BSc (Hons) Computing

Procedural Programming

In this module, you will be introduced to the fundamental concepts, methodologies, and techniques of modern programming, with a focus on core principles applicable to software development and data science.

Topics covered include syntax, variables and data types, expressions and assignment, input and output, conditionals, loops, and functions. You will be taught how to write clear, efficient and reproducible code, and begin developing a professional portfolio of practical coding projects which you will continue to expand upon throughout your degree.

You will also learn how to set up and maintain a cloud-based repository to showcase your work, supporting you to build a compelling ‘online CV’ for future career opportunities.

Database Systems

This module focuses on relational databases, introducing you to database software, design, creation, management and implementation. It begins with conceptual entity-relationship design, followed by logical database design and physical database creation. You will learn to design and implement a relational database using various interfaces, such as the bash terminal, phpMyAdmin, and MySQL Workbench.

You will become proficient in applying the principles of CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) via Structured Query Language (SQL) and gain knowledge about the concept of normalisation, including normal forms and how they reduce redundancy and duplication. Additionally, you will develop skills in writing stored procedures, managing transactions, and creating triggers, as well as accessing databases through third-party applications and programs.

Technology in Business

This module will introduce you to the use of technology in a business setting, and help you understand the fundamentals of data, information and knowledge management. You will explore how organisations use digital technology solutions to gain a competitive advantage and look at the benefits of implementing successful information systems.

Practical learning activities include exploring case studies and applying your knowledge to solve problems in realistic business scenarios.

Fundamentals of User-Centric Responsive Web Development 

This module will introduce you to contemporary front-end web development techniques, focusing on mobile-responsive layout and user experience design concepts and techniques.

Initially, this module teaches the basic principles of user-centric interface and interaction design.

You will then learn how to design page layout and interaction, based on UX techniques, including how to build and style web pages with HTML and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). Related techniques, including embedding third-party data such as maps of streaming video, will also form part of this module.

ou will also be taught various techniques for making a site live on the internet by migrating to a live hosting environment and related system testing.

Networked World, Systems and Architectures

This module explores foundation concepts in computing, emphasising the interaction between hardware, software, and networking infrastructures. You will gain an understanding of enterprise architecture and advanced technologies like cloud computing, enabling you to design robust, reliable and secure systems.

You will explore the diverse roles and responsibilities involved in creating a successful enterprise system, so you can consider how your emerging skills can support an organisation’s success.

Applied AI

This module provides a practical introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications, focusing on hands-on model building, deployment, and evaluation. You will gain hands-on experience working with industry-relevant AI technologies and frameworks while also considering ethical and governance considerations.

Cyber Security Fundamentals

This module will help students understand the cyber-physical systems fundamentals and practical issues regarding the application of cyber-physical systems.

Some emerging cyber-physical systems applications related to IoT, robotics, autonomous systems and Industry 4.0 will be introduced and discussed. The module will enable the student to understand the relevant control theories and cyber-physical system-specific computing and communication challenges.

Design & Analysis of Algorithms

Algorithms and algorithmic problem solving are at the heart of computer science. This module introduces you to the design and analysis of algorithms. You will learn how to quantify the performance algorithms, as you learn the techniques for designing efficient algorithms, including efficient data structures for storing and retrieving data.

Developing Real Systems for Customers

This module uses the knowledge and skill you have gained throughout your degree to develop and deliver a real computer system.

Mathematical Modelling and Numerical Analysis

This module introduces formulating numerical problems and building models to address and derive numerical solutions. It also provides you with the knowledge and understanding of mathematical and statistical principles appropriate to interpret numerical findings and draw justified conclusions.

Professional Practice

This is an optional module for full-time students only. You will give a short illustrated seminar presentation (artists’ talk) to selected Year One and Two students, mapping the development of the critical context underpinning your own work and the development of your own material practice, relating it to relevant theory and artists who’ve inspired the work, presenting your plans for when you graduate. You then produce a 1,000 word Self-Reflective Commentary that formalises the content of the seminar into a coherent text which articulates your own cumulative individual research and its resolution into the body of art practice presented for exhibition. You will also produce a ‘professional pack’ including CV and business card, photo documentation and a short exhibition statement.

Project Management

This module introduces you to the essential tools and methodologies for managing an effective project, including the Prince2 and Agile methodologies. You will explore techniques for change management and version control. You will have the opportunity to explore project planning and use Project Management software. You will be assessed through a 3,500-word portfolio.

Web Application Development

This module is an introductory module for those with little or no knowledge of websites. You will be introduced to the principles of HTML, CSS, PHP and effective design, and have opportunities to complete practical work by analysing and improving a current website.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is a developed field within computer science and is rapidly evolving. The foundations of this field have roots in the work of Alan Turing investigating the boundary between human intelligence and computers.

Technologies developed in the field of artificial intelligence have found their way into everyday life and form services and infrastructure that we rely on, on a day to day basis. Such services and infrastructure include internet search, predictive text, speech recognition and automation.

This module covers the foundations of the topics in artificial intelligence and considers its uses in a wide range of applications.

Computational Science

In this module, you will explore computational science, an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of science, computer science and mathematics. Computational science combines simulation, visualization, mathematical modelling, programming, data structures and symbolic computation with various scientific disciplines.

Creative Computing

This module will provide you with a detailed appreciation of human visual and audio perception. You will learn fundamental techniques for programming with visual and audio media, gaining proficiency in combining these techniques with an understanding of perception to produce new audio and visual media projects.

Cyber-Physical Systems

This module will help you understand the cyber-physical systems fundamentals and practical issues regarding the application of cyber-physical systems.

Some emerging cyber-physical systems applications related to IoT, robotics, autonomous systems and Industry 4.0 will be introduced and discussed. The module will enable you to understand the relevant control theories, cyber-physical system-specific computing and communication challenges.

Data Science and Analytics

This module introduces you to data science and analytics, overview challenges and solutions in this area, present approaches to data mining and techniques suitable for new information discovery.

Visualization tools and performance metrics are also considered within the module.

Final Year Project

The final year project brings together theoretical understanding and the practical skills acquired from other modules.

The project involves producing a software product from conceptualisation through to successful evaluation and producing a report to demonstrate the output of the research.

The module has a crucial role within the programme of study. It provides the opportunity for students to undertake programme related research and develop an artefact in an appropriate context. The module is designed to make a significant contribution to the professional and intellectual development of students.

Mobile Application Development

This module will introduce essential topics in mobile application development, as well as some advanced topics, using mainly an open source platform. You will explore the current trends of mobile application design and development, and analyse the unique design and deployment issues you must consider when developing applications for mobile devices.