Computer Science (HTQ)

Carve a career path in the multi billion-pound computing and digital sector with our Computer Science Foundation Degree. This course will provide you with the specialist digital skills needed to succeed, allowing you to excel in this exciting, fast-paced and ever-evolving industry.

Prepare for a successful career in computer science. Our new foundation degree emphasises the practical skills demanded by employers. You will strengthen your programming skills alongside exploring areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, databases, application development, cyber security, networking and more.

You will gain the specialist technical knowledge and skills to develop large and small scale software applications. Additionally, you will learn about the science behind computing and the principles behind emerging technologies. You will also learn how to collect, store, extract and analyse data while exploring artificial intelligence and machine learning.

While sharpening your specialist computer science skills, you will also gain highly sought after transferable skills to complement your technical skills such as managing budgets, communication, problem solving and working as part of a team.

Modules may include:

Level 4

Principles of Programming – You will learn the underpinning knowledge and skills of programming and software development that is essential in a variety of computing related careers from app and website development to server administration.

Web and Apps – You will develop & demonstrate the technical and creative skills required in the design, construction and management of an effective website interface and a mobile application.

Principles of Database – You will demonstrate the practical aspects of designing and building a relational database and you will acquire skills and knowledge in the practical structure design of a given scenario and then apply this to implementing a prototype.

Networks – You will understand the basic concepts of networks such as network types, architecture, services, protocols, topologies and standards to design, implement and how to secure a network given a business scenario. You will develop practical skills to design, implement, and test and troubleshoot a network.

Principles of Cyber Security – You will be introduced to the cyber security threats landscape and the technologies that can be used to countermeasure those threats, learning how to protect network infrastructure, components and data.

Professional Development – You will acquire and develop a range of skills including transferable, personal, interpersonal, academic and subject specific skills that will enable you to succeed in the industry.

Level 5

Software Development – You will develop useful and reliable GUI based applications that meet the expectations of end users by applying a range of proven software development methods and techniques.

Introduction to AI – You will explore the many uses of AI and identify some of the problems that AI can potentially solve, such as facial recognition in solving crime to streamlining manufacturing in a smart factory or detecting fraud in banking.

Statistics for Computing – You will learn a range of statistical techniques and how decision-making is enhanced by the application of statistical methods. You will develop your numerical abilities and increase your confidence in handling data in order to create information and knowledge.

Data Analysis and Modelling – You will study the design principles, practical implementation and development skills of database systems, and learn how to make a critical appraisal of business systems analysis and design using structured methodologies.

Employability Skills – You will develop the wider skills today’s employers are expecting from their employees, including so-called “soft skills” such as time management, communication skills, project management and a good work ethic.

Project – You will identify a problem and set about planning and delivering a solution to that problem within a given timeframe. You may choose to develop an online solution or develop a mobile app, or provide a business solution. The scope for the nature of your practical output for this module is vast.

You will assessed in a variety of ways including: practical tasks, portfolios, essays, case studies and presentations.