Compulsory modules

Introduction to Programming
This module will introduce you to the fundamental concepts underlying computer programming and computational thinking. You will gain an understanding of problem-solving techniques and learn to implement your ideas using Python. No prior coding experience is assumed. The aim is to get you up to a good standard of coding by the end of the module. There is a strong practical element and several real-world examples. You will attain a solid practical foundation for modules building upon these fundamental concepts. 


Computer Systems and Fundamentals
You will learn fundamental concepts of computer hardware and software, and achieve a foundation for other computer science modules. You will obtain an overview of computer systems, bridging theoretical concepts with practical applications and gain an understanding of the capabilities and limitations of modern IT. You will see logic design for core hardware components, the architecture of operating systems, essential features of programming languages, a selection of computing applications, hardware design, operating systems, and computational principles like parallelism and caching. 


Mathematical Foundations of Computing
In this module, you will learn a variety of mathematical problem-solving skills, useful in a range of contexts, but particularly in Computer Science and Data Science. The module assumes no mathematical knowledge above that at GCSE, and is designed to teach you the mathematics needed for further study in various areas of computing. You will gain problem-solving, digital readiness, and basic research skills and techniques, and you will have opportunities to develop creativity and innovation skills.   


Introduction to Algorithms
In this module you will learn to apply a variety of computational problem-solving techniques to solve problems from the real world. You will be introduced to algorithmic design strategies and learn how to analyse an algorithm to determine its correctness and efficiency, to solve problems from a variety of real-world domains. You will learn transferable skills such as interdisciplinary expertise, creativity, and problem-solving.


Object-Oriented Programming
This module builds upon programming concepts explored in introduction to Programming, by developing problem solving skills in a new programming paradigm, that of object-oriented design. You will learn the theories and principles of modelling real-world problems through object-oriented design for the development of robust, professional, and high-quality software systems. You will put these ideas into practice by learning to program in Java, enhancing your employability. 


Professional Practice in Computing
This module introduces you to aspects of professionalism and ethics, communication and writing styles: these are also useful transferable skills in science and engineering more generally. The module provides you with important transitional skills that will be built upon in future modules and subsequent careers. The module provides guidance on enhancing employability skills, and advice on working in teams. Delivery of the module will include workshop activities providing you with opportunities to work individually or as part of a team, and involvement with careers and the library via guest lectures. 

Optional modules

Cybercrime
This module allows you to actively engage in the digital society, with an understanding of risks that can be encountered, and measures that can be taken to counteract them, both in an individual and a collective business context. You will learn various types of cyber-crime, and see how to implement practical counter-measures to protect against them, alongside the use of tools that can be used for digital evidence gathering. You will develop your global awareness, sustainability and digital readiness skills.   

Compulsory modules

Database Systems
Databases and database management systems are an integral part of any computing application that needs to store data and manage its transactions efficiently. This module introduces you to databases and database management systems by providing theoretical knowledge and practical experience in data modelling, database design, implementation and administration. The module explores essential topics in data management including database security and how databases are integrated with other technologies, especially the Web, for enhanced user interfaces, ease of data access and distribution.


Web Technologies
This module provides the knowledge and skills necessary to enable you to develop multi-tier web applications. It aims to provide you with an understanding of Internet communication architectures (such as client-server) regarding standard protocols and to enable the development of web applications and the configuration of the servers on which they rely. This module is hands-on and supported by practicals about different web technologies. Transferrable skills include independent and self-directed learning, creativity and innovation, and reflective practice.


Data Science Techniques
Data Science is becoming an increasingly important topic, bordering Computer Science and Mathematics, and with applications in many areas of everyday life. You will learn to apply processes and techniques to extract essential information from raw data, allowing it to be analysed to discover meaning from the data and allowing it to inform decision-making. You will be introduced to concepts of ethics and security related to the collection, storage and dissemination of data.


Human-Computer Interaction
In this module you will learn and apply the underlying concepts and principles of interface and interaction design for a variety of devices. This will include current industry standard areas of user-centred design such as persona, scenarios, card sorting and requirements elicitation, as well as general usability evaluation techniques. You will also learn about visualisation, creativity, HCI guidelines and the sensory, cognitive and physical capabilities of users. This will culminate in the completion of a design portfolio and design solution to an authentic scenario.


Software Engineering
This module will provide you with up-to-date knowledge and practice of industry standard techniques and processes to undertake team-based development of software and digital products. The module gives hands-on experience of agile software engineering in a self-organising team and the opportunity to compare theory and practice. The module is delivered via a combination of weekly workshops, directed reading and viewing and guest talks from industry professionals. Previous speakers have been from companies such as the BBC, Microsoft, Capgemini and Accenture.


Computational and Artificial Intelligence I
This module will provide you with an introduction to the core computational intelligence topics of evolutionary algorithms and neural networks, and some of the similarities and differences between natural and synthetic intelligent systems. You will gain an appreciation of how AI is used in many real-world scenarios, both within the UK and internationally

Optional modules

Individual Study Topic in Computer Science
Computer Science is multi-faceted and rapidly changing, with new and niche topics on the periphery of the standard curriculum. This module gives you the opportunity to pursue supported independent learning and practice of new skills that are not otherwise incorporated into the curriculum.  You will apply self-directed learning and creativity, learn various communication skills when creating a poster and presentation, and gain research and time management skills.


Computer Graphics and Animation
In this module you will learn the fundamental concepts and techniques that underpin computer graphics and animation. You will learn how to create 2D and 3D graphics, and how to time and control animations and visual effects. The module will be delivered by weekly lectures and practical sessions where you will put theory into practice and develop the skills related to creating and composing graphics and animations.


Computer Games Development
You will learn the fundamental concepts of designing and implementing simple and intermediate level text-based, and 2D computer games, in a modern programming language. You will see how to break down the development of a computer game into subcomponents and see how these can be connected together and implemented independently. You will have an opportunity to demonstrate and reflect on the creativity and innovation skills that you have acquired. 


Flexible Work Placement (Level 5) 
In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial.  This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhancing your employability, and the opportunity to gain valuable professional insights via a 75-hour placement. You will be supported by various activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles.  This module offers flexibility on when and how you complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement around existing demands. 

Compulsory modules

Computer Science Project
You will undertake an individual project across two semesters. The module enables you to apply theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills to a technical, software, research or business problem, potentially on real-world industrial inspired problems. You will be allocated an academic supervisor, providing guidance alongside taught lectures. You will develop essential transferrable skills including self-directed learning, critical thinking, reflective practice, communication, adaptability, and time management. If you are on a bracketed pathway, you must choose a project related to that specialism.

Cyber Security
You will learn the necessary cyber security competencies to protect vital information systems, and their data and services, from unauthorised access, harm or misuse. You will also learn how to keep up-to-date with new recommendations and practice in this volatile and constantly evolving area. You will also gain an appreciation of other important areas such as legal factors, management of systems, risk analysis, and social and human factors.   

Optional modules

Machine Learning Applications 
In this module you will receive in-depth training in the use of machine learning tools and techniques that can be used to analyse real world data and to deliver valuable insight that can be used to provide business services. You will learn about ethics, integrity and working in a global sector.


Advanced Programming and Software Design 
This module provides a deeper understanding of object-oriented programming and concurrent programming. You will learn to apply common design patterns to effectively structure software projects, apply the programming language structures to guarantee appropriate synchronisation of concurrent code and enforce mutually exclusive access to shared data, and analyse the fundamental issues that need to be addressed due to the application of concurrent patterns. You will gain familiarity with industry-relevant skills like using version control systems, unit testing and continuous integration tools.


Software Development Management
This module provides you with a comprehensive foundation in software development management and its process. This will cover the skills needed to manage software products and their quality. The module also explores modern development techniques such as API and microservices testing and Test-Driven development. You will be able to apply software testing and planning to real-world scenarios and systems. You will also gain familiarity with industry-relevant skills like using built-in API clients, and performance testing tools.


Programming for Virtual Worlds
You will learn the skills and techniques to create virtual worlds in 3D, using modern games engines such as Unity. As part of the assessment you will design and implement a game level, and program it with interactivity or artificial intelligence. You will gain an opportunity to showcase your creativity and innovation, and gain digital readiness and research skills.  


Professional Experience in Education 
This module allows undergraduates to gain academic credit for their work in schools and colleges. The undergraduate will develop a range of skills and be presented with an opportunity to experience an early taste of teaching for those interested in pursuing teaching or training as a career. The undergraduate will work in a school or college for a total of 64 hours, to be agreed between the placement host and student.  The timing of the placement is flexible to support students’ home, study and work life balance, and to meet the needs/requirements of the placement host, but ideally within a concentrated block rather than dispersed over the whole year. Suggested options include 8 × 8-hour (whole day) sessions, or 16 × 4-hour (half day) sessions. Students will have the flexibility to source their own placement, a useful skill for seeking out future employment opportunities, but also can apply for a range of roles sourced by the university.


Flexible Work Placement (Level 6)
In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial.  This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhancing your employability, and the opportunity to gain valuable professional insights via a 75-hour placement. You will be supported by various activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles.  This module offers flexibility on when and how you complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement around existing demands.


Advanced Databases and Applications
The core aim of this module is to provide an advanced understanding of database techniques and current issues associated with database deployment. It enables you to develop a detailed and coherent knowledge of distributed database architectures, including techniques for semantic interoperability (schema homogenisation, data integration, query optimisation, and distributed transactions control) between heterogeneous data models and legacy information systems. Data warehousing concepts, architecture, analytical processing techniques and data mining are also covered as one of the distributed database applications.


Communications and Networks
This module extends your knowledge of principles and practice in communications, computer network, and security technologies and their deployment. Learning about fundamental concepts is complemented by practical activities such as analysing network packets, developing network applications, designing computer networks and cryptography. The module provides valuable transferable skills in critical thinking and problem solving. The module content is applicable to those seeking careers in computing research, network security, network management and other digital communication and network areas.


Advanced Web Technologies 
Modern multi-tiered web applications are developed with a wide range of techniques, libraries, languages, and tools. This module will teach you the necessary skills to develop such applications that can be used in a variety of settings, from small-scale web apps, to larger multi-tiered web apps serving thousands of clients. You will gain the knowledge to develop robust, distributed, and secure systems, that can withstand the high demands of today’s highly interconnected world.


Computational and Artificial Intelligence II
This module will expand on the range of computational intelligence (CI) themes, and complementary Artificial Intelligence topics, introduced earlier in the degree. Importantly, the module will allow you to explore in greater depth, selected research-led topics at the forefront of current thinking in the rapidly evolving CI field. After completing this module, you can potentially pursue further research in industry or in education (e.g. as an MSc or PhD student).


Data Ethics and Security
Writing efficient and correct code and learning practical skills are just some of the required skills of a Computer Science or Data Science professional. Alongside these skills, an appreciation of relevant ethics, regulations, governance frameworks and standards must be understood, both in a theoretical and practice sense. This module will help you to appreciate, debate, and apply these ideas, within the UK  and globally. You will be assessed on a portfolio of case studies with practical and theoretical components.