* Modules are subject to availability
A common first year across all of our courses covers the fundamental aspects of the subject. Assessment is a mix of exams and coursework, generally 50:50 in the first year and leaning towards coursework in later years. Example first-year coursework includes building a small game or business application in C#, a performance analysis of different software algorithms and a presentation on different aspects of computer hardware.
Your programming skills will be developed using C# and the paradigm of Object Oriented Programming – there are pathways for those with no or little programing experience, and for those who are already accomplished programmers.
Due to the common first year, you can easily switch your degree course at any point until the start of Year 2, when more specialist material begins to be introduced.
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Computer Systems
Gain an overview of what makes the computer perform tasks the programmers ask it to perform. You'll look at basic hardware of the computer, the architecture of a computer system and operating systems, as well as the functionalities required to handle and manage memory and processor times in the presence of multiple users and services.
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Quantitative Methods for Computing
Learn and understand some of the key mathematical concepts that underpin and provide the theoretical basis of modern computing.
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Software Engineering and Human Computer Interaction
This module takes you beyond programming to software engineering, the discipline concerned with all aspects of complex software production. You'll explore methods for improving planning and software quality, effective elicitation and modelling of software requirements using constrained languages, use cases and state automata, and focus on design for effective human-computer interaction.
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Introduction to Programming and Algorithmic Thinking
This module provides a foundation for students new to programming, or want to further develop existing programming skills. Develop a practical skill that requires both logic and creativity, from understanding basic syntax to constructing bigger and more complex systems, and comparing and evaluating different programming approaches.
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Programming Paradigms
You will build on your existing programming experience and start to explore the use of professional development tools and techniques. The primary programming language for this module is C#.
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Object Oriented Programming and Principles
This module is designed to build upon the basic knowledge of programming, to reinforce fundamental concepts and develop awareness of the issues involved in the implementation of larger-scale software.
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Software Project-Based Learning
Following on from Programming Paradigms, you will apply your programming and development skills as part of a team to produce a solution to a real-world problem scenario.
* Modules are subject to availability
In the second year of your degree, you will begin to specialise more in the area of software development.
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Systems Analysis, Design and Process
This module aims to introduce the tasks of elicitation, modelling and validation of the requirements of an information system. It includes a combination of lectures, practical classes and substantial group-based activity.
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Information Systems and Web Technologies
Explore the concepts, principles and guidelines which underpin the design and implementation of information systems, including network based information systems and enterprise systems. Information system design is introduced from an organisational context and the enabling technologies will also be considered.
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Software Engineering
The module offers both theoretical and practical study of software engineering with an object oriented perspective. You'll cover analysis, design, implementation and testing and the use of frameworks, components and patterns.
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Networking and User Interface Design
This module introduces you to computer networks and the practical problems associated with such interconnections. It also addresses technologies and the role that these play in creating the user interface for enterprise business web applications.
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Advanced Programming (C++)
Gain an in-depth knowledge of object-oriented programming. You’ll use C++ as a vehicle to explore how language features and your high-level design decisions are executed on the CPU.
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Database Techniques
A database management system (DBMS) is a program product for keeping computerized records about an enterprise. This module introduces the full implementation of a database system from its original data analysis to a relational table's implementation.
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Agile Software Development
* Modules are subject to availability
This is the most specialist year of your degree and provides you with the opportunity to work on a major individual software project as part of your dissertation. Year 3 allows you to dig deeper into the subject, acquiring the expertise and experience that will stand you in good stead when entering industry or pursuing further study.
The highlight of the third year is the individual software project. You can choose from a range of suggested topics or propose your own idea, and you will then spend time across both semesters researching, developing, and writing about your chosen software project. Previous projects have included AI simulations, 3D games, emulators for historic computers, stock control management systems, robotics and even a Jedi lightsaber training simulator using 3D motion tracking and virtual reality.
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Honours Stage Project
Show your all-round ability to tackle a substantial piece of computer-related investigation or software design in an area of your interest. You will demonstrate project, time and risk management skills and bring the task to a successful conclusion with a quality report, documentation as appropriate and presentation.
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Languages and their Compilers
You'lll study all aspects of computer languages, their background theory, formal specifications of languages and features of languages. You'll gain an understanding of all language both from the history of computers in the past and all current and future languages.
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Advanced Software Engineering
Discover the techniques for design of dependable software, drawing on recent advances and current research. You'll explore mechanisms of failure in computer systems and software, and practice techniques for preventing and managing software related hazards via safety analysis, formal specification, advanced software testing and online detection, diagnosis and control of failures.
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Communicating and Teaching Computing
Undertake a placement in a school or college to develop understanding of the education process and practical teaching and communication skills. Supporting tutorials explore models of learning, curriculum structures, lesson planning, classroom management and professional awareness.
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Mobile Devices and Applications
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Starting and Managing a High-Tech Business
Explore the management, planning and development issues concerning information systems used in an organisation. A key issue is strategic planning to achieve competitive advantage through deployment of information systems, technology, software products and intellectual property. You'll also consider entrepreneurship issues associated with new high-tech business ventures..
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Distributed Systems Programming
Beginning with an overview of key networking technologies, relevant software patterns and distributed topologies, this module explores mechanisms for applying your existing C# knowledge to distributed systems or applications whilst considering key areas like scalability and security.
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Computer Systems Infrastructure and Management