What UK computer science degrees can I choose that include a year in industry?

Many UK universities offer computer science with a year in industry, often called industrial experience, industrial year or sandwich placement. You usually spend a year working for an employer, then return to finish your final year. The placement is something you compete for, so choose a course with strong placement support.

UK computer science courses with a placement year

What to check before you pick a course

1. Confirm whether the placement is part of the degree title or an optional route you must request later.
2. Ask how many students actually secure a placement and what happens if you do not find one.
3. Ask the university to confirm in writing how the placement fits your Student visa conditions, and read the official UK government student visa guidance.
4. Look at the list of past employers and roles, and see whether they match the area you want, such as software, data or security.
5. Ask what tuition fee applies in the placement year, because this differs by university and course.

My Advice

Shortlist courses where the placement is built into the degree and the university has a named placement team. Contact the admissions office with two questions: how many placement roles are offered each year, and whether international students have secured them. Start your CV and interview practice in your first year, because employers recruit early.

This information is available on: manchester.ac.uk, york.ac.uk and reading.ac.uk