Computer Science

Computer science is a fast-moving field that brings together disciplines including mathematics, engineering, the natural sciences, psychology and linguistics. Students develop practical skills, such as programming (in various languages, e.g. ML, Java, C/C++, Prolog) and hardware systems (e.g. chip design using Verilog).

Cambridge was a pioneer of computer science and continues to lead its development. There are more than 1,000 specialist computing and advanced technology companies and commercial laboratories in the area (known as ‘Silicon Fen'). About half of our students go on to work in the computer industry, while a fifth pursue further study and careers in teaching and research. Many graduates have founded companies or gained employment in software, hardware, the games industry, finance, communications and commerce. 

The three-year course (The Computer Science Tripos) is designed to allow students to gain a Bachelor of Arts (BA) qualification. If students are looking to further their research, the fourth-year option provides students the opportunity to graduate with an additional Masters of Engineering (Meng) qualification.

In Part 1a students sit three Computer Science papers and the Natural Science Mathematics paper at the end of the year. In Part 1b, students further this by completing four papers, which are assessed by coursework and some end of year exams.

In Part 2, students take two compulsory and two optional papers, which are assessed at the end of the year.

Students who achieve a sufficiently high mark in their third-year exams can continue studying CS into the fourth year. Fourth year of the course is designed to reflect topical issues in CS and provides the opportunity to do a substantial research project.

Students do not need to decide upon application if they would like to complete three or four years of the degree, yet if there is a possibility that applicants would like to study for the fourth year, you should ensure that it is stated on any forms you fill in.

Further information can be found on the Faculty and University websites.  

Typical offers require

• A Level: A*A*A with an A* in in Further Mathematics (if taken)
• IB: 42 points, 776 in Higher Level, with 7 in IB Higher Level Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches)
• Advanced Highers: A1, A1, A2 with A1 in Mathematics

For other qualifications see the main entrance requirements pages on the University website. 

Subject Requirements

A-level

Required: Mathematics, Further Mathematics

Highly recommended: Computer Science, Physics

*Science/Mathematical subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics and Further Mathematics only.

IB

Required: Higher Level Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and at least one other Science subject*

Highly recommended: Higher Level Computer Science and Higher Level Physics

*Science subjects: Biology, Chemistry and Physics only.

Mature students and those taking other qualifications are encouraged to contact our Admissions Office (at admissions@lucy.cam.ac.uk) to discuss the entry requirements for their qualifications.

Written work

No written work is required.

Assessments

Students are required to take the TMUA examination, for which pre-registration is required. Further details can be found on this webpage.

Interviews

Interviews allow us to distinguish amongst excellent applicants by assessing the skills and aptitudes essential for successful study in higher education, and your academic qualities – essentially, how do you think?

Interviews for all applicants to Lucy Cavendish will take place virtually. The aims and content will still be the same as in-person interviews. You can read more about Lucy Cavendish's online interviews here and you can read the University's information on interviews here.

Each candidate typically has two interviews, lasting between twenty and thirty minutes. In some cases, you will be given preparatory material beforehand.

In a few subjects, you will be interviewed by more than one College or in the Faculty. You will be notified of this in your interview invitation.

Supracurricular exploration is an important way to expand your knowledge of your subject, explore your interests and develop your skills. Our new webpage contains guidance on supracurricular exploration and a comprehensive source of resources, grouped according to undergraduate degrees at Cambridge. 

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Attend an open day or event

Our Events and Open Days page advertises regular events held by Lucy Cavendish College. If you can, join us for a College Open Day to discuss your application with a member of our admissions team.