Computer Science (Networks) BSc Honours
School of Computer Science
Institution Code H36
UCAS Code
G491
Programme Code EICSIT
Start date
September
More about the course
One of a range of degrees from the Undergraduate Programme at the School of Computer Science
Distinguishing Features
Our Computer Science (Networks) degree has a technology and software development focus to provide you with in-depth technical skills and knowledge plus the chance for some specialization in later years. This makes you stand out to employers whilst still keeping the broad computer science base that most are looking for.
This degree focuses on computer systems and software development and their place in a networked environment. You will learn about tools and services for constructing distributed applications and will have an appreciation of how improvements in network technology affect the systems that rely on it.
Year 1
All students study the same four modules in the first half-year (semester), giving you a thorough grounding in key areas of academic and professional computing including computation, programming, databases/ data structures and multimedia.
In the second semester, three of the modules you study will be specific to the Computer Science theme: on programming, networks and computer systems.
The fourth module is an option, chosen from the other theme or one of two further modules.
Year 2
In the second year, you will expand on your knowledge of programming and networks, while developing practical skills and professional awareness in systems development. You study four double modules that are taught over both semesters. Three of the modules will be specific to the Computer Science theme and the fourth is an option.
Final Year
In the final year (Year 4 on a sandwich course, Year 3 if full-time; shown as Year 4 in the Course Structure tab), you extend your knowledge and professional awareness, with in-depth study in your specialist area.In the first half-year (semester) you study two core single (15 credit) modules, and two options shown with an “A” in the list from the Course Structure tab. In the second semester you continue with two of these (shown with a “B”) plus a core double (30 credit) module project.
The core Professional Issues module examines the issues affecting IT Professionals, enhancing your value to employers. For this specialist degree, there is a defined pair of core modules: Computer Network Protocols and Architecture A & B. For the options, you initially choose two from the list of those offered for the Computer Science theme. If you wish, one of them can be taken from the list for our BSc Information Technology.
The project is a substantial piece of practical or investigative work that will enable you to apply your academic studies in a specific context. You choose the topic from a wide range of suggestions, or you can propose it yourself.
Other Opportunities
In additional to your formal studies, we offer a number of optional activities, currently including certification classes for Cisco (CCNA1-4), research seminars, and participation in national student competitions such as the Microsoft Imagine Cup and Robocup Soccer.Work placement
You have the opportunity to undertake an optional professional placement for your third year. We encourage you to take advantage since research has shown that on average placement students have a greater chance of finding good employment after graduation and achieve higher grades in their final year.
Work placements are spent in a paid job relevant to your degree. You apply in the second year, with support from the University using our extensive contacts with employers.
Recent placement students have worked at large organizations such as Xerox, Chevron-Texaco and Microsoft. Others have worked for small companies, perhaps family-run or near home.
Careers
Several thousands of UH computer science graduates have moved into a wide range of careers; many are now in senior positions in the UK and throughout the world.
Initial job roles have included programmer, software developer, business analyst, software engineer, webmaster, database administrator, network designer, and technical consultant.
This particular degree title provides you with the skills needed to prepare for a career as a developer of network applications, a network administrator or security consultant.
Teaching methods
Classes consist of lectures, small group seminars, and practical work in our well-equipped laboratories. We use modern, industry-standard software wherever possible. There are specialist facilities for networking and multimedia.
In addition to scheduled classes, about 16 hours per week in Year 1, you will be expected to spend the same amount of time in self-study taking advantage of the extensive and up-to-date facilities. These include the Learning Resource Centres, open 24x7, with 1,500 computer workstations and wifi access, Studynet our versatile online study environment accessible on and off campus, and open access to our labs.
Course structure
Detailed information about the structure of the course and the modules you will study.