Computer Science, Mathematics and Computer Science

Computer Science is the study of problem-solving using computers. Its rapid development has led to spectacular advances in the computer industry, and in turn these provide the impetus for new theoretical work. The Computer Science course aims to emphasize this interaction between fundamental insights and practical applications. Typical questions in the course are:

  • computability: What problems can be solved by mechanical means?
  • algorithms: If a problem can be solved by machine, how can the calculation be performed efficiently? What method (algorithm) realises the optimum efficiency?
  • languages: How can such efficient algorithms (which are often highly ingenious) be described in a clear and concise manner as computer programs?
  • correctness: How can one mathematically prove that a program is correct in the sense that it meets the user's requirements?

Course structure

Computer Science can be either a 3-year or a 4-year course. The first year provides you with a solid grounding in the above topics, and also in the kind of mathematics that is useful for computer science. There is a special series of lectures that introduce you to the frontier of current research and technology, such as natural language processing and quantum computing. From the second year onward, you can specialise by choosing from a variety of more advanced courses. In the third year you undertake a large project, often to build a software system of your own design.

There is a joint degree available with mathematics. Mathematics and Computer Science provides a more theoretical grounding in computing; it can be either a 3-year or a 4-year course.

Computer Science at Magdalen

The Tutorial Fellow in Computer Science is Professor Oege de Moor. His current research interests are in programming tools (programming languages, compilers, optimisers, refactoring tools).

We usually take at least three undergraduates in Computer Science each year. Magdalen has several graduate students in Computer Science (some of whom also did their undergraduate degree at Magdalen), and this helps to create an exciting environment for those who study at undergraduate level.

Entry procedures

All candidates must sit an Aptitude Test in Mathematics on 7 November 2012, usually in their own school or college, or at an approved test centre. This is a test of mathematical and analytical skills, particularly those relevant to computer science. The mathematical knowledge required will be common to all A-level mathematics syllabuses. This test is the same for all joint Mathematics degrees across the University. Further details of the test can be found on the Mathematical Institute website.

Neither the tests nor the interview assume prior knowledge of Computer Science. Obviously, it is helpful to have some computing experience to appreciate the questions that the course seeks to answer. It is best to view the test as an extra opportunity to show off your skills. We are more interested in your potential than in what you already know, however, so the interviews tend to be more important.

Deferred entry

Taking a gap year can be beneficial, especially if it is used to gain computing experience in industry. Obviously it is important that during the gap year your academic studies are not neglected: in particular, mathematical skills should continue to be exercised. Please note, however, that deferred entry in the joint degree of Mathematics and Computer Science cannot normally be considered.

Further enquiries

Do not hesitate to contact the Tutor in Computer Science if you have any questions, or if you would like to come and visit:

Professor Oege de Moor
Tel. 01865 276072/ 273878
http://www.cs.ox.ac.uk/people/oege.demoor/

External links