Course Summary

As a member of our Computer Science and Technology department, you will benefit from direct access to state-of-the-art facilities including 18 computing labs, a suite of graphics labs, two dedicated network test labs, 450 workstations and a range of hi-spec, industry standard equipment.

When inspected by the British Computing Society, the facilities at the University of Bedfordshire were rated as being among the top 25% of the UK.

The research and industrial consultancy undertaken by the department, along with vibrant and evolving links with industry underpin the curriculum and our teaching strategy on our postgraduate courses. Active, applicable research on real-world problems informs our teaching and enables our excellent staff to share their enhanced knowledge with students.

All academic staff undertake research activities and the majority hold a PhD. In addition, many have industrial work experience and possess Chartered status from professional bodies.

Why choose this course?

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to explore a range of opportunities in network engineering, security consultancy, IT project management, IT consultancy and network design.

During the course you will:

• Develop critical skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation to allow you to explore computer systems issues at a complex level
• Enjoy access to state-of-the-art computing laboratories, including two dedicated network test labs
• Benefit from a vibrant research environment with world leading research groups in Wireless Network Design, Computer Graphics and Visualisation and Distributed Technologies
• Access strong industry links that underpin the curriculum and our teaching strategy

Areas of study you may cover on this course include:

• IT-related skills and knowledge relevant to the field of Computer Systems (such as network administration, operating systems, project management skills etc)
• Theoretical concepts which you will learn to apply in a practical sense

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Assessment

The assessment strategy used is a balance of written reports, exams, practical (coursework) assignments and computer based assessment. The method used will depend on the nature of the subject being taught in the unit, and the most appropriate method has been chosen.

Coursework assignments have incorporated formative feedback (as part of our Risk Strategy initiative) so that you can gain an insight into whether your work is meeting the necessary targets.

You will be required to have successfully gained 105 credits before undertaking the dissertation.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a critical, and advanced, understanding of the complex security issues (and suggest potential solutions) affecting a wide range of computer systems environments (e.g. wired and wireless environments).

2. Demonstrate an ability to propose and develop solutions to counter security issues and then strategically and critically analyse and evaluate these solutions.

3. Demonstrate a critical, and advanced, understanding of the various technologies available to provide networked solutions to problems and their strengths and weaknesses.

4. Demonstrate an ability to analyse strategies for the management of network systems, and strategically and critically analyse and evaluate these strategies.

5. Communicate advanced knowledge and demonstrate a critical understanding of Computer Systems (e.g. networking and operating systems) using a variety of communication media (e.g. formal written reports, essays and PowerPoint presentations with supporting oral communication)

6. Use an appropriate form of critical problem solving along with creativity and innovation in order to develop an appropriate solution to complex problems in the area of Computer Systems (e.g. networking, operating systems and computer security.)

7. Demonstrate an appropriate level of advanced knowledge and critical understanding, including the ability to synthesise, critically evaluate, develop and challenge theoretical material that you have met in the taught component of the course.

8. Undertake a substantial piece of applied research or technical development in a relevant area of Computer Systems (e.g. networking, operating systems and system security) and to critically analyse, synthesise and evaluate results and present them in the form of a written dissertation.

External Benchmarking

Subject benchmarks (University of Bedfordshire, Level M), Council of Professors and Heads of Computing benchmarks (April 2008)

Educational Aims

The educational aims of the course are grounded in the Universitys mission to provide challenging and innovative learning and teaching that empowers the active and professional learner. The aims are aligned with the Departments strategy to become a world leader in the integration of teaching, research and business interaction. In particular the broad course aims are to:

• Provide students with the critical skills of analysis synthesis and evaluation to allow you to explore computer systems issues at a complex level


• Develop both technical and soft skills so that students can achieve career potential


• Equip students with a wide range of IT-related skills and knowledge relevant to the field of Computer Systems (such as network administration, operating systems, project management skills etc.)

Student support

The Department of Computer Science and Technology has extensive experience of working with students who are studying. The course team will be your first point of contact while you are studying.

As this course involves you selecting a number of optional units, help and advice will be given to you (at registration) on an individual basis to ensure that you make appropriate choices, on the basis of your previous study and interests.

You will have access to both departmental and University-wide support during your studies. From a departmental perspective, you will have access to a personal tutor and you may book informal appointments at any point during the year. You will be expected to see your personal tutor at least twice a year.

From a University standpoint, you will have access to the Student Union, Student Services and the Counselling Service.

For learning related support, you will have access the Disability Advice Service as well as being able to undertake various courses within the Learning Resources Centre. Assistance with study skills and IT support is available and you can access the Professional and Academic Development (PAD) department.

Team working

Various units incorporate group/team work into their assessment strategy. You will be required to work effectively as part of a group (especially as part of the Professional Project Management unit). Such skills are an important part of any graduate/postgraduate and as such we will aim to provide you with opportunities to develop your teamwork skills.

Career Management Skills

Throughout the course we develop your ability to reflect on your performance, and to develop teamwork, written and oral communication. You will also be introduced to the Universitys Career Development unit to help you develop a strong CV.

Career/Further study opportunities

Career:

It is anticipated that upon complete of the course, graduates will possess skills and knowledge to have a strong impact in an organisation Students will have had opportunity for reflective and critical evaluation of their capability as both a team worker and independent learner and this will ensure that students are well-placed to begin a career in a wide range of areas. During the course students will have extensive networking opportunities within the wider course team as well as the University.

They can talk through career and further development opportunities with personal tutors, peers and the University Centre for Career Development. Upon successful completion of this course you are likely to enter the industry as a computing professional in: Network Engineering, Security Consultancy, IT Project Management, IT Consultancy, and Network Design.

Further study:

There are a number of opportunities for further study including MSc by Research and MPhil/PhD opportunities may be available within the Department of Computer Science and Technology. Students that wish to may also consider an MBA programme.

UK students Undergraduate entry requirements

Standard entry requirements for Foundation degrees (FD/FdSc)

A foundation degree will be of particular interest if you have completed a Modern Apprenticeship, vocational A levels, BTEC National or equivalent.

Foundation degrees are also particularly suitable if you want to qualify while working.

• As a guideline, a typical offer would require you to obtain a UCAS tariff score of between 80-120 points, based on your level 3 studies.
• Students who require a Tier 4 Student Visa cannot apply for our foundation courses. For these courses the University of Bedfordshire is not able to sponsor Tier 4 Student Visa applications.

Many students studying for foundation degrees come to us through work-based routes so you can apply for a foundation degree even if you don’t have traditional academic qualifications.

We welcome applicants with relevant work experience.

Standard entry requirements for Undergraduate degrees (BA/BSc)

We will consider you as an individual and take into account all elements of your application, not just your qualifications. We are looking for both breadth and depth in your current studies as well as enthusiasm for the subject you wish to study.

The general requirement is one of the following:

• UCAS Tariff Score greater than 200, which should include either two A level passes or an AVCE Double Award
• An Access qualification
• Equivalent qualifications such as Irish Leaving Certificate, Scottish Highers, International Baccalaureate or BTEC National Diploma

Postgraduate taught courses

Postgraduate applications (MA/MSc) should be made direct to the University using the  standard University application form. There are some exceptions, please see individual course descriptions for details.

• UK/EU students application form
• International (non-EU) students application form
  

Students from the European Union

Entry requirements

As a general guide, to apply for a place on an undergraduate course (BA/BSc) at the University you need to have completed your high school education and have the required English qualification.

We have students from all the European Union member countries so we are quick to make decisions on most qualifications.

How to apply

International students

• Undergraduate applications (BA/BSc) can be made direct to the University or via our representatives in your home country. If you intend to apply to more than one university in the UK you should apply via UCAS. If you want to apply to the University of Bedfordshire only you should apply directly using our international application form (link below) or via our representatives in your home country
• Postgraduate applications should be made directly to the University using our international application form (link below) or via our representatives in your home country
• Healthcare, nursing and midwifery students Many of these courses are not available to overseas students due to UK immigration law in regard to bursary funding. Please contact international admissions to find out if you are eligible to apply
• BA Nursing Studies Level 3 (with or without Overseas Nursing Programme) is available to overseas students - please contact International Admissions by email at international-admissions@beds.ac.uk for further information

(Please note that applicants on a full student visa are not eligible for part-time study)

Course application form for international students

We recommend that you apply directly to the University where possible, as this allows us to offer the quickest turnaround time for your application.

• Course application form for direct applications [PDF]

How to complete your course application

Please read the Direct application instructions before completing the course application form.

Application forms for accommodation in the student halls at Bedford campus and Luton campus are available in the Student life section

Accreditation of prior certificated learning (APL)

APL is available for international students applying for undergraduate (Bachelor degree) study. Please do not use this APL form to apply for postgraduate courses.

Use the APL form to tell us about any non-standard qualifications and/or work experience you have that you think should be taken into consideration with your application. `

The APL form should be submitted at the same time as the course application form.

We regret we are unable to process APL forms from students who have not submitted a formal course application form.

• APL application form for International students [100Kb] updated 041007

What next?

Return your completed application to:

University of Bedfordshire
International Admissions
Park Square
Luton
Bedfordshire
LU1 3JU
United Kingdom

Contact International Admissions

T: +44 (0)1582 489326 (non-EU Students)
F: +44 (0)1582 743469
E: international-admissions@beds.ac.uk

Awarding institution

University of Bedfordshire

Teaching Strategy

A wide variety of teaching modes will be used throughout this course. The most important aspect will be that of a student centered approach, and we will encourage you (through relevant guidance) to become an independent thinker who can take responsibility for your own learning, and who can adapt to a wide variety of different situations. The course will make use of traditional lectures and practical sessions as well as encouraging you to engage in various scenarios (e.g. managing your own projects, teamworking etc.)

Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body Accreditation

Not applicable

Students with disabilities

The course team is aware of the requirements of the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 and seeks to ensure that the practices the Act encourages are followed. Concerning special educational needs (e.g. dyslexia) special provision is made for assessment for course work depending on the individual needs of the student. All formal teaching and learning is undertaken on premises that provide reasonable access for you if you have concerns about mobility. Advice on the nature of specific disabilities and the reasonable adjustments which can be made to accommodate disabled students is available from the Disability Advice Team.

Skills Development

Communication

To help with the development of this you will:

• Be given access to a variety of tasks that will develop your oral and written communication skills. Throughout the course you will be asked to perform a variety of written (essay, formal report) and oral (presentations) tasks. Formative feedback as well as summative feedback will be used throughout

Information Literacy

To help with the development of this you will:

• Learn to enhance your understanding and skills with respect to standard desktop applications (MS Excel and Word) as well as developing new skills with respect to specialist software related to the course

Research and Evaluation

To help with the development of this you will:

• Develop your ability to work independently as well as enhancing your reflective skills. You will be set tasks that require you to undertake background research, and at times to evaluate what you have undertaken

Creativity and Critical Thinking

To help with the development of this you will:

• Undertake a significant piece of work (usually the MSc dissertation) which requires you to use your (analytical) problem solving and creative skills in order to develop a solution and to be able to critically evaluate the work that you have performed

Improving learning and performance

You will, at various points be provided with feedback. This feedback is an important part of the learning process and will allow you to find out strengths, as well as areas for development. Such feedback will allow you to see where you need to focus and will allow you to improve your performance.

Progress files

You will be required to keep an e-portfolio that shows your development (both academic and personal) that can be used to show employers how your studies have allowed you to develop your personal and professional skills, as well as the knowledge that you have gained.

Professional standards

You will be expected to develop not only your academic skills, but also your soft-skills (teamwork, oral and written communication, inter-personal skills etc.). As such we expect you to adhere to the British Computer Society's Code of Conduct and Code of Practice which details what is expected (from a professional perspective) of an IT professional.

Strategy for developing and embedding the professional standards

Throughout the course we will embed aspects of professionalism (ethics, professional conduct etc.) into the different units. The two most telling examples are the Professional Project Management unit (CIS011-6) and the MSc dissertation. These two units provide an excellent opportunity for you to develop your professional skills by engaging in professional tasks (e.g. managing your own projects, and working as part of a team).