Computing Science BSc (Hons) 2021/22 entry

Overview

As the course progresses, this academic year builds on the knowledge gained in year one to cement a solid foundation of core principles. Now that you are working to a higher level, you will begin building your knowledge and understanding of computer hardware and web development. It also covers programming concepts with a deeper investigation of algorithms and the importance of data security in today’s world. Students who successfully complete year two are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computing Science.

Modules

• Computer Hardware

  This unit focuses on computer architecture and operations, particularly as it affects the support of operating systems and applications. You will investigate the impact of computer architecture on performance issues and examine advanced topics such as uniprocessor design, storage system design and parallel architectures. 

• Human Computer Interaction and Web Development

  During this technical module, you will be set a number of increasingly challenging communication, interface and application design problems commonly faced in modern day society. Developing your problem-solving ability, you will be encouraged to respond creatively to the challenges through the techniques of participatory design, rapid prototype evaluation and contextual, task and user interaction modelling. 

• Algorithms and Data Structures

  In this module, you will extend your programming and algorithm design skills and gain the ability to structure and manipulate intricate data sets through extensive work with complex software. In addition, you will refine object-oriented analysis, design and implementation skills and learn to effectively utilise libraries, components and supporting tools.

• Communications

  In preparation for the final year project, this collaborative module aims to enhance your skillset by developing key skills such as communication, team working, co-operation and collaboration, project planning, commercial awareness, cultural awareness and distributed working. In addition, you will develop the critical thinking, research, academic and professional writing skills required as a reflective practitioner.

Overview

An optional placement or sandwich year gives you the chance to gain further insight into the industry or career you are seeking to follow, enabling you to apply your theoretical knowledge to the workplace. You can also choose to take an optional year abroad between years two and three. If you decide to take advantage of a placement year this version of the degree will help you acquire valuable work experience and gain an understanding of what employers seek in graduates. It is your responsibility to find a placement with an employer within your chosen sector. The careers and employability department, alongside the course team, will support you throughout your placement year.

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that any such opportunities referred to on this webpage 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.

Modules

• Professional placement or Study abroad

Overview

At this stage you will be confident with key computing functions, as you will explore hardware and software networking and popular operating systems at an advanced level. In the final year, you will enhance your critical understanding of Information Technology as an enabler for organisations and the complex and fast-changing trends in a business context. You will gain technical skills in relation to big data and service management. Students who successfully complete the final year are awarded a BSc (Hons) in Computing Science.

Modules

• Big Data

  You will work with databases and datasets of varying sizes and levels of complexity in this module, from small scale use to enterprise-scalable implementations. You will use technical skills to understand the big data ecosystem and carry out a range of data analytics tasks on large volume datasets. 

• Internet of Things

  The underlying principles, technologies and architecture of wireless sensor networks will be examined in this module along with current practical applications and future trends. You will critically evaluate the security, privacy and trust implications of IoT technology and explore the approaches and mechanisms that mitigate security risks. 

• Contemporary Issues in Computing

  This unit focuses on a range of contemporary and emerging technologies, applications and professional issues in computing. Throughout the module, you will engage with research and advanced practice literature with the aim of extending and broadening your subject knowledge. There’s a focus on professional, ethical, business and societal issues, through an international lens.

• Project

  You have the opportunity to focus on an area of interest within the field of Computing Science, which may be aligned to your future career interests. Throughout the project, you will need to demonstrate research, problem solving, design and development skills, through a practical implementation, investigation (possibly including the gathering and analysis of secondary evidence) and evaluation.