Studying computer science online: A student perspective

When you're considering an online degree, it's natural to have questions. Will you gain practical skills? Will you have opportunities to collaborate with other students? Will you be able to apply what you learn to real projects? 

For one Aston Online Computer Science BSc student, the answer to all three was yes. 

From building games and experimenting with AI-powered chatbots to collaborating with classmates and developing problem-solving skills, Paul Lyne’s experience highlights what can happen when you combine curiosity with the right learning environment. 

Starting something new 

Beginning an online degree can feel like a big step, particularly if you've never studied online before. 

"The structure was handled quite well and laid out clearly," explains Paul. "At the beginning, I was a bit wary because it was new to me, but the way it was laid out and taught made me feel I was doing quite well, even from the start." 

Having a clear structure can make a significant difference when you're learning something completely new, helping you focus on developing your knowledge and confidence from day one. 

Online doesn't mean learning alone 

One of the most common misconceptions about online learning is that you'll be studying in isolation. In reality, online learning can provide plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow students. 

Paul found that the collaboration was encouraged from the outset

"At the very beginning, everyone was introduced to each other," he says. "We all joined a Teams meeting, and then students were placed into groups where we could chat and participate together." 

As the programme progressed, those opportunities continued. 

"You have the option for everyone to collaborate and work together. People comment on each other's work, read each other's programs, and learn from different approaches." 

Being able to share ideas, receive feedback and learn from different perspectives can help you deepen your understanding while building valuable communication and collaboration skills. 

Turn learning into practical experience 

An important part of studying computing is applying your knowledge through projects. 

"We created a game called Goose Dodge, and I've even progressed to build that up myself," says Paul. "I've added thunder and lightning, you're getting chased by birds, and they can kill you." 

Projects like these allow you to move beyond theory and put your learning into practice. 

"These are all things I would never have been able to do without being shown through the learning – how to create tables, admins, startup servers, and use different programs." 

Instead of simply reading about concepts, you'll have opportunities to create, experiment and develop skills that can be applied in a professional environment. 

Learning to solve real problems 

Not every project goes exactly as planned, and that's often where some of the most valuable learning happens. 

Paul describes his experience of building a chatbot called Sienna using Python. 

"I tried to create a bot called Sienna that could answer any questions you might have. I built it using Python, laid out in a specific way so it could respond to different questions." 

However, the project soon presented an unexpected challenge. 

"I then came to a halt when I realised the API keys were starting to charge. That's when I learned about the realities of how these things work in depth and the need to find other ways of working around problems." 

Experiences like this help you develop more than technical knowledge. They encourage you to think critically, adapt your approach and find practical solutions when obstacles arise. 

Reflecting on this experience, Paul credits Aston Online with helping them build those capabilities. 

"I wouldn't have been able to do any of that without going through the steps and the programs that Aston has in place," explains Paul. 

What could your journey look like? 

Every student's journey is different, but this story highlights some of the opportunities that can come with studying computing online. 

Whether you're interested in software development, AI, programming, or simply want to build new digital skills, studying online doesn't mean compromising on practical learning or collaboration. 

Instead, it can provide the flexibility to study around your commitments while giving you opportunities to work on projects, solve problems, learn from other students and develop skills that can support your future career. 

After all, sometimes the best way to learn is by building something yourself.  

If Paul's story has inspired you, imagine what you could achieve with the right support and learning environment. Our BSc Computer Science programme gives you the flexibility to study around your life while developing practical, industry-relevant computing skills. Discover the programme and take the next step towards your future in tech.