School of Computing

Our wide range of technical, commercial and creative courses - all professionally relevant - has seen us named ‘Best Modern University for Computing' in the Times Good University Guide 2009. We're handy too for the extensive software job opportunities in the Aberdeen area, where some 30% of Scotland's software engineers live and work. You'll start making valuable connections with potential employers through stimulating placement opportunities. This not only offers real-world practical experience, it also sharpens your competitive edge when you set out on your career. Further commercial collaboration at local, national and international level ensures our teaching and project work stays up-to-date, backed up by the world class research that feeds into course development. With all students taking a first foundation year to gain a broad base of practical computing skills, we balance theory and practice so that learning is always useful and relevant.

Postgraduate study

With 97% of students finding relevant employment after graduation, our courses successfully meet the needs of industry and commerce thanks to the input of external professionals and our experienced staff. Transferable skills gained in team-working, communication, presentation and other areas open doors in industry, as well as in research and development. Industrial projects and work placements ensure a fertile balance of professional experience and widely respected qualifications. Established links with further education colleges have been highly successful in offering a direct entry route to Robert Gordon University for students with the relevant knowledge and skills.

Research

The focus at Robert Gordon University is on applied research as it is an integral part of our purpose and adds knowledge not just to our staff and students, but provides benefits to the wider economy and society. The stimulus, intellectual activity and academic depth associated with the advancement of knowledge are essential elements of an educational environment that fosters innovation, enterprise and an enthusiasm for excellence.

Facilities

At Robert Gordon University you'll enjoy easy access to a wide variety of computing labs - all for the exclusive use of our computing students. Our virtual learning environment (VLE) offers 24/7 access to all teaching materials. We stay studio-based for group work, with project labs - complete with customized workstations - available for Honours projects.12 labs in total house over 250 state-of-the-art PCs, each updated over a 3 year cycle to ensure they deliver high performance and support the latest software. New facilities include our Mac Suite, which includes a soundproof booth used for podcasting, and the Green Screen Suite used in multimedia video production. The School offers 100% wireless network coverage for laptops and other handheld devices. There's also a comprehensive range of software on-site - some developed by staff to support course work and making wide use of open source and public domain technologies. Established relationships with major software suppliers mean access to the latest software either for free or very low prices.