Computing
| From | To | UK Fee * | International Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 Sep 2012 | 31 Aug 2013 | £7,800 | £9,000 |
* Exceptions may apply. Please see Fees and Finance for further information.
Introduction
Modern computer systems are complex, therefore, we need a rigorous approach to their development.
The BSc (Hons) Computing degree will provide you with a sound knowledge of software engineering principles and practice and give you the technical skills needed to develop such systems.
You will learn how to analyse and design software systems from specifying the requirements through to the implementation and testing of the system, taking into consideration usability and user experience principles.
In the development stage you will write programs in languages such as C#, develop web-based applications using PHP, and use other industry-standard application software.
You will have the opportunity to develop multimedia and interaction-rich applications on alternative platforms including mobile phones, PDA's, digital TV and mobile games platforms, program client and server applications and develop relational databases.
This experience in the many aspects of systems development will prepare you to access a diverse range of roles in the fast moving computing industry.
By understanding which methods to apply and their underlying principles you will be able to create efficient, reliable, robust, and easy to use products.
The course is closely aligned to the needs of Sunderland Software City with the opportunities for graduates to develop innovative ideas through the Software Hatchery and incubators provided through Software City
All students are provided with Internet and email facilities as well as access to the computing equipment in the award-winning purpose-built David Goldman Informatics Centre at The Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's.
Course Content
Level 1
Core Modules:
- Fundamentals of Computing
Software Development and Theory: Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, Formal Methods
Programming
Microsoft C#. NET and Java programming for Robots
Web Applications
Markup Languages (HTML, XHTML, CSS), Adobe Dreamweaver CS4, Adobe Flash CS4, and Actionscript, Adobe Photoshop, Javascript, Web APls (e.g. Google Maps, Yahoo APls)
Database Systems
Database Design, Relational Databases and SQL, Database Integrity and Security, PHP and MySQL
Computer Systems
Operating Systems, Networks and Computer Architectures
Mini-project
Pick a project in the area of computing you know best and showcase your talents in the final term
- Systems Administration
Level 2
Core Modules:
- Software Engineering Enterprise and Innovation Project
- Software Development
- Multimedia Development
Level 3
Core Modules:
- Computing Project
- User Experience Design
- Applied Multimedia
Optional Modules:
- 3D Games Programming
- Artificial Intelligence
- Concurrent and Distributed Systems
- Project Management
- Software Enterprise
The Programme is 3 years full-time with the option of a placement year after completion of year 2.
Entry Requirements
Applicants to computing programmes are not required to have previous experience with computers, but it may help you to decide how much you will enjoy the course.
The normal standard entry requirements for degree programmes in the Department of Computing, Engineering and Technology are detailed below:
A typical offer will be in the region of 260 points from a minimum of 2 A levels/AVCE or equivalent (e.g. 1 x AVCE double award).
Please note we do not accept AS/A Level General Studies.
Level 3 Key Skills qualifications are accepted.
We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above which must include Mathematics and English Language or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.
Access Course: We would require successful completion of a Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education Access programme and that you would have a minimum of GCSE grade C Mathematics and English Language (or have obtained the equivalent as part of your course).
Scottish Highers: Our typical offer is for 260 points.
Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer is for 260 points.
Direct Entry to Level 2/3: Candidates wishing to be considered for direct entry to Level 2/3 of a programme should contact the Helpline, Tel: (0191) 515 3000, for advice on how to apply.
International Applicants: Tel: +44 191 515 3000.
Fees and Finance
The fees for this course are as specified in the table at the top of the page.
Please note that different fees apply to students studying for "Equivalent or Lower Qualifications" (ELQs). For more information about ELQs, please see the page Information for applicants who already have an HE Qualification.
For information about University scholarships and bursaries please see the page Fees and Finance.
Teaching and Assessment
You will join a group of students in a supportive and friendly learning environment. Teaching methods across the three levels include lectures, seminars and discussion groups, resource based learning, open learning, project and group work.
Assessment methods include examinations, portfolios, practical development tasks, essays, multiple-choice tests, computer based assessment, seminars and group presentations.
The first year is based around two major projects: one computer based and the other problem based. This approach provides a stepping stone between the teaching, learning and assessment approaches used in schools/colleges and the methods used at university in years two and three.
You are assigned a personal tutor who you can turn to for personal and academic matters.
There is also a dedicated course team, a project leader and a programme co-ordinator, that will assist and guide you to successfully complete your studies.
Work Experience
This course is designed to be job market friendly. We know what skills and competencies potential employers are looking for, and course assessment, learning and teaching is designed to enable you to develop these skills.
To further inject realism into the course, you do a software engineering and innovation project in Year 2. Here, you work in a team as consultants on a real business problem with a real company to provide a viable computer based business solution.
In the final year, students are required to undertake a major individual project, often working with a company. Such aspects give a distinct advantage when you enter the job market. Many win jobs with their placement company even before they graduate.
You are strongly advised to take a one year paid industry placement with companies such as BT, Nissan, Orange, Jersey Telecom and software houses on salaries ranging from £9,000 to £14,000.
Placements have often lead to full-time job offers, and students return with invaluable work experience often applying their new skills in their final year projects and future careers. A friendly and helpful team will support you before and during the placement.
Career Opportunities
BSc (Hons) Computing is one of the Department of Computing, Engineering and Technology's highly attractive programmes.
It attracts good students who gain invaluable hands-on, practical and applied computing experience and then go on to careers with companies such as British Gas, BT, IBM, Orange, British Airways and many others.
Recent graduates of this programme have gone onto become software engineers within British Telecom, others have become software engineers with Enigma and others have become programmers and assistant programmers within Capita and British Nuclear Fuels Ltd.
The above are only a few examples but graduates are equipped to work as programmers/analysts for major computer manufacturers, software houses, branches of the scientific civil service.
You may also wish to become a consultant in the IT industry, a lecturer or a specialised technician. Whatever you choose this programme will give you the essential knowledge and skills to be successful in the industry.
We regularly check that our course meets the needs of employers so those students leaving the course have excellent job prospects.
The knowledge and skills you learn are not just computing related but also apply to other aspects of work - writing reports, delivering presentations, being able to work with clients to solve real industrial problems.
Full exemption and CEng/CSci (Partial fulfilment) from the British Computer Society (BCS) has been confirmed for this programme.
Supplemental Information
BSc (Hons) Computing is a course with a strong technical flavour. It appeals to logical thinkers, who enjoy being creative and who want to find out more about computers.
You don't need to be a computer wizard - a general interest in computing, and the ability to think logically is all that's required. IT professionals do need to have a fairly logical mind - but if you don't think you are logical, you might surprise yourself.
As an IT professional you must like working and talking with people. When it comes to the crunch, presentations and impressions are of utmost importance. If you are not there yet, this course will help you develop these skills.
BSc (Hons) Computing won't be an easy ride! We expect you to work hard - and you can expect us to give you the support and guidance you need to succeed. This course will put you through your paces, help you develop your problem solving skills to bring out the best in you.
Facilities
World Class Web/Design Tools
The University of Sunderland has made a significant investment in providing students with access to the latest releases of Adobe products.
Selected PCs within the St Peter's and Murray Libraries have been pre-loaded with the Creative Suite 4 (CS4) Adobe Design Premium Suite for your exclusive use.
CS4 Creative includes key products such as Indesign, Illustrator, Dreamweaver as well as Photoshop and a range of many others.
Further information is available from:
http://www.adobe.com/uk/products/creativesuite/design/
For information regarding locations of PCs or Macs within your own faculty that have access to Adobe products please contact your Faculty IT Support.
If you are interested in purchasing Adobe products for your own PC/Mac Adobe offer significant savings for student purchases via any of its approved re-sellers.
Please visit:
http://www.student-software.co.uk/