Course overview

What sets this course apart is its flexibility. It is ideal if you're looking for a wide range of computing skills - from web design and networking to database management - or even if you're still uncertain which area of computing you are best suited to. The course contains a number of modules designed to encourage your professional growth and personal development. During your studies, you will be encouraged to acquire key practical skills to help you build a broad-based knowledge of computing from which to make informed choices regarding developing specialist indepth knowledge in your preferred areas. Within this context, this degree has two main aims. The first is to provide you with a good understanding of the concepts of computing and information. The second is to equip you with the skills to apply this knowledge in the analysis, design and implementation of solutions in a range of application domains.
The specific aims of this course are:

• For you to gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the concepts of computing and information systems.
• To enable you to apply the methods and principles of computing and information systems in the analysis, design, and implementation of solutions in a range of application domains.
• To provide you with the range of transferable skills needed to cope with a rapidly changing information systems environment.
• For you to be able to apply a systematic, creative and flexible approach to problem-solving.
• To develop your knowledge and skills relevant to working as a member of a project team.
• To develop your awareness of professional and ethical aspects of the IT industry.
• For you to be able to understand, critically appraise and contribute to research in the Information Systems domain.

Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of examination, group assessment, presentations, class and laboratory-based tests, case studies, group project work and the Major Project. These develop your abilities to solve problems (both on your own and as part of a team), to communicate effectively, and to be self-motivated.

Facilities

A wide range of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical laboratory-based sessions are available, depending on modules chosen. Many modules also offer support via one or more Virtual Learning Environments (e.g. WebCT and/or Moodle) which also enable you to access key resources off site.

Links with industry and professional recognition

The course works closely with local employers to ensure that what is delivered is the most up to date and relevant to local needs. Graduates who complete the relevant networking modules will be able to apply for Cisco Certified Network Associate status.

Associated careers

With the combination of excellent practical and academic preparation our course provides, graduates should be well placed to take advantage of employment opportunities for a wide range of computer-related careers and/or further study.

Alternatively, the skills learnt can also be applied to other areas. Previous students have gone into positions such as applications developers (a range of roles, from programming to testing of databases, web-based, business or educational systems), project management (within the defence, NHS and commercial sectors), end user and/or network support, as well as a variety of graduate training schemes (IT, business or education-based).

Entry requirements listed are for September 2013 entry. Entry requirements for other intakes may differ.

Entry Requirements

160 UCAS tariff points.
A levels required; 2 A levels in related subjects
BTEC/Access required; A BTEC National or a Merit level Access Certificate in a related subject.
GCSEs required; 3 GCSEs at grade C or above in English, Maths and Science.

Please note AS levels are acceptable only when combined with other qualifications.

Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements.

We welcome applications from International and EU students. Please select one of the links below for English language and country-specific entry requirement information.

• International students
• EU students
• English language requirements