A perennial problem in the world of business is hiring individuals who understand both computer technology and how to apply it effectively in real world organisations. Such individuals need a depth of understanding of both computing and business, in both conceptual and applied topics. Computer and Business Studies (CBS) is a well-established degree that produces graduates who can bridge the gap between computer theory and commercial practice.

To achieve this critical combination of skills, CBS students divide their time from the very outset of the course between the Department of Computer Science and the Warwick Business School. In so doing they not only learn about, but experience, the two complementary cultures and outlooks. The course offers students considerable freedom to select and develop customised pathways of special interests from a range of topics in each department, or to maintain an equal balance between them. Optionally, students may take an intercalated year, typically between years 2 and 3, in a placement of their own choice and making. This can be a very effective part of the bridge; recent examples include placements in IBM and J P Morgan.

The CBS degree is a challenging course of study. Students attend lectures and seminars alongside single honours students, benefiting from the same rigorous Warwick education, but with the added richness of a joint honours degree. CBS students acquire a breadth of perspective as well as an in-depth exposure to both business and computing theory and practice. They gain not only key skills in problem-solving and modelling, basic IT and business operations, and project management but also a deep appreciation of the strategic inter-relationship between IT and business. They are equipped conceptually to address the issues that tomorrow will bring as well as to solve today's problems.

Students graduating from the CBS programme are eagerly sought by employers. Although our students can play a role in almost any IT-using company, in recent years they have been especially sought by the financial services industry and consulting firms.

Course Content

In the first year of the three-year programme, students are equipped with a foundation in computing and business. In the second year students follow some core material and then specialise in areas relevant to their developing interests. Students can tailor the final year of study to complement their career plans and improve their marketability to potential employers. For the final year dissertation (which counts for 25 percent of the year's credit) students can choose their own area of special study which combines computing and business.

Entry Requirements

There are four components to the entry requirement for GN41 Computer and Business Studies (BSc).

High academic standard

You must satisfy us that your academic ability is excellent. For UK students, this means grades AAB at A-level (or Scottish Advanced Highers), but we accept many other qualifications.

English Language

You must satisfy us that your command of the English Language is good enough for you to complete the course. This means you should have a grade B in GCSE English, IELTS 7.0, or equivalent.

Mathematics

The degree contains a significant mathematics component, and you must convince us that you are competent with Mathematics at a high level, to a standard of grade A at GCSE (or equivalent).

Breadth

You must satisfy us that you have a firm background in science and have good literacy skills. This requirement would be met if you are pursuing one science A-level (which might be Mathematics) and one essay-based A-level subject.

 

If the qualifications you are currently seeking are not covered in the above lists, or you have further questions, please look at our page of Frequently Asked Questions about admissions. If your enquiry is not covered in that page, send an email to ugadmissions at warwick dot ac dot uk for further information.