Which universities have a CS degree that has low math and more about practicality?
I'm just done with A level math and i just can't face it again... But i want to pursue computer science, mainly focusing on coding and such and not entirely on math as i've heard from many people. i was thinking of bangor, oxford brookes and uwe plus also apply to some other unis like Staffordshire, Gloucestershire, uni of Central Lancashire and Northampton... but im aiming for the first 3.... if anyone has info on how the CS degrees are really like in some of these unis (i've checked the websites but i want a fact check here) let me know! or else should i just do an IT degree? i'm willing to do anything but heavy math... the max i can take is AS level math... also the reason why i chose these unis even though their rankings are quite low is because I can get into the 2nd year of the IT/CS degree due to a diploma i took during high school (equilavent to 1st yr of the degree)... and so i don't want to check unis that don't. also i'm interested in building websites/apps, UI/UX mostly... cybersecurity's okay too... my main goal is applying IT/CS knowledge onto a business or freelance so i can work remotely without being stuck in a physical 9-5, atleast in the long term, i can handle 2-3 yrs of a 9-5.
Reply 1
Hi @wealthy-brewery ,
That's a very valid choice! Although I can't comment much about what it's like to do CS at those universities you've mentioned, I can suggest Lancaster University as another good option for you. At Lancaster, it's not mandatory to do A-Level Mathematics to get into our CS courses (aside from pure CS, we also offer specialised streams such as Cybersecurity and Software Development). We have a pretty good balance between theory and practical. Even though I do Maths and CS joint here, I have found that most, if not all of my modules from 1st-3rd year are totally accessible from an AS Maths level, if they have a significant mathematical component at all. The most I had to do in a CS module was in Deep Learning and Computer Vision, which are both optional 3rd year modules.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure if diploma entry into 2nd year is an option, but I would email our admissions team to see if this can be arranged for you. If you have already checked and it's not something they can offer, I'm sorry to hear that and I hope this was kind of helpful anyway!
Wish you luck,
Crystal, 3rd Year Mathematics and Computer Science (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
That's a very valid choice! Although I can't comment much about what it's like to do CS at those universities you've mentioned, I can suggest Lancaster University as another good option for you. At Lancaster, it's not mandatory to do A-Level Mathematics to get into our CS courses (aside from pure CS, we also offer specialised streams such as Cybersecurity and Software Development). We have a pretty good balance between theory and practical. Even though I do Maths and CS joint here, I have found that most, if not all of my modules from 1st-3rd year are totally accessible from an AS Maths level, if they have a significant mathematical component at all. The most I had to do in a CS module was in Deep Learning and Computer Vision, which are both optional 3rd year modules.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure if diploma entry into 2nd year is an option, but I would email our admissions team to see if this can be arranged for you. If you have already checked and it's not something they can offer, I'm sorry to hear that and I hope this was kind of helpful anyway!
Wish you luck,
Crystal, 3rd Year Mathematics and Computer Science (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
Reply 2
Original post
by wealthy-breweryI'm just done with A level math and i just can't face it again... But i want to pursue computer science, mainly focusing on coding and such and not entirely on math as i've heard from many people. i was thinking of bangor, oxford brookes and uwe plus also apply to some other unis like Staffordshire, Gloucestershire, uni of Central Lancashire and Northampton... but im aiming for the first 3.... if anyone has info on how the CS degrees are really like in some of these unis (i've checked the websites but i want a fact check here) let me know! or else should i just do an IT degree? i'm willing to do anything but heavy math... the max i can take is AS level math... also the reason why i chose these unis even though their rankings are quite low is because I can get into the 2nd year of the IT/CS degree due to a diploma i took during high school (equilavent to 1st yr of the degree)... and so i don't want to check unis that don't. also i'm interested in building websites/apps, UI/UX mostly... cybersecurity's okay too... my main goal is applying IT/CS knowledge onto a business or freelance so i can work remotely without being stuck in a physical 9-5, atleast in the long term, i can handle 2-3 yrs of a 9-5.
Hi wealthy-brewery,
It's great to hear that you're considering Bangor for Computer Science 😊
I'm actually a staff member here rather than a student, so I can't personally speak about what the day-to-day experience of the degree is like from a student's perspective (which is what you're mainly asking about). However, I’ve asked a member of our Computer Science department to take a look at your question in case they’re able to add more detail.
From what you’ve written, it sounds like you’ve already done quite a bit of research, which is great. You’re also correct that there is only one dedicated maths module within the Computer Science degree.
In the first semester, this module introduces some of the foundations of discrete mathematics and algorithms. This includes topics like fundamental algebra, graph theory, sets, relations and functions, and Boolean algebra.
The second semester then moves on to areas such as vector and matrix theory, 2D and 3D modelling, generic equations, combinatorics, and probability theory.
While there is some maths involved (as with most Computer Science degrees), the focus of the course is broader than just maths and includes areas like programming, software development and other core computing topics.
That said, because you mentioned that you'd prefer to avoid heavier maths where possible, one of our CS lecturers suggested another course at Bangor that might be a really good fit for what you've described and the kind of career path you're aiming for.
Bangor offers a degree called Computer Information Systems, and there is also a business-focused version called Computer Information Systems for Business. These programmes are designed for students who want to focus more on practical computing, systems, and applied technology rather than the more mathematical side of Computer Science.
They cover many of the areas you mentioned being interested in, but without the same maths emphasis. The courses include hands-on, practical modules such as Web Technologies, UX, and Computer & Network Security.
The “for Business” version also allows you to take 40 credits of business modules each year if you’d like to combine computing with a stronger business perspective, which can be really useful if you're interested in freelancing, startups, or applying tech skills in a business environment.
Both programmes still include programming and data management, and they also cover areas like system administration. This gives you a foundation in things like cloud infrastructure and managing systems for applications or organisations.
Programming languages and technologies covered across the course include C, Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and C#, along with Linux systems and data-related topics.
If you'd like to explore the course in more detail, I’ve linked the programme pages below. You can also chat with staff and current students through those pages, or come along to an Open Day if you’d like to get a better feel for the course and the university.
Hopefully this helps a bit!
Here are some useful links:
Computer Information Systems BSc(Hons)
Computer Information Systems For Business BSc(Hons)
Open Days
Thanks, Ffi 🙂
Reply 3
Original post
by wealthy-breweryI'm just done with A level math and i just can't face it again... But i want to pursue computer science, mainly focusing on coding and such and not entirely on math as i've heard from many people. i was thinking of bangor, oxford brookes and uwe plus also apply to some other unis like Staffordshire, Gloucestershire, uni of Central Lancashire and Northampton... but im aiming for the first 3.... if anyone has info on how the CS degrees are really like in some of these unis (i've checked the websites but i want a fact check here) let me know! or else should i just do an IT degree? i'm willing to do anything but heavy math... the max i can take is AS level math... also the reason why i chose these unis even though their rankings are quite low is because I can get into the 2nd year of the IT/CS degree due to a diploma i took during high school (equilavent to 1st yr of the degree)... and so i don't want to check unis that don't. also i'm interested in building websites/apps, UI/UX mostly... cybersecurity's okay too... my main goal is applying IT/CS knowledge onto a business or freelance so i can work remotely without being stuck in a physical 9-5, atleast in the long term, i can handle 2-3 yrs of a 9-5.
Hi 😊
I am also not a big fan of maths, but I am in the final year of my CS degree, and I haven't lost my mind, so that is a great sign 😂. Of course, my experience is specific to Swansea University.
There are some math modules that you would have to do, since math is an important part of CS, but most of the degree is built on practical knowledge, like coding. I now have experience in Java, Python, Prolog, Haskell, HTML, Kotlin and SQL. In the second and third years, you are able to pick specific modules, and if maths is not something you are interested in, you have the chance to build the experience you want. I also enjoy building apps and UX, so I took modules in those areas. Overall, I have learnt a lot of practical skills in my degree, and Swansea University also pushes for students to feel prepared for the workplace, which they offer lots of support for. We do some group work to simulate collaborative coding like in workplaces, and opportunities like hackathons and the final year student colloquium to simulate conferences and improve presentation skills, just to name a few.
For more information: Computer Science, BSc (Hons) / MSci (Hons) - Swansea University
Feel free to ask me any other questions you have!
-Tanaka, 3rd Year BSc Computer Science (Hons) (Swansea University)
Reply 4
Original post
by Lancaster Student AmbassadorHi @wealthy-brewery ,
That's a very valid choice! Although I can't comment much about what it's like to do CS at those universities you've mentioned, I can suggest Lancaster University as another good option for you. At Lancaster, it's not mandatory to do A-Level Mathematics to get into our CS courses (aside from pure CS, we also offer specialised streams such as Cybersecurity and Software Development). We have a pretty good balance between theory and practical. Even though I do Maths and CS joint here, I have found that most, if not all of my modules from 1st-3rd year are totally accessible from an AS Maths level, if they have a significant mathematical component at all. The most I had to do in a CS module was in Deep Learning and Computer Vision, which are both optional 3rd year modules.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure if diploma entry into 2nd year is an option, but I would email our admissions team to see if this can be arranged for you. If you have already checked and it's not something they can offer, I'm sorry to hear that and I hope this was kind of helpful anyway!
Wish you luck,
Crystal, 3rd Year Mathematics and Computer Science (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
That's a very valid choice! Although I can't comment much about what it's like to do CS at those universities you've mentioned, I can suggest Lancaster University as another good option for you. At Lancaster, it's not mandatory to do A-Level Mathematics to get into our CS courses (aside from pure CS, we also offer specialised streams such as Cybersecurity and Software Development). We have a pretty good balance between theory and practical. Even though I do Maths and CS joint here, I have found that most, if not all of my modules from 1st-3rd year are totally accessible from an AS Maths level, if they have a significant mathematical component at all. The most I had to do in a CS module was in Deep Learning and Computer Vision, which are both optional 3rd year modules.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure if diploma entry into 2nd year is an option, but I would email our admissions team to see if this can be arranged for you. If you have already checked and it's not something they can offer, I'm sorry to hear that and I hope this was kind of helpful anyway!
Wish you luck,
Crystal, 3rd Year Mathematics and Computer Science (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
Hi, thanks i'll look into Lancaster too!!
Reply 5
Original post
by BangorUniversityHi wealthy-brewery,
It's great to hear that you're considering Bangor for Computer Science 😊
I'm actually a staff member here rather than a student, so I can't personally speak about what the day-to-day experience of the degree is like from a student's perspective (which is what you're mainly asking about). However, I’ve asked a member of our Computer Science department to take a look at your question in case they’re able to add more detail.
From what you’ve written, it sounds like you’ve already done quite a bit of research, which is great. You’re also correct that there is only one dedicated maths module within the Computer Science degree.
In the first semester, this module introduces some of the foundations of discrete mathematics and algorithms. This includes topics like fundamental algebra, graph theory, sets, relations and functions, and Boolean algebra.
The second semester then moves on to areas such as vector and matrix theory, 2D and 3D modelling, generic equations, combinatorics, and probability theory.
While there is some maths involved (as with most Computer Science degrees), the focus of the course is broader than just maths and includes areas like programming, software development and other core computing topics.
That said, because you mentioned that you'd prefer to avoid heavier maths where possible, one of our CS lecturers suggested another course at Bangor that might be a really good fit for what you've described and the kind of career path you're aiming for.
Bangor offers a degree called Computer Information Systems, and there is also a business-focused version called Computer Information Systems for Business. These programmes are designed for students who want to focus more on practical computing, systems, and applied technology rather than the more mathematical side of Computer Science.
They cover many of the areas you mentioned being interested in, but without the same maths emphasis. The courses include hands-on, practical modules such as Web Technologies, UX, and Computer & Network Security.
The “for Business” version also allows you to take 40 credits of business modules each year if you’d like to combine computing with a stronger business perspective, which can be really useful if you're interested in freelancing, startups, or applying tech skills in a business environment.
Both programmes still include programming and data management, and they also cover areas like system administration. This gives you a foundation in things like cloud infrastructure and managing systems for applications or organisations.
Programming languages and technologies covered across the course include C, Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and C#, along with Linux systems and data-related topics.
If you'd like to explore the course in more detail, I’ve linked the programme pages below. You can also chat with staff and current students through those pages, or come along to an Open Day if you’d like to get a better feel for the course and the university.
Hopefully this helps a bit!
Here are some useful links:
Computer Information Systems BSc(Hons)
Computer Information Systems For Business BSc(Hons)
Open Days
Thanks, Ffi 🙂
It's great to hear that you're considering Bangor for Computer Science 😊
I'm actually a staff member here rather than a student, so I can't personally speak about what the day-to-day experience of the degree is like from a student's perspective (which is what you're mainly asking about). However, I’ve asked a member of our Computer Science department to take a look at your question in case they’re able to add more detail.
From what you’ve written, it sounds like you’ve already done quite a bit of research, which is great. You’re also correct that there is only one dedicated maths module within the Computer Science degree.
In the first semester, this module introduces some of the foundations of discrete mathematics and algorithms. This includes topics like fundamental algebra, graph theory, sets, relations and functions, and Boolean algebra.
The second semester then moves on to areas such as vector and matrix theory, 2D and 3D modelling, generic equations, combinatorics, and probability theory.
While there is some maths involved (as with most Computer Science degrees), the focus of the course is broader than just maths and includes areas like programming, software development and other core computing topics.
That said, because you mentioned that you'd prefer to avoid heavier maths where possible, one of our CS lecturers suggested another course at Bangor that might be a really good fit for what you've described and the kind of career path you're aiming for.
Bangor offers a degree called Computer Information Systems, and there is also a business-focused version called Computer Information Systems for Business. These programmes are designed for students who want to focus more on practical computing, systems, and applied technology rather than the more mathematical side of Computer Science.
They cover many of the areas you mentioned being interested in, but without the same maths emphasis. The courses include hands-on, practical modules such as Web Technologies, UX, and Computer & Network Security.
The “for Business” version also allows you to take 40 credits of business modules each year if you’d like to combine computing with a stronger business perspective, which can be really useful if you're interested in freelancing, startups, or applying tech skills in a business environment.
Both programmes still include programming and data management, and they also cover areas like system administration. This gives you a foundation in things like cloud infrastructure and managing systems for applications or organisations.
Programming languages and technologies covered across the course include C, Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and C#, along with Linux systems and data-related topics.
If you'd like to explore the course in more detail, I’ve linked the programme pages below. You can also chat with staff and current students through those pages, or come along to an Open Day if you’d like to get a better feel for the course and the university.
Hopefully this helps a bit!
Here are some useful links:
Computer Information Systems BSc(Hons)
Computer Information Systems For Business BSc(Hons)
Open Days
Thanks, Ffi 🙂
Hi, thanks for all the course details! and yes, CIS is actually the degree that suits me in Bangor!
Reply 6
Original post
by Swansea StudentsHi 😊
I am also not a big fan of maths, but I am in the final year of my CS degree, and I haven't lost my mind, so that is a great sign 😂. Of course, my experience is specific to Swansea University.
There are some math modules that you would have to do, since math is an important part of CS, but most of the degree is built on practical knowledge, like coding. I now have experience in Java, Python, Prolog, Haskell, HTML, Kotlin and SQL. In the second and third years, you are able to pick specific modules, and if maths is not something you are interested in, you have the chance to build the experience you want. I also enjoy building apps and UX, so I took modules in those areas. Overall, I have learnt a lot of practical skills in my degree, and Swansea University also pushes for students to feel prepared for the workplace, which they offer lots of support for. We do some group work to simulate collaborative coding like in workplaces, and opportunities like hackathons and the final year student colloquium to simulate conferences and improve presentation skills, just to name a few.
For more information: Computer Science, BSc (Hons) / MSci (Hons) - Swansea University
Feel free to ask me any other questions you have!
-Tanaka, 3rd Year BSc Computer Science (Hons) (Swansea University)
I am also not a big fan of maths, but I am in the final year of my CS degree, and I haven't lost my mind, so that is a great sign 😂. Of course, my experience is specific to Swansea University.
There are some math modules that you would have to do, since math is an important part of CS, but most of the degree is built on practical knowledge, like coding. I now have experience in Java, Python, Prolog, Haskell, HTML, Kotlin and SQL. In the second and third years, you are able to pick specific modules, and if maths is not something you are interested in, you have the chance to build the experience you want. I also enjoy building apps and UX, so I took modules in those areas. Overall, I have learnt a lot of practical skills in my degree, and Swansea University also pushes for students to feel prepared for the workplace, which they offer lots of support for. We do some group work to simulate collaborative coding like in workplaces, and opportunities like hackathons and the final year student colloquium to simulate conferences and improve presentation skills, just to name a few.
For more information: Computer Science, BSc (Hons) / MSci (Hons) - Swansea University
Feel free to ask me any other questions you have!
-Tanaka, 3rd Year BSc Computer Science (Hons) (Swansea University)
Thanks for letting me know! haha and yea i do NOT want to lose my mind over math (AGAIN) i prefer AS math over A2. and i am considering Swansea too, so i'll let you know if i do have any qs- thanks again!
Reply 7
Original post
by wealthy-breweryI'm just done with A level math and i just can't face it again... But i want to pursue computer science, mainly focusing on coding and such and not entirely on math as i've heard from many people. i was thinking of bangor, oxford brookes and uwe plus also apply to some other unis like Staffordshire, Gloucestershire, uni of Central Lancashire and Northampton... but im aiming for the first 3.... if anyone has info on how the CS degrees are really like in some of these unis (i've checked the websites but i want a fact check here) let me know! or else should i just do an IT degree? i'm willing to do anything but heavy math... the max i can take is AS level math... also the reason why i chose these unis even though their rankings are quite low is because I can get into the 2nd year of the IT/CS degree due to a diploma i took during high school (equilavent to 1st yr of the degree)... and so i don't want to check unis that don't. also i'm interested in building websites/apps, UI/UX mostly... cybersecurity's okay too... my main goal is applying IT/CS knowledge onto a business or freelance so i can work remotely without being stuck in a physical 9-5, atleast in the long term, i can handle 2-3 yrs of a 9-5.
Hi there!
I study Comp Sci at University of Staffordshire. From my experience, our course has a larger focus on practicals, certifications and hands-on learning. Modules I have completed included working on Cisco Switches, Firewalls, Routers, Meraki gear, Aruba networks and working towards CCNA. I have provisioned my own servers using virtualisation, deployed infrastructure on AWS, created websites, working portfolio pieces using C# and Python and a lot more to list! Our course is one of very few that is Tech Industry Gold accredited in combination with BCS. This means that we are taught what industry partners expect from our students to know when they graduate. If you enjoy IT, I highly recommend you look at the cloud pathway offered which focuses a lot more on hardware.
This unique degree is the reason I am now graduating with certifications, a graduate role and nearly 1.5 years of experience. If you enjoy coding side you can take general Computer Science. At Staffs they teach you from the ground up as we have students from all walks of life including those who are mature and have not touched textbooks in years. Personally, rankings aren't always the most accurate in my opinion as they can be highly skewed by public opinion. Staffs also offers pure software dev, the good thing is that for most pathways you can usually change your course once you start up to a certain amount of time as the initial modules are shared between all first years! In year 2 you specialise into your domains. Software dev have a UX/UI focused module in second year while Comp Sci looks at data analytics. I recommend reading up on the module descriptors for each course to see your preference!
If your overall aim is remote work, IT, network and data center based roles may not be a good option for you. You may want to focus on Data Science, AI, Software or Cyber instead, which are often hybrid. Let me know if you have any further questions about the Staffs course!
Aura.
Reply 8
Original post
by wealthy-breweryI'm just done with A level math and i just can't face it again... But i want to pursue computer science, mainly focusing on coding and such and not entirely on math as i've heard from many people. i was thinking of bangor, oxford brookes and uwe plus also apply to some other unis like Staffordshire, Gloucestershire, uni of Central Lancashire and Northampton... but im aiming for the first 3.... if anyone has info on how the CS degrees are really like in some of these unis (i've checked the websites but i want a fact check here) let me know! or else should i just do an IT degree? i'm willing to do anything but heavy math... the max i can take is AS level math... also the reason why i chose these unis even though their rankings are quite low is because I can get into the 2nd year of the IT/CS degree due to a diploma i took during high school (equilavent to 1st yr of the degree)... and so i don't want to check unis that don't. also i'm interested in building websites/apps, UI/UX mostly... cybersecurity's okay too... my main goal is applying IT/CS knowledge onto a business or freelance so i can work remotely without being stuck in a physical 9-5, atleast in the long term, i can handle 2-3 yrs of a 9-5.
If you want a more practical computing course at LSBU, then Computer Science or Information Technology could both be worth looking at, especially if your main interests are coding, websites, apps, UI/UX and applied tech skills rather than lots of theoretical maths. LSBU’s Computer Science pages emphasise hands-on learning with industry-standard software, operating systems, high-performance computing labs and Raspberry Pi devices, and say that graduates go into roles from programming to app design. LSBU also states that 90% of students highly rate the teaching on Computer Science BSc (Hons) in the NSS 2025.
For accreditation, LSBU’s Computer Science BSc (Hons) highlights professional accreditation with the Chartered Institute for IT, which is the British Computer Society (BCS). That is an important point because it shows the course is professionally recognised. LSBU’s course range also includes Information Technology BSc (Hons) and Information Technology (Top-up) BSc (Hons), which may suit someone who wants a more applied route.
The entry requirement is 112 UCAS points, and the main maths requirement is GCSE Maths at grade 4/C or above. So if you are worried about heavy maths, it is worth knowing that for entry, the maths requirement is GCSE Maths only, not A level Maths.
I can confirm is that LSBU says it is one of the leading modern London universities in the Guardian University Guide 2025, and some LSBU subjects rank in the UK top 5 in newer subject tables, although that is not stated specifically for Computer Science on the pages I found.
LSBU also has the official Unibuddy platform, where students can chat with current students directly, which is really useful for asking how practical the course feels in real life. And there is an LSBU Southwark Open Day on Saturday 4 July 2026 from 9:30 to 15:00, where you can ask about modules, maths content, direct entry, and whether Computer Science or Information Technology would suit you better.
Unibuddy platform: Chat with our students.
Southwark Campus: Saturday 4 July 2026 - 9:30 to 15:00
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