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Summary 2010/11

• Study an innovative degree that focuses on web-bases systems;
• Gain the skills and knowledge to compete in the rapidly expanding world of the web;
• Learn how to design and develop dynamic web content and applications, using the latest industry-standard software;
• Put yourself at the forefront of the online revolution.

This programme will prepare you for an expanding job market, where skills in web-based information systems are in demand. The programme incorporates dynamic web-database programming, streaming media, interface design, audio and animation. Usability and accessibility are particularly strong features of the programme.

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Summary 2011/12

• Study an innovative degree that focuses on web-bases systems;
• Gain the skills and knowledge to compete in the rapidly expanding world of the web;
• Learn how to design and develop dynamic web content and applications, using the latest industry-standard software;
• Put yourself at the forefront of the online revolution.

This programme will prepare you for an expanding job market, where skills in web-based information systems are in demand. The programme incorporates dynamic web-database programming, streaming media, interface design, audio and animation. Usability and accessibility are particularly strong features of the programme.

2011 Entry Requirements

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

Details

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Who is this course for?

This course is for people who want a foundation in IT skills and a specialism that focuses learning on the development of web-based systems.

What will I gain from this programme?

You will gain experience of the technologies used for developing a wide range of both back-end and front-end systems associated with the web. You will also gain the key graduate skills increasingly demanded by employers.

What will I study?

In year one you will share compulsory modules with computing students to develop your fundamental IT skills. These are: Computer Architecture; Systems Analysis; Programming; Web Site Design; and Multimedia Systems, which includes digital imaging and web sound. You will also have the option of selecting another module from the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.

In year two you begin to specialise in web systems with modules such as Usable Hypermedia, Interaction Design, eCommerce, and OO Web Programming. You will also study Research and Development Methods and begin to develop an online portfolio of your work.

Year three offers a chance to continue development of the online portfolio, and to undertake a significant final year research project. You will also study Streaming Media, Rich Internet Applications (RIA) and Mobile Application Development.

How will I study?

The course is extremely practical with many classes based in well-equipped computer laboratories with up-to-date hardware and industry standard software, such as Adobe CS4 Master Collection and Adobe CS4 Web Premium. You will often work in small groups to develop your team-working and other personal transferable skills, such as communication, presentation, report writing, and application of research methods.

Who will be teaching me?

Teaching in the department is conducted by a highly qualified and committed team of staff who are active in areas of research which include mobile computing, distributed systems, e-commerce, strategic information systems, web information architecture, usability, and applications of Problem-Based Learning in Computing and Information Systems.

How will I be assessed?

Methods of assessment vary with individual modules. Most modules are assessed by a combination of coursework and examination, or coursework alone. In the final year, students will be expected to produce a 10,000 word essay or project equivalent, which will be supported by a personal tutor.

What are my career prospects?

This specialised programme will prepare you for jobs in the areas of web design, intranet design and management, and multimedia development. Demand for these skills is growing, particularly in the retail sector with the expansion of online shopping, and there are increasing opportunities in local and national government.

Related Programmes

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

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 offers 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 the £8m Business and Law building, the Business School provides cutting edge facilities and a dynamic learning environment.

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

The Edge Hill tuition fee for full-time undergraduate degree students is £3,290pa for academic year 2010/11. However, you will not have to pay this fee while you are studying. Instead you will be able to take out a tuition fee loan to cover the cost, which is not repayable until you have completed your course and are earning at least £15,000pa.

For more information about grants, loans, bursaries and scholarships, see our Fees and Bursaries pages. Please note, the above information is for UK and EU students only.

Not got the entry requirements?

You can present your previous experience in work (paid or unpaid) to support your 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, then complete our course enquiry form or contact the Course Enquiries Unit on freephone 0800 195 5063.

You can also register to attend one of the open days and evenings we run throughout the year. These are held at our main campus and at other venues across the region. You’ll also find University staff at many national careers fairs and UCAS events.

Still want more?

If you don't find all the information you need on this website, please contact:

• Gary Westhead, Programme Leader
• Tel: 01695 657649
• Email: westheag@edgehill.ac.uk
• Edge Hill Business School, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 4QP

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

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Modules

Year 1

CIS1000 Fundamentals of Computer Architecture (20 credits). This module is about the principles of modern computer organisation and architecture. It explores the layered nature of system structures and examines the interfaces between them. The module covers a range of topics from bare hardware, constructing a PC, networking concepts, operating systems, and sophisticated system software.

CIS1001 Systems Analysis (20 credits). This module is the starting point for developing a computer system for a business need. It will provide you with the ability to analyse problems and design solutions. You will be introduced to the business environment and 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.

CIS1002 Programming: Concepts to Construction (30 credits). This module offers a practical introduction to the fundamentals of an object-oriented approach to software development. You will be introduced to the 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.

CIS1003 Multimedia Development (30 credits). Multimedia is a broad subject area forming part of the general area of computing science. It finds its application in a number of forms, including: mathematics and engineering, medicine, education and particularly advertising, art and entertainment. This module focuses on the production of multimedia for delivery via the desktop computer. You will explore elements of image capture and manipulation, interaction design / animation, and sound / audio for use in multimedia systems, including the Web. You will be expected to assemble text, images, animation and sound in an effective presentation. The module will also enable you to explore and gain experience of current multimedia development tools and how to use them.

CIS1004 Web Site Development (20 credits). This module has been designed to give you an introduction to the field of website development. You will develop a sound understanding of the WWW, the related technologies, the relationships between them and also their use, which will be a valuable asset in all aspects of work within the Web industry. In addition to providing you with the necessary theoretical content, the module also provided a step by step guide through the development of a simple Web project. You will explore the elements of website design, including colour, typography and imagery and assemble them together in an effective layout. In addition, the module also provides an appropriate setting to introduce some of the more powerful, user friendly Web development tools used widely in the industry today, along with XHTML and CSS.

Year 2

CIS2101 Research and Development Methods (20 credits). This module will familiarise you with the main methods of research and the contexts in which they are conducted. It will also help you comprehend the principles and perspectives of research. You will gain practical experience in the use of research methods and help you to gain confidence and experience in the research process, preparing you for your final year dissertation.

CIS2105 Usable Hypermedia (20 credits). This module has been devised in response to the rapidly changing nature of the Web. It is a synthesis of the traditional fields of hypermedia and usability. The module focuses on the structuring, organising, labelling, and managing of hypermedia content, were information architecture and information management remain particularly significant. The module embraces established methods and skills, which can be employed, systematically, to inform a high degree of functionality in the design of navigation for Web content. It will challenge you to analyse and think more critically about Web content, and to encourage you to adopt a more ‘user-centred’ approach to the development of such content. The outcome of this will be a practical response to usability guidelines and accessibility legislation, both of which are now essential considerations in Web development.

CIS2107 Scripting (20 credits). The Internet and the Web have now become increasingly complex environments and as a result, there has been an ever-growing demand from users to experience the ‘wow’ factor when visiting Web sites. This can be achieved, in part, through a dynamic, animated and interactive environment, where information can be presented in a more visually interactive way. Such environments require technologies that go beyond the HTML standard, making use of client-side scripting languages to allow for users to interact in a much more visual way. This module will expose you to the basics of client-side scripting. You will develop an understanding of the tools and techniques needed to implement a dynamic client presentation, and make use of emerging technologies, such as XML and AJAX, which are now commonplace within industry.

CIS2111 Object-Orientated Programming for the Web (20 credits). This module will introduce you to the theoretical concepts and practical and applications of object oriented programming (OOP) for the Web. OOP has been used as the standard methodology for modelling and programming complex desktop based software for many years. Only recently have web-based programming languages been updated to allow for the development method to be applied. You will have the opportunity to learn a programming language such as ActionScript or PHP, and you will also obtain skills in using UML, a modelling language, and it’s supporting CASE tools.

CIS2114 Professional Portfolio I (10 credits). This module will embrace many of the new and upcoming social-networking technologies, such as MySpace, You Tube, Flickr and BeBo, currently sweeping the Internet. You will be required to exploit these technologies with a view to creating your own online digital portfolio. Your portfolio will consist of Web content, presented in a form which demonstrates interdependency with these social-networking technologies. You will be expected to compile the portfolio on your own over course of the semester. The content of the digital portfolio will go beyond a conventional resume. It will be a visual representation of your finest work and a way to present your personal and professional achievements in a concrete way.

CIS2115 e-Commerce (30 credits). Contemporary databases now perform a central role in many Web-based systems and Web design procedures are evolving to meet the demands of such systems. The application of the major principles and theories of database design will, therefore, be a significant feature of this module. You will be introduced to the theories, concepts and methods behind designing and building Web database systems. You will also learn a server side scripting language, how to design and implement a database within a web environment, and finally link these together to produce an e-Commerce system. Given the current trend for medium and large scale businesses to deliver content and services via database driven websites, this module will provide you with much needed industry skills.

Year 3

CIS3100 Research and Development Project (40 credits). The final year project allows you to pursue, individually, an aspect of computing of your choice, fostering the development of initiative and self confidence. The project may take either of two forms: the creation of an appropriate system (software or hardware based for a client) or an appropriate research dissertation. You are responsible for managing the project but will receive one-to-one support from your personal tutor throughout the year.

CIS3104 Mobile Application Development (20 credits). The world’s two fastest growing services, namely Mobile Technology and the Internet, are coming together. This is leading to the so called Mobile Internet model which will have immense impact on telecommunications companies, ISPs and any other organisation wishing to transact in the new world economy. From the user’s perspective, this will lead to a move to mobile application development – any content (e.g. information, entertainment, data, service) will be available on any appliance (mobile phone, personal digital assistant, TV, PC, wristwatch, etc) at any location, and in the right context. This module provides you with a comprehensive theoretical and practical understanding of all the relevant technologies associated with mobile computing, ranging from applications development and middleware support for mobile applications to fixed and mobile networking technologies and standards and mobile devices. You will also gain practical skills by developing small applications for mobile devices.

CIS3112 Streaming Media Technologies (20 credits). Advances in computing and networking technology mean that it is now feasible to deliver media such as video and sound across the internet. Websites are progressively offering an increasingly media-rich provision of content. However the structure of internet traffic gives rise to problems when working with complex media such as video and audio. Limited bandwidth, latency and noise are all problems that can affect real time delivery of media over the internet. Internet streaming technologies iron out these natural traffic variations inherent on the internet. They also enable presentations to be played as they are received by a client rather than waiting for the full file to download – increasing the immediate impact and responsiveness of websites. Further benefits of streaming media via the internet include on-demand viewing, enhanced e-commerce and an overall enriched user experience. This module investigates the technologies that enable multimedia such as video and audio to be streamed effectively over the internet. You will explore theoretical issues, as well as utilising a range of tools to encode, compress and stream media over a network.

CIS3113 Professional Development Portfolio (20 credits). This module enhances employability by enabling you to construct a design portfolio which demonstrates your capabilities, together with career development activities to maximise success at job seeking and interview. You will also develop technical knowledge and skills. Web 2.0 technologies are embraced, including the new online PDP (PebblePad). The portfolio will be an online organised collection of documentation: e.g. multimedia, Mash Ups, a resume, artwork, presented in an accessible form via the Internet. Self-directed and negotiated learning principles are used, facilitated by academic and careers staff. Live or role-play assignments and interviews are used in order to provide an authentic experience. Summative assessment of portfolio and presentation is aligned closely with this learning and teaching approach.

CIS3114 Rich Internet Applications (RIA) (20 credits). Advances in telecommunications technology and a constant surge by users for more advanced, real-time, rich-media content, has resulted in the development of Rich Internet Applications (RIAs), applications that require technologies that go some way beyond the HTML standard. This module will introduce you to the theories and concepts behind RIAs, and the technology that makes them work within the current Web scheme. You will gain knowledge of the relevant processes, procedures and technologies necessary to design and build a functional RIA.