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Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly students to get their thoughts on our courses, state-of-the-art campus, and life in Dubai.
Course overview
Open the door to your future in computer science. Our four-year BSc Computer Science with Integrated Foundation Year will prepare you for a broad range of careers in our fast-changing digital world.
Computer science touches every aspect of our lives, from the phone in your hand to the planes in the sky. You’ll develop broad foundational knowledge and specialise in areas of interest so you’re ready for a global tech role.
This programme is accredited
by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education and the British Computer Society (accredited for 5 years, valid until August, 2028).
Course structure
This four-year full-time course includes lectures, labs, and tutorials, providing comprehensive academic support throughout your degree to ensure a well-rounded education in computer science.
The Foundation Year will prepare you for undergraduate study with essential subjects like mathematics, programming, and academic English. You'll gain a solid grounding in computer science principles, ensuring readiness for the BSc programme.
Successful completion ensures progression to the Computer Science BSc programme, requiring at least 100 credits, 55% in Academic English, and 60% in Mathematics and Computer Science modules.
Course highlights
Begin with the fundamentals and get the support you need to succeed. In our course, you’ll study topics from maths, AI and algorithms to full-stack app development.
You’ll learn about all types of computational systems, programming languages, software engineering and cyber security. Combine analytical knowledge and technical skills as you research and develop software solutions to real-world problems.
Based on our new, technology-enhanced ‘smart’ campus, you'll benefit from a truly global experience. You’ll be taught jointly by Dubai-based and UK academics, and have the chance to work alongside students at our Birmingham campus.
Use our links to industry and an exciting career awaits with roles from software engineer and developer to robotics engineering and analyst.
- Graduate with the same University of Birmingham degree as UK-based students
- Gain an accredited degree (UAE Ministry of Education and British Computer Society)
- Engage with research-led teaching focusing on the latest developments
- Undertake a first year that serves as preparation for the main degree course and provides the equivalent knowledge to a British A Level
- Benefit from our career's service and industry connections
Opportunity to spend a year at our UK campus
Benefit from our careers service and industry connections
Exceptional supportive learning environment
Course delivery
Our course offers holistic learning opportunities, fostering a deep understanding of subjects through independent assessments and collaborative group work.
- Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world leaders in their fields
- Participate actively in discussions, problem-solving activities, and hands-on exercises during tutorials to deepen your engagement with the subject matter
- Develop a spectrum of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and communication through project work
- Experience active learning and engagement in the lab which will help you develop skills such as collaboration, teamwork, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving when conducting experiments
Your work will be assessed via a range of exams, coursework, presentations and a dissertation. You can choose to spend a year studying at our picturesque campus in Birmingham, UK (subject to academic attainment).
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
2025/26
Core modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Calculus | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Foundation Electronic & Electrical Engineering | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Stats and Data | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Mathematics I | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Mathematics II | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Mechanics | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Introductory Computer Science | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Academic English or Advanced Academic English or Advanced Academic Skills | 30 | Full term |
Teaching staff
Dr Ahmad Ibrahim
Admissions Tutor
Academic profile of Dr Ahmad Ibrahim, Lecturer in Computer Science
Dr Mian M Hamayun
Programme Director
Academic profile of Dr Mian M Hamayun, Associate Professor in Computer Science
Entry requirements
To secure your place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, you must meet both our general entry requirements and the specific criteria for your chosen course. Your application will be carefully reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will determine if you will receive an offer.
We normally require BBC but BCC will be considered depending on A-level subjects and destination degree. For Engineering and Physical Sciences Pathway this should include Mathematics.
- A Level
BBB - BCC to include Maths
- IB
5,5,4 5,5,4 at Higher Level to include Maths with 24 overall with no subject requirements.
Number of A levels required: 3
English language requirements
In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
- AED 114,602
Janaury 2025 start (Foundation Year only)
The above fee applies to the Foundation Year only. Subsequent year's annual tuition fee on the programme will be AED 132,778 for January 2025 entry.
Scholarships
Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive here, we have a number of scholarships available at our Dubai campus.
Application process
To apply for an undergraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Choosing to study with the University of Birmingham Dubai is an exciting decision and you may have many questions on what to do next. Follow the steps below to help guide you through the process.
Career opportunities
Unlock a wide range of exciting careers by completing our BSc course. You'll achieve essential technical and transferable skills, allowing you to begin a career in academia, industry, research or commercial organisations. You'll become highly demanded by employers worldwide.
Your Birmingham degree is evidence of your ability to succeed in a demanding academic environment. Employers target Birmingham students for their drive, diversity, communication and problem-solving skills, their team-working abilities and cultural awareness, and our graduate employment statistics have continued to climb at a rate well above national trends.
Benefit from the prestige of a degree from a leading World Class University, making you attractive to companies in the engineering, finance, consultancy and commerce sectors worldwide.
You can go on to work for global companies such as Google, Apple, Goldman Sachs, Microsoft, Sony or Honda.
Dubai is an exciting global city with a rapidly developing economy, actively embracing digitisation and artificial intelligence for various sectors. There is a vibrant start-up scene evident by the massive success of Careem and Amazon.ae, creating new jobs for computer science professionals.
The skills that I am gaining; the course does not just teach knowledge, it trains us in certain skills which can be applied outside of the course, for example many students develop software that has been published, gained them an internship or enhanced their CVs.
Careers Network
In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life at our Dubai campus.
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.
Living in Dubai
Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.