Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised May 30, 2026

Computer Science Tripos

The Computer Science Tripos (CST) is the undergraduate course in computer science offered by the University of Cambridge Computer Laboratory. It evolved out of the Diploma in Computer Science, the world's first taught course in computer science, which started in 1953. Successful candidates are awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA) honours degree after three years or, a combined BA + Master of Engineering (MEng) honours degree after four years of study, though admission to the fourth year is usually contingent on attaining a first-class result in the third year.

Last revised
May 30, 2026
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Computer Science Tripos (CST)
Some courses of the Computer Science Tripos are taught in the William Gates Building, Cambridge, home of the Computer Laboratory, University of Cambridge
Type
Skills testedComputer Science
Duration3 or 4 years
RegionsUniversity of Cambridge
LanguagesEnglish language
based on
Websitewww.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/computer-science-ba-hons-meng

The Computer Science Tripos (CST) is the undergraduate course in computer science offered by the University of Cambridge Computer Laboratory. It evolved out of the Diploma in Computer Science, the world's first taught course in computer science, which started in 1953. Successful candidates are awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA) honours degree after three years or, a combined BA + Master of Engineering (MEng) honours degree after four years of study, though admission to the fourth year is usually contingent on attaining a first-class result in the third year.123

Notable alumni

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References