Ranking
Top 70
QS World Rankings 2027
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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.
Accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
This programme is also accredited by the British Computer Society (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.
Foundation year
Foundation year
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.
Year 1
Year 1
In Year One, you'll receive a comprehensive education in computer science fundamentals, including algorithms, artificial intelligence, and relevant mathematics.
You'll also learn Java, a widely-used business language, and have the opportunity to explore your interests through robot programming. Group work is emphasised to build essential employment skills.
Year 2
Year 2
Year Two focuses on enabling technologies and their application, covering subjects such as systems-level programming, networks, cyber security, and mathematics for modern machine learning.
You'll broaden your programming skills with C and functional programming, and engage in a large team project using Java.
Year 3
Year 3
In Year Three, you'll specialise further and undertake a significant individual project, either from your own idea or staff suggestions, often involving software development.
This year also includes advanced modules like Machine Learning and Advanced Networking, providing extensive training and experience to help you achieve your career goals.
Hear from our students
Discover first-hand experiences from current students and recent graduates. Learn about studying at Birmingham, life on campus, and living in Dubai.
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
Birmingham is ranked 68th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, securing our position among the top 70 universities globally and the top 10 UK universities.
Opportunity to spend a year at our UK campus.
Benefit from our careers service and industry connections.
Course delivery
Our course offers holistic learning opportunities, fostering a deep understanding of subjects through independent assessments and collaborative group work.
Lecture
Tutorial
Projects
1:1 Supervision
Laboratory
- 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.
The 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.
Modules
Foundation year
Foundation year
2026/27
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Data handling and skills (Dubai) | 10 |
| Mathematics I | 20 |
| Mathematics II | 20 |
Optional modules
Select one from:
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Academic English and Study Skills (STEM Dubai) | 30 |
| Advanced Academic English and Study Skills (STEM Dubai) | 30 |
| Advanced Academic Skills (STEM Dubai) | 30 |
Complete the 20 credit module to progress to Computer Science
| Module Title | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | 06 41363 | 20 |
Year 1
Year 1
2027/28
Core modules
Year 2
Year 2
2028/29
Core modules:
Year 3
Year 3
2029/30
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Computer Science Project | 40 |
Optional modules
Select 80 credits of options. Examples of options below:
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Advanced Networking | 20 |
| Computer Vision and Imaging | 20 |
| Human-Computer Interaction | 20 |
| Machine Learning | 20 |
| Mobile & Ubiquitous Computing | 20 |
| Natural Language Processing | 20 |
| Neural Networks and Deep Learning | 20 |
| Security of Real-World Systems | 20 |
Teaching staff
Dr Ahmad Ibrahim
Programme Director
Academic profile of Dr Ahmad Ibrahim, Associate Professor in Computer Science
Dr Mian M. Hamayun
Programme Director
Academic profile of Dr Mian M Hamayun, Associate Professor in Computer Science
Dr Hamid Mukhtar
Associate Professor
Profile for Dr Hamid Mukhtar, Computer Science, University of Birmingham Dubai
Dr Niloofer Shanavas
Assistant Professor
Profile for Dr. Niloofer Shanavas, Computer Science, University of Birmingham Dubai
Dr Nabeel Khan
Associate Professor and Cyber Security Programme Director
Profile for Dr Nabeel Khan, Computer Science, University of Birmingham Dubai
Dr Panagiotis Andriotis
Lecturer in Computer Science (Flying Faculty)
Staff profile for Dr Panagiotis Andriotis - Lecturer for the School of 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.
- 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
To study at the University, you must be able to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English. Many applicants do this by submitting a recent IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE result, or by completing a Presessional English course.
The level of English language proficiency required varies depending on your level of study and subject area.
You can view the full English language requirements, including accepted tests and required scores, on our entry requirements page for the Dubai campus.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination, and graduation.
Integrated Foundation Year
The tuition fee listed applies to the Integrated Foundation Year only.
- AED 134,922
January 2027 (full-time) per year
- AED 146,806
September 2027 (full-time) per year
Undergraduate degree
After progressing to the BSc Computer Science, tuition fees for the remaining years of the course will be:
- AED 156,718 (full-time) per year for January 2027 entry
- AED 162,203 (full-time) per year for September 2027 entry
Scholarships
Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. Eligible applicants are automatically considered for a range of scholarships following a Conditional Offer from the University of Birmingham Dubai.
- Up to 30%
Tuition fee scholarships available for eligible students.
Application process
Applying to the University of Birmingham Dubai is straightforward. Applications are made directly through our online Admissions portal, with no application fee.
To avoid delays, please ensure all required documents are included with your application.
Find guidance on how to apply, key steps in the process and answers to frequently asked questions.
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.