[Computer Science in the UK]: Choosing Computer Science strategically

Entering the digital age, the development potential of computers and information technology is limitless. Combined with the recent efforts of various countries to promote innovation and technology, it naturally attracts many young people to enter related fields. Vincent Tang, Business Development Manager at LINKEDU, a professional overseas education consulting firm, said that in recent years, many international students have chosen to study computer science in the UK. The UK places great emphasis on technological development, especially in emerging fields of computer science. "The latest release of the £50 polymer banknote features the portrait of Alan Turing, known as the 'father of computer science and artificial intelligence.' This shows that the British value technological development, application, and progressiveness."

Popular subjects in UK universities:

• Computer Science

Based on Vincent's observations of the past three years' data from the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) in the UK, computer science is one of the most popular subjects among international students. Its competitiveness is second only to subjects like medicine and health sciences, and it can be compared to popular subjects such as law. "Interestingly, international students have a deep understanding of computer science, which is no longer limited to the term 'computers.' They have a broader understanding of computer technology and its applications. Some students have even planned a complete and progressive path of further studies based on their personal interests and career directions."

Choosing between research-intensive and polytechnic universities

Traditional British education advocates a gradual and sequential learning approach. Therefore, when students study a subject, they are encouraged to explore various areas within that subject and then find their areas of interest or topics for in-depth research during the learning process. According to Vincent, this learning model is suitable for students who aspire to study computer science and want to explore different areas of the subject. "In research-intensive universities in the UK, such as Sheffield, Nottingham, Leeds, and Bristol, which are well-known Russell Group universities, the curriculum is designed to comprehensively cover topics related to computer science. It also includes many projects covering booming areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, embedded and intelligent systems, game programming, and robotics."

For individual students who have a clear understanding of their interests and specifically want to study a particular subject, Vincent points out that polytechnic universities are generally more suitable for their needs. "These universities design their curriculum with a focus on students' employment needs. They offer specialised courses in a single subject and prioritise subjects that are in high demand, such as artificial intelligence, robotics design, game programming, etc., aiming to enhance graduates' employability to meet the demand for computer and information technology talent in the current era."

He also emphasises that different course models directly impact students' positioning and strategies for subject selection and university choices in UCAS, especially since Hong Konginternational students generally pay attention to university rankings but overlook the comprehensive consideration of subjects and learning approaches. "The ideal scenario is to be true to one's research direction while considering university rankings. However, when faced with a dilemma, especially when students are not yet clear about their own direction, it is advisable to explore computer science extensively during the learning process and discover areas of interest. They can also consider pursuing a master's degree in their chosen area after graduation."

Keeping an eye on emerging technology developments

If you are interested in studying computer science, you should also pay attention to the latest developments in technology. Computer technology is being widely applied in various industries, especially with the accelerated use of computers and the internet by the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They have become platforms for daily work, communication, shopping, and entertainment. Vincent gives examples such as the use of robots in delivery services, product promotion, and cleaning in large shopping malls and hotels after the pandemic. "The 'brain' of robots is driven by computer programming, combined with precise algorithms. Although robotics seems like an engineering discipline, it belongs to computer science in terms of application and development, and has become an elective course or even an independent field."

In addition to robotics, disciplines such as web design, network security, and game design also rely on programming and data coding to drive their operations. In the future, they may even be combined with the development and application of artificial intelligence to enhance the independent operation capabilities of systems. Vincent believes that the development of artificial intelligence will gradually become widespread and extend to daily life, including communication, transportation, and entertainment.

報讀重數學和課外經驗

To enrol in computer science programs, which are popular subjects, the competition is fierce at UCAS. Vincent points out that based on the admission thresholds of some top-ranked universities' computer science departments in the past three years, there have been cases where there are admission caps for international students or early application deadlines, reflecting the popularity of the field. He also reminds that the admission requirements for computer science programs do not necessarily require students to have studied Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the past. Instead, they emphasise students' mathematical abilities and even require applicants to have studied Further Mathematics. "The reason is that computer science involves programming and system operations, and students need a certain level of mathematical ability. For students who are interested in studying computer science and even aspire to be admitted to Oxford or Cambridge, it is best to choose Further Mathematics in Form 4 and strive for good results in mathematics and further mathematics."

With the rise and popularisation of new technologies such as robotics engineering, big data, and artificial intelligence, there is an increasing number of related activities, exhibitions, and workshops. Vincent suggests that students actively participate in these activities organised by the industry. It not only enhances their understanding of the subjects they are interested in but also increases their extracurricular activity experiences, adding a unique touch to their personal statements when applying to UCAS and improving their chances of acceptance. Vincent emphasises that due to the involvement of programming and system operations in computer science, students need to have a certain level of mathematical and scientific abilities. He advises students to choose Further Mathematics and strive for good results in these subjects.