Oxford CS: Computer Science Overview and Entrance Requirements

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Computer Science at Oxford is a varied course that combines both the theory and practical elements of technology.  Students attend a mixture of lectures, tutorials and practicals to develop a range of skills that have fantastic real world application potential.

UCAS CodeG400
Minimum Entrance Requirements A-levels –  A*AA including at least an A in Mathematics, with the A* in Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Computing/Computer Science
Advanced Highers – AA/AAB with an A in Mathematics
IB – 39 (including core points) with 766 at Higher Level (the 7 has to be in HL Mathematics)
BTEC – DDD in the Extended Diploma and A* in A-Level Mathematics
Admission Test for Computer Science at OxfordMAT+ Interview

The Mathematics Admissions Test usually occurs in November. This is based on familiar A-Level Mathematics concepts from the first four terms. It also encompasses both multiple choice and long form questions.  This is a two and a half hour long exam with 7 questions total.  Additionally, candidates will have to answer 5 questions based on what subject they are applying for.
Subject Requirements for CS at OxfordAdmissions tutors require candidates to have Mathematics as one of their subjects. Further Mathematics is also expected, although Oxford recognise that not every school offers this.
Extras things admission tutors look forAt interview, tutors look for students who:
Have an interest in computing and the way that computer programs work, have an aptitude for Mathematics, and also have the capacity to take in new ideas and apply them to new concepts
Duration3 years- students will graduate with a BA
4 years- students will graduate with MCompSci
Admissions StatisticsInterviewed: 19%
Successful: 6%
Intake: 41
What is Computer Science at Oxford?Studying Computer Science at Oxford helps students to understand networks and computer systems. This involves the theory, design, development and application of several different softwares and systems. Students will also get to develop both their theoretical knowledge and practical skills, covering a variety of topics on hardware and software technologies. 
Furthermore, students will be able to develop their critical thinking and application skills that they can apply to new computer systems, networks and programs.
Oxford Colleges that offer CSBalliol College, Magdalen College, Merton College, New College, St Anne’s College, St John’s College, St Catz College, St Hugh’s College, Somerville College, Oriel College, Keble College, Worcester College, University (Univ) College
Structure of CS at OxfordYear 1 – Core courses consist of: Continuous mathematics, Design and analysis of algorithms, Digital systems, Discrete mathematics, Ethics and responsible innovation, Functional programming, Imperative programming, Introduction to formal proof, Linear algebra, Probability. Assessment is in the form of four exam papers.

Year 2 – Core courses make up 50% of the year, including: Algorithms, Compilers, Concurrent programming, Models of computation, Group design practical.  Other options include: Computer architecture, Computer graphics, Computer networks, Databases, Artificial intelligence, Logic and proof.  Additionally, assessment is in the form of eight exam papers.

Year 3 – The year is split between modules and project work, which makes up for a third of the marks.  Modules offered include: Computational complexity, Machine learning, Computer security, Computer-aided formal verification, Geometric modelling, Knowledge representation and reasoning, Lambda calculus and types, Principles of programming languages.  Assessment also consists of six exam papers and a project report.

Year 4 – The year is split between modules and project work, with a split similar to the third year.  Modules offered include: Advanced topics in machine learning, Automata, logic and games, Advanced security, Categories, proofs and processes, Computational game theory, Concurrent algorithms and data structures. Additionally they can choose from Database systems implementation, Probabilistic model checking, Probability and computing, Quantum software, Requirements.  Assessments consist of five written papers and a project report.

A typical week consists of ten lectures and several tutorials, as well as several practical sessions.
Common Careers for Oxford Computer Science StudentsExamples of common careers for Oxford CS students include:
Computer programmer, Software designer, Software engineer, Financial analyst, and Scientific researcher

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