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

  • Study 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
Start Dates:September 2017
Department:Department of Computer Science
Location:Edge Hill University
  • Computing at Edge Hill University ranked in the top two in the North West for overall satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2016;
  • Enhance your career prospects with a short placement in Year 2 and the option of spending an additional year in industry before the final year of your degree;
  • Initial accreditation awarded by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

BCS Accredited Degree

The systems and information that networks contain are key assets for organisations and so it is essential they are run professionally. 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. You will develop both the technical and managerial perspectives to view the network as a strategic resource. Working on real life projects, using industry-standard equipment, you will be part of a lively learning environment and you will benefit from a short placement and an optional year-long placement.

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Department of Computer Science

Course in Depth

What will I study?

In Year 1 you will study a common set of modules that provide a solid foundation for the remainder of the degree. These include a balanced range of computing topics, from the fundamental analysis and construction of systems to multimedia technologies. Part of your studies in Year 1 will also involve looking at career options within industry to help you make an informed choice when selecting your modules for Years 2 and 3.

Year 2 provides a more specialised focus on networking and data communications as well as core computing subjects such as database design. You will be given the opportunity to undertake an optional short work placement or alternative practical module.

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 and forensic computing.

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. As computing professionals frequently work in teams and need to interact with users, you will be given opportunities to develop essential people skills that will complement your technical abilities. The University’s Virtual Learning Environment is also an integral part of our teaching methods.

You will select from a short work placement, graduate enterprise, team project or entrepreneurship module. Any of these options will enhance your developing skills and confidence to assist you in acquiring short and long term employment.

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 mobile computing, distributed systems, e-commerce, web information architecture, visualisation and applications of problem-based learning in computing and information systems. Academic staff are regular contributors to academic conferences and journals.

A Great Study Environment

The Department of Computer Science is currently based in Creative Edge but will be moving to a new state-of-the-art £13m Technology Hub building from academic year 2016/17. This purpose-built development will offer 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. There are specialist laboratories for networking and games programming, in addition to a specialist research laboratory, open access laboratory, and an Enterprise laboratory for commercial projects.

Learning resources include wired and wireless networking hardware, graphics software, web development tools, software development environments, 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

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Year 1

CIS1002 Programming: Concepts to Construction (30 credits)

Programming: Concepts to Construction 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.

CIS1007 Web Design and Development (30 credits)

Web Design and Development enables you to develop a sound understanding of the World Wide Web, the related technologies, the relationships between them and also their use. This knowledge 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 provides a step-by-step guide through the development of a comprehensive 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 widely adopted in the industry.

CIS1101 Foundations 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. The module will explore common problems within computing and enable you to see how separate areas merge, overlap and depend on each other in order for a robust computing system to be developed. Although the focus of the module is specifically on resolving computing problems, the skills and techniques are ubiquitous and therefore highly transferable.

CIS1102 Digital World 1: Computer Architecture and Networks (20 credits)

Digital World 1: Computer Architecture and Networks explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned by computing technology while challenging you to envision your potential future development as a Computing professional. The module discusses how current and modern computer architectures operate and analyses the technology on which they depend, starting with current central processing units 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.

CIS1103 Digital World 2: Information Systems and Design (20 credits)

Digital World 2: Information Systems and Design explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned by computing technology. The module then moves on to the application of systems analysis and design methods to make suggestions for the improvement of a business, its processes and its information systems. The aim is to help you develop an understanding of the essential concepts of systems analysis and identify systems processes, understanding business needs and presenting appropriate IT solutions.

Language modules in French, Spanish or Mandarin, delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, are available to study as an integral part of this degree. A single Language module can be studied instead of CIS1101 Foundations of Computer Science.

Year 2

CIS2101 Research and Development Methods (20 credits)

Research and Development Methods  familiarises you with the main methods of research and the contexts in which they are conducted. The ability to undertake research, to appreciate the different research methods and methodologies, to have knowledge of the sources of information and an understanding of the problems of research are fundamental graduate competencies. This module will help you comprehend the principles and perspectives of research. You will develop practical experience in the use of research methods and gain confidence and experience in the research process.

CIS2112 Computer Networks (20 credits)

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. At the same time, the module will enhance your awareness and understanding of emerging new technologies in the field. There is a strong practical bias to the module; you will analyse the needs of a client and design, present and construct a small local area network to meet their needs.

CIS2131 Introduction to Security and Forensics (20 credits)

Introduction to Security and Forensics enables you to understand the concepts and principles of information security and computer forensics. Security is an essential consideration in all information systems and this module explores a risk-based approach to dealing with threats and vulnerabilities. Principles of computer forensics are introduced, together with the tools and techniques for data recovery and analysis.

CIS2132 Wireless and Mobile Networks (20 credits)

Wireless and Mobile Networks have developed over the last 20 years to become an essential part of the modern world. Technologies such as 802.11, 3G and Bluetooth are now commonly used throughout business. On this module, you will study these technologies and examine how they are used securely within business environments.

CIS2141 Database Fundamentals (20 credits)

Database Fundamentals introduce you to the fundamental concepts in database design. Database design and implementation is a core skill in the computing industry and small, medium and large sized businesses depend upon database management systems (DBMS) for competitive advantage. In addition to this, databases perform a central role in many information systems and are an integral part of e-commerce. This module will outline the fundamental concepts and techniques for appropriate and efficient conceptual, logical and physical database design. You will discover how to handle, manipulate and manage database systems and resources, acquiring practical skills in database modelling, development and design using the rules of normalisation and entity relationship modelling.

You will select one of the following modules:

BUS2020 Graduate Enterprise (20 credits)

Graduate Enterprise enables you to experience running your own company with a number of your colleagues. You can create your own product or service, launch it into the marketplace and experience at first hand the issues faced by small business owners. You will be supported by your own business consultant who is on secondment from industry and the full resources of the Graduate Enterprise Company.

CIS2116 Team Project (20 credits)

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 and complete career development activities that are designed to improve confidence and competence. The module will also develop your 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 BCS’ (Chartered Institute for IT) SFIAplus Skills model and is designed to enable you to develop autonomy, influence and business skills in an environment of developing complexity.

CIS2137 Employability with Placement (20 credits)

Employability with Placement will develop essential employability skills through the preparation for and completion of a 15 day, work-related placement. You will be given the opportunity to prepare for applying for paid or voluntary employment, explore relevant career opportunities, negotiate an appropriate topic to study and reflect on within the workplace, engage with personal and professional development, and identify professional ethics and/or codes of practice within your discipline. The aim is for you to relate theory to practice, build on your transferable skills, and evaluate your own learning.

Year 3

CIS3101 IT Management (20 credits)

IT Management aims to develop your understanding and knowledge to underpin the acquisition and ongoing management of systems and services within an organisation. IT is now a strategic resource within organisations and systematic planning and deployment are essential for competitive advantage. This module also introduces the concept of business continuity and risk planning associated with current environmental changes and third party disruption.

CIS3103 Internet Security (20 credits)

Internet Security provides you with detailed knowledge of the principles of computer and network security, together with an understanding of the key vulnerabilities of a networked computer system. Society depends increasingly on computer systems and computing professionals need a firm grasp of both the threats and vulnerabilities of a system and the associated preventative and recovery measures. The culmination of the module will involve you designing and constructing a secure computer network.

CIS3109 Forensic Computing (20 credits)

Forensic Computing provides a firm foundation in forensic computing by teaching the methods, tools and techniques for data recovery and analysis. The module also covers the legal requirements for presenting such data. The overall aim is to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to undertaking a forensic computing investigation in a systematic manner. You will develop an understanding of the role of a computer forensics analyst through the use of existing applications and investigative techniques looking at both theory and practice.

CIS3115 Legal, Social, Ethical and Professional Issues in Computing (10 credits)

Legal, Social, Ethical and Professional Issues in Computing 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.

CIS3300 Research and Development Project (30 credits)

Research and Development Project provides you with the opportunity to show individual creativity and originality as well as demonstrating the ability to undertake an individual computing/web systems project. The project will be executed independently under the guidance of a supervisor. In exceptional circumstances, group projects may also be permitted. You will conduct in-depth work on a relevant substantial problem, researching and analysing the problem, and finding and realising a solution.

You will select one of the following modules:

CIS3102 Project Management (20 credits)

Project Management ensures you have the skills and understanding to be able to plan and manage IT projects effectively. The module is designed to ensure you can deliver projects on time and within budget, as well as to specification and meeting agreed standards. You will learn the importance of project planning, monitoring and control in the management of large scale projects. The module emphasises not only the techniques which can be applied and the tools which can be used, but also the human factors which must be taken into account when managing large project teams.

CIS3107 Operating Systems (20 credits)

Operating Systems examines the internal structure of modern multi-tasking operating systems. The module explores the techniques used to efficiently manage the resources of computer systems and considers how both resources and users are protected effectively.

CIS3119 Advanced Databases (20 credits)

Advanced Databases enables you to further develop your knowledge of databases and database management systems. Databases are an essential element of most small to large computer systems so it is important that if you wish to pursue a career in IT you are 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 using modern database management systems.

CIS3120 Strategic Information Systems Planning (20 credits)

Strategic Information Systems Planning explores the issues around the planning and implementation of information systems within an organisation. Information systems strategies must be developed within the wider corporate and business strategic planning processes. On the one hand, this entails a search for high impact applications to create an advantage over competitors. On the other hand, it involves the identification of a portfolio of computer-based applications to assist an organisation in executing its current business plan. This module seeks to explore such issues and broaden your view of the effective application of IT across an organisation.

CIS3131 System Penetration Testing (20 credits)

System Penetration Testing is sometimes called ‘ethical hacking’ and is the systematic assessment of security vulnerabilities in a system. This module introduces you to the principles of the concept. You will subsequently use a variety of tools to test the weaknesses of a networked system.

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.

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

120 UCAS Tariff points on the new UCAS Tariff, for which no specific subjects are required, plus evidence of numeracy.

Example Offers

Some typical examples of how you can achieve 120 UCAS Tariff points are detailed below.

  • A Levels – BBB;
  • BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications) – Distinction, Distinction, Merit (DDM);
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma – successful completion of Diploma to include 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 credits must be graded Distinction and 15 credits graded Merit.

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 Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE), 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.

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’).

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 Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and 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. This degree will also give valuable support to an application for a PGCE should you wish to pursue a career in teaching.

The programme carries initial accreditation by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional. Initial accreditation is granted for new courses which seem likely to meet the appropriate BCS criteria but which have not yet produced graduates (due to the limited timeframe). 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 Year – you may have the opportunity to apply to complete a sandwich year placement as part of your programme (usually the third year of a four year degree) and gain highly relevant work experience;
  • Study Abroad – you may have the opportunity to apply to spend an additional year (usually the third year of a four year degree) studying or working abroad;
  • Language Learning – you may be able to select language modules in French, Spanish or Mandarin, delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, as an integral part of your degree (for which you will gain academic credits). Alternatively, it may be possible to select the language modules 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 study 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 in academic year 2017/18, we expect tuition fees to increase to £9,250 per annum but this is currently subject to Government approval. You are advised to check this page regularly and once the position has been confirmed we will update this information. Tuition fees for international students enrolling on the programme in academic year 2017/18 are £11,575 per annum.

Financial Support

Subject to eligibility, UK and EU students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK students 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 in academic year 2017/18, together with details of how to apply for funding, please view our Money Matters 2017/18 guide at www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfinance2017.

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

Scholarships

ScholarshipsEdge 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

Apply online through UCAS at www.ucas.com.

Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyucas to find out more about the application process.

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/bookanopenday.

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

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.

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Course Changes

This page outlines any material changes to course content, programme structure, assessment methods, entry criteria, and modes of study or delivery, implemented since 1st September 2015.

26th May 2016 - New Module Added

CIS2607 Entrepreneurship (20 credits) added as an optional module in Year 2.

25th May 2016 - Change of Module

CIS2141 Database Fundamentals (20 credits) replaces CIS2100 Introduction to Databases (20 credits) as a compulsory module in Year 2.

4th September 2015 - New Module Added

CIS2140 Mobile Apps (20 credits) added as an optional module in Year 2.

4th September 2015 - Change of Modules

CIS1102 Digital World 1: Computer Architecture and Networks (20 credits) and CIS1103 Digital World 2: Information Systems and Design (20 credits) replace CIS1100 Computer Systems in a Digital World (40 credits) in Year 1. CIS2137 Employability with Placement (20 credits) replaces CIS2136 Work Related Learning (20 credits) in Year 2. CIS3300 Research and Development Project (30 credits) replaces the choice of either CIS3121 Dissertation (30 credits) or CI3122 Computing/Web Development Project (30 credits) in Year 3.