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Introduction
Why choose this course?
Key features
Our diverse curriculum provides students with an equal balance of theory and practice and is embedded with contemporary technologies designed to tackle modern multi-core platforms.
Important professional issues are covered including computer ethics, law, and security. Final year study includes big data, machine learning, and AI.
Tailor your learning to your career ambitions through a range of optional third year modules, including: Functional Programming, Advanced Web Development, Fuzzy Logic and Inference Systems, and Privacy and Data Protection.
Explore professional opportunities with an optional placement year. Previous Computer Science students have spent their third year in industry working in roles such as Placement Developer, Cloud Reliability Developer, Solution Engineer and Business Analyst Intern for organisations including Next, Leicestershire Police, Oracle, IBM and The Walt Disney Company.
Graduates have gone on to work for companies such as ITN, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Microsoft, BT, RBS, HSBC, DNEG and Experian.
Gain valuable international experience as part of your studies with our DMU Global programme. On previous trips, Computer Science students met tech entrepreneurs in San Francisco and put their hacking skills to the test at New York’s Spyscape Museum.
Benefit from Education 2030, where a simplified ‘block learning’ timetable means you will study one subject at a time and have more time to engage with your learning, receive faster feedback and enjoy a better study-life balance.
Overview
With the digital era continuing to develop rapidly, the role of computing and its impact on our lives is more important than ever. New and innovative computer technologies are constantly being unveiled, with software engineers, systems developers, programmers and analysts playing a vital role in their creation and development.
Benefiting from more than 50 years of successful teaching, our Computer Science course focuses on modern approaches to software systems development, allowing you to explore both the theoretical and practical skills needed to understand programming language concepts, software design methods, secure web systems, computer architecture and computer networks.
The course prepares you for a wide variety of career opportunities, from programming and developer roles to software engineering, with computer technology closely linked with an extensive range of industries such as medicine, education, entertainment, security and architecture.
Modules
Year 1
Block 1: Database Design and Implementation
Structured data, held in relational databases, accessed via SQL, supports the information storage requirements of many companies, organisations, and on-line businesses. In this module the student will learn the fundamentals of how to design the structure of data within a relational database, how to interact with data within the database, and how to protect the data within the database.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops used to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts. Practical programming skill will be gained in regular laboratory sessions. Some sessions may be used for consolidation, revision, and to discuss solutions to practical problems.
• Workshop: 42 hours
• Practical: 20 hours
• Seminar: 4 hours
• Self-directed study: 76 hours
• Consolidation: 68 hours
• Reading: 30 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 2: Fundamental Concepts of Computer Science
This module introduces students to fundamental concepts in computer science in relevant areas of mathematics (including propositional logic, set notation, etc); software modelling; the software lifecycle; requirements capture; user interface design; and the foundations of ethical thinking. These topics can then be applied and further developed throughout the course.
The methods of delivery during this block include workshops used to introduce the main topics. To gain full advantage of this module students will hone their skills and understanding by working through progressive exercises ranging from drill to problem solving tasks. The exercises provide the basis of tutorial seminar and laboratory work. In seminars students receive feedback on their progress and engage in discussions on issues arising from the exercises.
• Workshop: 42 hours
• Seminar: 24 hours
• Self-directed study: 66 hours
• Consolidation: 58 hours
• Reading: 30 hours
• Revision: 20 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 3: Computer Programming
Computer programming requires the analysis of a problem, the production of requirements, and their translation into a design that can be executed on a computer. This module introduces the skills required to develop a computer program to solve a given problem and does so from the perspective of designing trustworthy software with an emphasis on sound coding principles and unit testing.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops used to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts. Practical programming skill will be gained in regular laboratory sessions. Some sessions may be used for consolidation, revision, and to discuss solutions to practical problems.
• Workshop: 24 hours
• Practical: 42 hours
• Self-directed study: 76 hours
• Consolidation: 68 hours
• Reading: 30 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 4: Operating Systems and Networks
This module is designed to provide a foundation in computer architecture, operating systems, and computer networks. Covering theoretical foundations, computer hardware, systems software, computer networks and security issues.
The methods of delivery during this block will include lectures which will be used to introduce the main theoretical elements and laboratory sessions for practical application and experimentation.
• Workshop: 24 hours
• Practical: 42 hours
• Self-directed study: 66 hours
• Consolidation: 68 hours
• Reading: 40 hours
• Assessment 60 hours
Year 2
Block 1: Object Oriented Design and Development
This module focuses on Object-Oriented (OO) library and application development. Library development will enable students to design, implement, and test medium scale software systems using an object-oriented approach. Meanwhile, application development will use extensive library packages provided by the Java SDK so that students are comfortable in navigating and making use of a variety of domains such as Collections, Input/Output and Graphical User Interfaces.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts and practical programming skill will be gained in regular laboratory sessions.
• Workshop 30 hours
• Practical 42 hours
• Self-directed study 70 hours
• Consolidation 68 hours
• Reading 30 hours
• Assessment 60 hours
Block 2: Data Structures and Algorithms
This module introduces a variety of data structures and algorithms for both sequential and parallel execution. Classical data structures will be introduced (including stacks, queues, lists, trees, and hash tables) and algorithms for searching and sorting. The performance characteristics of these data structures and algorithms will be explained. Specific coding issues will also be considered such as modularity, genericity, quality, assignment, mutable and immutable objects.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts and practical programming skill will be gained in regular laboratory sessions.
• Workshop: 24 hours
• Practical: 42 hours
• Self-directed study: 76 hours
• Consolidation: 68 hours
• Reading: 30 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 3: Web Application Development
This module provides a thorough grounding in the rapidly evolving area of web technologies. With equal focus on user interface design on the ‘client-side’ or ‘front-end’ and on security and persistence in ‘server-side’ or ‘back-end’ scripting. The module covers crucial design principles, information architecture and usability factors as well as standards compliance, accessibility, authentication/authorisation and security.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts and practical programming skill will be gained in regular laboratory sessions.
• Workshop: 24 hours
• Practical: 42 hours
• Self-directed study: 76 hours
• Consolidation: 68 hours
• Reading: 30 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 4: Agile Development Team Project
This module is an opportunity for students to engage in a constrained work-place simulation based on agile software development. Students working in teams of 3 to 5 will initially identify a system of sufficient size to be distributed equally among all members. Each team member might take individual ownership of the development of 2-3 classes from initial inception to completion providing CRUD functionality.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops, seminars to introduce and discuss ethical issues, and practical programming skills will be gained in regular laboratory sessions. Some workshops and practical laboratory sessions may be used for consolidation and to discuss solutions to practical and ethical problems.
• Workshop: 42 hours
• Practical: 20 hours
• Seminar: 4 hours
• Self-directed study: 76 hours
• Consolidation: 78 hours
• Reading: 20 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Year 3
Block 1: Software Development: Methods and Standards
This module immerses the students in the methodological, regulation environment in which software systems are developed, by exploring types of application development: module, AI, robotic process automation and games systems. With emphasis on current agile approaches, in particular Scrum and DevOps, students develop understanding of a range of agile and traditional methodologies and engage with agile project management tools (e.g. Jira and Clickup). The module incorporates the context of standards with particular reference to standards in security (ISO27001) and risk management (ISO27005).
The methods of delivery during this block include lectures will be used to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts and seminars will be used to discuss and further reinforce these.
• Lecture: 24 hours
• Seminar: 42 hours
• Self-directed study: 86 hours
• Consolidation: 68 hours
• Reading: 40 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 2: Big Data and Machine Learning
The module will focus on machine learning (ML) and its application to Big Data in a “taster-like” fashion. That is, ML will be applied to solve analytics problems using appropriate tools e.g., Apache Spark that avail ML libraries. As this is done ML algorithms will be introduced and then applied. The focus is therefore not so much on the technical details of the algorithms but rather the ability to implement them and use them within analytics. The module covers supervised and unsupervised learning techniques with a specific application to data mining.
Lectures will be used to discuss concepts, theories, and applications including machine learning algorithms and data analytics tools. Practical sessions will be used to undertake practical aspects of the module to solve selected data analytics problems from a wide range of areas.
• Lecture/Workshop: 24 hours
• Seminar: 7 hours
• Practical: 35 hours
• Self-directed study: 70 hours
• Consolidation: 64 hours
• Reading: 40 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 3 / 4: Development Project
This project provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate practical and analytical skills present in their programme of study; to work innovatively and creatively; to synthesise information, ideas, and practices to provide a quality solution, together with an evaluation of that solution.
The project is primarily self-directed with guidance and support from an assigned supervisor.
• Lecture: 4 hours
• Supervisor meetings: 5 hours
• Self-directed study: 231 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Optional modules (choose one):
Block 3 / 4: Functional Programming
This module provides you with the fundamental concepts of FP and looks at how these have been provided within a modern programming language. You will gain practical experience, using a modern programming language to solve a practical problem using FP techniques. The core principles are transferrable between functional programming languages.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts and practical programming skill will be gained in regular laboratory sessions.
• Workshop: 30 hours
• Practical: 42 hours
• Self-directed study: 64 hours
• Consolidation: 64 hours
• Reading: 40 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 3 / 4: Advanced Web Development
The module aims to further develop key concepts and techniques for designing, evaluating and implementing interactive web applications. Providing a thorough grounding in the rapidly evolving area of full-stack web development, incorporating front-end web technologies, back-end server-side scripting, and data persistence techniques. The module also considers how information can be accessed and presented from remote sources via web-service protocols.
The module will comprise lectures and reading about different aspects of human computer interaction, and a combination of paper-based tutorial and computer-based lab activities practising the use of a range of different techniques for understanding requirements, developing designs and performing usability evaluations.
The methods of delivery during this block will include workshops to introduce and demonstrate key practical and theoretical concepts and practical programming skill will be gained in regular laboratory sessions.
• Workshop: 24 hours
• Practical: 42 hours
• Self-directed study: 76 hours
• Consolidation: 68 hours
• Reading: 30 hours
• Assessment: 60 hours
Block 3 / 4: Fuzzy Logic and Inference Systems
Fuzzy logic is a mathematical model for handling uncertainty, it is able to provide a means in order to successfully inference from abstract and subjective notions. Fuzzy logic adopts the perspective that the world and humanistic understanding are inherently vague and not precise. This module will present the core and fundamental concepts of fuzzy logic, from theory to application. The ability to create specialised fuzzy inference systems will be achieved and so too will the ability to articulate on thought processes needed to create such systems.
The module will make heavy use of practical lab work, where the students will be able to refine their understanding of the topics covered. The labs will also allow for the students to start on the coursework, which will be evolve after each session, incorporating more fuzzy theory.
• Lectures: 13 hours
• Practical: 52 hours
• Self-directed study: 19 hours
• Assessment: 216 hours
Block 3 / 4: Privacy and Data Protection
There continues to be a growth of databases holding personal and other sensitive information in multiple formats including text, pictures and sound. The scale of data collected, its type and the scale and speed of data exchange have all changed with the advent of ICT. Whilst the potential to breach privacy continues to increase organisations are subjected to a considerable amount of legislation governing privacy and data protection. This module examines the balance between maintaining business effectiveness, legal compliance and professional practice in the field of IT/IS.
A range of learning strategies will be used to facilitate student learning in this block module. Sessions will be used to introduce major topics drawing together material from a variety of sources.
Students will be encouraged to read widely, using the reading list as a starting point and library resources and the internet for further information. The module website will provide essential module information such as a week-by-week teaching plan.
• Lecture: 40 hours
• Seminar: 90 hours
• Self-directed study: 90 hours
• Assessment: 80 hours
Note: All modules are subject to change in order to keep content current.
Entry Criteria
ENTRY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Home Office Share Code
For EU students only.
IF no Qualification
Please provide CV with at least 2 years of work experience, and employee reference letter.
Entry criteria
A typical offer is 112 UCAS points from at least two A-levels or equivalent or
BTEC National Diploma/ Extended Diploma at DMM
Plus five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics or equivalent.
Alternative qualifications include:
Pass in the QAA accredited Access to HE. English and Mathematics GCSE required as a separate qualification as equivalency is not accepted within the Access qualification.
We will normally require students to have had a break from full-time education before undertaking the Access course
International Baccalaureate: 26+ points
T Levels Merit
Portfolio Required: No
Interview Required: No
We welcome applications from mature students with non-standard qualifications and recognise all other equivalent and international qualifications.
UCAS tariff information
Students applying for courses starting in September will be made offers based on the latest UCAS Tariff.
Contextual offer
To make sure you get fair and equal access to higher education, when looking at your application, we consider more than just your grades. So if you are eligible, you may receive a contextual offer. Find our more about contextual offers.
English language
If English is not your first language then an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component (or equivalent) is essential.
English Language tuition, delivered by our British Council accredited Centre for English Language Learning, is available both before and throughout the course if you need it.
Assessment
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. INTERNAL ENGLISH TEST if you don't have an English accredited certificate
2. Academic Interview
Career Opportunities
Graduate Careers
Computer Science graduates have gone on to work as associate software engineers, computer engineers, systems engineers, database managers, software developers and web developers for companies including HSBC Bank, Sainsbury’s, MMT Digital, RR Donnelley and Serck Controls.
Graduates can also continue their academic careers by embarking on postgraduate study in either research or taught areas, which provides opportunities for further specialisation and the enhancement of existing skills.
DMUglobal
Our innovative international experience programme aims to enrich your studies and expand your cultural horizons – helping you to become a global graduate, equipped to meet the needs of employers across the world. Through #DMUglobal, we offer a wide range of opportunities including on-campus and UK activities, overseas study, internships, faculty-led field trips and volunteering, as well as Erasmus+ and international exchanges.
Our Computer Science students have visited top tech companies in San Francisco to get an insight into the skills and talent needed for careers in the technology sector, as well as visited New York’s Spyscape museum to test out their espionage and surveillance skills.
Placements
Work placements are offered as part of this course as one of the best ways to boost your skills and experience while studying, as well as improving your chances of gaining a graduate level job.
We have links with organisations both in the UK and internationally, and the placements team will help you find a placement to suit your interests and aspirations. Students on this course have taken part in placements at companies including Syngenta, Jagex, PepsiCo, HSBC Bank, Honda Racing Corporation and Avis Europe.
Computer Science student Judyta Dabek secured a year-long placement as an automation trainee at Rolls-Royce. She said: “It’s an inspiring place to work and a very important opportunity for me. I’m learning how to use different programming languages and documentation, as well as developing my research skills and knowledge of law and ethics, all of which will broaden my career opportunities after university.”
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