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Computing

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Photo: Corbis / Person using laptop / Computing / Open University

People are attracted to computing for different reasons. Some enjoy the logic of writing software programmes. Others thrive on the intellectual and technical challenge of designing digital electronic devices and systems to fulfil particular needs.

Your own interests may lie in troubleshooting large scale computer networks; creating websites for online businesses; or working in the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. Whatever your ambitions, computing is likely to stretch you far beyond programming, requiring an appreciation of related areas, such as databases, engineering, information management, human-computer interaction and mathematics.

Whether you’re an existing or aspiring computing professional, the OU offers a wide choice of exciting course options to help you develop broad-based computing expertise, as well as valuable communication and team-working skills. Courses combining theory and practice cover a variety of topics, from understanding the basics of hardware and software, to learning how to program in Java and getting a computer to do exactly want you want it to do.

Where to start in Computing

We recommend that you begin your studies with one of our Level 1 courses, either Data, computing and information (M150) or Networked living: exploring information and communication technologies (T175). There is some additional information, and examples of course materials for Data, computing and information (M150) and Networked living: exploring information and communication technologies (T175). The Data, computing and information (M150) site also has a diagnostic quiz that will help you decide if the course will suit you.

Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.

Degrees

  • Computing
    This degree will give you the broad range of skills and expertise needed to work as a professional in the software industry.
  • Computing and Design
    Studying both the design of products and computing will give you the skills to work designing interactive products like mobile phones, MP3 players and PDAs.
  • Computing and Mathematical Sciences
    This degree considers the different branches of mathematics along with types of software systems that are now being constructed and used.
  • Computing and Statistics
    Much modern statistical work is carried out with the help of computers. You’ll gain a good knowledge of statistics and probability alongside good computing skills.
  • Computing and Systems Practice
    Systems thinking is all about analysing organisations, institutions and information systems holistically to improve their efficiency, decision making and professional practice.
  • Computing with Business
    This degree will familiarise you with the business world and give you an understanding of the key concepts of computing.
  • Computing with Psychological Studies
    This degree combines two popular and important disciplines, and equips you for a very wide range of careers.
  • Information Technology and Computing
    A wide-ranging degree, which will enable you to integrate topics in information, computer and communications technologies, and give you an understanding of the context in which they’re used.
  • Shortened BSc (Honours) Computing and its Practice
    If you’ve already completed the Foundation Degree in Computing and its Practice (or its equivalent), this top-up will give you a full honours degree.
  • Open degree
    The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.

Foundation Degrees

  • Computing and its Practice
    If you already work with computers, this degree will develop skills directly relevant to your work, and give you the academic knowledge valued by employers.

Courses in Computing

See the list of all our individual courses in Computing.

Postgraduate options

If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Computing and ICT.

An undergraduate subject in Computing and ICT

Spotlight on Computing

Learn while you earn

Find yourself helping out when computing problems arise? Keen to learn more and work in the field? Without taking time out of your working week or sacrificing your earnings, our foundation degrees provide a flexible but structured path to a professional qualification. And the skills and experience you acquire will opening up possibilities in your current work and in the future.

Did you know...

... that by studying with the OU you can get an honours degree in computing that has been accredited by the British Computing Society – the professional body for people working in IT?

Did you know...

… the Open University was ranked first for student satisfaction among universities who provide Computing degrees by part-time study, in the top five for all providers of Computing degrees, and first for student satisfaction for the Open University overall?

 

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