Applied Computing

This course provides a broad understanding of aspects of Applied Computing, whilst allowing students to specialise in their chosen areas. It develops technical skills in computing, including agile programming, mobile applications, information security, analysis, database design, and business intelligence alongside developing critical thinking skills vital to working in complex IT environments. The course also benefits from the unique research contribution of the Internationally renowned Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility (CCSR), which embeds ethics and the impact of computing and technology within the modules.

Professionalism within the industry context is emphasised throughout, with strong links to BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT). Students will be exposed to multiple concepts, tools and technologies that are current industry standard, in addition to the fundamental underlying principles.

The curriculum offers Applied Computing BSc students significant employment opportunities aligned with the shift in the IT industry towards hybrid professionals who engage with both technical and business aspects. Through thinking critically and systemically, Applied Computing BSc graduates are attractive prospects to a wide range of roles and employers.

Key features

We have more than 50 years of computing experience that you can learn from. This long-standing history allows you to draw on a wealth of research and academic expertise to inform your studies.

Enhance your employability and gain industry experience by undertaking an optional work placement. Previous students have carried out placements at organisations including Caterpillar, GCHQ, General Electric, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Microsoft, Siemens and Vauxhall.

Develop your practical skills in our specialist facilities. You’ll have access to 100 computer workstations which are divided into five interconnected laboratories, each with 20 high-specification PCs running Windows/Linux.

Enjoy an international experience with DMU Global, which can enrich your studies and expand your cultural horizons. Previous DMU Global trips have included New York, Berlin, Hong Kong, China, Canada, Japan, South Africa and Italy to name a few.

Through block teaching, you will focus on one subject at a time instead of several at once. This means that you will be able to focus closely on each subject and absorb your learning material in more depth, whilst working more closely with your tutors and course mates.

Benefit from block teaching, where most students study one subject at a time. A simple timetable will allow you to really engage with your learning, receive regular feedback and assessments, get to know your course mates and enjoy a better study-life balance.

First year
Block 1: Foundations of Computing
Block 2: Programming in Python
Block 3: Data Analytics and Statistics
Block 4 : Information Systems Analysis and Design

Second year
Block 1: Programming with APIs and Frameworks
Block 2: Business Intelligence
Block 3: Information and Database Development
Block 3: Introduction to Information Security
Block 4: Integrated Project

Third year
Block 1: Application Architecture
Block 2: Business Systems Solutions
Block 3 / 4: Final Year Project
Year 3 optional modules (choose one): Block 3 / 4: ICT for development, Block 3 / 4: Privacy and Data Protection, Block 3 / 4: Advanced Database Management and Programming, Block 3 / 4: Artificial Intelligence

All modules are indicative and based on the current academic session. Course information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to review. Exact modules may, therefore, vary for your intake in order to keep content current. If there are changes to your course we will, where reasonable, take steps to inform you as appropriate.

The compulsory modules on this course ensure that students learn by a combination of practical experience, self-study and research. The option modules at Level 6 allow students the opportunity to specialise.

The modules making up the course employ a range of learning and teaching strategies including: (1) staff directed teaching and learning via lectures, seminars, laboratories; (2) case-study and lab based exercises for the dissemination of knowledge, information and the demonstration of processes and techniques; (3) student centred learning via collaborative and group based learning by group assignments and projects; (4) individual independent learning using literature sources, internet sources and further research (incl. Web based resources), (5) Presentation of findings, report writing, assignments, practice (6) practical work-based exercises for the development of skills and understanding, and; (7) project-based learning to develop management, design, development and communication skills.

Assessment methods and assessment criteria are vested in the individual modules constituting the programme. Each module specification defines the assessment methods and reassessment details which are appropriate to its aims and objectives, as well as the teaching and learning strategy of the module. Normally some modules are assessed by a combination of coursework and a phase test. Where subject content of the module is more appropriate to be assessed using coursework, these modules are assessed by 100% coursework. Methods of assessment for the modules therefore may include: Time constrained phase tests, Portfolios of work, Laboratory exercises, Oral examinations, Demonstrations, Individual & individually assessed group work, Project work, Reports & presentations and Research reports.

You deserve a positive teaching and learning experience, where you feel part of a supportive and nurturing community. That’s why most students will enjoy an innovative approach to learning using block teaching, where you will study one module at a time. You’ll benefit from regular assessments - rather than lots of exams at the end of the year - and a simple timetable that allows you to engage with your subject and enjoy other aspects of university life such as sports, societies, meeting friends and discovering your new city. By studying with the same peers and tutor for each block, you’ll build friendships and a sense of belonging.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• BCS - The Chartered Institute for IT