Computer Science

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information.

Course summary:

• Gain the skills needed to write software for a diverse range of industries

• Develop complex software and systems using analytical and mathematical approaches

• Understand the fundamental principles behind the software that powers our world

You’ll develop a deep understanding of practical computation, including key concepts in the machine learning domain. You'll become a programmer who understands and can build upon the fundamental principles behind the software that underpins modern society across a variety of platforms and domains using different programming languages.

How you learn:

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

During your first year you will be introduced to programming and the principles of mathematics before moving on to algorithm design and software engineering. You will be assigned an academic member of staff as an academic adviser who will give you guidance and support on academic issues.

One of the main themes of this course is problem solving and you’ll achieve this fundamental skill by working on projects in the software industry using industry-standard tools and techniques. This will give you an opportunity to work with others in small teams, helping to prepare you for the world of work after you graduate.

During your second and final year you’ll have the opportunity to choose elective modules, allowing you to tailor the degree to suit your interests.

During your final year, you’ll then complete a project in an area of computer science of your choice, allowing you to follow an area of interest and build skills relevant for your future career.

The combination of learning methods across the course allows you to develop a range of skills through problem-solving activities, applied learning and teamwork, providing a practical approach to learning and encouraging self-development.

Applied learning

Work placements

You’ll have the opportunity to complete a year-long work placement between your second and third year. A placement is widely recognised as the gold standard opportunity to gain personal and professional development through real-world experience.

Your placement will allow you to apply the knowledge and skills gained on your course, in areas such as web development, mobile applications, backend software and desktop solutions.

Your placement year will allow you to gain an Applied Professional Diploma in addition to your degree which will enhance your graduate profile and give you the edge with future employers.

Live projects

In your first and second years you’ll work in a group on a real client-based project. You’ll analyse their requirements, then design, implement and test a prototype which you will present to your client. This will allow you to experience the types of demands faced by commercial software developers and increase your confidence while you’re applying for your work placements.

Students have worked on live projects with industrial collaborators such as Next, XLN, Elanco and Elaros (Digital Health). These projects have involved the use of augmented reality and 3D technologies, machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies, cloud services and mobile development. Students have often found placements as a result of being recognised for the excellent work they have done for these live projects with the host company.

Networking opportunities

Throughout the course there’ll be numerous opportunities for you to engage with career management, career fairs and workshops, employer presentations, visits, and professional advisers.

Module and assessment information for future years is displayed as currently validated and may be liable to change. When selecting electives, your choices will be subject to the core requirements of the course. As a result, selections may be limited to a choice between one of two or more specified electives in some instances.

You will be able to complete a placement year as part of this course. See the modules table below for further information.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Databases And The Web
Fundamentals Of Mathematics And Computer Architectures
Programming For Computer Science
Software Projects

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Advanced Programming
Algorithms And Data Structures
Professional Software Projects

Elective modules

Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning 1
Game Development
Handling Data In The Cloud
Mobile Applications Development

Year 3

Optional modules

Placement Year

Final year

Compulsory modules

Development Project
Software Architecture And Design

Elective modules

Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning 2
Contemporary Software Engineering
Functional Programming
Machine Learning Algorithms And Heuristics
Robotics
Secure Software Engineering

Coursework, Practical

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• BCS - The Chartered Institute for IT