Women in computer science
Women are under-represented in computer science across the UK. Data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency in 2012 shows that only 17.4% of UK Computer Science graduates were women. Within academia, these proportions tend to deteriorate even further at later career stages, with women leaving computer science (and other STEM subjects) to pursue alternative careers.
Our Department recognises the huge dividends that come from attracting more women into computer science. We are continuously making the department more welcoming to female students and staff. So far, steps have included:
- A firm commitment to the Athena SWAN charter, to advance the representation of women in STEM subjects. We currently hold an Athena SWAN bronze award.
- We support the Women in Computer Science student forum, a regular informal student-led event that enables our female students to discuss issues in computer science.
- We have a Women's Tutor who is available to discuss any issues with staff and students.
- We encourage our female staff and students to join groups such as the British Computer Society's BCSWomen, and supply funding where possible to attend events targeted at women such as the Lovelace Colloquium.
- We encourage and actively assist with applications for funding to support female staff and students in computer science.
- Our female staff and students attend schools and other outreach events to show local schoolgirls that computing is fun and not just for the boys! Our Ada Lovelace event was a great success.
Visit the Women at Leicester webpages to learn more about support offered by the University.