Computer Science

The undergraduate BSc (Hons) programme is aimed at students interested in the computing subject area with an emphasis on the fundamentals of computing and its application in industry and the wider economy. It is designed to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills in computing to enter either the IT/Tech industry or pursue postgraduate studies in this area.

Year 1 will focus on computing fundamental modules (e.g. programming, databases networks and operating systems). In the second year, modules such as Advanced Programming and User Interface Design are studied. The final year consists of a final year major project module, accompanied by a Database Management and Administration module. Students can then choose from a range of optional modules such as AI and Robotics, Cyber Security, or Games and Interactive Systems so they can tailor their degree to their interests.

The graduates from this course will have hands-on knowledge of computer science and experience of building software solutions, data management solutions and networks (including security) from the ground up. They will have the ability to design and develop software solutions for business problems. They will learn to analyse, design, code and test different software solutions for different platforms including web-based systems, mobile solutions, cloud solutions, etc. They will also be able to design and build data management, or deploy third-party data management solutions as well as being able to liaise with stakeholders to draw up requirements to ensure that solutions meet their needs.

On completion of the programme graduates will be able to start out as cyber security professionals, AI/Data science engineers, analysts, testers, programmers, junior IT consultants, web/mobile developers, technical architects, or helpdesk engineers. They will also have the knowledge and experience to start their own business.

During their time at the University students will become part of our Cisco Networking Academy, providing you access to courses and certifications (e.g. Cisco Certified Network Associate) that will allow them to develop the knowledge and hands-on skills required by industry.

They will also have to opportunity to engage with our Amazon Web Services (AWS) Academy and complete the Cloud Foundations course, which will prepare them for the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification – a key certification recognised in the IT industry.

Year 1

Semester 1:
Introduction to Programming (20 credits)
Data Structures, Data Modelling and Computer Systems (20 credits)
AI Literacy for the Future Professional (20 credits)

Semester 2:
Academic and Career Success (20 credits)
Databases (20 credits)
OOP Programming (20 credits)

Year Two

Semester 1:
Software Engineering in Practice (20 credits)
Advanced Programming (20 credits)
Networks and Operating System (20 credits)

Semester 2:
You will choose 60 credits of study from the optional modules listed below:

Study board (60 credits) – an opportunity to travel to one of our partner institutions and undertake study on an aligned programme of study. At the end you will create a reflective portfolio of experience, drawing upon what you did, how you benefited from the experience, and how it has informed your future ambitions
OR
Application Development and Management (20 credits)
Research Methods and Project Management for Computing and Information Technology (20 credits)
User Interface Design (20 credits)

Year Three

Dissertation (Final Project) (40 credits, 2 semesters)

Semester 1:
Database Management and Administration (20 credits)

Optional modules (choose 3, 20 credits each):
AI and Robotics
Machine Learning and Data Science
Evolutionary Algorithms
Information and Content Management Systems
Mobile Development
Human-Computer Interaction
Computer Security
Cyber security
Cyber forensics
Computer Graphics
Computer Animation and Visual Effects
Games and Interactive Systems

Assessments are designed to meet the programme and module learning outcomes and are both formative and summative. The formative assessments include the preparation and feedback from teaching sessions (e.g. lectures, seminars, workshops and presentations). Summative assessment that contributes to the grade, may include portfolios, artefacts, group work/studies, presentations (vide, oral, poster) and reflective assignments.