Computer Science

OVERVIEW
Computing and digital technology are essential features of today’s society. They are also key drivers in the economy, whether it’s in communication, finance or even leisure. Our Computer Science degree course at University College Birmingham will furnish you with advanced skills in everything from programming and websites to managing data and security issues, keeping your finger on the pulse of information technology and preparing you for a vast spectrum of job roles in the modern day market.

Our Computer Science course will give you the knowledge and skills to develop solutions to complex problems through individual and group projects. Your learning will cover a wide range of the latest ICT and computing topics, introducing you to programming, computing mathematics, web development and databases before progressing onto subjects such as cloud computing, cyber security, mobile computing and even artificial intelligence (AI).

Throughout your studies, you will have use of an array of state-of-the-art digital resources, IT and computer facilities, including access to our brand new Cyber Security Lab. You will also have the opportunity to spend an extra year expanding your horizons with a paid placement in industry as part of your computing course, giving you substantial experience and boosting your employment prospects after you graduate.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

• Work placement – Apply your computing and IT training to the real world with the option of a paid 48-week placement, with no tuition fees during your placement year

• Practical application – Learn in our purpose-built computer labs and access our brand new Cyber Security Lab

• In-depth research – Take on a substantial research project in your final year, exploring an aspect of computing science in depth

FACILITIES
Students on our computing university course will have access to computer labs specifically designed for this degree, while our new cyber security laboratory will enable students to learn and participate in cyber-related activities in a controlled environment.

PLACEMENTS
Our course features the option of a paid 48-week work placement, during which you will not incur any tuition fees.

CAREERS AND PROGRESSION
Examples of careers you could pursue following this course:

• Software developer

• Web developer

• Systems analyst

• Computer security consultant

• Database administrator (DBA)

• IT technical support officer

You could also progress onto one of our postgraduate courses at University College Birmingham.

• Please refer to our website www.ucb.ac.uk for the latest updates to this course

Course Modules

YEAR 1

• Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming
• Computer Systems
• Mathematics for Computer Science
• Systems Analysis and Design
• Computer Networks
• Databases

YEAR 2

• Web Development
• Advanced Algorithms
• Big Data
• Cloud Computing
• Cyber-Security
• Introduction to Research

YEAR 3

• Agile Software Development
• Mobile Computing
• Professional Issues in the Computing Sector
• Artificial Intelligence
• Final Year Project

Note: Indicative information only. Actual timetables and assessment regimes will be issued at your induction. Please be aware that methods of delivery for this course may be altered due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic – for the most up-to-date information, please refer to our website: www.ucb.ac.uk

TEACHING

Example of a typical teaching week (up to 14 contact hours):

• Group teaching – 6 hours
• Subject related workshops – 6 hours
• Tutorials – 2 hours

You will also need to commit around 20 hours per week for individual study time.

ASSESSMENT

Estimated breakdown of assessment for this degree course:

• Coursework – 50%
• Practical assessment / projects – 45%
• Written examinations – 5%

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2021-2024.