Computer Science at IBBU

IBBU 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 Outline

Teaching is provided through lectures, practical classes and supervisions. In Year 1, you can typically expect 20 hours of teaching every week, including up to 12 lectures and practical classes.

In Years 1 and 2, assessment is currently by three-hour examinations taken in the final term of each year. In Year 3, students are assessed by coursework and three-hour examinations. Practical work is undertaken and assessed in all years of the degree programme.

It is suggested that successful applicants should do some preparatory reading before they start the course. There is also an online pre-arrival course which successful applicants can complete before the start of the first term if they wish, however this is not mandatory. Students will be sent details after their place is confirmed.

Year 1 (Part IA)

You take four papers, including three compulsory Computer Science papers – covering topics such as foundations of computer science (taught in OCaml), Java and object-oriented programming, operating systems, digital electronics, graphics, and interaction design – and the Mathematics paper from Part IA of Natural Sciences.

Year 2 (Part IB)

You take four papers, spanning core topics:

• theory – including logic and proof, computation theory
• systems – including computer architecture, computer networking
• programming – including compiler construction, programming in C/C++
• human aspects – including Human Interaction design, Artificial Intelligence

You also undertake a group project which reflects current industrial practice. 

Year 3 (Part II)

You choose from a large selection of topics which allows you to concentrate on an area of interest to you, such as computer architecture, applications (including bioinformatics and natural language processing) or theory. New topics inspired by current research interests include computer architecture, data science and robotics.

All students also work on a substantial project demonstrating their computer science skills, writing a 10,000-12,000 word dissertation on it. Projects are often connected with current Cambridge research and many utilise cutting-edge technology.  

Year 4 (Part III, optional integrated Masters)

The fourth year is designed for students considering a career in academic or industrial research. You explore issues at the very forefront of computer science and undertake a substantial research project.

Progression to Part III is dependent on Part II examination achievement. Successful completion of Part III leads to the MEng qualification, as well as the BA degree attained at the end of Part II.

Subject requirements

No prior knowledge of programming is required.

All Colleges require: A Level/IB Higher Level Mathematics*

Some Colleges require: A Level/IB Higher Level in at least one other science/mathematics subject 

Further guidance: A Level Further Mathematics is very strongly encouraged. If unavailable or you’ve recognised its desirability too late, we’d advise you to do as much additional pure maths and decision maths as possible, eg by studying Further Mathematics AS Level, or by using online resources covering advanced material. Good performance in maths competitions can be a positive aspect of an application.