Our computer science degrees are now BCS-accredited 

We’re proud to share that our computer science and cybersecurity programmes (BSc and MSc) at Aston University Online are now officially accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT. 

This recognition confirms that our degrees meet the highest professional standards in the UK and internationally. For you, it means a qualification that employers trust, programme content that stays up to date, and the opportunity to stand out in a competitive industry.

What BCS accreditation means 

What is BCS? 

BCS is the UK’s chartered body for IT and computing. With more than 60,000 members worldwide, it sets the benchmark for professional standards in technology, from ethical practice to the latest technical skills. 

When a programme is BCS-accredited, it means the teaching, curriculum, and assessments have been independently reviewed and approved. In other words, your degree carries the stamp of industry recognition. 

It also plays a role in inspiring more people to enter the tech industry. As part of its Royal Charter, the organisation works with over 100 universities across the UK to accredit computing degrees and support both students and faculty. By choosing a BCS-accredited degree, you’re connecting with the UK’s leading professional body for IT right from the start of your studies. 

Why this matters for you 

Professional recognition 

A BCS-accredited degree is instantly recognised by employers. It also means you can apply for professional BCS membership once you graduate and start working towards becoming a Chartered IT Professional (CITP) faster than non-accredited graduates. 

Quality you can trust 

Accreditation shows that our programmes have been reviewed and tested against strict benchmarks. You can feel confident that the UK’s leading computing body trusts your programme. 

Industry relevance 

Technology changes quickly, and you need a degree that keeps up. Accreditation aligns our programmes with current and emerging trends in computing and cybersecurity.  

Alongside theory, you’ll work on projects and applied tasks, so you graduate with hands-on skills that are valued in the workplace. 

Career advantage 

Employers know what BCS-accreditation means, so it adds weight to your CV. You’ll graduate with a degree that demonstrates credibility, career readiness, and a clear commitment to professional standards. Accreditation means you’re already on the pathway to professional registration with BCS.  

Depending on your experience, you may meet criteria (in part or full) for recognition as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP), Registered IT Technician (RITTech), Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Incorporated Engineer (IEng). These professional titles can support you at every stage of your career. 

Global recognition 

The BCS has an international reputation, giving you confidence that your skills and qualification will be recognised around the world. Undergraduate degrees accredited for full CITP are recognised under the Seoul Accord, an agreement that brings together computing bodies across multiple countries. For you, this means your qualification is seen as credible worldwide, supporting career opportunities, mobility, and even further study abroad. 

Ethics and professionalism 

Employers look for technical ability but are also looking for professionals who understand the ethical and social impact of technology. BCS accreditation highlights our commitment to preparing you to apply your skills responsibly. 

Common questions we hear from students 

“Will employers recognise my degree?” 

Yes. BCS-accreditation signals to employers that your qualification is industry-approved. 

“Will the programme content be up to date?” 

Absolutely. Accreditation requires regular reviews to make sure our programmes reflect the latest developments in IT and cybersecurity. 

“Will this give me a career advantage?” 

Yes. Accreditation supports employability and provides faster access to professional BCS membership and Chartered status. 

“Is the programme practical as well as theoretical?” 

It is. Accreditation checks for applied learning, so you’ll work on real-world projects alongside your academic study. 

“Will my qualification be recognised internationally?” 

Yes. BCS-accreditation is respected worldwide, opening opportunities for global careers. 

Which programmes are accredited? 

All of our online computer science and cybersecurity degrees are now accredited by BCS. This includes the following programmes: 

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science BSc (Online) 

• Master of Science in Computer Science MSc (Online) 

• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity BSc (Online) 

• Master of Science in Cybersecurity MSc (Online) 

Wherever you are in your study journey, you’ll benefit from the advantages of accreditation. 

Why accreditation is important today 

Earning a degree is a big investment, so it’s important to know that it will deliver long-term value. Accreditation gives you this assurance. It demonstrates that our programmes are held to external standards, so your qualification will remain credible and respected even as the industry changes over time. 

By choosing one of our BCS-accredited programmes, you can be confident that your degree has been independently verified to meet these demands. You’ll gain the practical experience and professional recognition needed to build a successful career in computing or cybersecurity. 

Our online format means you don’t need to pause your career or personal commitments. You can study flexibly while knowing your qualification meets the same professional standards as on-campus programmes. 

BCS-accreditation is a mark of quality and trust. For you, it means: 

• A degree recognised by employers in the UK and globally.

• Independent assurance that your programme content is relevant and up to date.

• Opportunities for professional membership and Chartered status.

• Practical, project-based learning alongside theory.

• A qualification that supports both career progression and international mobility. 
   

Aston University Online’s computer science and cybersecurity degrees now carry this recognition, giving you confidence that your learning is valued by the profession and aligned with industry needs. It’s a step that strengthens your career advantage, boosts your credibility, and prepares you for opportunities across the tech sector, in the UK and worldwide. 

Explore our BCS-accredited computer science and cybersecurity programmes today and take the next step towards your future in IT.