Computing Science/Psychology

Computing science and psychology is a combination that addresses one of the most practically consequential intersections in modern technology: how computer systems can be designed to work well with human users. Computing science is concerned with the design and implementation of software, algorithms, and systems, while psychology provides insight into how people think, perceive, learn, communicate, and make decisions. When brought together, the two disciplines underpin user experience design, human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, and the increasingly pervasive systems that mediate our social, professional, and creative lives.

At the University of Glasgow, this four-year, full-time programme develops your skills in both areas, engaging with computing science from programming and software engineering to algorithms, AI, information retrieval, and the design of human-computer interfaces. Psychology brings an understanding of cognitive processes, perception, individual differences, and the social dimensions of behaviour that is essential for anyone building systems that real people will use. The programme includes a year abroad, giving you the chance to study in another country and to experience both disciplines from a different academic and cultural perspective.

Graduates from computing science and psychology degrees are particularly well positioned for careers in user experience and user interface design, product management, human-computer interaction research, and the growing field of AI ethics and human-centred AI. Software engineering, data science, and academic research are also paths that the computing dimension opens, while the psychology component adds value in any technology role that involves understanding and designing for users. Postgraduate study in human-computer interaction, cognitive science, or computing is a natural next step for those who want to build deeper expertise.