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Introduction

This programme emphasises three themes – data storage, data analysis and information systems. As a graduate of this programme, you will be skilled and knowledgeable in the technical aspects of data science, including data analysis, data visualisation, data collection and data storage, with a particular emphasis on information systems.

Location

Swansea

Course Length

BSc - Full-time 3 years; Part-time up to 6 years/ HND - Full-time 2 years; Part-time up to 4 years/ HNC - Full-time 1 year; Part-time up to 3 years

Why choose this course?

1. This British Computer Society (BCS) accredited degree scheme is designed to produce suitably equipped graduates to work in the rapidly expanding computing and information systems industry within the UK.
2. The programme includes the traditional concepts, principles and techniques of software development, databases and information systems but applies these within the context of engineering large and complex systems.
3. Through our industrial links, we have also developed a programme structure to provide students with the latest skills along with an appreciation of the demands of industry. This course contributes fully to the academic requirements for graduates to register for the status of Chartered IT Professional (CITP).
4. Applicants to this programme are numerate and logically-minded, and it is likely that they will have previously studied science, maths or information and communication technology. Such students will seek more specialised, programming, data analysis and database design skills.
5. Students learn, in-depth, a range of programming concepts, data visualisation and data mining techniques to develop sophisticated and complex information systems solutions. Graduates are likely to seek careers in application development, business systems analysis, database development and administration, information systems consultancy and management.

Overview

Students on this programme will learn database design, creation, administration and the development of programs for the development of data-driven applications. In the first year, you will study a broad range of subjects common to several courses within the Computing Portfolio. These provide the underpinning required for later years and allow flexibility to transfer across pathways in your first year of study.

During your second year, you will study modules that provide a greater depth for your chosen programme. In the final year, you will undertake a major project which provides a focus for your studies.

The course focuses on designing, implementing, testing and maintenance of high-quality information systems and data-driven applications.

You will focus on acquiring and using the expertise required by an information systems developer and programmer to create solutions to large and complex problems. The expertise and skills you develop from engineering software solutions as part of a team is highly regarded by employers.

Modules

Foundation Year (Cert HE STEM)

• Academic Skills (20 credits; compulsory)
• Analysing and Solving Problems (20 credits; compulsory)
• Integrating Project (20 credits; compulsory)
• Introduction to Computer Programming (20 credits; compulsory)
• Introduction to Computer Systems (20 credits; compulsory)
• Introduction to Mathematics and Science (20 credits; compulsory).

Year One – Level 4 (HNC, HND & BSc)

• Computer Architecture and Operating Systems (20 credits; compulsory)
• Data Analysis and Visualisation (20 credits; compulsory)
• Introduction to Web and Database Concepts (20 credits; compulsory)
• Learning in the Digital Era (20 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
• Networks and Cyber Security Essentials (20 credits; compulsory)
• Software Development (20 credits; compulsory).

Year Two – Level 5 (HND & BSc)

• Changemakers: Creativity and Value Creation (20 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
• Data Security and Compliance (20 credits; compulsory)
• Databases and Application Development (20 credits; compulsory)
• Geographical Information Systems (20 credits; compulsory)
• Network Operating Systems and Services (20 credits; compulsory)
• Statistical Programming (20 credits; compulsory).

Year Three – Level 6 (BSc)

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (20 credits; compulsory)
• Data Warehousing and Data Mining (20 credits; compulsory)
• Emerging Trends (20 credits; compulsory / optional (DDA) / optional (PT))
• Independent Project (40 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
• Industrial Based Research (20 credits; optional (DDA) / optional (PT))
• Usability Engineering (20 credits; compulsory).

Entry Criteria

BSc (Hons) Computing (Data and Information Systems) – 3 years Full-Time

104 UCAS tariff points (previously 260) to include:
• Two C grades at A-Level/AVCE; or
• BTEC National Diploma grades Pass, Pass, Pass; or
• BTEC National Certificate grades Merit, Pass; or
• NVQ Level 3 – Pass

Subjects at Advanced Level should include ICT, Computing, Maths, Physics or similar. GCSE Maths grade C or above is preferred.

UCAS Code: 318S

HND Computing (Data and Information Systems) – 2 Years Full Time

48 UCAS tariff points (previously 120) to include:

A-C grade at A-Level/AVCE; BTEC National Diploma/Certificate/Award - Pass; NVQ Level 3 - Pass.
Subjects at Advanced Level should include Maths, ICT, Physics or similar. GCSE Maths grade C or above is preferred.
UCAS Code: 345T

HNC Computing (Data and Information Systems) – 1 Year Full-Time - UCAS Code: 477H

40 UCAS tariff points (previously 100)

Typical International Baccalaureate Offer

Foundation Entry:

BSc (Hons) | 4 Year Programme with Foundation Entry (Levels 3 to 6)
UCAS Code: CD11

STEM Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics (Computing Stream)
1 Year Foundation Programme (Level 3 to 4)
UCAS Code: SCT1

Assessment

The School of Applied Computing aims to produce graduates that help shape the future of computing and information systems development. The course content is contemporary and shaped for employability through close links with local and national employers.

Students are assessed through a combination of worksheets, practicals, presentations, projects and examinations. Module assessment is often by assignment, or assignment and examination. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of coursework set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by written report and presentation.

Students are encouraged to use our links with Software Alliance Wales and Go Wales to work on commercial schemes for their Major Project module. Go Wales provides the opportunity of paid work placements with local businesses.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates have excellent employment prospects in the computing, teaching, lecturing and ICT industry, as well as in other areas of the economy. Recent statistics show that the vast majority are following their chosen career paths within six months of graduating.

Graduates would seek positions in fields such as application development, business systems analysis, database development and administration, information systems consultancy and management.

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