Key information
This alternative route to our BSc (Hons) Computer Science is delivered in partnership with Edinburgh College and Fife College. You’ll complete a relevant HND at one of these partner colleges, which enables direct entry to Year 3 at Heriot-Watt University.
Find out more about our 3 year honours degree option.
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Delivery type
- Full Time
- Degree qualification
- Non Graduating
- Mode of delivery
- On-Campus
- Duration
- 3-4 years
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Start date
- September
Computer Science empowers you to create innovative technologies and solve real-world problems. From artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to software development, data science and virtual reality, skilled computer scientists are in demand across a wide range of industries.
This degree provides a strong foundation in computer science theory and practice, equipping you with the technical knowledge and problem-solving skills needed to design, develop and evaluate modern computing systems. You'll study topics including programming, software engineering, databases, computer systems, networks, cyber security, artificial intelligence and data science, with opportunities to specialise as you progress.
Ranked 5th in Scotland for Computer Science by The Complete University Guide 2026, Heriot-Watt offers a supportive and research-led learning environment. You'll benefit from teaching by enthusiastic academic staff and access to GRID (Global Research, Innovation and Discovery), a state-of-the-art facility that includes Virtual Reality Labs and a Games Design Studio.
Your learning will focus on developing practical skills for a rapidly evolving industry, including:
- Developing intelligent systems using artificial intelligence and machine learning.
- Designing secure software and networks to combat cyber threats.
- Creating immersive virtual and augmented reality experiences.
- Building data-driven solutions that support innovation and decision-making.
Alongside technical expertise, you'll develop valuable skills in teamwork, communication, project management and technical writing. You can also benefit from our Student Equipment Fund, which supports students in purchasing hardware, software and other technology for coursework and personal projects.
Your student experience
-
The Computer Science (Associate Student route) programme is unique in that you will split your learning across Edinburgh or Fife colleges and Heriot-Watt University. You will apply through your chosen college and spend the first two years studying an HND there. During your time at college, you’ll gain knowledge of the fundamental principles of computer science. Upon successful completion of your HND, you’ll progress into the third year of a Computer Science degree at our Edinburgh Campus and follow its curriculum for another two years until you graduate with one of the following degrees:
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science (artificial Intelligence)
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security)
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Data Science)
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Software Engineering)
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science and Diploma in Industry Training
-
Through choosing this degree route, you’ll benefit from teaching, learning and study resources at either Edinburgh or Fife colleges and Heriot-Watt University from year 2.
You’ll learn the core principles of computer science and gain professional skills in problem-solving and project work. This programme is aimed at empowering students to craft robust systems and pioneer innovative technologies essential for everyday use.
As one of the first universities in the United Kingdom to offer undergraduate degree programmes in computing, we provide outstanding education in computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, software engineering and computer systems.
- We are Ranked 6th in Scotland for Computer Science by The Complete University Guide 2023
- Heriot-Watt’s GRID (Global Research, Innovation and Discovery) is a ground-breaking facility to advance global research, innovation and discovery. GRID provides an innovative teaching and learning environment for our computing students. It is also home to our groundbreaking VR Labs and Games Design Studio
- Enjoy research-led teaching by our enthusiastic staff
- Our student equipment fund is an initiative to support students in purchasing technology (either in hardware, data or software) to explore the usage of and code development for new platforms, as part of a taught course or as a personal project
Course content
September Intake - Edinburgh
You’ll complete your first two years at either Edinburgh College or Forth Valley College, studying the HND Computing: Software Development course. Mandatory learning will include fundamentals of computer science.
Disclaimer
The courses mentioned above may change between now and the time that you study. For more information, please view our Terms and Conditions.
Programme Video
How to watch this YouTube video
We couldn't detect your cookie choices so can't show this video here. You can watch on YouTube below.
Fees and funding
Fee information
| Status* | Scotland |
|---|---|
| Fee | Paid by SAAS |
* Your residency 'status' is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course. Find out more about tuition fees.
Scholarships and bursaries
View our full range of undergraduate scholarships.
Entry requirements
If joining us in September 2027, please see the entry requirements below. Heriot-Watt offers different entry requirements, depending on your background.
Years 1 and 2 of this special partnership programme are taken at Edinburgh College and Fife College studying a HND Computing: Software Development. See Edinburgh College or Forth Valley College for more information on entry requirements for each college.
Why Heriot-Watt
We have been producing career-ready graduates since 1821. With our roots as the world’s first Mechanics Institute, Heriot-Watt is a pioneering university with a global reach.
At Heriot-Watt, learning goes beyond the lecture theatre. We tackle real world challenges through extraordinary research – from climate change to protecting our oceans, to advancing life-saving medical breakthroughs and shaping the next generation of AI. We are also committed to developing forward-thinking design and sustainable business practices that impact industries worldwide. On our campuses you’ll find some of the world’s most advanced facilities, while our strong industry links set you up for career success. This is why almost 90% of our graduates are in employment or further education (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).
Employability
Work and study
Salary
Potential career paths
- Developer
- Data Scientist
- Software Engineer
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Games Developer
- App Developer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Robotics Engineer
- UX/UI Designer
Student life
Explore facilities, and chat to staff and students
