Computer Science
| 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
The Computer Science course sits alongside the well-established course in computing and addresses the more theoretical and technical aspects of computing such as concurrent and distributed systems, artificial intelligence, information systems and programming languages.
The course is an interesting and challenging one and focuses on developing your understanding of the technical aspects of designing systems and developing software.
Throughout the course there is an emphasis on professional and ethical issues and a focus on the entrepreneurial opportunities of software development.
Graduates from the Computer Science programme will have the skills necessary to pursue a career in a wide range of commercial and industrial organisations.
The course is closely aligned to the needs of Sunderland Software City with opportunities for graduates to develop innovative ideas through the software hatchery and incubators provided through Software City.
The department has links with Microsoft, IBM, SAP, Yahoo, CISCO and SUN Microsystems. These links ensure the course is relevant to today's industry and also enable you to become a graduate with the skills and knowledge employers want and need.
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 & 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
- Information Systems
- Software Development
Level 3
Core Modules:
- Computing Project
- Artificial Intelligence
- Concurrent and Distributed Systems
Optional Modules:
- User Experience Design
- Advanced Databases
- 3D Games Programming
- 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 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.
Mature Applicants: Tel: Helpline (0191) 515 3000.
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.
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.
We strongly recommend you to spend a year on work placement between Levels 2 and 3, taking the opportunity to put the knowledge and skills you have learnt into practice.
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
Graduates from the Computer Science course will have the skills necessary to pursue a career in a wide range of commercial and industrial organisations.
In addition to providing graduates with a wide range of employment opportunities this programme also feeds into the range of postgraduate Masters programmes offered by the department.
The more theoretical nature of this programme will also provide students with an excellent basis on which to embark on a research or an academic career by preparing them for postgraduate research programmes such as MPhil or PhD.
Supplemental Information
The department has links with Microsoft, IBM, SAP, Yahoo, CISCO and SUN Microsystems.
These links ensure the course is relevant to today's industry and also enable you to become a graduate with the skills and knowledge employers want and need.
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/