First Year for Computer Science Degrees 2025/26
The first year course for Computer Science and Computer Science with Business students provides an introduction to programming and computer systems, and incorporates basic mathematics of relevance to Computer Science.
The normal load is 120 CATS credits. Students are required to take six core modules (90 CATS) and 30 CATS selected from the list of optional modules below. Students may take up to 30 CATS of unusual options. In Year 1 we advise that students do not take more than 120 CATS.
Students studying Computer Science with Business Studies must achieve a mark of 50% or greater in at least one IB-coded module in their First Year or Second Year (more information about the availability and pre-requisites for WBS modules can be found on the dedicated CSBS webpage).
Core Modules
| Code | Name | Term | CATS Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CS118 | Programming for Computer Scientists | 1 | 15 |
| CS126 | Design of Information Structures | 2 | 15 |
| CS130 | Sets and Proofs | 1 | 15 |
| CS132 | Computer Organisation and Architecture | 2 | 15 |
| CS133 | Professional Skills | 1, 2 | 15 |
| CS143 | Logic and Automata | 2 | 15 |
Optional Modules
| Code | Name | Term | CATS Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CS139 | Web Development Technologies | 2 | 15 |
| CS140 | Computer Security | 1 | 15 |
| CS141 | Functional Programming | 2 | 15 |
| IB133 | Foundations of Accounting | 1 | 15 |
| IB132 | Foundations of Finance | 2 | 15 |
| IB151 | Foundations of Entrepreneurship | 2 | 15 |
| IB152 | Foundations of Marketing | 1 | 15 |
| IB153 | Foundations of Management | 1 | 15 |
| PH149 | Key Debates in Moral and Political Philosophy | 2 | 15 |
| - | A Foreign Language | Various | up to 15* |
* 15 CAT language modules count as usual options. 30 CAT language modules will require students to use part of their unusual options allowance.
Modules from Other Departments (Unusual Options)
More information on modules taught by other departments can be found in the Module Catalogue. Please note the list of restricted modules (which is not exhaustive).
It is a requirement that you submit an Unusual Options Form in parallel with any local module enrolment processes.
Enrolment on WBS (IB-coded modules) must be requested via Online Student Records (e:Vision) and MyWBS.