Computer Science

UCAS code: G411

Here's what University College Birmingham says about its Computer Science course.

OVERVIEW Computing and digital technology are essential features of today’s society. They are also key drivers in the economy, whether it’s in communication, finance or even leisure. Our Computer Science foundation degree course at University College Birmingham will furnish you with advanced skills in everything from programming and websites to managing data and security issues, keeping your finger on the pulse of information technology and preparing you for a vast spectrum of job roles in the modern day market.

Our Computer Science course will give you the knowledge and skills to develop solutions to complex problems through individual and group projects. Your learning will cover a wide range of the latest ICT and computing topics, introducing you to programming, computing mathematics, web development and databases before progressing onto subjects such as cloud computing and cyber security.

Throughout your studies, you will have use of an array of state-of-the-art digital resources, IT and computer facilities, including access to our brand new Cyber Security Lab. You will also have the opportunity to spend an extra year expanding your horizons with a paid placement in industry as part of your computing course, giving you substantial experience and boosting your employment prospects after you graduate.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

• Work placement – Apply your computing and IT training to the real world with the option of a paid 48-week placement, with no tuition fees during your placement year (depending on eligibility – see more information below)

• Practical application – Learn in our purpose-built computer labs and access our brand new Cyber Security Lab

• Diverse skills and knowledge – Build your skills in areas ranging from network and database management to security and systems analysis

FACILITIES Students on our computing university course will have access to computer labs specifically designed for this degree, while our new cyber security laboratory will enable students to learn and participate in cyber-related activities in a controlled environment.

PLACEMENTS Students on our FdSc Computer Science course have the option of completing a paid 48-week work placement, providing they are progressing onto our final year Computer Science Top-up course. You will not incur any tuition fees during the placement.

CAREERS AND PROGRESSION Examples of careers you could pursue following this course:

• Software developer

• Web developer

• Systems analyst

• Computer security consultant

• Database administrator (DBA)

• IT technical support officer

Upon completion of the foundation degree, you can also progress onto the final year of our full BSc (Hons) degree.

• Please refer to our website www.ucb.ac.uk for the latest updates to this course

YEAR 1

• Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming
• Computer Systems
• Mathematics for Computer Science
• Systems Analysis and Design
• Computer Networks
• Databases

YEAR 2

• Web Development
• Advanced Algorithms
• Big Data
• Cloud Computing
• Cyber-Security
• Introduction to Research

Note: Indicative information only. Actual timetables and assessment regimes will be issued at your induction. Please be aware that methods of delivery for this course may be altered due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic – for the most up-to-date information, please refer to our website: www.ucb.ac.uk

TEACHING

Example of a typical teaching week (up to 14 contact hours):

• Group teaching – 6 hours
• Subject related workshops – 6 hours
• Tutorials – 2 hours

You will also need to commit around 20 hours per week for individual study time.

ASSESSMENT

Estimated breakdown of assessment for this degree course:

• Coursework – 50%
• Practical assessment / projects – 45%
• Written examinations – 5%

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2021-2024.