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Education Bachelor's degree programmes Computing Science
Header image Computing Science

Computing Science

How do you develop safe apps for mobile phones? How do you produce 3D images of an MRI scan? How do you program a computer system to find the quickest travel route?

We are becoming increasingly dependent on computers, but they cannot work without us either! After all, someone has to tell them what to do. That requires people who enjoy devising ever-smarter solutions and innovations.

Computing scientists design, improve and implement the software and computer systems that businesses and our social life cannot do without.

Use your skills as you learn

Computing Science is the discipline that involves the study and development of computer systems. This can involve either new or existing systems. The stimulating aspect of this degree programme is that you can put the knowledge and skills you acquire to practical use straightaway, for example by writing a useful computer programme.

More than just programming

If you choose to study Computing Science at Groningen, you will learn high level programming in several languages. But programming accounts for only a quarter of the degree. You will also be producing documentation, carrying out analyses, working on your math knowledge and skills, collaborating with others, giving presentations and writing.

Computing science is a good subject to study if you have wide-ranging interests; it can be easily combined with another subject area.

Please note: CS has a numerus fixus (fixed quota), for which a selection procedure takes place. You can find more information on the numerus fixus programmes, the admission procedure and the selection procedure on the numerus fixus page .

Facts & Figures
Degree
BSc in Computing Science
Course type
Bachelor
Duration
36 months (180 ECTS)
Croho code
56978
Language of instruction
English
Start
September
Faculty
Science and Engineering
Studie in Cijfers
Why study this programme in Groningen?
  • Projects and practicals you work on offer a lot of freedom to make it your own
  • Relatively small-scale, you will get to know your fellow students and professors quickly
  • World-class facilities for high-performance computing and visualization
  • Students can easily participate in one of many research collaborations with other fields, such as bioinformatics, medicine and astronomy
  • Can be easily combined with another subject area, for example in the Minor
Programme
Semesters
CoursesCourse Catalog >1a1b2a2b
Introduction to Computing Science (5 EC)
Introduction to Logic (5 EC)
Programming Fundamentals (10 EC)
Computer Architecture (5 EC)
Discrete Structures (5 EC)
Algorithms and Data Structures in C (for CS) (5 EC)
Calculus for Computing Science (5 EC)
Introduction to Information Systems (5 EC)
Computer Networks (5 EC)
Linear Algebra (5 EC)
Object-Oriented Programming (for CS) (5 EC)

Curriculum

The courses above are an example of the first-year programme.

Credits per year: 60 ECTS; most courses are 5 ECTS.

More information about the courses can be found here: https://ocasys.rug.nl/current/catalog/programme/56978

Study abroad

  • Study abroad is optional
  • Maximum of 30 EC

Exchange: All our science and engineering programmes offer study abroad possibilities at a number of partner institutions. Our partners include top-100 universities in Europe (for example in Germany, UK, and Sweden) and in the USA, China, South-East Asia, and South America. Our exchange programmes have a typical duration of one semester and count toward your final degree.

Internship: This programme offers you the opportunity to carry out a research project of a variable number of months at a company in the Netherlands or abroad, as part of your thesis. Our choice of industry partners ranges from large multinationals (such as Shell, Philips, Unilever) to dynamic small and medium enterprises in the Groningen area.

Entry requirements

Admissible Dutch diploma profiles

  • VWO Natuur & Techniek
  • VWO Natuur & Gezondheid

    wiskunde B

  • VWO Economie & Maatschappij

    wiskunde B

  • VWO Cultuur & Maatschappij

    wiskunde B

Admission requirements

Specific requirementsMore information
language test

Language proficiency certificate for English (except for applicants with a Dutch pre-university education (VWO) as well as the exemptions listed on the language exemptions webpage). More information: https://www.rug.nl/fse/programme/admissions/bsc/language

other admission requirements

Before you apply!

When you cannot fulfil the vwo requirement, due to deficient profile or if you want to be admitted on the basis of a successfully passed first year of HBO or colloquium doctum, you need to submit an additional admission request via the Admission Board Bachelor programmes. Please go to this website for more information.

Please note! The admissions procedure is independent of the numerus fixus procedure. Information about the selection procedure can be found here

Numerus Fixus

This programme has a numerus fixus with a maximum of 200 attendees a year.

This means that prospective students will have to successfully complete a selection procedure before they can be admitted. Candidates are selected based on their suitability and motivation for our programme: the 200 highest ranked candidates will be admitted. Prospective students must apply before 15 January.

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students15 January 202501 September 2025
EU/EEA students15 January 202501 September 2025
non-EU/EEA students15 January 202501 September 2025

Admission requirements

Specific requirementsMore information
previous education

Secondary education equivalent to Dutch pre-university (vwo) is required.

A list of qualifications that are considered equivalent to pre-university education in the Netherlands can be found here: https://www.rug.nl/education/application-enrolment-tuition-fees/admission/procedures/non-dutch-qualification/

If you have any questions concerning admission to the programme, please contact our Admissions Office: https://www.rug.nl/education/application-enrolment-tuition-fees/contact/

additional subject

Sufficient background knowledge in Mathematics is required.

The Admissions Board will determine whether your background knowledge in this subject is sufficient to start the Bachelor's degree programme of your choice.

language test

You will need to submit proof of English proficiency in accordance with the requirements of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Please find our English language requirements (exemptions, IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge and more) on this page: https://www.rug.nl/fse/programme/admissions/bsc/language

other admission requirements

Please note! The admissions procedure is independent of the numerus fixus procedure. Information about the selection procedure can be found here .

Numerus Fixus

This programme has a numerus fixus with a maximum of 200 attendees a year.

This means that prospective students will have to successfully complete a selection procedure before they can be admitted. Candidates are selected based on their suitability and motivation for our programme: the 200 highest ranked candidates will be admitted. Prospective students must apply before 15 January.

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students15 January 202501 September 2025
EU/EEA students15 January 202501 September 2025
non-EU/EEA students15 January 202501 September 2025
Tuition fees
NationalityYearFeeProgramme form
EU/EEA2023-2024€ 2314full-time
non-EU/EEA2023-2024€ 16500full-time
EU/EEA2024-2025€ 2530full-time
non-EU/EEA2024-2025€ 19300full-time

Practical information for:

After your studies

Job prospects

Many students in Computing Science are offered a job before they have even graduated! They work in a wide variety of occupations in the Netherlands or abroad. There are plenty of career opportunities for you as a creative problem-solver!

Finding work when you graduate

After completing their Master's degree, many graduates find work with IT firms, large companies, public-sector organizations, hospitals or educational institutions, where they design software components or lead projects that involve merging various components or even systems.

Other career prospects

If you have knowledge of computing, the ability to think at an academic level and a problem-solving approach, many companies will welcome you, in management positions too. Education and science journalism are other possible areas.

Or will you study for a PhD?

Some graduates choose a PhD programme involving four years of research. The research concludes with a thesis, which will earn you the title of Doctor of Computing Science. Everyone who does this finds an interesting job, either within the university or outside, for example at a hospital or at an independent firm.

Job examples

  • Systems engineering
  • Robotics
  • Networking
  • Roles in:
  • Database management
  • Game development
  • Programming
  • Consultancy
  • Computer security
Research

Our Bachelor's degree programme in computing science is connected to the Bernoulli Institute.

The mission of the Bernoulli Institute is to perform outstanding academic research and teaching in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Artificial Intelligence, and to maintain international leadership herein; to foster these disciplines as a living body of knowledge, and to make it relevant to society in its broadest sense. The symbiosis between pure and applied science, and between mono- and multidisciplinary research and teaching, is a distinguishing characteristic of our institute. As an important part of this mission we aim to transfer our results to other areas of science and technology, and initiate and expand inter- and multi-disciplinary research collaborations.

The following research groups within the institute focus on computing science:



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Bachelor's Open DayBroerstraat 5More information

Contact

  • Ask Our Students! (Like to discuss the programme and student life with someone currently studing CS?)
    Email: csstudents rug.nl
  • Academic Advisors FSE (For questions regarding the programme)
  • studyscience@rug.nl Study Science (For general questions for all prospective students)
    Email: studyscience rug.nl
  • 
						Testimonial of Arwen Moens

    I really like courses that are heavily logic based

    – Arwen Moens
    Read more

    I chose to study Computing Science because I am really interested in problem solving and puzzling how all the pieces fit together. Personally, I really like courses that are heavily logic based such as Discrete Structures and Program correctness. These are the courses that I most connected with since they use logic to prove that what you're doing makes sense mathematically and gives you a deeper understanding of the algorithms that you are working with.

    For other courses that use a lot of programming you can find solutions to problems and it gives you immediate feedback if your solution is working or not. This programme is very broad and since I did not know what field of computing science I preferred; this gave me the chance to explore multiple angles. The bachelors programme has also given me the opportunity to do a project for a company. This experience has helped me to take a look at a potential career option for the future.

    I really enjoy living and studying in Groningen where I am active in both my study association and a student theatre association. The general feel of studying in Groningen is also really nice. There is a great and inviting atmosphere on campus. and since there are so many international students it feels like everyone is very welcoming and interested and open to learn about different cultures.

    Close
  • 
						Testimonial of Fabian Aukema

    The programme provides a great balance between theoretical knowledge and practical applications

    – Fabian Aukema
    Read more

    Studying Computing Science at the University of Groningen has been a fascinating journey. When I first started, I was mainly interested in programming, as I had some prior experience and enjoyed it immensely. However, I soon discovered that Computing Science has so much more to offer. The programme provides a great balance between theoretical knowledge and practical applications, which is perfect for someone like me who enjoys problem-solving but also wants to make a real-world impact.

    One of the things that surprised me about the programme is how diverse it is. Although programming is a key component, there are also a variety of other fields that we cover, such as math, analysis, and collaboration, among others. Currently, I am studying signal processing and computer graphics, and I find both topics fascinating. They both have clear connections to the real world and are filled with problems that can be practically applied once solved.

    The University of Groningen also provides ample opportunities to combine Computing Science with other subjects, such as the minor. The programme's multidisciplinary character, together with its interaction with the Bernoulli Institute, make it stand out from other programmes. Moreover, the world-class facilities for high-performance computing and visualization make it an excellent environment for students who want to work on cutting-edge projects.

    Personally, I have really enjoyed my time at the University of Groningen. I work part-time at a web development company next to my studies, which allows me to put what I have learned into practice. Furthermore, I still have enough time left for my hobbies and fun activities. Although I will not be pursuing a Master's degree, I feel that the skills I have learned will be invaluable in my future career. Overall, I highly recommend the Computing Science programme at the University of Groningen to anyone who is interested in solving problems and making a real-world impact through technology.

    Close
  • 
						Testimonial of Kelian Schekkerman

    I really like the aspects of the programme that require analytical thinking and problem-solving skills

    – Kelian Schekkerman
    Read more

    In high school, I took Computing Science as an elective subject. I remember being very fascinated by programming and always looking forward to class. Because of this, my choice to study Computing Science came very naturally and was not surprising at all to anyone around me. I'm currently in the last year of my bachelor's, and I'm still really happy with my choice. I was pleasantly surprised with all the other aspects of Computing Science that I hadn't thought of before. For example, I really like the aspects of the programme that require analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

    Currently, I'm taking a course called Computer Graphics, which focuses on the mathematical aspect of rendering images. I will also be working on my bachelor's project and thesis soon. For my bachelor's project, I chose to work on a project at a company, which I'm very excited about!

    Next to my studies, I also work for the university as a teaching assistant, student mentor, and member of the Computing Science information team. I'm also a member of the study association Cover, where I met many great people. I also enjoy being in the Cover room, where I like to work on assignments or talk with friends.

    Close
  • 
						Testimonial of Meerke Romeijnders

    The satisfaction you get after creating a working program is the best part of this degree programme

    – Meerke Romeijnders
    Read more

    When I was in secondary school, I struggled with choosing the right degree programme. I liked solving problems, but I did not know which degree programme would be the right fit for this interest of mine. Mathematics was my initial choice, since it was also a subject I had followed at school, but it seemed a little too abstract. After visiting multiple open days and 'Student for a Day' events, I decided to choose the Computing Science degree programme.

    A great thing about Computing Science is the fact that you can solve problems and, through programming, immediately see whether the solution works. It is a very practical way of solving problems while still thinking at an academic level. Furthermore, you can start the degree programme without any programming experience, and that was perfect for me.

    The satisfaction you get after creating a working program is the best part of this degree programme. Programming can be very frustrating sometimes, especially if you get stuck on something. Yet, you understand that it is all worth it when everything finally works. Your hard work gets rewarded. You understand that the more time and effort you invest, the easier it becomes. This motivation helps me to make progress in the degree programme.

    On top of my studies, I also have multiple part-time jobs. I am a member of my degree programme's information team, and I have mentored first-year Computing Science students a couple of times. I would like to do sports at the ACLO more often, but there is usually not enough time for that. I try to frequently see my friends or meet up with them at our study association's office in Bernoulliborg. Going out to eat together is also always nice!

    Close
  • 
						Testimonial of Sneha Lodha

    Into mathematics and logical reasoning

    – Sneha Lodha
    Read more

    My name is Sneha Lodha and I'm from Madagascar. I decided to study Computing Science because I was always into mathematics and logical reasoning. But I didn't want to study something pure like Mathematics. I wanted to apply my skills, and that's what I'm doing now using mathematical principles.

    At first I was surprised about the work load required, but you get used to it and you soon find a balance between study and other activities, like sport and friends.

    In the first months, I lived in a village outside Groningen, but now I have found a place near the campus. I have great friends and I like the freedom you experience here. You can cycle around and go wherever you want whenever you want!

    Close
  • 
						Testimonial of Avdo Hanjalic

    I started as a student, now I'm a project leader

    – Avdo Hanjalic
    Read more

    'During my first year I got a job with Manter, a machinery automation company. I was involved in testing new applications.

    This helped me get a better grasp of the subject matter and gave me plenty of practical experience and self-assurance, resulting in a job as a project leader as soon as I completed my studies. The projects I work on involve new software systems. Some days I’ll be training end-users, others I’ll design new features, while other days will be all meetings or we’ll spend the whole day testing and fixing bugs.

    If I had to choose today, I would do Computing Science again. The demand for software developers continues to grow. I’d also choose to study in Groningen again. My friends studied in other cities, but we all agree: Groningen is the number 1 student city!’

    Avdo Hanjalic, software engineer/architect bij Manter B.V

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  • 
						Testimonial of Anda-Amelia Palamariuc

    A new perspective on the programme

    – Anda-Amelia Palamariuc
    Read more

    What I like most about Computing Science is its versatility. I find it very interesting that it's able to associate itself with other fields, like Mathematics and Physics. I enjoyed all the courses I have had so far, but I particularly liked “Program Correctness”. This course really gave me a new perspective on the programme.

    I think studying here is quite different from what I was used to in Romania. During high-school, we were always reminded of what we have to do, whereas here all the responsibility falls only on your own shoulders.

    I decided to stay in “The Student Hotel” for my first year. Living in a place full of students, all coming from different places, really offers you the opportunity to form new bonds and friendships!

    Close

Study associations

Cover

Cover is the study association for all students of AI, CS, and CCS here at the UG. We offer fun activities, a room to hang out, and support for you to pass all your upcoming courses.
A study association is an organisation run by a team of students from the respective bachelor’s and master’s degree programme(s). We organise many activities for students, including introductory camps and monthly “borrels” (informal social gatherings with drinks). Our activities follow our 3 main pillars: education, social, and career. Hence, we organise course support lectures, symposia, educational talks, parties, informal gatherings, career day, company visits, company talks, and many more.If you decide to study AI, CS, or CCS, be sure to sign up for Cover at www.svcover.nl/join, so you can attend all our awesome activities even after the Kick-off Week! And, about the Kick-Off Week, we always organise a treasure hunt, a barbecue, a borrel, and an introduction camp that spans an entire weekend for the first years.
https://www.svcover.nl/
Read more
(Binding) study advice
  • A minimum of 45 EC in the first 12 months (binding)

You will be issued a study advice at the end of the first year of study. You can expect a positive study advice if you have earned at least 45 ECTS credit points (out of a total of 60 ECTS; most course units are 5 ECTS). If you have earned fewer than 45 ECTS and are issued a negative study advice, you will not be allowed to continue your degree programme.

You will receive a preliminary study advice in December to make sure that you know where you are. Please contact your study advisor as soon as possible if you have any questions about the BSA system.

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