Bristol Scientific Computing (BriSC)
Scientific computing is an interdisciplinary field that uses computer science, data science and digital technology to solve problems across a wide range of subject areas, including maths, engineering, biology, physics, chemistry, geography and earth sciences.
BriSC brings together experts from across the University of Bristol whose teaching and research focus on applying the latest computational techniques to key scientific problems, such as changes in the earth’s atmosphere, the reactions of molecules or how galaxies are formed. We rely on Bristol’s unique strengths and facilities as a world-class centre for supercomputing, data science and data-intensive research.
Study with us
Our degrees provide students with a broad range of computing skills, including: programming, data science, high-performance and cloud computing, machine learning, artificial intelligence, advanced visualisation (including virtual reality) and software engineering.
Unlike traditional joint-honours computing courses, the scientific and computational aspects of our degrees are fully integrated, allowing us to consider the best ways to apply computing to each scientific subject. In their first two years, our students cover many of the same modules as a standard Chemistry or Physics course, alongside introductory Scientific Computing modules, before going on to develop their interests with specialist Scientific Computing modules.
Scientific computing graduates are highly valued by employers because they have a firm grounding in their chosen scientific field, with strong problem-solving and analytical skills, plus specialised computer science skills that make them stand out.
Courses and entry requirements
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BSc Chemistry with Computing
UCAS code: F130, 3 years, full time
You will get a firm grounding in chemistry, learn about the range of cutting edge techniques used in scientific computing and understand what can be achieved by combining them. -
MSci Chemistry with Computing
UCAS code: F131, 4 years, full time
Your course will give you a a solid foundation for a career in coding, scientific computing, the chemical industry or research and builds towards a final year project where you’ll work with leading academic experts in computing and in chemistry to address a current research problem. -
BSc Physics with Computing
UCAS code: F330, 3 years, full time
Study the building blocks and forces of nature as you learn about the computational and data-science skills that are revolutionising science and society. -
MSci Physics with Computing
UCAS code: F331, 4 years, full time
Gain a comprehensive grounding in physics, maths and programming before developing your own major project to address a question at the frontiers of our research fields. -
MSci Physics with Computing with Industrial Experience
UCAS code: F334, 4 years, full time
Combine fundamental concepts in physics with units in programming, data science and high-performance computing before spending a year working on a major computing project with one of our partners in industry. -
BSc Data Science
UCAS code: G1G5, 3 years, full time
Combine mathematical, statistical and computational approaches to enable knowledge discovery from data, and apply your skills to solving the challenges of our data-driven world. -
BSc Data Science with a Year in Industry
UCAS code: G1G6, 4 years, full time
Combine mathematical, statistical and computational approaches to enable knowledge discovery from data, and apply your skills to solving the challenges of our data-driven world. Fast-track your career with a year in industry, giving you the experience employers are looking for.
Postgraduate courses
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MSc Environmental Modelling and Data Analysis
Numerical models and satellite observation are fundamental to understanding environmental systems and change. This course will provide you with the skills to go on to a career in this exciting area. You will learn how models of environmental processes are developed and applied across a range of areas including climate change, flooding, biogeochemistry and glaciers.
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MSc Geographic Data Science and Spatial Analytics
You will learn how to utilise cutting edge tools and methods from the data science domain to analyse spatial data in order to tackle problems spanning across various spatial scales: from neighbourhoods and cities to regions and supra-national systems.