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University of Nottingham Malaysia

Course overview

The University of Nottingham Malaysia’s Computer Science degree looks in detail at how computers and computer systems work. Computer science is the study of the theory of computation, algorithmic processes, and computational hardware. By building on that knowledge, students will learn to create computer systems and/or programmes along with how to manipulate them. The programme also teaches how computers store and process information along with how humans and computers interact with each other. Skills learned will include computational thinking, programming and communication skills.

Why choose this course?

The role of computers in the 21st century has become critical as a tool to solve real-world problems. The need for more software programmers and engineers will only grow as a result. The demand for software programmers and engineers will increase as computers require more software. To support this, Glassdoor reported that eight of the top ten jobs for 2022 are Computer Science related.

Finally, our degree programme provides graduates with a well-rounded education and cutting-edge skills to pursue diverse careers within the computer science and tech fields.

Modules

Core modules

  • Computer Fundamentals
  • Databases and Interfaces
  • Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence
  • Mathematics for Computer Scientists 1
  • Mathematics for Computer Scientists 2
  • Programming and Algorithms
  • Programming Paradigms
  • Software Engineering
  • Systems and Architecture

Core modules

  • Algorithms Data Structures and Efficiency
  • Introduction to Formal Reasoning
  • Languages and Computation
  • Operating Systems and Concurrency
  • Software Engineering Group Project
  • Developing Maintainable Software

Optional modules

  • Artificial Intelligence Methods
  • C++ Programming
  • Human Computer Interaction
  • Introduction to Image Processing
  • Software Specification

Core modules

  • Computer Security
  • Professional Ethics in Computing

Optional modules

  • Autonomous Robotic Systems
  • Compilers
  • Computer Vision
  • Data Visualisation
  • Data Visualisation Project
  • Development Experience
  • Industrial Experience
  • Individual Dissertation Single Honours
  • Machine Learning
  • Mobile Device Programming
  • Parallel Computing
  • Schools Experience
  • Software Quality Assurance

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

A Level BBC, including Mathematics at grade B, excluding Critical Thinking and General Studies.
IB Diploma 26 points, including Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (HL) at 5 points.
STPM BBC+, including Mathematics at grade B; excluding Pengajian Am.
UEC 5 B3s, including Mathematics, excluding Bahasa Malaysia and Chinese Language.
Australian Year 12 ATAR 82. Applicants are required to meet specific grade standards in Mathematics, aligned with A Level subject requirements. To fulfil these A Level standards, specific grade equivalents in the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE) are required. For WACE, applicants must have studied both Mathematics Methods and Mathematics Specialist. For SACE, both Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics are required. For other states and territories, the Mathematics subjects will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 77% average based on 6 subjects, including 81% in both Advanced Functions and Calculus and Vectors.

Canadian Secondary School Diplomas from other provinces are acceptable and will be assessed based on the University’s requirements.
Gaokao (NCEE) and Senior High School Diploma (China) 70% average in the Gaokao, including 75% in Mathematics. In addition, a minimum of 70% overall in the Senior High School Diploma, with at least 80% in Mathematics and at least 70% in one of the Science, Technology, or Engineering subjects.

Gaokao scores are converted from 750 to a percentage scale.
Senior School Certificate Examination (CBSE) / Indian School Certificate (CISCE) - Class XII 78% average from the best four subjects, including 80% in Mathematics (CBSE Applied Mathematics is not accepted). Excludes local language, Environmental Education, General Studies, and Physical Education.
Advance Placement (AP) 4, 4, 3, including AP Calculus with a score of 4.
Diploma - Local Institutions Entry to Year 2 is assessed on a case-by-case basis, typically requiring a minimum GPA of 3.20 out of 4.0 in a Diploma in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Information Systems, Science and Technology, or other related disciplines. Applicants must also have at least a grade B in all mathematics modules.
Foundation - Local Institutions Acceptance is at the School’s discretion and requires a minimum GPA of 3.20 out of 4.0 and good grades in all mathematics modules, including at least a grade B.
Nottingham's Foundation Programme Successful completion is required, with an overall minimum average of 50% and at least 50% in all Mathematics modules.

In addition to the entry requirements listed above, applicants must have a credit in Additional Mathematics at the SPM level or a grade B in Mathematics. Those with a grade B in Mathematics must also have at least a credit in one of the Science, Technology, or Engineering subjects at SPM/GCSE/IGCSE/High School Diploma or equivalent. This requirement may be waived for applicants with an appropriate science background.

This list is not exhaustive, and we accept a wide range of qualifications. Eligibility will be fully determined upon the submission of a completed application.

IELTS (Academic):

6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in each element)

TOEFL (iBT):

80 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking)

PTE (Academic):

65 (with no less than 59 in each element)

GCE A Level English Language or English Literature:

Grade C

GCE AS Level English Language or English Literature:

Grade C

SPM:

CEFR level B2

GCSE O-Level:

Grade C / 4

IGCSE (first language):

Grade C / 4

IGCSE (second language):

Grade B /6

MUET:

Band 4

UEC:

Grade B3

IB English A1 or A2 (Standard or Higher Level):

4 points

IB English B (Higher Level):

4 points

IB English B (Standard Level):

5 points

OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) (No fast-track route):

75%

CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X:

70% overall (confirmation of English as the medium of instruction required)

  • IELTS (Academic), TOEFL iBT, and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old.
  • IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted.
  • IELTS Academic Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, and PTE Academic Online are not accepted.
  • MUET results are valid for five years from the release date.
  • OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants have completed all 30 credits from standard OSSD courses, not through credit exemptions. Fast-track routes are not accepted.
  • CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X English with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants provide a confirmation letter stating that English was the medium of instruction throughout schooling from Class X to Class XII.

Foundation progression options

The Nottingham's Foundation Programme is a 1-year pre-university course that prepares students for direct progression to UNM’s undergraduate degrees. It builds a strong academic foundation while enhancing language, critical thinking, and study skills. Students can also explore elective modules tailored to their chosen degree pathway.

Learning and assessment

How you will learn

  • Lectures
  • Tutorials
  • Workshops
  • Supervision
  • Field trips
  • Computer lab sessions

How you will be assessed

  • Coursework
  • Group coursework
  • Dissertation
  • Examinations
  • Presentation
  • Research project
  • Poster presentation
  • Portfolio (written/digital)

Fees

ResidencyFees
Malaysian studentsRM48,000 per year
International studentsRM55,000 per year

Where you will learn

Malaysia Campus

Semenyih Campus is 48km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and just 45 minutes’ drive from the famous city centre with its iconic Petronas Twin Towers. On arrival, you are immersed in the green jungle backdrop that Malaysia provides with wildlife, sunshine and campus lake.

The campus is home to our business, education, science and engineering schools, which sit alongside a sports centre, library and student accommodation. The University has everything a modern day student could wish for with the added bonus of being located in central Asia allowing you to travel further afield in your free time.

Public transport is plentiful with free shuttle services operating on some routes. Taxi/Grab services in Malaysia are very reasonable and used widely by the student community.

Careers

While many computer science graduates become programmers others are employed in a variety of jobs. These include computer analysts, IT consultants and planners, network/systems designers and engineers, researchers, software designers and engineers, web designers, web developers and producers. Roles across accountancy are also common along with investment/merchant banking, advertising, marketing, business, financial analysis and legal and quality assurance professions. Some Nottingham graduates have gone on to work for companies such as Adobe, Google, Hewlett-Packard, IBM and Microsoft. Others have found jobs with employers such as Accenture, Experian and Ocado. New computer science graduates frequently command some of the highest-paid entry-level positions compared to graduates in other disciplines.

The University has an established Careers Advisory Service (CAS) that provides students with essential resources and guidance for career choices offering many opportunities to develop the skills needed to plan and manage your future. Our Careers Advisory Service will work with you to improve and maximise your employability skills as well as providing essential resources and guidance that will assist you with job/course applications. They will facilitate searches for appropriate work experience placements and connect you to a wide range of prospective employers or training opportunities. Career advice is also available through personal tutoring and mentorship within the School. Additionally, career-readiness training e.g. resume writing and interview technique are available through School initiatives in conjunction with the annual CS Week in collaboration with CAS. E-job bulletin publications by CAS provide additional resources to students wishing to look for an internship or graduate jobs. Other opportunities include the Nottingham Advantage Award, our free scheme to boost your employability.

The average starting salary for careers in computer science related jobs in Malaysia is around RM3000 with managers earning up to RM10,000. Senior Managers with more than 15 years’ experience can earn RM20,000 and considerably more worldwide in all ranks and fields.

Frequently asked questions

The duration to complete the Computer Science BSc degree at UNM is 3 years, full time.

Students need to have completed their pre-university education in order to be eligible for the Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) at UNM. A Levels and STPM students need a minimum of BBC, BBC+ including in Mathematics at grade B.

Some of the subjects you’ll learn in this course include Programming and Algorithms, Data Structures, Systems and Architecture, Languages and Computation, Software Engineering, Computer Security and Professional Ethics in Computing. There are also elective courses that students can choose based on their interests and career goals.

Computer science graduates can pursue a range of career options, including software development, database administration, computer systems analysis, network and computer systems administration and information security analysis. The demand for computer science graduates in Malaysia is high, and there are many job opportunities available in various industries.

You can also continue your education upon completion of your degree. UNM’s School of Computer Science offers postgraduate courses such as Computer Science MPhil/PhD.

Yes, there are various financial aid options available for students, including scholarships, grants and loans. In addition to those offered by UNM, students can also apply for financial aid from the government or private organisations.

Yes. UNM views internships as an important part of the programme as it allows students to gain practical experience in the field and enhance their skills and knowledge. Additionally, internships help students build professional networks and increase their employability.

Programming languages that are taught may vary depending on the university and course structure. However, common programming languages that you’ll most likely be exposed to are Java, C++, Python and JavaScript.

This content was last updated on 21 January 2025. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.