Computer Science

Computer Science extends from the physical principles upon which digital computers work to the mathematical understanding of the semantics of computation.

In Cambridge, Computer Science covers the principles of programming, operating systems, computer networks, artificial intelligence and numerous other topics. The study of Computer Science is also concerned with understanding the theoretical basis of the subject. In consequence, the course is designed to provide not only advanced practical experience but also to give an understanding of fundamental principles which will outlast today's technology.

Cambridge Computer Sciences graduates are currently in great demand. Many have an entrepreneurial inclination and a number of the local science-based industries were founded by our graduates. Many also go into academic research and others find their way into the City.

Magdalene normally admits three to four undergraduates each year to read Computer Science.  As an undergraduate Computer Scientist at Magdalene, you will join a dynamic and forward-thinking community of students, where innovative and entrepreneurial thinking will be very much at home. Our Director of Studies is Dr John Fawcett, who is also currently the admissions convenor for the subject at the University level. He coordinates a strong teaching team comprising academics, researchers, and postgraduate students from across various colleges. 

More details of the course and the optional papers available can be found on the University’s Undergraduate Study pages and the Department of Computer Science and Technology website.

The main prerequisite for Computer Scientists is A-level Mathematics, alongside Further Mathematics if it is offered at your school. Physical science subjects such as Physics or Chemistry are also desirable. There is no requirement to have Computer Science at A-level and an A-level in Information and Communications Technology is not as useful as the subjects mentioned above.

Applicants can strengthen a competitive application by honing relevant skills prior to interview. Academic study of Computer Science relies on mathematical techniques to formulate and analyse problems. An elegantly written presentation of practical applications (some of them specifically related to programming computers) is:

Tom Korner: The pleasures of counting, Cambridge University Press 1996, ISBN 0-521-56823-4.

It will also help to pursue recreational mathematics in the form of games and puzzles to keep your skills tuned. Indeed, the exercises in Korner's book probably count as recreational mathematics.

Any additional mathematics is helpful, and all candidates are strongly encouraged to take up opportunities to develop their mathematical skills wherever possible.

A-level subjects should include Mathematics and Further Mathematics (where available). Competitive applicants normally also have a physical science (e.g. Physics, or Chemistry). 

IB applicants starting the new IB Mathematics syllabus are expected to take IB Higher Level 'Analysis and Approaches'. If this option is not available at your school, please contact the College for further advice and guidance.

Minimum Offer 

A-levels: A*A*A

IB: 42 points overall, with 7,7,6 at Higher Level.

An A* in A-level Mathematics and/or Further Mathematics, or 7 in IB Higher Level Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) is essential. We may also require an A*/7 in specific subjects (for example, Physics, if taken) as part of your offer.

Other qualifications: Check which other qualifications we accept 

Candidates will normally have two interviews of around 20-25 minutes each.

The interview process aims to assess your intellectual ability, potential, and commitment to the subject.

We do not require a written work submission for this subject.

Candidates are required to take the Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA). The TMUA is a pre-registration required assessment. This means that you will have to register to sit the assessment at an assessment centre near to you. Registration for the pre-registration required assessment is separate from your UCAS application and it is essential that you are registered by your centre before the deadline. 

For further details see the TMUA website and the University TMUA page.

More information is available on the Interviews, Written Work and Assessments page.