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PROSPECTUS College of Science 01

ON THE COVER

The Nature of Light ‘Illuminating our understanding of future technologies’ by Joss Whittle, Department of Computer Science, College of Science, in collaboration with Mark Jones, supervisor.

WHAT IS RESEARCH AS ART?

Swansea University’s Research as Art competition encourages researchers to engage with different audiences in their research through a striking image and captivating text. The annual competition has attracted over 500 stunning entries since its inception in 2009, representing every academic college, and has been seen by 50 million people worldwide.

Please note that this image is generated by algorithms and is not a photograph. 02 03

CONTENTS WELCOME TO THE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE COMPUTER SCIENCE COMPUTATIONAL COURSE COURSES FOUNDRY BAY CAMPUS INFORMATION It’s fantastic that you are considering University as a key next step in your future and career. As Head of Science I wanted 06 07 08 10 to tell you how important every member of our community is: if you join us, you’ll be able to play an important role in the world- changing work we do. STUDENT CAREERS AND ABOUT GO BEYOND PROFILES EMPLOYABILITY SWANSEA We are proud to welcome be encouraged to share your people into our ‘family’ from knowledge with others too. 14 18 22 26 many backgrounds and from around the world. Science In this brochure, you’ll find moves forward where there is specific information on your STAFF TECHNOCAMPS RESEARCH STUDENT LIFE INCLUSIVITY diversity and we encourage specialist subject. You’ll Professor Matt Jones, many perspectives, voices and see that you’ll be taught by Head of the hearts to become involved in world-leading researchers and College of Science 27 28 29 30 our activities as we become teachers who are committed one of the most creative, to your education. You’ll read INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND welcoming and recognised about the range of jobs and FOUNDATION VISITING HOW TO centres of science globally. careers your education will YEARS SWANSEA KEY DATES GET HERE open up for you and the high During your time with us we success our students have in will do everything we can to finding the future that is right 32 33 34 35 help you thrive and flourish; for them. I’m sure you’ll find giving you the knowledge, all this useful but please do skills and outlook for a fulfilling come and visit us so you can JARGON BUSTER career and a good life. You’ll get a sense of the excitement Accredited by the meet people - fellow students and excellence that is part of BRITISH COMPUTER and staff - who will have a life- our DNA. SOCIETY 36 long impact on you and you’ll 04 05

WELCOME TO THE DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

The Computer Science Department at Swansea University has one mission: to be a world-leading centre for digital innovation. We are a multifaceted Department which boasts an international team with strengths in teaching, research and community engagement. As a student of the Department you will learn first-hand from world-leading teachers and researchers about a subject which is rich in applications, and study topics around data, algorithms, programs and computers.

Computer Science is the discipline that leads the long tradition of mechanisation in our world. The influence and achievements of Computer Science are destined to grow for decades to come. Our education in Computer Science will provide you with the competence to participate in a long revolution. This knowledge will enable you to understand and foresee the great opportunities and challenges that Computer Science presents to the world, now and in the future.

Professor Arnold Beckmann Head of Department of Computer Science 06 07

We are fantastic for Swansea 1 career prospects. In Southampton 9 TH the 2018 Guardian 5 University Guide, we are Bristol 15 COMPUTATIONAL FOUNDRY IN THE UK ranked number one in Loughborough 40 the country for graduate Cardiff 49 The University’s vision is to nurture and grow a dedicated community of computer employability. See how scientists who pursue transformative research and believe that better computer science OVERALL University of South 79 we compare with some is vital in building a progressive world: socially, economically, culturally, philosophically (Guardian University other universities in the Surrey 100 and intellectually. Guide 2018) UK for Computer Science.

The Computational science community, Lab’, ‘Theory Lab’, ‘(Cyber) Foundry is a beacon for comprising the staff of Security/Networking Lab’, computational thinking. This Swansea University’s ‘User Experience Lab’ new £31million world-class Computer Science and and ‘Visualisation Suite’ COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES facility sends out a bright Mathematics departments as to support leading-edge light that gives a new insight its core team. research, and a mix of into the world of the digital. collaborative shared spaces, G400 C60B G4G4 BSc COMPUTER BSc SOFTWARE MSci COMPUTER This facilitates cross- and teaching facilities. SCIENCE ENGINEERING WITH A SCIENCE The Foundry is about discipline research, working YEAR ABROAD building a community – a with a ‘wider’ computational The Foundry will be a place people and place – so that science community, where industry partners can G40A G847 an eco-system involving encompassing academics work with us, test new ideas, BSc COMPUTER G401 MSci COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH A YEAR BSc COMPUTER SCIENCE SCIENCE WITH A YEAR students, researchers, from other disciplines people from all disciplines IN INDUSTRY WITH INTEGRATED IN INDUSTRY industry can thrive to benefit within the University where can link up and research, FOUNDATION YEAR all of society. academic interests overlap. and where the digital innovators of tomorrow are G40C G4G2 The Foundry will provide The Foundry building completing their studies. BSc COMPUTER G403 MSci COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH A YEAR MEng COMPUTING SCIENCE WITH A YEAR modern and state-of-the-art will include bespoke ABROAD ABROAD facilities for a computational laboratories, including a This is a real opportunity ‘Vision and Biometric Lab’, to join us and help us G40B ‘Maker Lab’, ‘Techealth build a future that involves G600 MEng COMPUTING X2C1 BSc SOFTWARE WITH A YEAR IN BSc EDUCATION AND everyone, that is for ENGINEERING INDUSTRY COMPUTING everyone.

G60A G40D BSc APPLIED BSc SOFTWARE MEng COMPUTING SOFTWARE ENGINEERING WITH (WITH A YEAR ENGINEERING A YEAR IN INDUSTRY ABROAD) 08 09

BEACHFRONT LOCATION

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

The College of Science is and we were successful in based across two campuses, bidding for a new bikeshare and the Bay scheme, so bikes are available Campus. Although your subject to hire to travel between STUDENT ACCOMMODATION OTHER FACILITIES AVAILABLE: may be primarily based at campuses, with docking one particular campus, you stations at both. Annual bus COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING • Students’ Union are more than welcome to use passes cost around £300. • Gym and sports facilities the fantastic facilities at either It is advisable not to bring SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT • Faith space location. a car when you join us, as COMPUTATIONAL FOUNDRY parking is limited, both on • Launderette Everyone can enjoy the Sports campus and in the surrounding BAY LIBRARY • Coffeeopolis coffee shop Village and the leafy green residential streets. spaces of Singleton Park or MYUNI HUB enjoy the social learning More information about THE CORE FOOD COURT spaces and beautiful beach transport: www.swansea. scenery at the Bay Campus. ac.uk/estates-and-facilities- THE GREAT HALL Travelling between the two is management/ourservices/ easy – there are regular buses travelandparking 24HR BUS (term time) SPORT FACILITIES 10 11

UCAS CODE: G400 UCAS CODE: G600 UCAS CODE: G401 UCAS CODE: X2C1 3 YEARS FULL TIME 3 YEARS FULL TIME 4 YEARS FULL TIME 3 YEARS FULL TIME TYPICAL OFFER: AAB-BBB TYPICAL OFFER: AAB-BBB TYPICAL OFFER: CCC-CCD TYPICAL OFFER: ABB-BBB BSc COMPUTER BSc SOFTWARE BSc COMPUTER BSc EDUCATION SCIENCE ENGINEERING SCIENCE WITH AND COMPUTING INTEGRATED The BSc (Hons) Education and Computing joint The BSc in Computer Science is a three-year The BSc Software Engineering degree honours degree is intended for students who programme designed to teach you the central concentrates on the skills needed for a career wish to develop their knowledge and skills ideas and methods of computing. in the software industry and focusses on the FOUNDATION in computing and how this subject applies to process of building software to a specification. Education and the wider society. It will enable The degree will teach you how to identify This is a challenging and vital skill in modern YEAR students to specialise in both subjects, Education solutions to problems and measure their Computer Science, and this degree will give and Computing, developing a range and mix of efficiency, analyse and assess systems, and you the knowledge, experience and expertise The BSc Computer Science with Foundation Year skills and knowledge which will enhance their design new ones. You will be able to learn about to prepare you for a career in the exciting degree is ideally suited to students who do not future career prospects and prepare them for a computer graphics, modelling computer systems, field of software engineering. have the appropriate qualifications to directly role in computing education. Designed for both software engineering, writing mobile apps, data start the three-year BSc in Computer Science. UK/EU and international students, our BSc (Hons) visualisation and some of the more advanced Students on our Software Engineering degree Education and Computing programme considers: theoretical aspects of Computer Science. scheme will study the fundamental elements The foundation year includes a wide range of of computer science before progressing on relevant content that will prepare you for the Education in a wide context, not just within formal You will be able to develop your programming to team working skills in year two. Students BSc in Computer Science, as well as enabling primary and secondary school settings, but also skills (in C and Java), and tackle advanced will be involved in real-world concepts like you to experience other subjects in Science Further/, social services, local tasks, both individually and in groups, helping completing work started by other teams, and at Swansea. The degree will teach you how and national government, and education within you to gain and develop valuable transferable working collaboratively with other teams – all to identify solutions to problems and measure the community. skills, including team working, communication, of which are things that are common practice their efficiency, analyse and assess systems and presentation and problem-solving. You will in industry. design new ones. You will be able to learn about A wide range of computing skills, including learn how to program ( in Java) and have the computer graphics, modelling computer systems, how to program (e.g., C and Java) and analyse opportunity to learn about computer graphics, In your final year you will move on to software engineering, writing mobile apps, data a wide range of computing systems, and the modelling computer systems, graphics, software testing, design patterns and generic visualisation and some of the more advanced fundamental mathematics and theory of computer algorithms, concurrent systems, engineering, programming, and you will complete a theoretical aspects of Computer Science. science. Students will learn about operating writing mobile apps, data visualisation, various practical project, involving building a systems and networking, computer graphics, programming paradigms software and some software system. You will be able to develop your programming compilers, scientific modelling, mathematical of the more advanced theoretical aspects of skills (in C and Java), and tackle advanced abstraction, databases, and advanced and Computer Science. tasks, both individually and in groups, helping specialised programming. Students will also you to gain and develop valuable transferable develop an excellent working knowledge skills, including team working, communication, of professional standards in the computing For our preferred A-level subjects and GCSE maths requirements, please visit the course pages: presentation and problem-solving. education sector and in industry more widely. www.swansea.ac.uk/compsci/undergraduate 12 13

UCAS CODE: G4G4 UCAS CODE: G403 4 YEARS FULL TIME 4 YEARS FULL TIME TYPICAL OFFER: AAA-ABB TYPICAL OFFER: AAA-ABB BSc APPLIED MSci MEng SOFTWARE COMPUTER COMPUTING ENGINEERING The BSc in Applied Software Engineering is an The MEng is a four-year degree leading SCIENCE innovative and flexible way for individuals to to a Master’s qualification and is aimed at gain a degree in Software Engineering whilst the specific needs of advanced software Computer Science plays a key role in in employment. virtually every aspect of modern life, and development. FFION WILLIAMS this integrated Master’s level degree is The course is open only to employees of This degree is ideally suited to those Undertaking this course has ideal for those wanting to pursue a career regional companies and organisations, students who are committed to a career in significantly changed my life. I am where problem solving is based on rigorous and delivered on the University campus on the software development industry. As an now working as a Computer Science scientific principles. Wednesdays from 1pm - 8pm throughout the MEng Computing student, you will have the and ICT Teacher in a local secondary full calendar year. school . As an MSci Computer Science student, you opportunity to learn about computer graphics, modelling computer systems, database will have the opportunity to learn about The programme has been designed with systems, and algorithms in addition to computer graphics, algorithms, concurrent the support of an industrial advisory panel software engineering modules. Students will systems and various programming paradigms. in order to meet existing skills gaps in develop skills in software development, team As part of your studies of Computer Science industry. It covers the full breadth of Software working, planning, specification, design and you will be introduced to automata, formal Engineering, combining traditional academic risk analysis to a high level. language theory and human-computer teaching with work-based learning. 25% interaction. Students will undertake a large of the assessment is based on transferring In your master’s year you will choose to study scientific project, accounting for 25% of the academic knowledge to the workplace. a variety of industry standard modules in credit for the year, using problem-solving Completion of the first two years of the areas such as Security and Cyber-Physical principles, drawing on the research strengths programme offers the opportunity of Systems. of the department in the areas of Human being awarded an FdSc degree as Computer Interaction, Theoretical Computer an exit qualification, which itself is Science or Visual Computing. accredited under the Higher Apprenticeship Framework through In your master’s year you will choose to study Tech Partnership, the Sector Skills a variety of cutting-edge modules in areas Council for IT. such as High Performance Computing (HPC) and Data Science. 14 15

GOOGLE HASH Our Computer Science GO BEYOND... department has been working with Google to ensure that HACKATHON | GOOGLE HASH | GREENBOOK CLUB | we are teaching the skills that SUCS | ANNUAL UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT COLLOQUIUM | companies like Google need. We also run a series of events MAKER COMPETITITON aimed at boosting our students’ career prospects at leading global technology companies. GREGYNOG Each year the Computer Science Department hold a colloquium HACKATHON at Gregynog a large country mansion in Mid Wales. Externally our students get the chance to compete in SUCS national Hackathons run by organisations such as the NHS SUCS@ Swansea is one Students taking the project module and BBC. In 2018, six of our Computer Science students of the oldest societies at and teaching staff spend three attended the NHS Welsh Hackathon with the department Swansea University and days attending and giving talks contributing work to three winning teams who were given is the only society to have on the past, present and future of the opportunity to apply for government funding to further its own room open to all Computer Science. develop their ideas over the summer. society members. Swansea University Computer Society is open to all members of the University’s MAKER COMPETITION Student Union. Want to change the world? GREENBOOK CLUB Join us and enter our annual The Greenbook Club provides an opportunity for We offer a wide range Maker Competition and show students to further their abilities in algorithmic thinking. of computing services us how you see the future These sessions initially started as a result of meetings at to our members, all built, with physical computing Google UK in London with Dr Daniel Archambault and based on Free Open elements such as Arduinos, Dr Liam O’Reilly in order to figure out how to encourage Source Software (FOSS). Raspberry Pis and MaKey more Swansea graduates to apply to tech giants such Whether you’re interested MaKey Kits. Form a team, as Google. The club gets its name from the colour of in learning more about work together and create the ‘Cracking the Coding Interview’ book which is Linux and Open Source something inspiring! used to train students for coding interviews that are software, or simply want frequently used as part of the recruitment process at such an easy-to-remember email companies. We also encourage and train for industrial address and more space programming competitions such as Google Hash Code to store your coursework, (hashcode.withgoogle.com). SUCS is here to help! 16 17

YEAR IN INDUSTRY

G60A G847 BSc SOFTWARE MSci COMPUTER ENGINEERING SCIENCE WITH A WITH A YEAR IN YEAR IN INDUSTRY INDUSTRY (5 years) (4 years) MEET STUART YEAR ABROAD TOOMEY G40A G40B G40C C60B BSc COMPUTER MEng COMPUTING Director of BSc COMPUTER SCIENCE BSc SOFTWARE SCIENCE WITH A WITH A YEAR IN Employability, WITH A YEAR ABROAD ENGINEERING WITH YEAR IN INDUSTRY College of Science INDUSTRY AAB-BBB at A-Level A YEAR ABROAD (4 years) (5 years) (4 year) AAB-BBB at A-Level Stuart offers support (4 year) and guidance to all our Year in Industry ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: G4G2 G40D students. MSci COMPUTER MEng COMPUTING AAB-BBB at A-Level (4 Years) SCIENCE WITH A YEAR (WITH A YEAR ABROAD) The importance AAA-ABB at A-Level (5 Years) ABROAD AAA-ABB at A-Level of gaining valuable AAA-ABB at A-Level (5 year) core skills and life (5 year) Our Year In Industry Degree offers the opportunity for you to experience whilst at take an Industrial Placement in Year 3 to further expand your University has never knowledge of the sector and gain valuable Industry experience been so critical. Today’s The Year Abroad Scheme offers students the opportunity to while further developing the skills you have been taught. employers are not spend the third of your four years studying at one of our just looking at your partner institutions abroad. This is a fantastic opportunity to We are working with a number of organisations who provide academic ability, but experience a different culture and language and depending a range of placement opportunities. However securing a equally your wider skill on the destination to develop valuable language skills. You placement is the responsibility of the student. If you are unable to set. We pride ourselves will also experience a different education system, gain an secure a placement by the end of the second year of your studies in providing you with international perspective of the field of computer science and you will transfer onto the equivalent degree programme. every opportunity to develop interpersonal skills. develop your CV and build your employability Find out more: www.swansea.ac.uk/international/opportunities skills, alongside your academic studies. 18 19

TOP 5 IN THE UK FOR Alumni Profile During my course I was STUDENT taught how to think like a SATISFACTION software engineer which GENALYN has equipped me for my WITH 94% [National Student Survey 2017] ESTRADA current role. DEVELOPER 4C CONSULTING

Student Profile I studied MEng in similar research to answer a skill I use daily in my role Computing and graduated difficult questions for myself. I as a developer. Swansea ELISHA RENDELL last year with a First Class really enjoyed the freedom the University really prepared 3RD YEAR, BSc COMPUTER SCIENCE Honours. I currently work as final year project provided to me for industry and when I a developer at 4C Consulting explore concepts that were not graduated I felt ready to take in London, which is a leading as thoroughly covered in the on new challenges. I was first introduced at Swansea covers a broad need to be connected to a Platinum Salesforce Partner degree. to computer science and area and equips you with computer to work. that specialises in building During my studies I became programming during my the skills needed for a wide cloud applications. I am a student ambassador and A-levels. My teacher persuaded range of careers. I have had For my project, I’m developing really enjoying the pressure You could say that my took on the responsibility of time at Swansea was super me to take it over ICT and I the chance to choose more in- an application for the Chemistry of working on multiple projects promoting and enhancing the busy but I loved every found it so rewarding and depth modules in my third year Department. My aim is to create at once, it is often intense reputation of the university to minute of it. challenging. It was amazing such as mobile apps and web an interactive game for primary but after completing multiple prospective students. I loved to be able to create something application development. This school students. The focus of dissertations at Swansea being an ambassador, it usable from scratch. term I am loving cryptography the game is to encourage the University, I feel that I am was so much fun to meet like- which is really interesting and children to be creative and more than prepared for I was a really shy person minded people and talk about I decided that computer science allows us to practice secure play with different structures the job. before attending Swansea my experiences with them! was the right path for me and communication techniques. to make various ‘characters’ University. The course came to a visit day at Swansea out of atoms and molecules. I received amazing support encouraged lots of group work I was also a Technocamps and instantly felt a strong sense For my third year project, Teachers and students will be from the lecturers as well as as well as communication ambassador, where I helped of community on the campus; I’m looking at the use of able to interact with holograms other staff members! Everyone and this really helped me children in primary and halls and lecture theatres were Augmented Reality (AI) in and place them into the world was friendly and went out of come out of my shell. One secondary schools learn about all together in one place and education and comparing it around them. I’m programming their way to help. Lecturers dramatic change I noticed algorithms through teaching everything I needed was within to current methods such as gestures that enable the encouraged discussions, within myself was the ability programming with the use of walking distance. The course textbooks and lectures. I am holograms to be picked up and especially in relation to current to more confidently approach the LEGO Mindstorm robots. at Swansea is amazing too: using a HoloLens, which is an moved around the environment, events and how it may affect problems from new angles. You could say that my time at I found that other computer Augmented / Mixed Reality to rotate and resize and us as computer scientists. The university taught me Swansea was super busy but I science courses were restrictive headset by Microsoft. It is the engage the students. It’s been It was fascinating learning how to deal with problems loved every minute of it. and aiming to get you into one best self-contained headset amazing to work on and I am about staff research, and how where the solution is not career path, but the course available, meaning it doesn’t enjoying every second! I could contribute or conduct immediately obvious which is 20 21

International Student Profile One of the many great things I love about NOTHANDO TSHUMA Swansea University is its 2ND YEAR, BSC COMPUTER SCIENCE geographical location. say that I like to keep Swansea is a coastal myself busy. area and the University I had never been to the is pretty cool considering there is situated just minutes UK before I applied to are no beaches in Zimbabwe! Ever heard about culture form the beach which is Swansea University. I had Cultural diversity is very much shock? It is real BUT pretty cool considering never travelled to many places appreciated by the university, don’t worry, the Swansea there are no beaches in around the world, so, as you this is shown by the amount University family is very Zimbabwe! can imagine, coming to the UK of effort the university puts welcoming, and everyone was a pretty big deal for me. into welcoming students understands that there are From a very young age I had from different parts of the people coming from all a huge interest in technology, world. Dinners and lunches over the world. There are how it works and the impact are hosted for international I am a Computer Science people you’ll meet who will is has on people all over the students and this is a great ambassador and also a make you feel welcome world. way to integrate people from student rep and it has been and will do everything in all cultures. The Students’ the BEST few months! I get their power to familiarise One of the reasons I chose Union also plays a great to voice opinions on behalf you with the place and be Swansea was for its cultural role in organising events of my course mates and get there for you when you’re diversity. I saw it as an to welcome students. The to see something being done feeling homesick. So when opportunity to meet people department made me feel very about them. Being a student you think ‘University’, from different parts of the welcome by assigning me to rep has provided me with the keep thinking ‘Swansea world, while getting to learn a ‘buddy’ who was to take opportunity to see for myself University! about other backgrounds and me around the university with just how much the university people’s diverse experiences. other new students to show appreciates students’ input. I didn’t get a chance to visit us our way to lectures. This On the more social side, Swansea before enrolling, was such a big help and also student reps get to attend so all I had were the online meant that we didn’t get lost! I socials where we get used to student profiles which were was also assigned to a mentor our job roles, get to participate very helpful. One of the that I could talk to about any in events such as survey many great things I love problems I had and this really promotions as well as organise about Swansea University helped me settle quickly. I study aid programmes during is its geographical location. was made to feel immediately exam periods. I am also a Swansea is a coastal area and at home and my move from member of the Computer the University is situated just Zimbabwe has been very Science Club for females as minutes form the beach which smooth. well as the Swansea University Christian Union so you could 22 23

EMPLOYABILITY ANNUAL PROJECT FAIR We work alongside the Swansea Employability Academy to ensure our students get the best support, advice and guidance to 91.9% Each year our final year Computer gain essential employability skills during your time at Swansea. IN GRADUATE Science students complete a final year You will leave Swansea University with much more than a degree EMPLOYMENT OR project as part of their degree. Working - we lay the foundations for students to gain valuable industry FURTHER STUDY closely with academics our students are experience both here in the UK and abroad. six months after able to present the results of their project leaving University to the public as well as to industry We offer CV workshops and our Employment Zone advertises professionals. During the fair students work placement programmes, part-time vacancies and graduate [DHLE Survey 2016] are given the opportunity to network jobs. We take employability seriously and our employability with visitors as well as showcase all their statistics speak for themselves. hard work.

There are also a number of student CAREER PROSPECTS prizes awarded including, ‘Best student project voted by IT industry’ and ’Best Graduates from our provide you with contacts TOP IN THE UK student project voted by academic staff’ Computer Science Schemes with industry and businesses FOR GRADUATE enjoy rewarding careers with – you’ll be working organisations such as IBM, alongside SMEs who PROSPECTS Hewlett Packard, BT, Sony, want to use your skills on (Guardian University Guide 2018) Google, PWC, Motorola live projects. When you Solutions and HSBC. graduate, you will have worked on solving real In the past year, Google problems which are currently engineers visited Swansea affecting a business. University as they want to increase the number of job With job titles including applications from Swansea senior software developer, graduates. They gave two systems developer, and lectures to our 2nd year software engineer, Computer STRONG ‘MAKING AN ARCADE GAME students on topics such as Science at Swansea will WITH A CABINET’ ‘How to pass your technical prepare you with valuable INDUSTRY LINKS Jacob Jones, interview.’ core skills to successfully BSc Computer Science pursue a career within The Computational Foundry computing. VOTED BEST STUDENT PROJECT - has been designed to BY IT INDUSTRY. 24 25

WHAT’S IT LIKE The technical

TO BE AN IBMER? grounding I learnt from CHRIS PARSONS, MACHINE LEARNING Swansea University has ENGINEER, IBM allowed me to evolve and adapt to an ever changing industry which has been essential! I chose Swansea as as HPC, Big HOW TO GET TO IBM? it was a campus based Data, Web University, which was very Development and Once I graduated I applied to the IBM Graduate Scheme important to me. I loved Computer Vision. and got offered a permanent job on the Cognitive System having a common space These instantly Team. It felt amazing to be offered a role with IBM and I where everyone was coming got my attention the role. This was a fantastic absolutely love my job. No day is ever the same and the together and studying. and I felt as if opportunity and I got loads role is ever evolving! I get to build a community around AI Swansea University instantly not only would of support from the Computer around our [IBMs] hardware. As part of my role, I have felt homely and had a real I qualify with a Science Department who been building a community of practice – which involves sense of community. degree but also get some hands- helped me with my CV and people doing cool stuff with Artificial Intelligence on the IBM interview preparations. As platform. We have rolled this out across Europe, and have The strength of the Computer on experience part of my placement, I put 18 hubs in 12 countries with just over 5000 members – all Science Department was along the way. teams support was amazing. all the theory I had learnt into this within six months of development. To be a part of that is hugely important and this My favourite module was I am still in regular contact practice and developed my incredible and it all began at Swansea University. was obvious in the depth of Logic for Computer Science with the team and Professor own skills. I could not have the knowledge and expertise - it really challenged me Faron Moller is one of my done this without the support I work closely with IBM business partners M7 and we are of lecturers. There is a huge intellectually and gave myself nominated referees on job the Department, which has working on building a Centre of Excellence for AI creating range of topics on offer such a grounding for the day-to- applications. ITWales and been absolutely invaluable. collaborative hubs. I am also involved in Hackathons and day challenges I now face Technocamps both got within a business environment me thinking about work we have been working closely with the NHS. These are here at IBM. placements and so I decided usually run over 2 days and we work with graduates to to apply for a summer solve problems whilst broadening awareness and trying to overcome challenges. The Hackathons are a great way to I could not have done It was during my 2nd year placement with GE (General engage with the community and expand our reach even this without the support that I also got the chance Electrics). The 2nd year lends further. of the Department, which to work as a Technocamps itself to industry experience has been absolutely ambassador. This was a and the knowledge I had built This summer I will be going to Scandinavia to do a invaluable. fantastic experience and up enabled me to have the gave me more skills and the technical skills I needed for ‘roadshow’ to go out and engage with developer communities. I have the best job ever and I cannot imagine doing anything else! 26 27 WHEREVER YOU 10 Things YOU MUST DO GO IN SWANSEA... TECHNOCAMPS

Technocamps is the pan-Wales schools and Eat Joe’s Ice Cream 1 you’re by the sea community outreach unit of the Computer Paddle in Science Department at Swansea University. 2 It’s a beautiful location and a buzzing city; warm and friendly, Visit the National it’s compact, yet offers it all. 3 Waterfront Museum - The mission of Technocamps Technocamps’ one of many museums Swansea is as rich an environment for living as it is for is to provide a wide primary offerings and galleries in the city learning. From its breath-taking sweep of award-winning spectrum of activities are one day hands-on aimed at identifying and computing workshops provides teachers both the Surf down the Gower beaches and coves to its dazzling nightlife, eclectic dining 4 and unique shopping experiences, it’s 378km2 of everything addressing shortcomings to inspire, motivate and confidence and competence Grab fish & chips at you need to make your student experience amazing. in computing education engage young people to deliver computer science 5 Pier in schools, and thereby in secondary schools. Its in their schools. Since 2001 increase the number of Playground Computing Technocamps has engaged Walk around our Marina 6 pupils – particularly girls – programme focuses on with over 40,000 young Socialise with friends studying computer science engaging with Primary people – well over 1% at GCSE, A-Level and school pupils; and its of the whole population 7 on Wind Street CITY CENTRE beyond. Technoteach programme of Wales – a full 43% of Eat Welsh cakes at SINGLETON which were girls, as well as 8 Swansea Market PARK CAMPUS BAY CAMPUS provided training to over 500 teachers. Watch football, or the 9 nation’s favourite, rugby Students in the Department at the Liberty Stadium GOWER are given the opportunity Take in a show at the MUMBLES to become Technocamps 10 Grand Theatre Ambassadors and deliver Technocamps Workshops to local school pupils and to lead weekly Technoclubs. HOME OF THE GOWER This provides an excellent 5TH CHEAPEST UK CITY THE UK’S FIRST AREA way for students to FOR STUDENTS SWANSEA HAS AN OF OUTSTANDING become more confident at ESTIMATED POPULATION OF NATURAL BEAUTY communicating their ideas, £398.03 and even allows some average monthly expenditure 244,500 to discover a passion for teaching! (Natwest student living index 2017) www.technocamps.com 28 29

STAFF STUDENT LIFE

RESEARCH The Bay Campus is situated in an outstanding location, on the eastern approach to Swansea, Our Computer Science with direct access onto the beach and its Department is striving to CHAMPIONING FOR own seafront promenade. At its heart is the contribute to the United Computational Foundry, designed to capitalise Nations Sustainable CHANGE IN THE NHS on our research expertise and collaborate Development Goals through with business and industry. world-leading research. Professor Harold Thimbleby designs dependable systems to There is a full range of learning, recreational, accommodate human error in healthcare. For more information about social, eating and drinking facilities on how the Computer Science campus, including: TEREZA Department contributes to the Preventable error is blamed for killing many people UN Sustainable Development Healthcare suffers • A beautifully designed library with views STOYANOVA in hospitals. Some of because of preventable Goals, visit www.swansea. onto the dunes MENG COMPUTING ac.uk/science/unsdg this is due to poor design errors. IT is a solution of systems, particularly but also a current • Extensive catering provision including IT systems — whether problem. cafes, bars and a dining hall I have been living in the Bay Campus Halls of Residences and I am extremely patient record systems, • A multi-purpose 800 seat auditorium, for glad to have this opportunity because I get databases, medical apps Prof Harold Thimbleby events including concerts and exhibitions or conventional medical to see how the campus is developing daily, • Retail facilities including a bank, mini- devices like infusion especially the Computational Foundry. market and launderette pumps, ventilators and The architecture of the buildings on Bay is glucometers. • Students’ Union with social spaces modern and it gives a completely different Harold is changing • Students’ Union nursery feel compared to Singleton Campus’ Approximately 10% of healthcare computing • Student support services living experience. The rooms are spacious with en-suite and double beds. There hospital deaths due to making it safer and more • Beach access and beautiful scenery preventable error are effective. are common rooms equipped with pool computational. In absolute • Sports facilities including gym and outdoor billiards, table tennis and foosball, which numbers, this is higher than Harold Thimbleby is See playing areas are accessible 24/7. Living so close to road fatality rates. Change Digital Fellow at your lecture theatres makes it way easier to Swansea University. keep up your attendance and, of course, to Harold has been working use the library and other services whenever on making user interfaces needed. Another very important point is to critical systems safer, that the Campus is right next to the beach! changing healthcare and Such a view is way too tempting to pass saving lives. when you have some free time! 30 31

COMPUTER SCIENCE INCLUSIVITY Student Profile

Whether you are into coding, programming or software engineering OSIAN SMITH we will have a course which suits you. We have a wide range of BSC COMPUTER SCIENCE students from all around the world, all with one thing in common - Coming into Swansea BSc I didn’t think I would a love for computing. Computer Science, I wasn’t get past Freshers’ sure if university was right week, let alone Computers are everywhere and part of all of our daily-lives. Software for me. I was diagnosed with pass first year, yet is often viewed as just a collection of code and data but its actually dyslexia in school and was I’m in third year about humanity; its about helping people through technology. Computer given a laptop to complete my doing really well Science is a a subject which can shape and change the world. TOP 5 schoolwork. This is where my in my course. I’m IN THE UK curiosity in computing grew creating an app All students are treated equally University. We believe that all FOR STUDENT and I developed an interest in that tracks blood and have access to the same our graduates leave Swansea SATISFACTION WITH knowing how computers work, pressure along with teaching materials. The with not only a top quality and how they can be used to the data which causes Department organises a host of degree but also important life help people - people like me! blood pressure to change extra-curricular activities and we skills and experiences. 94% with the NHS. I have had promote group collaboration, National Student Survey 2017 Due to my dyslexia, I had tons of opportunities being which unites students in their The University also holds the no plans to do any further a student, from becoming a journey through Swansea Silver Athena Swan Award. study once I left school, but student ambassador, entering I was inspired by a great IT Hackathons and working with teacher called Mr Wilson, industry such as Mishcon who suggested I study IT de Reya. ITWALES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BTEC at college. I absolutely loved college and from there I’ve also met great friends and have been a member of Since 2000, ITWales – the Discovery” and “Education and applied to study Computer several societies. Computer industrial liaison unit of the Achievement.” Every year all of our Science at Swansea and was Science at Swansea is a great Department – has organised an female students are invited to be made an offer on the BSc course, with a wide variety annual celebration of International amongst the 200 attendees listening Computer Science degree. of modules, a wide range of Women’s Day. The purpose of this to a range of inspiring speakers people from all over the world event is to highlight the careers of from across the UK and networking I applied to Swansea because and is in a great location. I successful women as a means to with others whilst celebrating I loved the location, the love it here so much I have addressing the gender gap within Women in Welsh IT. campus is next to the beach applied for an MRes and will ICT and computing industries. and when I visited everyone be staying at Swansea for 2020 marks the Twentieth Annual was so welcoming that I felt at another year - I dont want to Each year focuses on a different ITWales IWD Celebration, will you home very quickly. leave just yet! theme, with recent celebration be part of it? taglines being “Inspiring the Next Generation,” “Journeys of 32 33

INTERNATIONAL VISITING STUDENTS & SWANSEA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION YEARS and your offer

@ THE COLLEGE It’s really important that you make the right choice of university SCHOLARSHIPS and course. After you’ve applied, you’ll be invited to attend a AND BURSARIES Discover Swansea University Day. If you are an International (non-EU) student studying Swansea University award a Computer Science Foundation Year, your degree You will have the opportunity to speak with academic staff and a number of Excellence will begin at The College. students who can answer any questions you may have. It’s Scholarships to all UK a great way to get a taste of life here at Swansea University students* who achieve The College offers academic pathways at and you will get the chance to have one-to-one chats with the AAA at A-level (or Swansea University that lead to undergraduate lecturers and discuss your offer. Remember that we can be equivalent) worth £3000 and postgraduate degrees. The College provides flexible with your offers so this gives you a chance to discuss over three years; Merit teaching in smaller groups, with a personalised and any personal circumstances or ask any questions about the Scholarships to all students supportive educational philosophy. When you study course itself. who achieve AAB at A-level in The College, you are a full student of the University (or equivalent) worth from the start of your course. £2000 over three years.

All courses are available with a choice of start dates Visit www.swansea.ac.uk/ and durations, depending on your qualifications and scholarships for the latest English language proficiency. information and terms and conditions. The College has an all new purpose-built building located on the beachfront Bay Campus. There will be *The scholarship may also a new 411-bed student residence just for the students be awarded to EU students, of The College, also located on the Bay Campus. please check the website for the latest information. Find out more: www.swansea.ac.uk/the-college 34 35

HOW TO Key Dates GET HERE FOR YOUR APPLICATION

LESS THAN 1 HOUR TH SEPTEMBER OCT/NOV JAN 15 FROM CARDIFF The UCAS UCAS applications Attend a Discover application deadline open Swansea University (although we will still day accept applications LESS THAN after this date) 3 HOURS FROM LONDON

JAN - JUNE MAR - JUN SEPTEMBER

More opportunities Apply for finance Arrivals and LESS THAN Manchester to visit the campus and accommodation welcome week! and make sure it’s the 3 HOURS right place for you FROM BIRMINGHAM Birmingham Cambridge Swansea Oxford Cardiff LESS THAN London 4 HOURS FROM MANCHESTER 36 37

When you apply to University you will come across terms you may not have come across IMPORTANT INFORMATION – before. We have attempted to take some of the JARGON PLEASE READ worry away by producing a ‘ Jargon Buster’ covering the most frequently used terms. The following message contains some very important information. t Please read it before you use this bus er brochure. Adjustment: If your grades made you a Conditional one of the following degree This brochure was printed in are better than expected and Offer. This means that you classifications: 1st, 2.i, 2.ii the Spring of 2018. It contains information on the undergraduate you exceed the conditions of have an offer of a place or 3rd. programmes in Computer Science your conditional offer, you subject to meeting the Insurance Choice: This is your Undergraduate: This applies that Swansea University intends to can ‘adjust’ to an alternative conditions, which usually Entry Requirements: These second choice university. to all first level degrees. run for students who are planning place. means achieving specific are the grades that we to start university in the Autumn of 2019. grades or tariff points in recommend students get MSci and MEng: These are Undergrad: When you Change course offer: your exams. to join our courses. Each four-year courses which start University, you may be This can be offered by course will have its own We have made every reasonable extend our three-year courses referred to as an Undergrad effort to ensure that the your University/College if Unconditional Offer: requirements. These can all in Computer Science and while you are studying an information provided is both you don’t meet the entry Congratulations, you have be found on our website. Software Engineering with an Undergraduate Degree. helpful and accurate as at the requirements of your an Unconditional Offer. This integrated master’s year. date of publication. However, original choice. means that you have a place Firm Choice: This is your first Postgraduate: This applies to some changes, for example to programmes, study location, with us! choice University, so make Track: This is the UCAS online all courses studied after an placement opportunity, facilities or Choice: This is also known sure you keep this spot for tracking system where you Undergraduate Degree. A as the course you apply for. Confirmation: The decision Swansea University! fees may become necessary due can see the progress of your list of our Computer Science to legitimate staffing, financial, UCAS allows you to initially made by University or a application. postgraduate courses can be regulatory and academic reasons. apply for up to 5 courses. College once examination Foundation Year: You can found here: swansea.ac.uk/ results are received to accept do a BSc degree with an UCAS: This stands for the postgraduate/taught/science We will endeavour at all times to Clearing: Clearing gives or reject the application. intergrated foundation year Universities and Colleges keep any changes to a minimum and to keep prospective students students the chance to look if you don’t meet the entry Admissions Service in the BSc: An Undergraduate informed appropriately. Any for a place on a course after Deferral: This applies to requirements for the the BSc UK. All UK applications go Academic degree known 30 June, at any University students who want to start at course. This means you do an changes to the information through UCAS. as a Bachelor of Science. contained in this brochure will or College if you haven’t a later date. UCAS will allow extra year at the beginning When you graduate you will be updated quarterly at: already had an offer of a up to two deferrals before where your knowledge and Graduation: A ceremony held be awarded a BSc in your www.swansea.ac.uk/ place. you have to re-apply. skills will bring you up to the in the Great Hall at the Bay subject. undergraduate-programme- level you need to begin the Campus that you take part in changes and on the online course pages at: Conditional Offer: Degree classification:When BSc course. when you finish your degree. Congratulations, we have you graduate, you will get www.swansea.ac.uk/compsci/ undergraduate CONTACT US For UK admissions information please email: [email protected] College of Science Computational Foundry For international admissions information please email: Bay Campus, [email protected] Swansea University, SA1 8EN Wales, UK

Telephone: +44 (0)1792 295111 Email: [email protected]

@swanscience @CompFoundry SwanseaScience

www.swansea.ac.uk/compsci

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