UCAS code G400
From the underlying principles to the very edge of modern technology, this programme will cover all aspects of Computer Science and ensure that when you graduate you will know exactly what is and isn't possible with computers.
Many problems are highly complex and hard to solve even by a computer. Algorithms are a precise set of instructions or rules for step-by-step procedures designed to solve a problem, and optimisation is the process used to refine the algorithms and find the best solution to minimise prediction errors, discover the best methods and improve efficiency (within given constraints).
The Algorithms and Optimisation pathway will develop your knowledge and understanding of the theoretical modelling of algorithms and their properties. It looks at how complex tasks can be achieved more efficiently.
On the first year of this course, we provide you with a strong foundation on the core elements of a Computer Science degree. This includes programming, computer systems, data structures, algorithms, and an introduction to artificial intelligence.
In Years Two and Three, you will expand your understanding and knowledge of key concepts related to software development and database development. Choose modules from a range of specialism topics including Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Scripting Languages, Optimisation, Big Data Analysis, Biocomputation, Efficient Sequential Algorithms and Complex Information Networks.
On this pathway, you will graduate with the degree title Bachelor of Science with Honours in Computer Science (Algorithms and Optimisation)
Explore our other Computer Science programme and pathway options:
Computer Science BSc (Artificial Intelligence) (Hons)
Computer Science BSc (Cyber Security) (Hons)
Computer Science BSc (Data Science) (Hons)
We also offer a four year MEng (master’s) programme Computer Science MEng.
This programme is also available as an option with a Year in Industry, Year in China or Year Abroad.
Our Computer Science BSc programmes are accredited by the British Computer Society which means that the course is continually updated and adapted to reflect new technologies and emerging trends.
Accredited by BCS, so opens up a wide variety of career opportunities with excellent employment prospects.
The Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
In year one you will learn the fundamentals of Computer Science. Starting with an introduction to procedural programming using commonly found language platforms, you’ll move on to learn about the importance of hardware and software components within the operation of computer systems, formal analytic techniques and the development of artificial intelligence.
In year one students will typically undertake either COMP101 (Introduction to Programming) or COMP105 (Programming Language Paradigms) based on prior exposure to programming (eg Computer Science A level). Students without a background will normally study COMP101, however in some instances may be permitted to enrol on COMP105 instead.
All other year one modules are required.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
In year two you will expand your knowledge of key concepts and skills related to software development and database development. You will also begin to choose which wider elements of computer science you want to engage with such as cyber security, computer-based trading in financial markets and principles of computer game design.
Choose at least 30 credits from the following optional modules to follow the Algorithms and Optimisation pathway:
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| COMPLEXITY OF ALGORITHMS (COMP202) | 15 |
| DATABASE DEVELOPMENT (COMP207) | 15 |
| GROUP SOFTWARE PROJECT (COMP208) | 15 |
| SOFTWARE ENGINEERING I (COMP201) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year three is where you will start to build on what you’ve learnt to far with your own research and exploration by undertaking an individual project. Whilst guided, you will work independently to explore a substantial computer science problem in depth, making use of the principles, techniques and methodologies acquired elsewhere in the programme.
Choose at least 60 credits from the following optional modules to follow the Algorithms and Optimisation pathway:
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| HONOURS YEAR COMPUTER SCIENCE PROJECT (COMP390) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching is a mix of formal lectures, small group tutorials and supervised laboratory-based practical sessions. Students also undertake individual and group projects. Key problem solving skills and employability skills, like presentation and teamwork skills, are developed throughout the programme.
The main modes of assessment are through a combination of coursework and examination, but depending on the modules taken you may encounter project work, presentations (individual or group), and specific tests/tasks focused on solidifying learning outcomes.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Broaden your world by spending an additional year of study at a partner university abroad following your second year of study.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Year in industry placements give you an in-depth workplace experience where you can develop your skills and apply your learning.
If you'd like to undertake a year in industry, you can transfer to Computer Science with a Year in Industry BSc (Hons) during your studies, subject to meeting the academic requirements of your course.
To spend a year in industry, you'll need to secure a placement with an organisation. If you're unable to find a placement, you'll continue with the standard version of the course without a year in industry.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
This course is also available as a four year MEng (Hons) programme.
The School of Computer Science and Informatics (with history going back to the 1960s) is a Centre of Excellence for teaching and research. The latest Research Excellence Framework rated 100% of our research outputs as being world-leading or internationally excellent, the highest proportion of any Computer Science school/department in the UK.
Dr Terry Payne talks you through what you can expect studying computer science at the University of Liverpool and shows you some of the facilities and equipment you will be using.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
The University has also provided me with the best opportunities to meet amazing people in my field through networking events.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Liverpool’s computer science graduates go onto well-paid graduate jobs and careers such as: computer programmer; software developer; systems analyst; software engineer; technical consultant; web designer.
Computer science graduates will enter a high-in-demand pool in the field with possible roles in:
Recent employers include:
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Graduating from Computer Science in 2020, Nachi describes her time at the University of Liverpool and how it has prepared her for first role after University.
Graduating from Computer Science in 2013, Kirsty describes her time at the University of Liverpool and how she is now running her own tech startup.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £9,790
Year in industry fee - £1,955
Year abroad fee - £1,465 (applies to year in China)
Full-time place, per year - £32,000
Year in industry fee - £1,955
Year abroad fee - £14,950 (applies to year in China)
The fees shown are for the academic year 2026/27. Please be advised that tuition fees may increase each year for both UK and international students. For UK students, this will be subject to the government’s regulated fee limits.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Are you a UK student who's applied to study on an undergraduate computer science course commencing in 2025/26? You could be eligible to apply for a one-off award of £750 to to be spent on technology to support your learning.
If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Apply for an Asylum Seekers Scholarship and you could have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with study costs. You’ll need to have applied for asylum in the UK, or be the dependant of an asylum seeker, and be joining an eligible undergraduate degree.
If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.
Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Joining a School of Biosciences degree and have a household income of less than £25,000? If you’re a UK student, you could apply to receive £4,500 per year for three years of your undergraduate course.
Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? If you’ve participated in an eligible outreach programme, you could be eligible to apply for a Rigby Enterprise Award worth £5,000 per year for three years of your undergraduate degree.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
Joining a degree in the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science? If you’re a UK student with household income below £25,000, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000 a year for three years of study. Two awards will be available per academic year.
If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| A levels |
AAA in A levels including Maths or Computer ScienceApplicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is AAB from A levels, with A in the EPQ including A level Mathematics or Computer Science. You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work. Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers. If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course. Available foundation years: |
| T levels |
T levels are not currently accepted. |
| GCSE |
Further Education requirements, in addition to Level 3 GCSE qualifications, must be met. GCSE grade minimum 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics. |
| Subject requirements | A level Mathematics or Computer Science is required. For applicants from England: for science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required. |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate | Acceptable at grade Distinction* (any subject) alongside AA at A level. A Levels must include Mathematics or Computer Science. |
| BTEC Level 3 Diploma | BTEC Level 3 National Diploma: Acceptable at grade Distinction* Distinction (any subject) alongside A at A level (including Mathematics or Computer Science). |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma | BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma: D*D*D* plus A level Maths or Computer Science. If A level Maths isn’t taken, require GCSE Maths Grade A (7) or above. |
| International Baccalaureate | 36 points overall and no score less than 4 and including 6 in HL Mathematics/Computer Science, or pass the IB Diploma with 6,6,6 in three Higher Level subjects (including HL Mathematics/Computer Science. |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | H1,H1,H2,H2,H2, H2 including H2 in Higher Maths or Computer Science. We also require a minimum of H6 in Higher English, or O3 in Ordinary English and Ordinary Maths (plus indicative Maths test). |
| Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher | Scottish Advanced Higher acceptable on the same basis as A levels |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | Welsh Bacc: Acceptable at grade A alongside AA at A level including Maths or Computer Science. |
| Cambridge Pre-U Diploma | Principal subjects acceptable in lieu of A levels. D3 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade A M2 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade B Global Perspectives and Short Courses are not accepted. |
| Access | Considered if taking a relevant subject. 45 Level 3 credits at Distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Mathematical or Computer Science subjects is required. GCSE English and Mathematics grade C/grade 4 or above also required. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our direct entry requirements. Although there is no direct Foundation Certificate route to this course, completing a Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, can guarantee you a place on a number of similar courses which may interest you. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 78 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 115 overall, with speaking, reading and writing not less than 105, and listening not below 100 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 59 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 65 overall, with no skill below 60 |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 | Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate. |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 | Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 | 0510: Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade C overall. |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 | 0993: Grade 5 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 5 overall. |
| Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced | 169 overall, with no paper below 162 |
| International Baccalaureate English A: Literature or Language & Literature | Grade 4 at Standard Level or grade 4 at Higher Level |
| International Baccalaureate English B | Grade 6 at Standard Level or grade 5 at Higher Level |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.0 overall, with no component below 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5, for further details.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 12 February 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions