Mobile and distributed systems involves multiple computers processing data and communicating the results to each other, such as in electronic banking or online gaming, where the users are geographically separated.

Students on these degrees use their computing knowledge to solve the challenges posed by such systems, for example how to move money between accounts online without losing it.

Our degrees draw on three main areas of expertise of our research groups:

• design of the algorithms that drive networked systems
• fault tolerance theory to make sure that if a process fails, the system survives
• formal methods to make sure that the process doesn’t fail in the first place

Graduates will be able to design, build and integrate advanced networked computing systems in a range of application areas, such as mobile and wireless communications, computationally intensive financial and health applications, and applications involving multiple business and outsourcing.

We are ranked 9th overall in the UK for research (Research Excellence Framework 2014).

We have a policy of seeking British Computer Society (BCS) accreditation for all of our degrees. BCS is the chartered institute for IT.

Studying a BCS-accredited degree provides the foundation for professional membership of the BCS on graduation and is the first step to becoming a chartered IT professional. 

Our existing degrees are already accredited and we apply for accreditation for all new degrees.

Students who choose to undertake a study abroad exchange as part of their degree do not meet the requirements for BCS accreditation.

You might not be sure which area of computing science you want to specialise in yet. Don't worry. At Newcastle, all Computing Science students study the same modules for the first two years, before specialising in the later years.

This gives you time to explore the subject and decide which area you want to specialise in. It also means you can transfer between our degrees up to the end of second year (although transfer from a BSc to an MComp is dependent on your academic performance).

Our MComp degrees involve an additional year of advanced study during which you follow Master's-level modules from one of our MSc programmes. This provides you with a deeper level of knowledge that some employers will look for when recruiting.

If you are unsure whether to apply for a BSc or an MComp, please contact us for more information.

You will be part of the School of Computing Science, based in Claremont Tower in the heart of Newcastle's city-centre campus.

Facilities

All of our students enjoy access to specialist IT facilities to support their studies including:

• over 300 dedicated PCs running Linux and Windows
• an immersive virtual reality suite
• motion capture facilities
• 3D printing facilities

Support

You'll be supported by a personal tutor throughout your degree – an academic member of staff who can help with academic and personal issues.

You'll also have access to a peer mentor in your first year – a fellow student who can help you settle in and answer any questions you have.

Social activities

Our student-led Computing Society offers a range of activities throughout the year to help you meet people on your course. Activities range from coding and gaming nights to events with key speakers from industry.

Teaching at Newcastle is research-informed teaching, meaning the School's research expertise feeds into our degrees. You learn at the cutting edge of the discipline, with brand new techniques and knowledge incorporated into your learning. 

We have an active research community, comprising several research groups and four research centres.

Teaching methods

Teaching methods include: 

• lectures – including guest lectures by visiting IT professionals
• tutorials – from our expert staff
• supervised practical work – which accounts for a significant amount of your time
• project work – to help you develop real-world business skills such as teamworking and project management

Project work includes a team project in second year to develop a substantial software product and a major individual project in Stage 3, combined with a dissertation.

See an example of one of our undergraduate student projects on the School of Computing Science's website.

Assessment methods

You'll be assessed by a range of methods including:

• course work, such as team and individual project reports, to assess your practical skills
• written and oral presentations, to assess your core transferable skills
• examinations are also used for some modules

Find out more

Teaching and assessment methods may vary from module to module. More information about each module including specific assessment methods, credits and contact hours, can be found in the Course Details section.

Visit our Teaching and Learning pages to read about the outstanding learning experience available to all students at Newcastle University.

Do you want to become a technical officer in the Royal Navy, British Army, RAF or Defence Engineering and Science Group when you graduate?

This degree is approved by the Defence Technical Undergraduate Scheme (DTUS). 

DTUS is a sponsorship programme for students interested in a scientific, engineering or technical career in the armed forces or the Ministry of Defence.

Find out more on our Armed Forces page.