BEng Computer Science/Software Engineering with an Industrial Year - 2011

Educational Aims Of Programme

• Thorough coverage of the core areas of computer science, with a systematic grounding both in its theoretical underpinnings and in practical software development, through a focussed programme offering an extensive choice of advanced and specialist options in the final year.
• Flexibility to change programmes after the first year, e.g. to the BSc in Computer Science, or to transfer to the MEng degree of the same name after the second year (subject to performance).
• A basis for a career as a software engineer, producing graduates who are equipped to work effectively in a professional capacity, with transferable skills in numeracy, problem-solving, team working and general communication and information technology.
• A solid foundation for further study in computing/IT, producing graduates who are self-motivating and are able to take responsibility for their continuing personal and professional development
• An accredited degree satisfying the first three years of the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer status.
• The vocational aspect of an honours degree in Computer Science is considerably enhanced when students are able to augment their academic study by working in a commercial environment. The integration of an industrial placement of one year's duration in the programme aims to provide the opportunity for a student to: (1) understand how theoretical and academic work completed within the university environment relates to its practical application in the work place; (2) learn how computing professionals operate within a commercial organisation; (3) improve his or her skills of organisation, time management and record keeping over a significant period of work; (4) undertake technical project work in a commercial environment.

Programme Outcomes and Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies

Knowledge and Understanding

• Mathematical, theoretical, scientific and engineering principles and methodologies relating to Computing and computer applications, for use in the analysis and solution of Computing problems and to enable appreciation and understanding of their context and of historical, current and future developments and technologies.
• Appropriate theory, practices and tools for the analysis and evaluation of computer-based systems and their components, including appropriate analytical and quantitative methods and modelling techniques.
• The context of the development of computer-based systems, including commercial and economic aspects, management techniques, relevant legal requirements, professional and ethical issues and the need to promote sustainable development.
• The role of computing professionals within a company and the interactions that normally take place with other disciplines.
• The application of technical knowledge in a commercial context at an appropriate level for the student's qualifications.
• The standard of professional presentation and reporting skills required in industry and commerce.

Skills & Other Attributes

• The ability to analyse, specify, design and construct computer-based systems, by:
• A professional software engineering ethos, showing commitment to quality, understanding and respecting appropriate legal frameworks, codes of practice and standards, with a responsible, ethical and open-minded attitude to their work.
• The ability to work as a computing professional in a commercial environment, demonstrating a professional and responsible attitude.

Transferable Skills

• The ability to work both independently and as an effective team member.
• The ability to use and apply general IT facilities, including those required for effective information-retrieval.
• Numeracy, in both understanding and presenting cases involving quantitative or similar formal, symbolic dimensions.
• Management of learning and development, including time management, organizational skills, and the ability to pursue independently further professional development.