Overview
This course covers all the main areas of computing and gives you plenty of opportunity to specialise.
Careers
Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in many areas of computing, including applications development, programming, database development, web infrastructure and applications, business systems, project management, networking and user support.
They’re also working in many different industries, including defence, health, business and telecommunications.
Local employers advise us on course content and the networking modules will qualify you to apply for Cisco Certified Network Associate status.
Modules & assessment
Level 4 modules
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Fundamentals of Design
You will be introduced to the concepts of a software life cycle, system theory, design methodologies and relational data modelling. Our module uses a system methodology to work through a software lifecycle looking at analysis, design and implementation. You will be given the opportunity to apply a design methodology to a case study producing diagrammatic representations of the data and functionality of a system. You will be introduced to the essentials of database design and implementation. You will be expected to participate in group work as well as make individual contributions. Our module is 100% coursework, comprising a set of deliverables to demonstrate analysis of the case study example(s) and application of design theory. Exercises will be both formative and summative to encourage discussion of design theory and its application. -
Computer Systems
This module consists of two strands: 'Computer Architecture' and ‘Network fundamentals’. Both strands will enable you to learn materials that are of great interest to employers. This module aims to provide you with an understanding of the fundamental behaviour and components of a typical computer system, and how they collaborate to manage resources and provide services in scales from small embedded devices up to the global internet. You will be introduced to IP networks exemplified through the TCP/IP and OSImodels. Laboratory sessions will give you hands-on experience on constructing and configuring network devices. You will use the Cisco CCNA introduction to data network technology course which is the first of four Cisco courses that can be used to obtain a Cisco CCNA qualification. This module will lay the foundation of and prepare you for the computer software, computer networking and cyber security sector to name a few. -
Digital Imaging Software
Gaining a good understanding and becoming proficient with commercial software is one of the key requirements of the media and internet technology degree and working in the creative industries. This module gives you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with digital imaging software tools that are commonly used in the media technology business. Our module is run as a supervised workshop where each week you'll be instructed in underlying principles and how they are implemented by the chosen software, and expected to complete a set of exercises. You’ll be assessed by a portfolio of workshop exercises and coursework assignments.
Level 5 modules
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Introduction to Programming
Computers are a part of everyday life and there is no indication that this aspect will ever change. Understanding how they work and having the ability to program them for specific tasks (i.e. Factory Automation, Cash Point, etc.) is a key skill in today’s world. You will be introduced to the procedural programming paradigm, requiring no prior programming experience. You will use industry-standard tools and techniques to design, implement, test and document simple programs using a current programming language such as C, Python, or C++. The skills within will help you to understand the principal components of a program, laying the foundation for subsequent modules requiring structured programming ability. The principles of good programming practice will be emphasised and you will be introduced to techniques required to develop software which: is robust and efficient; satisfies the needs of the customer; consists of elegant, easy to read code; is resilient within the cyber security context By the end of the module,you should have sufficient mastery of a procedural programming language to allow you to design, implement and test simple programs. The skills taught within the module are intended to be directly transferable to the workplace and to provide a suitable foundation for pursuing a wide range of computing-related careers. -
Software Engineering
A software engineering life cycle explores software development processes including requirements analysis, modelling and design, code implementation and design patterns and testing and maintenance. When studying the subject, you will gain a theoretical understanding and practical experience of the life-cycle of software applications by learning how to apply software engineering principles to the development of a software system. You will look into the difference between the Waterfall and Agile methodologies and use the latter for project management including learning about the cost drivers that can influence projects. You will use a version control tool to manage source code history. In addition you will apply the knowledge gained in earlier modules to model and design a system by using a range of UML diagrams and you will learn about architectural design including the application of design patterns. Both the automated and manual testing are discussed and you will have to demonstrate the ability to use both of them. You will build on your employability skills by working in a team to develop a complete and robust software system including coordinating the work among team members using a distributed-version control system. -
Database Design and Implementation
Databases is identified as a specific area of study within the 2007 QAA Computing benchmark. Computer science and information science are mostly all about data. A database management system is a way to store data in a way that makes it easier to retrieve, update, search and delete. Databases is a specialist field in its own domain leading to careers such as Database Designer, Database Developer and Database Administrator. Moreover, it is a part and parcel for many other job roles e.g. Software Engineer, Game Developer, Full-stack Web Developer and Back-end Developer. You will not only learn the specialist skills to design and implement a database, but also practice soft skills such as time management, presentation, teamwork, and collaboration. You will work in teams and analyse an existing e-commerce systems, propose a database solution for such a system, design the database, implement the database and evaluate it using SQL queries. You will be guided to think critically for the rationale of your design and write useful queries considering their business purpose and benefit of writing these one way than the other. -
Internet Databases
This module will introduce you to the design, development and implementation of client/server applications for internet or intranet web sites. During this module you'll consider the necessity for a website, whether it is on the internet or intranet, and how usable it is for clients. You'll research current design standards, existing web sites, and have access to specialist resources in our computer laboratories including a computer running Internet Information Services (IIS) acting as a server machine. By the end of this module you'll deliver a working, user centred web site with a design of pages and without code errors.
Level 6 modules
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Professional Issues: Computing and Society
Professional Issues: Computing and Society aims to provide you an understanding of the issues, opportunities and problems which have arisen as a result of the computerisation of wide areas of human activity. It is designed to enhance advanced computer reflective thinking in both computer science specialists and others, and is a key part of the programme of professional development for computer scientists and others seeking to embody professional values and approaches in the IT and computing fields. You will be covered by relevant and current topics in Computer Law (e.g. Data Protection; Intellectual Property Law; Computer Misuse) and other social, ethical and legal topics such as considering the causes and effects of systems failures (including but not limited to computer systems failure). Other aspects such as the ethical and professional responsibilities of graduates - particularly those from IT and computing disciplines - will be critically appraised. It is essential to ensure that a professional engineer has an in depth understanding of professional ethics, law and the impact of what they do on society. The knowledge and understanding obtained in this module will prepare you with an in-depth understanding on different legal, ethical, professional and system aspects of your future career particularly in the areas of IT, computer science and engineering. -
Change and Risk Management
In this module you'll develop a critical understanding of the problems and opportunities faced by managers who need to develop effective risk management strategies, giving you the skills to be a positive change agent. You'll cover operational as well as strategic level consideration of issues, to give you a better appreciation of the interdependence and requirements of these levels. We'll consider a range of theories and factors relating to the successful management of technological change both within and external to the organisation. You'll use a combination of case studies and 'real world' examples to link theory to practice. -
Undergraduate Major Project
You will create in a substantial piece of individual research and/or product development work, focused on a topic of your choice. You could choose your topic from a variety of sources including research groups, previous/current work experience, your current employer, a suggestion from your tutor or a topic you are specifically interested in. You will identify problems and issues, conduct literature reviews, evaluate information, investigate and adopt suitable development methodologies, determine solutions, develop hardware, software and/or media artifacts as appropriate, process data, critically appraise and present your finding using a variety of media. Regular meetings with your project supervisor will ensure your project is closely monitored and steered in the right direction.
Assessment
We’ll assess your progress using exams and essay assignments, as well as your presentations, case studies, major project and performance in group work and lab-based tasks.
Where you'll study
Your faculty
The Faculty of Science & Engineering is one of the largest of the four faculties at Anglia Ruskin University. Whether you choose to study with us full-time or part-time, on campus or at a distance, there’s an option whatever your level – from a foundation degree, BSc, MSc, PhD or professional doctorate.
Whichever course you pick, you’ll gain the theory and practical skills needed to progress with confidence. Join us and you could find yourself learning in the very latest laboratories or on field trips or work placements with well-known and respected companies. You may even have the opportunity to study abroad.
Everything we do in the faculty has a singular purpose: to provide a world-class environment to create, share and advance knowledge in science, technology and engineering fields. This is key to all of our futures.
Where can I study?
University Centre Peterborough
University Centre Peterborough (or UCP) is our modern campus in the heart of an historic city.
Fees & funding
Course fees
UK & EU students, 2018/19 (per year)*
£4,000
Fee information
For more information about tuition fees, including the UK Government's commitment to EU students, please see our UK/EU funding pages.
Important fee notes
The part-time course fee assumes that you’re studying at half the rate of a full-time student (50% intensity, or 60 credits per year). Course fees will be different if you study over a longer period, or for more credits. All fees are for guidance purposes only. Your offer letter will contain full details of credits and fees, or you can contact us if you'd like more information.
How do I pay my fees?
You can pay your fees in the following ways.
Tuition fee loan
UK students can take out a tuition fee loan, which you won’t need to start repaying until after your graduate. Or there's the option to pay your fees upfront.
Scholarships
We offer a fantastic range of ARU scholarships, which provide extra financial support while you’re at university. Some of these cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Funding for UK students
Most new UK undergraduate students can apply for government funding to support their studies and university life. This also applies to EU, EEA and Swiss nationals who have citizens' rights following Brexit.
Government funding includes Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans. There are additional grants available for specific groups of students, such as those with disabilities or dependants.
We also offer a range of ARU scholarships, which can provide extra financial support while you’re at university.
Entry requirements
Main
64 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels (or equivalent).
Important additional notes
Whether you're studying entirely online or through a blend of face-to-face and online learning in September 2021, you'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course. Before starting the course, we recommend that you check our technical requirements for online learning. Our website also has general information for new students about starting university in 2021-22.
Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please email answers@aru.ac.uk for further information.
All tariff points must come from A levels. Points from AS levels cannot be counted towards the total tariff points required for entry to this course.
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