Computer Science (with a Placement Year)

UCAS code: I745

Here's what University of Staffordshire says about its Computer Science (with a Placement Year) course.

You’ll gain far more than just a Computer Science degree with us. We equip students with the skills and practical experience to become highly employable. From the industry-standard facilities you’ll use, through to opportunities to gain Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Cisco certifications, we know what makes the difference. And as most of our Computer Science students opt for a paid placement year, you’ll have the chance to work in industry before you graduate. These exciting placements can be with companies locally, nationally or as far afield as the US and Singapore. It’s just one element of the amazing industry links you’ll encounter. We also have guest lectures and academics who are AWS-certified educators. GradEX, our Final Year Graduate Show, is also where students ‘sell’ their projects to a panel of industry judges. The course will give you a solid foundation in all major aspects of computing. It includes digital technologies, network concepts, cyber security, programming, software development and cloud computing. From web design and user experience through to mastering programming languages, such as JavaScript and Python, you’ll see how everything knits together. You can then tailor the degree to your interests in your second and final years. We offer several specialist pathways or a broader route that allows you to choose modules from different areas. You’ll do everything from a real-world perspective, with opportunities to complete live briefs and set up your own simulated companies. It means you’ll become agile and flexible – qualities valued by graduate recruiters. Our facilities also include the latest equipment you’ll find in industry. Use our learner labs to experiment and create networks. Or explore the cloud environment with your own AWS account. And in our Collision Space, we have a video wall and group project desks to give you the feel of a real workplace. This hands-on experience is one of the reasons why we’re ranked in the Top 25 for student satisfaction in Computer Science (2023 Guardian League Tables). What’s more, we’re also accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT. This shows we meet rigorous national standards for quality.

Year One Core: Algorithms and Programming Concepts; Cloud and Cyber; Computer Architecture and Operating Systems Design; Data and Distributed Systems; Networks and Communications; Software Development Year Two Core: Cloud Infrastructure and Design; Data Analytics; Hardware, Micro-controllers and Sensors; Interface, Design and User Experience; Professional Practice and Project Management Year Two Optional: Advanced Machine Learning; Advanced Networking; Advanced Programming; Artificial Intelligence; Automation; Cyber Security; Data Mining and Warehouse Olap; Data Structure and Algorithms; Digital Forensic Fundamentals; Ethical Hacking; Further Programming; Machine Learning and AI; Mobile Application Development; Problem Solving using Object Orientated Programming; Web Development Year Three: Placement Year Four Core: Computer Graphics; Data Science and Databases; Dissertation; Negotiated Studies Year Four Optional: Advanced Data Science; Clean Coding; Cloud Architecture; Cloud Based Software Development; Cryptography and AI; Developing Distributed Applications; Developing with Frameworks; Emerging Data Science Technology; Low-level, Hardware and lot Security; Media for the Web; Natural Language Processing; Network and Cloud Security; Network and Infrastructure Security; Project Management and Service Innovation; Software Development and Artificial Intelligence