BSc (Hons) Computing (Networking, Security and Forensics)

Specialise in the management of networked computer systems, their security and forensic analysis as you prepare to manage a modern IT infrastructure on a degree accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

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    • Studying Abroad Option Available
    • Sandwich Year Option Available
    • International Students Can Apply
    • Work Placement Opportunity
    • Professional Accreditation

    Overview

    UCAS Code: I290
    Course Length: 3 Years Full-Time, Typically 4.5 Years Part-Time
    Start Dates: September 2020, September 2021
    Subjects: Computing and IT
    Location: Edge Hill University
    Example Offers: BBC (A Level) or DMM (BTEC)
    View full entry criteria

    The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) Accredited Degree logo

    • Specialise in the management of networked computer systems, their security and forensic analysis;
    • Develop valuable employability skills and experience throughout the programme, with the additional option of undertaking a year out in industry before your final year;
    • Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

    The systems and information that networks contain are key assets for organisations, so it is essential they are run professionally. Working on real life projects and using industry-standard equipment as part of a lively learning environment, this degree will prepare you to manage modern IT infrastructures, but will take you beyond technical network administration to integrate IT management, project management, network theory and practice, and security and forensics. A short work placement and an optional year-long industry placement will help you develop technical and managerial perspectives to view the network as a strategic resource.

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    In Depth

    What will I study?

    In Year 1 you will study a balanced range of current computing topics covering the fundamentals of analysis and construction of systems, as well as the foundations of computer science, multimedia technologies, and web design and development. This experience, together with expert advice from your personal tutor, will enable you to make an informed choice when selecting subsequent modules

    Year 2 provides a more specialised focus on networking and data communications, introducing security and forensics, together with computer systems architecture. There is also a dedicated module focused on enhancing your employability and developing essential skills for the workplace. This module includes the opportunity of a work placement to enable you to relate theory to practice. On completion of the second year you have the option of undertaking a 12-month industrial placement before beginning your third year.

    In Year 3 you will have the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in more specialised and developing areas of technology. These include areas such as information and network security applications. You will also complete a research and development project which can take the form of either the creation of an appropriate piece of software or hardware or the writing of an academic paper. The emphasis at this level is on the development of independent study and learning.

    How will I study?

    Computing involves considerable practical activity and many classes are based in computer workshops, focusing on student activity as a means of learning. Theoretical concepts will then be introduced by building on solid practical activity.

    To enhance your employability, you will be given opportunities to work together and develop the essential people skills to complement your technical ability. You will also have the opportunity to undertake a work placement.

    How will I be assessed?

    The pattern of assessment is varied and designed to ensure you acquire a range of skills, particularly those required by future employers. You will design and write programs, write reports and essays, critically analyse documents, deliver oral presentations and undertake examinations. We want you to develop an ability to work independently and as part of a team.

    Who will be teaching me?

    You will be taught by staff who are passionate about student learning and development. The programme team are specialists in computing and active researchers in areas including security, networks and forensics. Academic staff are regular contributors to academic conferences and journals.

    A Great Study Environment

    Two students with rucksacks walk in front of the Tech Hub.

    The Department of Computer Science is based in the state-of-the-art £13m Technology Hub. This purpose-built development offers highly contemporary suites of outstanding facilities for Computer Science students.

    Our modern computer laboratories are equipped with high-specification computers, high-resolution screens and the latest hardware and software.

    A four-screen CAVE (Computer Augmented Virtual Environment) provides a super immersive 3D virtual environment, enabling users to immerse themselves in a virtual room and experience real life scenarios in 4K resolution.

    There are also specialist laboratories for networking and games programming, in addition to a specialist research laboratory, open access laboratory, a Harvard style lecture theatre, and ‘The Hatchery’, a working space for new business ideas.

    Learning resources include robots and a robotics simulator, wired and wireless networking hardware, graphics software, web development tools, software development environments, big data servers, eye trackers, giant 3D interactive teaching screens, and other specialist software required for studying forensics and internet security techniques.

    The department has strong links with industry and the curriculum is kept current and highly relevant through input from our Employer Advisory Panel.

    A dedicated Enterprise Projects Team and Web Factory social enterprise initiative recruit students to paid work on a range of commercial projects. This provides you with the opportunity to gain experience in a commercial environment. You will also be actively supported in developing solutions for local businesses through your coursework.

    Competitions including ‘University Technology Challenge’ and ‘Hackathon’, organised in collaboration with companies such as Barclays, the BBC and Talk Talk, allow you to show invention and initiative through, for example, inventing new apps and presenting a business case in a highly competitive environment.

    An annual employability conference and specialist careers fair prepare you for employment. You can also engage with research through the ‘INSPIRE’ initiative, with some of our students having papers published at international conferences.

    Modules

    Expand All

    Level 4 (Year 1 of Full-Time Programme)

    CIS1107Foundations of Computer Science (20 credits)

    Foundations of Computer Science introduces you to the concepts and practices of problem solving through a series of innovative class seminars and individual experiments.  You will learn to identify a problem, analyse it, and produce a structured solution. Exploring common issues within computing, you will also see how all of the separate areas merge, overlap and depend on each other in order for a robust computing system to be developed.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS1108Digital World: Information Systems and Design (20 credits)

    Digital World: Information Systems and Design explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned by computing technology. The module will develop your understanding of the essential concepts of systems analysis, including identifying systems processes, understanding business needs and presenting appropriate IT solutions. You will then apply this knowledge of systems analysis and design methods to make suggestions for improvement of a business, its processes and information systems.


    Assessment: Coursework: 80%, Practical(s): 20%.

    CIS1109Digital World: Computer Architecture and Networks (20 credits)

    Digital World: Computer Architecture and Networks explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned by computing technology while challenging you to envision your future developments as a Computing professional. The module discusses how current and modern computer architectures operates. It also analyses the technology on which computer architecture depends, starting with current central processing units (CPUs) and their instruction sets and progressing to the principles of modern multitasking operating systems that are supported by the underlying hardware architectures. An important aspect of modern computer technology is networking. The module introduces and covers basic principles of networks, their interconnecting components and protocols used in enabling reliable communications.


    Assessment: Coursework: 70%, Written Exam(s): 30%.

    CIS1110Web Design and Development (20 credits)

    Web Design and Development is a fusion of two distinct areas in the world of web content production. The module will enable you to develop a sound understanding of the World Wide Web, the related technologies, the relationships between them and also their use. You will also explore colour and design theories, layout and typography. In addition, the module provides an appropriate setting to introduce some of the more powerful, user friendly web development tools used widely in the industry today, along with HTML and CSS and both client and server side scripting.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS1111Programming: Concepts to Construction 1 (20 credits)

    Programming: Concepts to Construction 1 provides a practical introduction to the fundamentals of an object-oriented approach to software development. You will be introduced to the analytical techniques and processes that are essential for specifying, designing and implementing applications.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS1112Programming: Concepts to Construction 2 (20 credits)

    Programming: Concepts to Construction 2 provides a practical introduction to the fundamentals of an object-oriented approach to software development. You will explore and develop object-oriented modelling techniques and receive an introduction to programming through event-driven program design and graphical user interfaces.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    Level 5 (Year 2 of Full-Time Programme)

    CIS2145Computer Networks (20 credits)

    Computer Networks is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the basic principles of modern networking and data communications. The module will also enhance your understanding and awareness of emerging new technologies in the field. You will explore the major components of communications networks including Wifi networks. In addition, you will learn how to evaluate, plan, design and present appropriate networking solutions to given specifications, and develop a critical understanding of routing, network addressing and how networks can be subnetted.


    Assessment: Coursework: 70%, Written Exam(s): 30%.

    CIS2151Introduction to Security (20 credits)

    Introduction to Security is designed to introduce you to the key concepts in information security and computer forensics. Society depends increasingly on computer systems; the systems are accessible from the internet, therefore increasing the risk to system integrity.  Furthermore, the growth of social networking systems and e-commerce means that personal data is also at risk.  It is therefore essential that internet users have a sound understanding of the risks involved, together with preventative and recovery measures. Security is a complex topic and this module provides an understanding of the context and overall security issues that apply in the use of networked computer systems from a perspective of personal data. You will explore the concepts of information security and identify security risks in different scenarios.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS2153Computer Systems Architecture (20 credits)

    Computer Systems Architecture is about advanced features of modern computer architectures which enhance system performance. The central processing unit (CPU) instruction set design and choices have been explored in the context of system performance. Cache and instruction pipeline technologies are studied as examples of techniques developed to get round the limitations of the von Neumann bottleneck. Novel reduced instruction set computer (RISC) architecture is also examined and justified.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS2162Employability (20 credits)

    Employability simulates, as accurately as possible, what it’s like to work in a given Computer Science specialism. You will be introduced to the ‘world of work’ via a simulated work environment, as part of a team representing a fictional company, but which need to produce real products or engage in realistic work-related activities. A 15-day placement will also enhance essential employability skills and provide you with the opportunity to relate theory to practice, build on your transferable skills and evaluate your learning.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS2165Introduction to Digital Forensics (20 credits)

    Introduction to Digital Forensics teaches the methods, tools, techniques and forensic principles required for evidence recovery from a variety of digital media together. Legal and ethical considerations for undertaking such an investigation will also be considered. The module provides the background knowledge and understanding necessary to undertake a forensic computing investigation in a systematic, methodological manner, to develop an understanding of existing applications and investigative techniques and to understand the forensic issues and obstacles to conducting an investigation.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    You will select one of the following modules:

    CIS2143Databases (20 credits)

    Databases introduces you to the fundamental concepts in database design. You will acquire practical skills in database modelling, development and design using the rules of normalisation and entity relationship modelling. The module will enable you to identify the legal implications of creating and maintaining a database system, recognise and apply the principles underpinning the relationship model, utilise an appropriate database language, and extract and present data in a meaningful format suitable for the required use.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS2159Wireless and Mobile Networks (20 credits)

    Wireless and Mobile Networks is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the basic principles of modern wireless and mobile networks. The past decade has seen an enormous expansion in the use of mobile technology. A further trend has been the convergence of various forms of digital communication which has enable enterprises and individuals to make wide use of mobile devices to access personal and corporate data. The business benefits of mobile access require organisations to extend the availability of corporate data, essentially blurring the perimeter of the organisation’s network. Such developments present huge challenges to information security specialists. This module therefore explores the technologies of mobile and wireless networking and discusses security challenges. It also provides you with hands-on experience in the set-up, configuration and testing of wireless networks.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    Level 6 (Year 3 of Full-Time Programme)

    CIS3140Research and Development Project (40 credits)

    Research and Development Project provides you with the opportunity to show individual creativity and originality and apply appropriate knowledge and skills taught throughout the programme. The module requires you to demonstrate investigative, problem-solving, communication, management and other transferable skills as you undertake an individual  project. You will conduct in-depth work on a substantial problem. This will include researching and analysing the problem and identifying and achieving a solution.


    Assessment: Coursework: 25%, Practical(s): 75%.

    CIS3142Operating Systems (20 credits)

    Operating Systems focuses on the internal structure of modern multi-tasking operating systems. The module explores the techniques used in order to efficiently manage the resources of computer systems and provide protection to these resources and its users. The hardware/software interfaces and the levels of abstractions are studied in detail.


    Assessment: Coursework: 70%, Written Exam(s): 30%.

    CIS3161Research and Development Methods (20 credits)

    Research and Development Methods prepares you to undertake a software development project or dissertation. The module will enhance your ability to manage an individual project and act autonomously with limited supervisor guidance. You will be introduced to the main methods of research and the contexts in which they are conducted and enhance your understanding of the principles and perspectives of research. Building your practical experience and confidence in using a range of research methods, the aim is to demystify research and recognise the everyday skills and techniques which are involved.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    You will select two of the following modules:

    CIS3144Forensic Computing (20 credits)

    Forensic Computing teaches the methods, tools and techniques required for data recovery and analysis. The legal requirements for presenting such data will also be considered. The module provides the skills and knowledge necessary to undertake a forensic computing investigation in a systematic manner, as well as to develop an understanding of the role of a computer forensics analyst through the use of existing applications and investigative techniques.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    CIS3150IT Management (20 credits)

    IT Management develops your understanding and knowledge to underpin the acquisition and ongoing management of systems and services within an organisation. The module enhances your awareness of the need for a tactical and operational view in the management of technology services, encompassing selection, implementation, third party relationships, and legal and security necessities. You will gain an appreciation of the issues involved in the management of technology services, enhance your knowledge to manage the pre and post systems acquisition process, gain an appreciation of organisation and user support requirements and build your awareness of the security and compliance needs of modern business organisations.


    Assessment: Coursework: 70%, Written Exam(s): 30%.

    CIS3151Internet Security (20 credits)

    Internet Security equips you with an in-depth understanding of the principles of computer and network security, outlines the key vulnerabilities of a networked computer system, and demonstrates how to design and construct a secure network. While society depends increasingly on computer systems, the systems are accessible from intranets and the internet, thereby increasing the risk to system integrity. A sound understanding of the threats and vulnerabilities of a system, as well as the associated preventative and recovery measures, is therefore important. This module will develop your analytical and evaluative skills in the context of a complex and unpredictable systems environment in order to define an appropriate level of security to meet the needs of a network owner.


    Assessment: Coursework: 70%, Practical(s): 30%.

    CIS3154System Penetration Testing (20 credits)

    System Penetration Testing provides an introduction to the ethics, principles and practice of an essential component of information security, systematically analysing system vulnerabilities and their exploitation. This process provides evidence of the effectiveness of system security controls. It is sometimes called ‘ethical hacking’, though professionally it is referred to as system penetration testing.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS3155Advanced Databases (20 credits)

    Advanced Databases enhances your knowledge of databases, modelling tools and database management systems including object-relational database management systems and NoSQL systems. You will compare and contrast the range of modern DBMS architectures and critically evaluate the implications of the different tools and techniques they make available. You will also critically evaluate the key concepts of advanced databases and their application to database implementation, as well as designing and constructing databases using advanced concepts and techniques.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    Optional modules provide an element of choice within the programme curriculum. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by timetabling requirements.

    Timetables

    Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You can expect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses.

    Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies, revisions to subject benchmarks statements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.

    Entry Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Typical offer 112 UCAS Tariff points, for which no specific subjects are required, plus GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent).

    Example Offers

    Some examples of how you can achieve 112 UCAS Tariff points are as follows:

    • A Level: BBC;
    • BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications): Distinction, Merit, Merit (DMM);
    • Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 credits at Level 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit. The required total can be attained from various credit combinations.

    Please note, the above examples may differ from actual offers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awards may also be accepted.

    As long as you have a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent), there is no maximum number of qualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. This includes additional qualifications such as the Welsh Baccalaureate and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), AS Levels that haven’t been continued to A Level, and General Studies AS or A Level awards.

    For further information on how you can meet the entry requirements, including details of alternative qualifications, please visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/offers.

    EU students can get country-specific information about the University’s entry requirements and equivalent national qualifications at www.edgehill.ac.uk/eu.

    International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international for information on the entry criteria for overseas applicants.

    English Language Requirements

    International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score no lower than 5.5 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.

    If your current level of English is half a band lower, either overall or in one or two elements, you may want to consider our Pre-Sessional English course.

    Are there any alternative ways to meet the entry requirements?

    If you have the ability to study for a degree but lack the necessary qualifications or confidence, our Fastrack: Preparation for Higher Education course could be for you. This free, seven-week programme provides a great opportunity to enhance your study skills and subject knowledge and demonstrate that you are ready to study a particular subject with us, in lieu of achieving the UCAS Tariff points in the entry criteria.

    Upon successful completion of a Fastrack course, you will be well placed to progress onto a corresponding Edge Hill University degree, although additional entry requirements may apply and the availability of specific programmes cannot be guaranteed. For more information, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/fastrack.

    Recognition of Prior Learning

    Edge Hill University recognises learning gained elsewhere, whether through academic credit and qualifications acquired from other relevant courses of study or through recognition of an individual’s professional and employment experience (also referred to as ‘experiential learning’). This may include credit or learning undertaken at another university.

    Previous learning that is recognised in this way may be used towards meeting the entry requirements for a programme and/or for exemption from part of a programme. It is your responsibility to make a claim for recognition of prior learning. For guidance, please consult the University’s academic regulations (sections C7 and F3.1) or contact the faculty in which you are interested in studying.

    Career Prospects

    What are my career prospects?

    This degree prepares you for entry into computing support positions, such as security analyst, security penetration tester, database administrator, software support specialist, computer sales professional, network engineer/administrator, IT manager and IT support. Alternatively, you may wish to train to teach.

    The programme is accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional. Successfully completing an accredited honours degree is the first step to full BCS membership and to being awarded chartered status.

    How can I enhance my employability?

    It is useful to consider, even before you apply, how you will spend your time while studying and make the most of your university experience.

    Optional, additional activities may be available on this degree which could help to prepare you for a stimulating and rewarding career. These include:

    • Sandwich Years – you may have the opportunity to apply to complete a sandwich year placement, usually as the third year of a four year degree, and gain highly relevant work experience;
    • Erasmus+ and Study Abroad – you may have the opportunity to apply to spend time studying or working abroad, usually as the third year of a four year degree, enabling you to immerse yourself in a different culture;
    • Learning a Language – you may be able to participate in Language Steps classes, delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, as additional study.

    Please note, the availability of these additional activities cannot be guaranteed for all students. Depending on availability and the number of students wanting to participate, there may be a competitive application process for sandwich year placements or studying abroad opportunities or you may be required to secure a relevant placement yourself.

    Finance

    Tuition Fees

    If you are a prospective UK or EU student who will be joining this undergraduate degree on a full-time basis in academic year 2020/21, the tuition fee will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students enrolling on the programme in academic year 2020/21 are £12,250 per annum.

    If you are a prospective UK or EU student who will be joining this undergraduate degree on a part-time basis in academic year 2020/21, the tuition fee will be £77 per credit, i.e. £1,540 per 20 credit module. 360 credits are required to complete an undergraduate degree.

    The University may administer a small inflationary rise in tuition fees, in line with Government policy, in subsequent academic years as you progress through the course.

    Financial Support

    Subject to eligibility, UK and EU students joining this undergraduate degree can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK and EU students enrolling on the programme may also be eligible to apply for additional funding to help with living costs.

    For comprehensive information about the financial support available to eligible UK and EU students joining this programme, together with details of how to apply for potential funding, please view our Money Matters 2020/21 guide for your intended mode of study.

    Financial support information for international students can be found at www.edgehill.ac.uk/international/fees.

    Scholarships

    Ten scholarship winners sitting together in a lecture theatre at the Scholarship Awards Evening.Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships with a competitive application process for prospective full-time undergraduate students. These scholarships aren’t linked to academic success and celebrate determination, talent and achievement beyond your coursework, for instance in creativity, enterprise, ICT, performance, sport or volunteering.

    Additional scholarships, which you may qualify to receive, reward outstanding grades and are available to eligible UK and EU students.

    To find out more about scholarships, to assess your eligibility, and to meet some of our dedicated scholarship winners, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

    Apply

    How to Apply

    If you wish to study full-time, apply online through UCAS at www.ucas.com. Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyucas to find out more about the application process.

    If you wish to study part-time, apply directly to Edge Hill University at www.edgehill.ac.uk/apply-part-time.

    Further information for international students about how to apply is available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyinternational.

    Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

    Visit Us

    If you are considering applying to study at Edge Hill University, the best way to gain an insight into student life is to discover our stunning campus for yourself by attending an open day. You can view dates and book your place at www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays.

    Alternatively, if you are unable to attend an open day, you can find out more about all of our events for prospective students, including monthly campus tours, at www.edgehill.ac.uk/visitus.

    Request a Prospectus

    If you would like to explore our full range of degrees before you apply, you can order an undergraduate prospectus at www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradprospectus.

    Get in Touch

    If you have any questions about this programme or what it’s like to study at Edge Hill University, please contact:

    International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk with any queries about overseas study.

    Course Changes

    Expand All This page outlines any material changes to course content, programme structure, assessment methods, entry criteria, and modes of study or delivery, implemented in the past two years.

    27th June 2019 - Withdrawal of Module

    It is no longer possible to study a Language module as an integrated part of this degree. You can still learn a language as additional study, however, through our Language Steps classes.

    15th January 2019 - Changes to Module Status

    CIS2165 Introduction to Forensics (20 credits) changes from optional to compulsory and CIS2143 Databases (20 credits) changes from compulsory to optional in Year 2.