Computer Science at Cambridge
Cambridge was a pioneer of computer science and continues to lead its development. There are more than 1,000 specialist computing and advanced technology companies and commercial laboratories in the area (known as ‘Silicon Fen'). A number of local firms and start-ups support our teaching and employ our graduates, in areas from chip design to mathematical modelling and AI.
Our course is broad and deep – giving you the skills to create future technology. All aspects of modern computer science are covered, along with the underlying theory and foundations in economics, law and business. You also develop practical skills, such as programming (in various languages, eg OCaml, Java, C/C++, Prolog) and hardware systems (eg chip design).
Facilities and work experience
Our students benefit from the Department’s cutting-edge research and extensive facilities. The purpose-built Department of Computer Science and Technology is packed with the latest technology, advanced lecture theatres and dedicated practical rooms.
Group projects during the course, where small teams of students deliver a product to an external client, ensure relevant industrial experience. Projects often lead to commercialisation, licensing or employment.
Course costs
Tuition fees
Information on tuition fee rates for Computer Science is available on the tuition fees page.
Additional course costs
- All years of study - Strongly recommended: A laptop is pretty much essential. A modern entry-level laptop for around £800 is sufficient, but we would recommend at least half the main drive is dedicated to a bootable Linux system, such as Ubuntu
- Year 1 (Part IA) - Strongly recommended: Copies of core textbooks for Part IA options (students that don't have their own copies may be disadvantaged) - Estimated cost £150
- Year 2 (Part IB) - Strongly recommended: Copies of core textbooks for Part IB courses (students that don't have their own copies may be disadvantaged) - Estimated cost £150 - £250
- Year 3 (Part II) - Strongly recommended: Copies of core textbooks for Part II options (students that don't have their own copies may be disadvantaged), number/costs dependent on options chosen - Estimated cost £150-£250
- Year 4 (Part III) - Strongly recommended: Copies of core textbooks for Part III options (students that don't have their own copies may be disadvantaged), number/costs dependent on options chosen - Estimated cost £150-£250
Changing course
It is possible to change from Computer Science to another course at the end of the first year or second year, although in practice students rarely do.
To be able to change course, you need the agreement of your College that any change is in your educational interests, and you must have the necessary background in the subject to which you wish to change – in some cases you may be required to undertake some catch-up work or take up the new course from the start/an earlier year. If you think you may wish to change course, we encourage you to contact a College admissions office for advice. You should also consider if/how changing course may affect any financial support arrangements.
Careers
Our graduates’ knowledge and skills embody principles which will outlast today’s technology, making them highly sought after by industry and commerce alike.
Many of our graduates go on to work as programmers and software development professionals, with others pursuing further study and careers in teaching and research. Many have also founded companies or gained employment in software, hardware, the games industry, finance, communications and commerce.
To get an idea of what’s currently on offer to our graduates, visit our Supporters Club
For further Computer Science undergraduate admissions information visit: www.cl.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate.
