opportunity to apply what you have learned in the degree so far to real-world engineering problems. It also gives you invaluable experience of industry working practices. You also get to earn money and many students use the income to help fund their final year of study.

Year 4

As with the third year, the fourth year of each MEng programme comprises advanced elective modules, some of these are compulsory for particular specialisms, and a major individual project (see below).

Our teaching approach

We combine face-to-face teaching with digital learning, using technology to support and enhance the student experience.

Our approach is centred on problem-solving and applying what you learn. Alongside lectures and other teaching, practical work and projects give you opportunities to develop your programming, engineering and collaborative skills.

The Department also has strong links with industry. Many student projects are proposed by industry collaborators, and students on the MEng programmes can undertake an industrial placement, giving them the opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-world engineering problems and gain experience of professional working environments.

Is Imperial right for you?

Studying Computing at Imperial is challenging and rewarding. Our engineering focus means that you will work closely with other students, particularly when undertaking group projects. The programme is also intensive, so you will need to be organised and able to adapt to changing demands on your time.

You do not need to know how to program before you apply. However, programming is at the core of Imperial's Computing programmes, and you will need to develop your programming skills early in your degree. If you have not programmed before, you may want to try some of the many free introductory courses and tutorials available online before applying. This can help you find out whether you enjoy programming and problem-solving.

If you enjoy solving problems, understanding how things work and learning new ways of thinking, Computing at Imperial could be a good fit for you.

We also recommend reading the Department's Competence Standards when considering whether to apply.

Postgraduate study

Our postgraduate degrees give you the opportunity to build on your existing knowledge, develop specialist expertise and explore new areas of computing. We offer taught and research degrees with a range of focuses and entry requirements, designed to meet different backgrounds and ambitions.

You will develop advanced technical knowledge alongside the problem-solving, software engineering, collaboration and independent learning skills needed in a field that continues to change rapidly.

Our postgraduate programmes include:

Each programme has its own focus and entry requirements, so you can choose a course that fits your academic background and interests.

PhD study

A PhD at Imperial gives you the opportunity to undertake original research and contribute to the development of computing. You will work alongside researchers in the Department, developing your expertise while investigating a research question in depth.

The Department offers PhD opportunities across a broad range of computing research areas. There are also specialist doctoral training opportunities, including the AI4Health Centre for Doctoral Training.

The Department provides up to 30 fully funded PhD Studentships each year for home and overseas students. Studentships are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and equality and diversity criteria.

Find out more here.