Swansea University

What you'll study

This top-up year builds on prior practical and theoretical learning to deliver honours-level outcomes in core computer science while allowing specialisation in cyber security and artificial intelligence. Teaching mixes lectures, practical lab sessions, group projects and an individual honours project that demonstrates your ability to apply advanced techniques to a substantial problem.

• Core computer science topics — advanced software engineering, systems architecture, databases, and professional issues such as project management and software lifecycle.
• Cyber security pathway — modules typically cover network and infrastructure security, cryptography fundamentals and applications, secure software development, penetration testing and ethical hacking methods, intrusion detection and incident response, and digital forensics techniques.
• Artificial intelligence pathway — modules typically include machine learning (supervised and unsupervised methods), deep learning basics, natural language processing, computer vision fundamentals, data mining and analytics, and considerations of AI safety and ethics.
• Final honours project — an extended individual project that usually addresses a research or applied problem in cyber security or AI, supervised by academic staff and supported by lab facilities.

Assessment methods include coursework, practical lab assessments, group projects, written exams and the project dissertation/demonstrator. Practical work uses industry-standard tools and environments to prepare you for workplace requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant Level 4/5 qualification such as an HND, foundation degree or equivalent diploma in computing, information technology or a closely related subject. Typical requirements include:

• A completed HND or foundation degree in Computing, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, or similar.
• Evidence of competence in programming and core computing subjects; applicants without formal qualifications but with substantial relevant work experience may be considered.
• For international applicants, an appropriate English language qualification at the level required for undergraduate study (for example an approved IELTS/TOEFL-equivalent), unless exempt.
• Successful references and, where required, a short interview or technical assessment to confirm suitability for the chosen pathway.

Specific departmental entry criteria can vary, so applicants should consult Swansea University’s admissions guidance and discuss prior learning credits where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates from the top-up route leave with an honours degree that prepares them for graduate-entry roles across cyber security, AI and broader software and IT sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Cyber security analyst, security operations centre (SOC) analyst or incident responder.
• Penetration tester / ethical hacker, security consultant or digital forensics practitioner.
• Machine learning engineer, AI developer, data scientist or applied researcher in AI-driven products.
• Software developer, systems architect or technical consultant roles that incorporate secure coding and intelligent systems design.

Graduates also progress to postgraduate study (MSc or doctoral research) or take professional certifications in security (such as CISSP, CEH or vendor certifications) and data/AI specialisms to enhance career mobility.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University’s Department of Computer Science and Informatics combines teaching informed by active research and close links with industry. Students benefit from modern lab facilities on the Bay Campus, access to specialist security and AI software, and teaching staff engaged in relevant research themes such as cyber security, machine learning and data analytics.

The university places emphasis on employability, offering careers support, guest lectures from industry partners, and opportunities to work on live projects. Swansea’s location and industry connections provide routes into regional and national employers across public sector, finance, defence, technology and start-up scenes.