From the apps on your phone to the systems running healthcare, sport, and finance, computer science is behind more of modern life than you might realise. Understanding how it works and how to shape it puts you in a strong position – both in life and work.
It's no surprise, then, that more students are choosing to study computer science. Over were accepted onto computing degrees in the UK in 2025, the second-highest number on record. But is computer science a good degree, and is it the right choice for you?
This guide covers what a university degree in computer science actually involves, where it can take you, and what makes studying at St Mary's different.
Key takeaways
- Computer science underpins modern life – understanding it opens up opportunities across a wide range of industries.
- Graduates are in high demand – with strong career flexibility, competitive salaries, and long-term prospects.
- You’ll build transferable skills – from problem-solving to communication – that add value in any career.
- Computer science is a practical, creative subject – focused on building real-world solutions that make a difference.
- At St Mary’s University London, you’ll learn by doing – gaining hands-on experience, industry insight, and the confidence to apply your skills.
What does it mean to study computer science?
A degree in computer science teaches you to think differently about problems.
You'll learn how software is built, how data is processed, and how intelligent systems work. But the biggest skill, the one that you can use across industries, is learning to break down complex challenges and work through them systematically. That's useful whether or not you end up writing code every day.
When studying computer science at St Mary's, your learning is practical from the start. You'll work on projects and build a portfolio that reflects how technology is actually used in industry, developing both technical ability and the confidence to apply it.
Why study computer science? The key reasons
Digital skills are in demand
The UK tech sector is worth (approx. £895 billion), and digital skills are in demand across almost every industry, from healthcare and education to media and sport. Employers want industry-ready graduates with hands-on experience who can understand systems, work with data, and build effective solutions.
Career flexibility and strong earning potential
A computer science degree doesn't lock you into one path. Graduates go into , , , , design, and more, working in global organisations, start-ups, or building their own ventures.
Salaries are strong too. Starting salaries typically sit between , and they grow significantly with experience. An established cybersecurity specialist can earn up to , while an AI engineer can reach over .
Room for creativity
Computer science is creative as well as technical. You'll build things that can make a genuine difference. You might find yourself working on an app that supports wellbeing, a system that helps an organisation run more efficiently, or technology that tackles a real-world challenge.
Skills you'll use everywhere
When you study computer science, you gain skills that go beyond technology. You’ll learn how to think critically, communicate ideas clearly, and work effectively with others. You’ll develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and a structured way of thinking that can add value across any career or industry.
Future-proof career
A degree in computer science sets you up with a future-proof career. Our reliance on technology only continues to grow, and in a constantly evolving sector, understanding the science behind what drives tech means your skills will be needed for years to come.
Many people think that AI is reducing the demand for computer science graduates, but the opposite is true. AI is creating new roles, expanding existing ones, and increasing the need for people who understand how these systems are built and managed.
Is a computer science degree worth it?
For most students, yes, and it's worth understanding why.
The practical case is strong. Graduates are in demand, salaries are competitive, and the skills you build aren't tied to one sector or role.
But the value goes beyond employment. A computer science degree gives you a way of thinking that's useful anywhere: structured, methodical, and focused on how things actually work and how they could work better.
If you're drawn to understanding how things work and finding ways to improve them, a computer science degree is worth it.
What you'll learn on a computer science degree
On our computer science degree course, you'll start with a shared foundation before tailoring your degree around your interests. The first year builds core knowledge across the discipline, and as you progress, you can choose a specialist pathway that reflects where you want to go.
Modules include:
- Programming and software development
- Computer systems and networks
- Database design and data analysis
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- Cybercrime and digital forensics
- Ethical hacking and penetration testing
At St Mary's, assessment is project-based rather than exam-heavy. You'll build a portfolio and present your work, which is also closer to how the industry actually operates.
There's also the option of a placement year, giving you the chance to gain real experience and build connections while you're still studying.
Is a computer science degree difficult?
A computer science degree has its challenges, like any degree worth doing. What makes the difference is support and mindset, and at St Mary's you'll have plenty of both.
Why St Mary's?
A course shaped by industry
Our computer science degree is built around how technology is actually developed and used, not just the theory. You'll use industry-relevant tools and workflows, and as you progress, you can shape your studies around what interests you most, whether that's software development, data, or AI.
Focus on employability
Throughout our computer science degree, there's a strong focus on employability. Our students benefit from careers support, industry engagement, and practical learning that prepares them for what comes next. We’re proud to say 96% of our graduates are in employment, further study, or a vocation within 15 months of graduating.
State-of-the-art facilities
Facilities include high-spec computing labs and a purpose-built with sixty high-performance gaming PCs and professional setups. Here you’ll get involved in hackathons, team projects, and presentations with industry speakers. It's a collaborative, hands-on environment that reflects how people work in the industry today.
London-based campus
St Mary's is based in Twickenham, giving you access to alongside a campus designed for focused study. You get the space and facilities to get your head down, with the industry connections of the capital on your doorstep.
Computer science degree entry requirements
A typical offer at St Mary's is around 120 UCAS points, with GCSEs in English and Maths (or equivalent). Contextual offers are available depending on your circumstances.
We take an inclusive approach to admissions. Students come from a wide range of backgrounds, and that's something we value. Full details are on the .
Can you study computer science without A-level maths?
Yes, at St Mary’s, you can study computer science without A-level maths, though some mathematical thinking is part of the course. If you're unsure whether it's right for you, , and we'll talk it through.
Apply to study computer science
A computer science degree opens up a wide range of directions, covering software development, cybersecurity, AI, data, and more. It's a subject that keeps evolving, which means the opportunities do too. Even as technology advances, demand for computer science graduates continues to grow, and salaries reflect that.
At St Mary's, practical learning is built into the course from day one. If you're ready to turn your interest in technology into something concrete, explore our BSc Computer Science and apply today.