BSc (Hons) Computer Systems

The course

Delivery type
Day
Duration
4 years (full-time)
Intake date
September
Location
Dubai

Contact

Overview

Our four-year BSc Computer Systems Honours degree is oriented to constructing robust and useable computing systems. We aim to teach people not only how to deploy cutting edge tools and techniques, but also help them to develop other professional skills that will enable them to communicate clearly, work independently and cooperate effectively.

In industry, commerce and the public sector, where business transactions are underpinned by technology, workplaces need individuals who can create and exploit practical and effective systems. Our graduates will move into these sectors armed with a blend of interpersonal and technical skills that will meet current needs and the needs of the organisations of the future.

The BSc (Hons) Computer Systems degree is accredited by BCS, the chartered institute for IT.

Why study Computer Systems at Heriot-Watt University's Dubai Campus?

  • Unlike other universities, ours offers a technical programme that equips students with the right skills for programming and web development.
  • We carry out extensive research in computer science subjects, which feeds into our teaching programmes, keeping them relevant and up to date.
  • A large percentage of our graduates get good jobs following graduation.
  • We have transfer options to our Edinburgh Campus, allowing students to complete their studies in the UK.
  • Students who wish to remain in Dubai after graduation can extend their studies by entering one of our postgraduate diploma programmes leading to a Master’s award.

Accreditation

The Computer Science Department has been delivering BCS-accredited programmes for more than 30 years.

Our Computer Systems degree is accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council, fully meeting the academic requirement for Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer.

It’s also accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Science Council for the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Scientist.

Read more about the UAE Federal Accreditation.

Course content

First year

We use theory and practice to help you develop basic programming skills and learn how to create mobile apps. In addition, other courses will cover basic computing, mathematical and study skills. These include a course on web design and databases.

Second year

Students will continue with Interaction Design, Web Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms, Software Design, Database Management Systems and Programming Languages.

Third year

Students will study the following topics: Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Intelligent Agents, Knowledge Management, Operating Systems, Professional Development and Language Processors. In addition, you will work on a group programming project.

Fourth year 

Students work on a major individual project and also carry out studies in advanced topics such as Big Data Management, Industrial Programming, Mobile Communications and Programming, Computer Games Programming and Network Applications.

Career

Prospects in industry, commerce and the public sector are excellent. The growth in network services on computers in the office and home, and on mobile handheld devices, has increased the demand for experts who can design, implement and manage systems combining rich computational, communication and multimedia facilities for non-specialist users.

Entry requirements

Our entry criteria are listed below. However, please note that the final decision remains at the discretion of the course director after evaluating scores of individual relevant subjects.

Students who are eligible to be admitted directly into second year can choose to join the first year, where available.

First year entry

  • GCE A-Level - CCC (or AABB at AS-Level) 
  • CBSE/Other Indian Boards - 65%. 
  • American High School Diploma/SABIS - 70% + SAT I – 1000 (500 English and 500 Math) 
  • Tawjihiyya - 80% or Elite/Advance - 75% + EmSAT (English 1400  and 700 Maths) 
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 24 points (3 HL, and 3 SL) 
  • BTEC Level 3 Ext Diploma - MMM 
  • FBISE grade 12 or equivalent - 70% 
  • Russian/Kazakhstan (Attestat) - Grades of 5 in every subject + IELTS 6.0 
  • French Baccalaureate - 13/20 + IELTS 6.0 
  • Lebanese Baccalaureate - 80% or 13/20 + IELTS 6.0 
  • Foundation year - Successful completion of Heriot-Watt University Degree Entry Programme (Engineering) with a CCCC.  
  • Compulsory subjects to include English. 

Second year entry (September Intake Only)

  • GCE A-Levels - BBC 
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 27 points (3 HL – including Computer Science, and 3 SL)  
  • CBSE/Other Indian Boards - Overall 85% 
  • American High School/SABIS - 70% + 3 AP at grade 4 (Including Computer Science) or Minimum 3 SAT Subjects (SAT II) 500 each, Including Computer Science. 
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) - PPP 
  • BTEC Level 3 Ext Diploma - DDD 
  • FBISE Grade 12 or equivalent - 85% 
  • Transfer students from other universities may be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
  • Compulsory subjects to include Computer Science and English. 

To find out about the entry requirements for this programme, please send an email to dubaienquiries@hw.ac.uk

English language requirements

As our degrees are taught and assessed in English, applicants must be able to prove their level of English language ability. To know more, please refer to our English language requirements.

Fees and funding

  • AED 76045 per year*

* All tuition fees inclusive of VAT

Scholarships and bursaries

See our range of degree entry, undergraduate, postgraduate taught and PhD scholarships and discounts.