As of 7 January 2019, students looking to enter into computing and IT, can apply for the new online BSc computer science degrees delivered by the University of London and Coursera.
The new online degree programmes gave been designed to meet the needs of those wanting to change careers, as well as students taking their first steps into the computer science sector. The programme includes the study of the fundamentals of computing, as well as machine learning, data science, virtual reality, game development, and web programming.
Dr Mary Stiasny OBE, pro vice-chancellor (international), University of London, said: “This programme benefits from Goldsmiths’ unique approach to teaching, which combines the arts and computer science, developed through world leading research. It is this combination that makes the BSc Computer Science degree programmes accessible for anyone, regardless of their previous experience with the world of technology.”
The subject will be made accessible and engaging for students with varying levels of experience thanks to Goldsmiths’ particular approach. For instance, the Introduction to Programming 1 module uses an online workspace, within which students can participate in a detective game called Sleuth. Fundamentals of coding in a practical way are explored through puzzle-solving tasks, and the game even contributes to students’ final grade. The gaming aspect of the module helps students develop a growth mindset, both throughout their degree and into their working lives.
The content and teaching methods for these programmes have been developed to attract people across a number of disciplinary interests.
– Mark d’Inverno, Goldsmiths
Mark d’Inverno, pro-warden (international) at Goldsmiths said: “The content and teaching methods for these programmes have been developed to attract people across a number of disciplinary interests, including those with backgrounds in computer science, as well as those with a grounding in music, art, journalism, business and games.”
“The programmes will emphasise the development of creative applications. These programmes are also designed to provide access to computer science for all, which is why the differential pricing has been introduced to make these degree programmes accessible to students living in different parts of the world, with different means of financial support.”
The online BSc computer science degree is flexible to fit around work, family, and other commitments. Students can study online at their own pace in their own time, regardless of location. There are also two entry points to the degree throughout the year, allowing for further flexibility.
Applications for the course can be made at london.ac.uk/courses/computer-science, and the final deadline is Monday 11 March 2019. The first cohort of students will begin their studies on Monday 8 April 2019.
Students that would like to get a head start on one of the degree’s compulsory modules, How Computers Work, can complete the Google IT Support Professional Certificate, which is recognised by UoL as prior learning for this module.