BSc (Hons) Computing and Creative Technologies with a Year in Industry
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- G45N
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
This course is open for September 2024. If you are considering courses for September 2025, please refer to BSc Computing Science which offers options in Computer Graphics alongside a range of Computing Science options.
Would you like to work in the Film, VFX or Games industries? If so, and you are interested in how sound or graphics or animation works and are fascinated as to how creative digital media intersects with computer science, then this BSc in Computing and Creative Technologies is the right course for you.
In this course you’ll gain a solid foundation in computing science with a good command of various programming concepts. Your computing studies are then complemented by modules in film, sound, and audio production, which are underpinned by technical modules on audio and graphics programming.
This version of the course includes a Year in Industry where you will spend your third year in the workplace, putting your skills into practice and gaining experience, contacts and industry knowledge.
From day one, you’ll be immersed in a cutting-edge environment, soaking up the combined expertise of research-active staff from both the School of Computing Sciences and the School of Arts, Media, and American Studies.
The academics from the School of Computing Sciences will teach you your computing subjects, while film, television and media subjects will be taught by the Arts, Media, and American Studies team.
You’ll kick off your studies by getting hands-on experience in the essentials of computing, including computer systems, computer and web programming, database systems, software engineering and mathematics. You will have opportunity to learn and practise employability skills which are highly valued by employers.
You will then get the opportunity to study increasingly more specialist subjects such as computer graphics, games development, video and audio processing, film and video production, artificial intelligence and more.
It’s all brought to life in our specialist graphics lab with state-of-the-art computers and high-end graphics cards, as well as in our creative technology laboratory, which includes a film studio and motion capture suite.
Thanks to our strong ties with media and entertainment companies, we can shape our course content and coursework projects based on current trends and real-world problems.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Your third year is spent working in industry, where you will put your first two years of learning into practice.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement. In the first two weeks of your second year, you will be asked to write a CV and apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, it will also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you will require after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support while you are identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by an industrial supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your industrial supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it is progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you are unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a Year in Industry.
Accreditations
This course has been accredited by the British Computer Society for full CITP. Accreditation means that a candidate has fully or partially fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP).
Study and Modules
Structure
In each year, you’ll typically take six 20-credit modules, adding up to 360 credits over the three years of your course.
In your first year, you’ll develop a solid theoretical and practical foundation in computer programming. You will learn the fundamentals of computer systems and principles, databases, mathematics, and programming (including web-based programming). Your coursework projects will focus on real world applications, sharpening your programming and problem-solving skills – must-haves for the IT, media, and entertainment industries.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
We teach a variety of programming and scripting languages including Java, SQL, HTML, CSS and JavaScript. You’ll be working with the software development tools and practices used in the industry right now, getting up to speed with system development and database principles, gaining fundamental mathematics for computing knowledge, practising employability skills and building your programming experience. Teaching methods include team-based learning and hands-on practice.
You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars and lab classes – where the lab and seminar classes reinforce and expand on the lecture materials.
Assessment
Your first year will have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These may include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and in-class tests (closed and/or time-limited assessment). They combine theoretical understanding with practical application and are designed to test the range of skills and competencies required for the learning outcomes of each module. Additionally, there is a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll get to choose between a variety of optional modules from the School of Arts, Media, and American Studies, including film, television and media, and computing modules from the School of Computing Sciences. Your compulsory modules will include further programming and software engineering.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your second year, you’ll be studying software engineering and learning to apply the discipline and current good practices used in the industry. You will practice employability skills and further developing your programming experience gained from last year.
Depending on your interests and career aspirations, you will have the opportunity to choose and learn other subjects which include Arts, Media and American Studies modules. Teaching methods include problem-based learning and hands-on practice.
Your Arts, Media and American Studies modules will follow a similar format although some modules also have hands-on filming projects.
Assessment
Similar to your first year, you will have a mixture of individual and group assessments. The balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there is a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.
Structure
Subject to successfully passing your company of choice’s selection procedure, you will spend 9-12 months working in industry to gain real life experience of working within the fields of computer graphics and multimedia. Our well-established commercial connections throughout the UK and beyond will help you secure the best possible placement for you. Positions are usually paid, but the amounts may vary.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Typically, you’ll spend between 9 to 12 months out on industry placement. You will apply what you have learned in industry. In addition, you will learn and receive guidance from industry peers as part of your year in industry experience. You’ll be supported by a UEA mentor as well.
Assessment
The Year in Industry is assessed through a series of periodic reports during the placement and a final report, completed at the end of the placement. The placement year is a pass/fail assessment.
Structure
Your only compulsory final year module will be your final year project. A list of projects will be available for you to choose from. You can also suggest your own project subject to the school’s approval. Your project gives you the chance to study a subject you are truly passionate about. You could look at anything from developing VR applications (such as 3D flight and vehicle simulators) and games with motion captured characters to mixed reality (MR) movie creation, augmented reality (AR) games or state of the art graphics projects with light effects (using shaders). You will be working under supervision by one of the faculty members. Most of our lecturers are also active researchers who conduct world-leading research and incorporate it into their teaching.
Alongside your project, you will choose from a range of optional advanced modules from both the School of Computing Sciences and the School of Arts, Media, and American Studies.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, you’ll have a range of optional modules to choose from, all of which represent the School’s current research and strengths, as well as Arts, Media and American Studies modules. You will gain core knowledge and hands-on experience of your chosen subjects.
In addition, your final year will give you the opportunity to focus on specific areas of computer science and creative technologies through independent research. You’ll work on an individual project, which will involve developing high quality solutions (including working software) for real problems – a skill that is highly valued by employers. You will explore a topic or work on a problem in depth, under the supervision of a member of the faculty. Your final year project runs across the entire year, and you will meet with your project supervisor on a weekly basis to discuss your progress. Plus, you will have all our lab facilities and specialist equipment at your fingertips.
We expect you to spend at least 15-20 hours a week on independent study – around the same as your teaching contact time.
Assessment
In your final year, again, you will have a mixture of individual and group assessments. Similarly to your second year, the balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there is an individual project which is assessed through a combination of written work and demonstration or presentation.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics . Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Accepted subjects: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, Digital Production, Design and Development, Digital Business Services, Digital Support Services, Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing.
- BTEC
- Extended Diploma: DDM in IT, Engineering or Science based subject OR DDM plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level - BBC (subject specific requirements apply)
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma - DMM (subject specific requirements apply)
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB including grade A in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2 plus 3 subjects at H3 including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Mathematics, Computing, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 points including HL5 in Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics at a minimum of Grade B or Grade 5 and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
- This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM in IT, Engineering or Science based subject OR DDM plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Diploma: DD in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus B at A-level OR DD plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Extended Certificate: D in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus BB at A-Level OR D plus BB at A-Level including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Not accepted: Public Services, Uniformed Services or Business Adminstration.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Computing Science with a Foundation Year .
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
International Foundation in Business Economics Society and Culture
Admissions policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate with all the skills, experience, and knowledge you need to get a head start in the specialist entertainment and media industries, or in mainstream IT.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include.
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Games developer
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Graphic designer
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Computer Aided Design (CAD) specialist
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Film industry
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VFX industry
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IT industry
Discover more on our Careers webpages.