Computer Science

Computer Science can be studied for three years, leading to the award of a BA degree, or for four years, leading to the award of Master of Computer Science. The fourth year of the Master of Computer Science degree provides the opportunity to study advanced topics and undertake a more in-depth research project. You do not need to decide between these options when you apply; you can choose at the beginning of your third year whether to stay for either one more year or two.

During the first part of the course, your work is divided between lectures (about ten a week), tutorials (about two a week), and practical classes (about two sessions a week).

In tutorials, you have the opportunity to discuss ideas in depth with an experienced computer scientist, usually with just one or two other students. You will be expected to spend a considerable amount of time developing your own understanding of the topics covered in lectures, answering questions designed to check your understanding, and preparing for your tutorials. As the course progresses, you will also begin to work in small classes (up to ten people) on more specialised topics. In the second year you will take part in an industry-sponsored group design practical. You will spend about a third of your time in your third and fourth years working on an individual project on your own choice of topic.

Lists of options offered in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th years are illustrative only, and may change from time to time.

Further information about all of our courses: www.cs.ox.ac.uk/computerscienceatoxford