| Qualification | Start dates | Entry requirements | Full- or Part-time | UCAS Code | Assessment | |
| Bachelor of Sciences (BSc Hons) | September | A-level: BBB-BBC* | Level of English required | Full-time | G400 | Exam and written assessment |
Course outline
Computing and communications technologies lie at the heart of modern society. They include hardware, software, networks, tools, telecommunications equipment and required standards that provide the technological framework on which the delivery of information services is based. The IT industry is reporting a widening gap in software skills while hard technology is developing and diversifying fast.
The overall aim of this programme is to enable all students to develop their potential so that they can apply what they have learnt to deal with computational problems and develop solutions in a real-world environment. Through studying this programme, students learn how to specify, design, develop and operate efficient and innovative computer-based systems and gain up-to-date knowledge of the relevant computing technologies at an advanced level. Graduates of the degree programme will be able to undertake a variety of careers in the IT industry, including programming, systems analysis and design, network and systems management, and technical support. Alternatively they can advance their careers in research in computing/computer science in academic institutions at Buckingham, other UK universities or universities abroad.
The content of this 3-year Bologna-compliant programme is compatible with the UK QAA subject benchmark statement for Computing and with the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Compared to the 2-year fast track version of the programme, this programme provides students with more time to digest the knowledge learnt. There is no teaching in the Summer term on the 3-year programme.
Teaching methods
Virtual learning environments, online /stand-alone computer-based packages and software tools are used to enhance the effects of teaching and learning.
The principle of progressive disclosure is adopted for classroom-based teaching. Reading, practising and staff-student interactions are general ways for learning. The opportunities for interaction include lectures, seminars, workshops, small group tutorials and practical classes.
To enable student-student interaction for learning, group projects, student seminars and workshops are organised.
Many of our Information Systems and Computing courses have supervised practical classes in the computer laboratories in which you can apply and practise the techniques you have learnt in the lectures. These practical sessions are usually two or three hours long. You will also be expected to study on your own, using the library for reading research and the computer laboratories to improve your practical skills.
Individual project
A particularly important feature of the BSc in Computing is the project, which extends over the first three terms of the second year, and involves the specification, development and testing of a substantial piece of software. In support of this, you will learn to program in C++ and Java, as well as taking courses in database and human-computer interaction.
A pass in the project is a requirement for the award of a degree. The degree will not normally be awarded a higher classification than that awarded to the project.
The purpose of the project is to provide you with the opportunity to obtain in-depth knowledge in a chosen area of computing or information systems, to exercise judgment in solving a major problem and to develop a working software system. You will be expected to:
- Choose an appropriate project topic and identify a problem to work on.
- Identify the work required to solve the problem.
- Plan and organise the project work.
- Carry out the work and deliver a sound solution to the problem.
- Submit all required reports, program codes and prototype systems.
- Exercise judgment in chosen solutions throughout the project.
Through the project, you will gain experience in:
- Acquiring, organising and presenting knowledge in a field of study and applying the knowledge to solve an identified problem.
- Comparing and selecting suitable approaches and methods in solving the problem.
- Exercising initiative and sustained effort to set and achieve a clear set of objectives within stated deadlines.
- Developing solutions and implementing the solutions.
- Mastering a particular programming language, which can be different from the ones that you have learnt before.
This project may be the first large piece of work that you do completely by yourself. You should first choose a suitable project topic to work on and a supervisor to direct your work throughout the project development life cycle.
The project is a crucial element of the degree, counting for 45 units. It should cover one aspect of computing and should be based on theories of design, construction and use of information systems. It could involve the development of a practical system for a real user or the prototyping of a new technique in computing. More information about the project.
*Entry requirements
Applicants who do not meet our minimum requirement of BBC at A-level may be considered for Access to Computing, depending on grades.
