BSc (Hons) Computer Science

Teaching & Learning

Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through several modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.

Year 1

What you'll learn

Computing Systems

Gain insight into computers, operating systems, and networks. Understand their internal workings and how they interact to provide the common computing experience.

Fundamentals of Computer Science

Develop core understanding across various aspects of computer science, including software engineering, computer networking, digital media, AI, cloud computing, sustainable computing, and big data.

Fundamentals of Computer Programming

Introduce fundamental concepts of computer programming, covering variables, data types, sequence, selection, iteration, basic algorithms, structured programming, and code reuse.

Fundamentals of Databases

Explore stages in database system development, acquiring skills in database modelling and implementation. Address ethical and professional issues related to database development.

Object-Oriented Programming

Expand on basic programming knowledge, focusing on object-oriented programming concepts and associated design techniques.

Computer Communications

Examine principles enabling efficient and secure information sharing. Understand networking protocols' techniques for successful communication, including error detection and recovery, multiplexing, and security measures.

These modules collectively provide a comprehensive foundation in computing, covering systems, programming, databases, object-oriented principles, and computer communications essential for a thorough understanding of computer science.

Year 2

What you'll learn

Software Systems Development

Focus on advanced programming concepts and underlying principles. Study professional techniques for developing high-quality, commercial-grade software products.

Operating Systems in Practice

Deepen your knowledge of operating systems to support, administer, and potentially develop components of live operating systems.

Computer Network Architectures

Explore local area networks (LANs) and wireless LANs, understanding their operations and key components.

Applied Machine Learning

Develop an understanding of algorithms, data structures, and the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques. Explore applications in smart cities, healthcare, business, and manufacturing.

Team Project

Enhance professional and entrepreneurial skills by collaborating in small groups to design, develop, and present solutions to real-world or case-study-based problems.

These modules collectively prepare you for advanced aspects of software development, operating systems, computer networks, machine learning applications, and collaborative project work, fostering both technical expertise and practical skills in various computing disciplines.

Advanced Software Engineering A

Extend your programming skills and knowledge to an advanced level. Develop transferable programming and design abilities that prepare you to work confidently in industry settings. This module typically focuses on advanced topics in software engineering, including software design patterns, architecture, software testing methodologies, and possibly advanced programming languages or frameworks.

Production Project

Enhance your professional and entrepreneurial skills by working in a small development team. You'll identify, research, plan, design, develop, evaluate, and present a software-based solution to a real-world problem or case study. This module emphasizes the practical application of software engineering principles and project management skills, preparing you for collaborative work in software development environments.

These modules collectively provide opportunities to deepen your expertise in software engineering, apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects, and develop skills necessary for successful careers in the software industry.

Year 3

What you'll learn

Cloud Computing

Examine the construction of cloud services and the technologies involved in providing them to client-side systems. The study established protocols for server-side software communication and considered aspects like security and n-tier systems.

Advanced Web Engineering

Focus on current developments, standards, tools, and technologies in internet application systems. Learn to build professional web-based systems using contemporary techniques.

Advanced Database Systems

Take a practical approach to data and database development and management. Justify and implement appropriate modelling, design, and programming strategies for modern data/database applications.

Select two from the following options:

Embedded Intelligent & Vision Systems

Explore the development of systems integrating intelligent capabilities and visual processing, typically used in robotics, automation, and AI-driven applications.

Developing Mobile Applications

Investigate architectures, platforms, and techniques for building applications tailored to mobile devices, focusing on usability, performance, and integration with mobile operating systems.

Advanced Networking Systems

Study advanced concepts in networking technologies, including quality of service in converged networks. Explore software-defined networks (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) concepts.

Additionally, the course offers a 'sandwich' year, typically taken between the second and third years, allowing you to gain industry experience through paid employment. This opportunity enhances your skills, builds your professional network, and strengthens your CV, preparing you for success in the job market after graduation.

The growing demand for computer science skills means graduates with STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) degrees are becoming increasingly sought after in industry. Whether you’re interested in a hands-on technical role or undertaking pioneering research, this course will open career opportunities across Industry 4.0 and beyond.

Career options include:

• Software Engineering
• Cloud architect & developer
• Systems analyst & engineer
• Industrial controls designer
• Data analyst

You could also progress onto postgraduate level study with one of our masters’ courses, including MSc Advanced Computer Science, MSc Data Science or MSc Information & Technology.