BSc (Hons) Computing (Systems and Software)

Summary 2012/13

• Join a Computing degree ranked top in the North West for overall student satisfaction (National Student Survey, 2011);
• Develop sophisticated software for emerging techniques such as mobile and distributed computing;
• Gain invaluable work experience and build a network of contacts with an optional full-year industrial placement;
• Learn essential people and team skills to complement your technical expertise.

This course focuses on the systems and software that make computers work, and how to configure and manage these systems. The programme will give you a firm grounding in the fundamental concepts of computing and an introduction to the latest software tools and technologies. You will also develop your organisational and communication skills, as well as gaining the knowledge and skills to develop sophisticated software, particularly in the area of mobile computers, interfaces and databases.

2012 Entry Requirements

A typical offer is expected to be 240 UCAS tariff points plus evidence of numeracy.

Details

Who is this course for?

The programme is for anyone interested in studying a computing degree and particularly wanting to concentrate on the software side, including the systems it runs on. This includes databases, object oriented programming, forensic computing, software engineering, distributed systems, operating systems, networks, and mobile application development.

What will I gain from this programme?

Specialising in software and systems, you will gain a firm grounding in the fundamental concepts of computing and an introduction to the latest software tools and methodologies.

You will also develop your organisational and communication skills, learning to communicate effectively on paper, online and face-to-face. Your studies will involve you delivering presentations to your classmates, responding to their opinions in person and by email, as well as developing sophisticated skills of analysis and argument. You'll learn to think on your feet and work independently on your own initiative. Most of all, you'll learn how to make sense of large amounts of complex data and to respond quickly and effectively, a skill valued very highly by employers.

What will I study?

In Year 1 you will be introduced to business systems and the business environment and techniques and processes for specifying, designing and implementing systems. Part of your first year studies will look at career options within the Computing and IT industry to help you select your second and third year modules.

Year 2 begins to provide a more specialised focus on systems and software, including database design and the theory and practical skills in networking and data communications. All second year students have the option of completing a 12-month industrial placement before beginning their third year. Alternatively, you can opt to undertake a short placement during your second year.

In Year 3 you have the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in more specialised and developing areas of technology such as mobile applications and forensic computing.

How will I study?

Computing involves considerable practical activity and many classes will be based in computer workshops and will focus on student activity as a means of learning. We introduce theoretical concepts by building on concrete practical activity. Computing professionals frequently work in teams and need to interact with users, so you will be given opportunities to work together and develop the essential 'people skills' to complement your technical skills. The university Virtual Learning Environment is also an integral part of our teaching methods.

Placement

You will select either a short work placement or Graduate Enterprise.

In the work placement you will identify and analyse workplace problems and research and identify a range of solutions, implementing and evaluating them and then writing a report. You will develop skills and confidence to apply and secure employment for short and a year-long industrial placement if you select this option.

Graduate Enterprise allows you to work in small groups and establish, organise and run your own business venture. You elect a board of directors, raise capital, and market and finance a product or service of your own choice. At the end of the programme, the company goes into voluntary liquidation and you present a report and accounts to your shareholders.

Who will be teaching me?

All our staff are passionate about student learning and development. The degree is delivered by specialists in Computing. The team includes active researchers in areas including mobile computing, distributed systems, e-commerce, strategic information systems, web information architecture, visualisation and applications of Problem-Based Learning in Computing and Information Systems. The academic staff are regular contributors to academic conferences and journals.

How will I be assessed?

We use a wide variety of assessment types ranging from practical exercises, reports and essays to examinations. Students will often be assessed in groups as well as individually.

What are my career prospects?

You will graduate well placed for a career as a programmer, network designer or manager, systems analyst, systems designer, software engineer, product engineer, games programmer or systems administrator.

Further study at Edge Hill University

• MSc Computing and Information Systems
• MSc Web Development

Related Programmes

• BSc (Hons) Computing
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Part Time)
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Application Development)
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Control and Embedded Systems)
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Information Systems)
• BSc (Hons) Information Technology Management for Business
• BSc (Hons) Web Systems Development

A Great Study Environment

Computing and Information Systems is housed in the modern, purpose-built Creative Media and Information Systems Technology (CMIST) building. There are four dedicated teaching laboratories with extensive PC provision, peripherals such as web cams and scanners and the latest industry standard software from Microsoft and Macromedia, plus access to other central computer laboratories.

Edge Hill Business School draws on expertise from a range of departments and provides a focal point for research, consultancy and the delivery of career enhancing programmes. Our IT laboratories have extensive PC and Mac provision with plenty of peripherals.

Based in 160 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the Ormskirk Campus is a unique and inspirational place to study. Industry standard resources and cutting edge technology combine to make an interactive and highly advanced teaching and learning environment. Everything you could want is on one site with 25 acres of sport and leisure facilities, more than 1,000 rooms in halls of residence and fantastic modern spaces in which you can study and socialise.

The University library gives you access to thousands of books, journals, online resources and extensive PC and media provision. You'll get all the support you need to succeed, reflected in Edge Hill University being ranked in the top two in England for students' personal development, and the top three in the country for assessment and feedback, in the 2011 National Student Survey. The University is also featured in the top four in England for graduate employment.

How do I apply?

Apply online through UCAS at www.ucas.ac.uk.

See our How to Apply pages for more information on the application process and our Admissions criteria.

Fees and Finance

For academic year 2012/13, Edge Hill University will charge £9,000 for full-time BA, BSc and LLB degrees. Eligible students will not have to pay upfront for their tuition. The cost of tuition will be paid by a loan which you will only start to repay once you have finished the course and are earning over £21,000.

Eligible full-time students can also apply for a maintenance grant, subject to household income, and a non-means-tested loan to help with living costs.

Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships for prospective full-time students. These include £2,000 Entrance Scholarships rewarding determination, commitment and achievement in creative arts, performing arts, sport and volunteering. Eligible entrants with outstanding grades are recognised through the £1,000 High Achievers Scholarship.

The University will also be offering awards, worth £3,000 in cash benefits and fee/accommodation waivers for academic year 2012/13, to eligible prospective full-time students through the National Scholarship Programme.

For more information on scholarships, including eligibility criteria for each award, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

To find out more about fees, grants and loans for full-time study in academic year 2012/13, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfees2012.

For students choosing the 4-year route, tuition fees and financial support arrangements are the same as the equivalent year of the full-time programme, with fees for the sandwich year still to be confirmed.

Please note, the above information is for UK and eligible EU students only. International students should check the fees and finance information at www.edgehill.ac.uk/internationalfees2012.

Not got the entry requirements?

We welcome applications from those without traditional qualifications or from those who already have a Foundation degree.

Students returning to education may present their previous experience in work (paid or unpaid) to support their application.

Students with relevant study through either a professional body or appropriate academic course can apply to join the programme at an advanced stage.

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to receive a copy of our prospectus or be kept updated about forthcoming events, contact the Course Information, Advice and Guidance Team by emailing study@edgehill.ac.uk or calling 01695 657000.

If you want to attend one of our open events held throughout the year, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays to book your place.

You will also find Edge Hill University staff at many national careers fairs and UCAS events.

Still want more?

If you have any questions you would like to ask the programme leader about this course, please contact:

• Besim Mustafa, Edge Hill Business School, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 4QP
• Tel: 01695 657640
• Email: mustafab@edgehill.ac.uk

Overseas students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk for further information.

Modules

Year 1

Systems Analysis is the starting point for developing a computer system for a business need. This module provides you with the ability to analyse problems and design solutions. You will be introduced to business environment and the problems faced in devising computer-based approaches to business systems. Topics include the systems lifecycle, systems analysis, requirements analysis, data flow diagrams and CASE tools.

Programming: Concepts to Construction offers a practical introduction to the fundamentals of an object-oriented approach to software development. You will be introduced to analytical techniques and processes essential for specifying, designing and implementing applications. Object-orientated concepts and notions are introduced together with the application of a modern programming language which is widely used in industry.

Fundamentals of Computer Architecture is about the principles of modern computer organisation and architecture. It explores the layered nature of systems structures and examines the interfaces between them. The module covers a range of topics from bare hardware, constructing a PC and networking concepts to operating systems and sophisticated system software.

Multimedia Development is a practical module which will allow you to explore elements of image capture and manipulation, interaction design/animation and sound for use in multimedia systems, including the web. You will be expected to assemble text, images, animation and sound together in an effective presentation. In addition, you will also consider the usability and accessibility issues associated with content navigation and interaction. This module will enable you to explore and gain experience of current multimedia development tools and how to use them.

Website Development. This module has been designed to give you an introduction to the field of website development. You will explore the elements of website design, including colour, typography and imagery and assemble these together in an effective layout. In addition, you will look at usability and accessibility issues associated with content, navigation and interaction, whilst gaining a grounded understanding of (X)HTML, DHTML, CSS and client-side scripting.

Year 2

Database Management Systems are integral parts of almost all IT systems. This module builds on systems analysis methods and introduces you to the concepts in database design. You acquire practical skills to be able to model, design, develop and implement relational databases with multiple tables using the rules of normalisation and entity relationship modelling.

Computer Networks underpin the infrastructure of IT systems in modern companies. This module is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the principles of modern networking and data communications and at the same time to motivate you through understanding and awareness of the emerging new technologies in the field. There is a strong practical bias to the module: you analyse the needs of a client, design, present and construct a small LAN to meet their needs.

Research and Development Methods. The ability to undertake research is a fundamental graduate competence. This module will familiarise you with the main methods of research and the contexts in which it is conducted. You will develop an understanding of the principles and perspectives of research and gain practical experience in the use of research methods, building your confidence and experience in the research process, preparing you for your final year dissertation.

Object Oriented Programming concepts are now dominant in software development. This module enables you to understand and apply this approach to develop applications in a modern, widely used language. It develops and significantly extends your ability to apply the methods and concepts introduced in the year 1 programming module and enables you to use a Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tool.

Software Engineering is a module that enables you to gain an in-depth knowledge of the software engineering processes and development models, developing skills in producing high quality software documentation. Software Engineering is a systematic approach to the analysis, design, implementation and maintenance of software. Virtually all electrical equipment now includes some kind of software. Even simple software systems have inherent complexity and require correct use of engineering principles in their development.

Computer Systems Architecture is about making computer hardware and software co-operate efficiently to function as fast as possible given finite resources and for the minimum cost. Over the years improvements in technology and advances in computer architecture have resulted in huge increases both in computer complexity and performance. In this module you will examine aspects of modern computer architectures and consider how the interfaces between hardware and software have been influencing the evolution, design and performance of computer systems over the past few decades. The module sets out to demonstrate that, at the most basic level, a computer system is built from relatively simple digital circuits which, in turn, are designed to support higher layers of abstraction as programming models. You will an understanding and appreciation of a computer system’s functional components, their characteristics, performance, and interactions.

You will also select one of the following modules:

Work Related Learning is a module which enables you to participate in a short work placement. You will identify and analyse work place problems appropriate to the programme of study, research and identify a range of potential solutions, implement and evaluate the most appropriate solution after discussion with the work place and academic mentors, and write an evaluative report. This module furthers your career development learning plans, enabling you to have the required skills and confidence in applying and securing employment for both short-term and year-long industrial placements, thus enhancing your overall prospects in gaining graduate level employment.

Graduate Enterprise is an alternative to the work related learning module in which you will work in small groups to establish, organise and run your own small business venture. In running your company, you elect a board of directors from amongst your peers, raise capital, and market and finance a product or service of your own choice. At the end of the programme, the company goes into voluntary liquidation and you will present a report and accounts to your shareholders.

Team Project is a module which enables you to develop essential employability skills in the context of a realistic team-based computing project. You will learn, practice and evaluate your team working skills, together with career development activities that are designed to improve confidence and competence. You will also develop technical knowledge and skills.

Live or role-play projects and interviews are used in order to provide an authentic project experience. The module is also informed by the Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) and the SFIAplus skills model, the IT skills, training and development standard widely used in the UK and beyond. It is designed to enable you to develop autonomy, influence and business skills in an environment of developing complexity.

Year 3

Computing / Web Development Project enables you to individually pursue an aspect of computing of your choice, fostering the development of initiative and self-confidence. The project will typically entail the creation of an appropriate system (software or hardware based) for a client. You are responsible for managing your project, but will receive one-to-one support from your personal tutor throughout the year.

Legal, Social, Ethical and Professional Issues in Computing is a module that engages you with essential professional aspects of the discipline. Computing and IT are areas of practical activity, which in different ways, employ and affect a large number of people in society. It is therefore vital that you are aware of the most pressing professional, legal and ethical issues affecting and surrounding the discipline.

Embedded Systems introduces you to the principles of embedded systems as essential tools for enabling many other advanced technologies we see or experience around us. The basics of the hardware and software unique to microcontrollers, as core component of embedded systems, are introduced. You will get to program a microcontroller and apply this skill to communicate with or control external devices.

Mobile Application Development introduces you to the emerging area of mobile computing and gives you the knowledge and experience of developing mobile applications for different types of mobile devices. You will develop an understanding of the system architectures that can be employed in mobile internet applications and investigate various mobile software and hardware platforms.

Distributed Systems aims to give you broad knowledge for building distributed computer systems. You will learn the main concepts of parallel and distributed systems. A number of modern and representative case studies (systems built on different middleware technologies) will be studied. Practical implementations of a small distributed system will also be undertaken during the course.

Internet Security. Society depends increasingly on computer systems; the systems are accessible from intranets and the internet, therefore increasing the risk to system integrity. Computing professionals need a sound understanding of the threats and vulnerabilities of a system, and preventative and recovery measures. In this module you will gain an in-depth understanding of the principles of computer and network security, together with an understanding of the key vulnerabilities of a networked computer system. You will design and construct a secure network.

You will also select one of the following modules:

Project Management is a module that teaches skills frequently cited as being of high value by graduates after experience in industry. Software projects frequently fail to be delivered on time, within budget, to specification and to agreed quality standards. It is vital that you are able to plan and manage IT and software development projects effectively if they are to succeed. Project management is a complex activity and demands a professional approach. This module stresses the importance of project planning, monitoring and control in the management of large scale projects. It emphasises not only the techniques which can be applied and the tools which can be used, but also the ‘softer’ human factors which must be taken into account in managing large project teams.

Operating Systems. This module is about the internal structure of modern multi-tasking operating systems. It explores the techniques used in order to efficiently manage the resources of computer systems and provide protection to these resources and its users.

Coaching Learners. This module provides an opportunity for you to experience teaching and learning from the lecturer's perspective, develop skills for assisting students to learn and develop an understanding of some of the underpinning educational theory. If you wish to progress onto a PGCE, adult teacher training or similar, this module will provide highly relevant experience of the needs of an adult learner.

Forensic Computing provides a firm foundation in this relatively new field within the computing science area, by teaching the methods, tools and techniques for data recovery and analysis, together with the legal requirements for presenting such data. The module provides the skills and knowledge necessary for you to undertake a forensic computing investigation in a systematic manner, to develop an understanding of the role of a computer forensics analyst through the use of existing applications and investigative techniques, as well as developing an understanding of the theory and practice of computer forensics.

Interface Programming. The key determinant of whether or not a computer system is successful is whether or not the organisation for whom it is designed is able to use it. Hence, effective design is reliant upon understanding the human context in which a new artefact has to fit. A good fit helps ensure that the development as whole was not wasted effort.

Human computer interaction is a field that looks towards applying information about human behaviour, abilities and activities in the design and evaluation of systems for productive, comfortable and effective human use. In this module, you will gain an insight into the issues relating to the design and implementation of user interfaces. You will develop a critical understanding of the mechanisms adopted and also the relationship between the end user, the interface designer and the software developer through the development lifecycle that takes place.

Application Frameworks. In computer programming the concept of software libraries, or Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), is a common mechanism for providing often-used, generic software elements that can be used to build up applications. A further abstraction of APIs is the development of Application Frameworks, which provide generic functionality that may be over-ridden but also offer management and control that must remain in place when an application is built using the framework. More recently a number of these frameworks have been developed to support the implementation of web-based applications.

The rationale for this module is to explore the adoption and usage of these frameworks as their use is considered good practice in the software development industry. You will develop a critical understanding of the role of application frameworks in the software development process and gain an insight into the underpinning concepts and programming patterns often deployed to aid the development in a number of areas of software applications. Consideration will also be given to the emergence of web application frameworks to facilitate software development on the internet.

Advanced Databases enables you to further develop your knowledge of databases and database management systems (DBMS). Databases are an essential element of most small to large computer systems, so it is important that anyone wishing to pursue a career in IT is able to work with advanced relational databases and the less common types of database systems (eg Object Database Systems etc). The module discusses enhanced normalisation, Structured Query Language (SQL), as well as other modelling tools or database design. You will gain first hand experience with using modern DBMS.