Students in a row on computers
  • Undergraduate
  • BEng

Computing

Study the engineering of computer hardware and software alongside the mathematical principles of computing.

Study the engineering of computer hardware and software alongside the mathematical principles of computing

Learn how modern computer and communications systems function, and how they can be adapted to build the next generation of computing applications

Use sound underlying principles and logical thinking to design and build systems as you develop your technical expertise

Showing course information for 2024 View 2025 course information

Course key facts

  • Qualification

    • BEng

  • Duration

    3 years

  • Start date

    October 2024

  • UCAS course code

    G400

  • Study mode

    Full-time

  • Fees

    • £9,250 Home

    • £40,940 Overseas

  • Delivered by

  • Location

    • South Kensington

  • Applications: places

    20 : 1 (2022)

Minimum entry standard

  • A*A*A – A*AAA (A-level)

  • 41 points (International Baccalaureate)

View full entry requirements

Course overview

Computing is a creative and wide-ranging subject that focuses on using sound underlying principles and logical thinking to design and build systems that really work.

This general programme offers you a wide range of module choices as you progress, allowing you to study your areas of interest.

In this course, you will learn how modern computer and communications systems function, and how they can be used and adapted to build the next generation of computing applications.

The central core of this programme has been designed to give you an overview of computing. This includes an understanding of basic concepts and principles, the ability to appreciate and to adapt to changes in technology, and practical experience in applied computing.

A special emphasis of your studies will be on the fundamental principles underlying computing and on the engineering considerations involved in computing system design, implementation and usage. You will be introduced to computing architecture and hardware, and the software used to exploit them.

This course will also equip you with a strong background in discrete mathematics (logic, sets, relations and grammar) – the basic mathematics of computing; along with classical mathematics and statistics relevant to applications engineering and management.

Throughout this course, you will attend laboratory and problem-solving classes, as well as completing project and design work.

You'll also study advanced techniques and choose from a wide range of optional modules, in addition to completing a substantial individual project on a subject of your choice.

Structure

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes.

Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

In your first year, you will study the following core modules.

Core modules

  • Introduction to Computer Systems
  • Introduction to Databases
  • Introduction to Computer Architecture
  • Computing Practical 1
  • Discrete Mathematics, Logic and Reasoning
  • Graphs and Algorithms
  • Calculus
  • Linear Algebra

In your second year, you will study nine core modules.

You will also select one optional module.

Core modules

  • Algorithm Design and Analysis
  • Software Engineering Design
  • Models of Computation
  • Operating Systems
  • Networks and Communications
  • Compilers
  • Probability and Statistics
  • Computing Practical 2
  • Computing Group Project 

Optional modules

  • Symbolic Reasoning 
  • Computational Techniques

In your third year, you will study three core modules.

You will also select six optional modules.

 

 

Core modules

  • Software Engineering Group Projects
  • I-Explore
  • Individual project

Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department. You will be taught alongside students from other courses, with options including business, management and many more.  

Optional modules

  • Logic-Based Learning
  • Computer Vision
  • Custom Computing
  • Communicating Computer Science in Schools
  • Network and Web Security
  • Advanced Computer Architecture
  • Robotics
  • Simulation and Modelling
  • Operations Research
  • Distributed Algorithms
  • Type Systems for Programming Languages
  • Data Processing Systems
  • Introduction to Machine Learning
  • The Theory and Practice of Concurrent Programming
  • Graphics
  • System Performance Engineering
  • Technical Option (outside Department of
    Computing)

A technical module from another Imperial degree programme may be allowed with the permission of the Director of undergraduate studies.

Extracurricular

  • Programming Competition Training

Teaching and assessment

Balance of teaching and learning

Key

  • Lectures and tutorials
  • Laboratory sessions
  • Independent study

Years 1 and 2

  • 20% Lectures and tutorials
  • 5% Laboratory sessions
  • 75% Independent study

Teaching and learning methods

  • Person at lectern giving speech
    Lectures
  • Four students sitting in a tutorial
    Tutorials
  • People collaborating and completing practical work.
    Laboratory-based teaching
  • Person participating in classroom discussion.
    In-class problem solving
  • Personal supervision of project work

Balance of assessment

Key

  • Coursework
  • Examinations
  • Practical

Year 1

  • 10% Coursework
  • 84% Examinations
  • 6% Practical

Year 2

  • 10% Coursework
  • 57% Examinations
  • 33% Practical

Year 3

  • 8% Coursework
  • 42% Examinations
  • 50% Practical

Assessment methods

  • Code on a computer screen
    Programming exercises
  • Computer-based programming tests
  • Person completing coursework
    Written coursework
  • Computer-based coursework
  • A person completing a written exam
    Examinations
  • Software demonstrations
  • A group of people interacting
    Group work
  • Papers from a written report
    Written reports
  • Research summaries
  • Oral presentations

Entry requirements

We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.

How to apply

Applications are closed for 2024 entry.

Applications are closed for 2024 entry.

Tuition fees

Home fee

2024 entry

£9,250 per year

Overseas fee

2024 entry

£40,940 per year

Your future career

Person in a bubble surrounded by 4 skills

Gain transferable skills relevant to a career in industry and academia.

Lightbulb above a book

With specialised knowledge, you'll be highly sought after in a range of sectors.

Management organisational chart

Management consultancy, corporations, computer gaming and special effects are just some of your options.

Laptop displays finance statistics

Other potential career paths could include banking and finance.

Course data

Compare this course

Terms and conditions

There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.

Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.

Programme specifications