Computer Science
Study in the UK
The world of computers continues to change
dramatically, particularly as we approach the next century.
Not so long ago, typewriter keyboards and printers were the
usual ways of getting information into and out of computer
systems. As electronics and computer science have developed,
new and fascinating forms of interactions are now possible.
 Modern
machines can respond to verbal commands and reply in a realistic
voice. Multi-media systems make use of photographic quality
moving colour images and high fidelity stereo sound. Virtual
reality systems allow users to immerse themselves in a computer-generated,
three-dimensional environment, grasping and manipulating synthetic
objects.
Britain's computing and electronics industry has played a
significant role in the advancement of these new technologies.
The UK is internationally recognised in the fields of Very
Large Scale Instrumentation (VLSI) and Computer-Aided Design
(CAD).
British Universities, too, remain quick to respond to technical
developments and other ideas, offering a range of courses
designed to establish and nurture careers in the world of
computing science.
Computing courses in Britain reflect the diversity of the
industry, covering a range of disciplines: artificial intelligence,
computer systems, digital systems design, computer modelling,
electronic systems design, information systems management,
software engineering and concurrent engineering.
Course names do not always sufficiently cover the content
you'll study and because each University is set up differently,
courses will be found in a variety of departments. Some institutions
may even spread their computer-related courses across a host
of departments.
Previous knowledge of computers and systems is often desired
but not always required for entry into a UK based course.
Many institutions do, however, specify that incoming students
bring A-Level or its equivalent in mathematics or a science
subject. Additional qualities, such as creative flair, combined
with methodical thinking, can also provide prospective students
with an edge when applying for a course.
Qualifications range from Bachelor's and Master's or Science
or Engineering degrees. The UK is also a prime country for
fulfilling your interest in pursuing a degree in computing
science by research, ultimately achieving MPhil or PhD awards.
Whatever your choice of degree or specialist subject, try
to ensure that the course you embark on will suit your career
aspirations and needs. Whilst the field of degree offered
by computing science contains technologically competent engineers,
the industry now demands prospective employees who are knowledgeable
on a business level as well. This interaction between professional
skills and technical knowledge is an overriding theme in many
British computer courses, giving their graduates an edge over
other countries. By linking theory closely to practice, students
have an opportunity to develop the practical skills and personal
qualities which employers value - problem solving, decision
making, enterprise, communication, teamwork, computer literacy
and business awareness.
Students are encouraged to develop themselves as individuals
and improve their abilities to contribute within the management
of an enterprise. The challenge is to look beyond the immediate
course content and explore a range of opportunities which
could contribute to personal development.
Computing students in Britain are also given unique opportunities
to encounter practitioners in their field of study, through
visits, work placements and often by working in their universities
alongside visiting experts. The universities often tap into
the industry to encourage high-calibre professionals to join
their teaching staffs as they encourage a combination of quality
in consultancy and teaching with substantial 'real world'
experience.
A number of institutions directly benefit form excellent
links with industry. Many of these partners, particularly
those in computing, have a high international profile and
yet maintain strong bases of sales, marketing and manufacturing
activity within the UK. Companies such as Intel, IBM, Philips,
Siemens, Smith Industries, GEC and Hewlett Packard all have
close ties to British Universities.
It is not just computing-based industries who benefit form
these partnerships. Multi-national companies in financial
services, manufacturing and management consultancy also seek
to fulfil their information technology and computing needs
by turning to UK Universities as a source of technical advice
and potential recruits.
The diversity of the people you will meet in the UK, including
fellow visitors from overseas, bring further opportunities
for cultural enlightenment and exchange.
The qualifications you obtain now will have a direct bearing
on the course your future career will take. In this respect,
British Universities are well ahead of institutions in other
countries as students are presented with opportunities to
develop themselves professionally and personally.
Karen Hughes
Education Liaison Coordinator
Bournemouth University
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