Guest lecture held for students looking to break into the games industry
Coventry University students had the opportunity to attend a guest lecture by prominent 3D games artist Alex Beddows.
Overview
Computing, from the internet to mobile computing, smart devices and beyond, has changed the world – and continues to do so: next-generation robots, driverless cars, and digital currencies are just three examples of what is already on the way.
Creating these exciting new technologies generates an ongoing need for excellent computing graduates. Computing BSc (Hons) is a full stack developer degree which aims to teach you the fundamental range of skills necessary to become a software developer. The degree is designed to equip you with key programming, analysis and design skills including (but not limited to) back and front-end web development, internet-of-things development, user experience design, quality assurance and testing, system administration, and security.
We aim to offer a modern, relevant computing degree which, upon successful completion, directly promotes employable skills to effectively prepare you for a career within the industry. We aim to teach the tools, techniques and skills demanded by industry using state-of-the-art hardware and software and modern approaches to teaching, which emphasise practical, hands-on, problem-driven learning built around real-world challenges.
If you are attracted to programming and want to get involved in shaping and creating the technological future, Computing BSc (Hons) at Coventry University is a degree you should consider.
You will also be given the opportunity to participate in the School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) programme. As a SCITT trainee, you will spend time during the second and third year of your degree teaching and learning alongside expert practitioners. You could work with a selected partner school within the Coventry SCITT. Students who undertake this pathway must decide during their first year of their degree if they wish to opt into the Secondary School Experience pathway. The selection process involves interview and teaching session. Subject to passing these, students will then follow the training pathway. Those who choose not to participate will follow the normal course structure.
Why Coventry University?
An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.
To ensure an optimised and continual student experience, the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via emerging online technologies and methods across all courses.
Global ready
An international outlook, with global opportunitiesEmployability
Career-ready graduates, with the skills to succeedTeaching Excellence
Taught by lecturers who are experts in their fieldCourse essentials
A degree which offers you more, at no extra costAccreditation & Professional Recognition
Chartered Institute for IT (BCS)
Computing BSc (Hons) was accredited by the Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) for the 2019/20 intake. Following changes which have been made to improve the course, we are applying for re-accreditation for entrants of 2020/21 onwards. We anticipate that our application for re-accreditation will be successful. If any changes occur with respect to our accreditation related to this course, we will seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.
Our Facilities
Cisco Lab
The Cisco lab is used for working with general networking and towards accreditation by CISCO. Optional modules allow students to work in the lab to develop skills in preparation for the CISCO certification exam.
Virtual Laboratories
Provide a cutting edge virtualisation environment that can be used to create entire virtual networks, complete with services, users and even attackers. Students can access this environment from anywhere on or off campus.
Sigma Centre
An award-winning Mathematics Support Centre which provides a wide range of learning resources in mathematics and statistics. Students can make use of drop-in sessions or one-to-one appointments.
Course information
The Computing degree is designed to produce graduates with a high level of knowledge across a variety of computing technologies.
You will learn the core elements of computing, such as programming, algorithms, operating systems, computer architecture, databases and data retrieval, user experience design and software development methods. Advanced topics such as artificial intelligence and pervasive computing can provide you with a wide-range of computing knowledge and a complete skillset.
Course specification
Download PDF
Modules
We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.
15th
We are ranked as the 15th best University in the United Kingdom in The Guardian University Guide 2020.
In more detail...
Study this Computing course at Coventry and you have the chance not only to learn core elements of computer science, but also to explore and apply what you learn, tackling contemporary issues such as ‘Big Data’ and big data analytics, while developing real products as you would in industry.
Our practical approach to the teaching of computing subjects combines Activity-Led Learning, collaborative technical projects and simulation of real world problems.
Our course is constantly evolving to meet the advances of the vibrant field it represents. You’ll be taught by staff who are active in internationally-rated research in fields such as web development, pervasive computing, artificial intelligence, distributed systems and computing for the creative industries.
The curriculum has been designed to produce computing specialists with skills in areas such as systems analysis and design, programming, web development, databases, mobile application development and user centred design. Throughout your studies, we will encourage you to use state-of-the-art technologies to develop an industry-relevant personal portfolio of work.
By the time you graduate, you should be fully equipped to move on to your professional careers, continue your studies or move on to research.
- Regular guest lectures from employers and researchers who specialise in different areas of computer science. In the past, these have included Npower, Vodafone and IBM. (subject to availability).
- The annual, free to attend New Wizards event provides students with the opportunity to present their work to other students, staff and employers*. From the event, past students have gained work placements and permanent jobs.
* Please note that we are unable to guarantee any event, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student. - Optional modules allow you to tailor your degree in the final year to specialise in topics such as mobile application development, pervasive systems and open source software development.
- Support applying for short and long-term placements with a technology company to gain the experience employers desire*. Past students have worked for Microsoft UK Ltd, Intel, Accenture, and IBM, as well as a range of medium sized companies in web, media and the creative industries. These opportunities may be subject to extra costs and competitive application.
Our main study themes are:
- Programming: You will learn the underlying concepts, technologies and algorithms which enable you to apply programming techniques that are appropriate for the problem encountered. You will develop core skills in programming by learning and applying syntax, problem-solving strategies, and theories common to most programming languages. We also examine professional practices associated with the industry, including key software development concepts such as testing code, version control, functional decomposition and event driven programming, as well as how to interact with non-technical users and clients.
- Computer Hardware and Networks: We provide a broad overview of computer architecture, including the origin, structure and use of fundamental hardware components of a computer. We will explore practical and theoretical aspects of computer hardware and software, as well as fundamental concepts of networking and the internet, fundamental to modern computing. We integrate hardware, software and networking through a range of work in IoT (Internet of Things).
- Data Science: One of the major contemporary developments in computing is big data and data analytics, which powers a whole range of applications including social networking, e-commerce, autonomous vehicles, and medical, financial and weather modelling. You will learn how data and information retrieval systems are designed, and study database concepts, theory and design. You will make practical use of database and information retrieval tools and techniques. You will learn a range of concepts related to the data science process, from data collection, to processing, analysis and visualisation.
- Web Development: Modern computing depends on the internet. You will learn how to implement web architectures, from simple chat rooms to large-scale client-server applications which integrate data, data analytics, interface design and user experience work. You will learn technologies including HTML, css, and JavaScript, as well as a range of java and python-based web development frameworks. You will deploy technologies used to produce a range of standards based websites, incorporate multimedia content, implement database technologies for the web, and design and build a data-driven dynamic websites which utilises both server-side and client-side scripting language technologies and APIs.
- User Experience: User Experience or UX is concerned with two things: how people feel when they use technology, and how rewarding user experiences can be designed at the interface (UXD). This theme will provide you with knowledge on how to create compelling interfaces and to evaluate them, working with real users.
- Security Security is a crucial issue in computing. You will learn the concepts and practical considerations relevant to creating and evaluating secure computer systems. You will analyse systems at both the application level and at the level of interconnected devices in architectures such as client-server and cloud-based, with attention given to security-by-design, security legislation and regulation and the associated products and services.
- Software Design and Development You will learn how to design and implement software from the simple to the more complex. You will study the process of software development including techniques such as Agile Development, learning how to scope, plan, evaluate and implement software within given timeframes. You will learn how to test software, and to ensure quality and standards.
The programme can be studied full-time over three years of study with the option of extending this to four years, by taking a sandwich year in the form of a professional placement or study abroad between Year 2 and Year 3.
We strongly encourage you to spend a year on industrial training and will provide assistance to help you find an appropriate placement*. In the past, students have worked in many roles for some of the most prestigious companies in the world such as Jaguar Land Rover, Caterpillar and IBM in addition to local start-ups and up and coming companies in the field.
Throughout the course, you will not only benefit from our application driven teaching approach, but will also have access to modern teaching tools, using learning techniques such as flipped classroom where you will prepare in advance by researching a particular topic or challenge.
You will be given lots of opportunities to work with new technology to help develop new design solutions, in the classroom and on real-life projects, where you will work with staff on real-world computing and design problems as you would in commercial, professional or research practice. This means that you could develop professional skills at the same time as you learn the technical content of your degree. In the past, projects have included game development, designing usable real-world portals and live applications which have been published in app stores.
We organise a wide range of optional field trips, in the UK or abroad*, with past students visiting Bletchley Park, the central site for Britain's codebreakers during World War II, and the Internet of Thing Expo in London.
* Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Meet our staff
Dr. Reda Al Bodour
Reda Al Bodour is an associate head of school and lecturer in computer science.
Read full profileThis course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will could vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include coursework, essays, project and group work, vivas (where we interview you about work you’ve done), practical exams (e.g. presentations and tests), and formal examinations.
The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards the achieving the intended learning outcomes.
On successful completion, you will be equipped with the skills to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the underlying technology, design methods and programming languages required to practice as an IT professional.
- Appreciate the cultural, commercial, ethical and professional issues connected with the computing industry and professional practice within it.
- Demonstrate awareness of emergent technologies and techniques in the wider computing domain, such as distributed resources, big data and application development.
- Apply appropriate problem-solving techniques and design protocols to computing requirements or issues.
- Research the concept, design and development of a product in the computing domain, providing relevant and useful conclusions in the evaluation of the implementation.
Actual teaching contact hours will vary depending on the level of study and the requirements of a particular semester. In a typical week your contact hours will be divided amongst personal tutorials and small group teaching; medium group teaching (e.g. practical, hands-on studio sessions); and large group teaching (lectures). In addition, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study each week depending on the demands of individual modules. The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 18 contact hours per week in the first year, reducing by approximately 2 hours per week per year as you become a more independent learner.
We provide our students with ample international experience opportunities. If you have a desire to travel, there are opportunities to apply to study abroad with past students collaborating with students from some of the best institutions from around the world. For example, we have an established exchange programme in which Finnish and Coventry University students collaborate together both here in Coventry and in Helsinki, Finland.
We run a range of UK, European and international field trips, which have previously included destinations such as Spain, Poland and Estonia. Recently, a group of students participated in a two-week fieldtrip to the Guangdong University of Foreign Studies (GDUFS) in Gunhdzhou, China, to collaborate with fellow Chinese students to deliver a project called City Compass, which resulted in delivering multiple apps that explore the cultural, culinary, touristic and historical aspects of a particular city.
The opportunity for a sandwich placement means we will also support you in finding an internship anywhere in the world and in seeking financing for that experience, with the list of possible options, destinations and opportunities growing every year. Past students have gone to work in countries as far afield as the USA, Spain, Germany and Cyprus.
Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Global ready
Did you know we help more students travel internationally than any other UK university according to data from the experts in higher education data and analysis, HESA?
In 2018/19, we were able to provide a total of 5,469 experiences abroad that lasted at least five days.
Much of this travel is made possible through our Global Leaders Programme, which enables students to prepare for the challenges of the global employment market, as well as strengthening and developing their broader personal and professional skills.
Explore our international experiences1st for
international experiences
Sending more students overseas than any other UK uni 2016/17
5,469
Student experiences
The number of student trips abroad for at least 5 days in 2018/19
12,000
and counting
The number of students we’ve helped travel internationally since 2016
12
global programmes
As well as trips, we offer other opportunities like language courses
Entry Requirements
Tuition Fees
We pride ourselves on offering competitive tuition fees which we review on an annual basis and offer a wide range of scholarships to support students with their studies. Course fees are calculated on the basis of what it costs to teach each course and we aim for total financial transparency.
For more information, please visit our Finance pages.
Course essentials at no extra cost
We're committed to communicating study costs clearly to make sure you're not faced with having to make any unexpected payments.
This is why our ‘Flying Start’ package provides you with a few course essentials. Your full-time fee for an undergraduate degree will cover the following:
UK field trips
Any mandatory site visits and trips within the United Kingdom.Key material
This can include core textbooks, software and equipment.Laser prints
1,000 A4 sides of black and white laser printing credits per year.Optional year
Pay no tuition fees for optional work placements or study abroad trips.Course essentials - additional costs: This course may incur additional costs associated with any field trips, placements or work experience, study abroad opportunities or any other opportunity (whether required or optional), which could include (but is not limited to) travel, accommodation, activities and visas. This course may incur additional costs associated with any equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire.
EU student fees
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year remain eligible for the same fees as home students and the same financial support. Financial support comes from Student Finance England, and covers undergraduate and postgraduate study for the duration of their course, providing they meet the residency requirement.
For tuition fee loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland for the three years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that three year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
For maintenance loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the UK and Islands for the five years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that five year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
Career prospects
Graduate Immigration Route visa
Based on current information from the UK Government, international students whose study extends beyond summer 2021 may be eligible for a visa under the UK Government’s Graduate Immigration Route, which will enable students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two (2) years. Check the most up to date guidance available to check your eligibility and any updates from the UK Government before making an application or enrolment decision.
The practical nature of our course places an emphasis on your future employability, developing a wide range of technical, analytical, design and professional skills, many of which are gained from placement experiences*.
This, coupled with the breadth of the subject domain, means that upon successful completion of the course, you should be well positioned for a range of employment opportunities including software development, database/systems administration, mobile application development, web development and user experience design to name a few.
You could be employed in a wide variety of roles in business or industry*, including as a programmer, web developer, user experience specialist, IT business analyst or data warehouse manager.
Graduates have also used their qualifications to progress into teaching careers, as well as postgraduate study to obtain MSc, MPhil and PhD qualifications.
Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university’s Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Disclaimer
By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2020/21 Contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.
The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation. Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance from time to time.
For International students the tuition fee that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For international students, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation.
