Course Summary

This course shares a common first stage with our BSc degrees in Computer Science. During the second and third stages you'll focus on key elements of mathematics - such as logic and number theory that feed into more applied areas of study, including computational maths and security.

As the course progresses, you'll cover topics in operations research, such as simulation and statistics. These are studied in the context of complementary topics in computer science, such as object-orientation (OO) or artificial intelligence (AI).

This course has an integrated approach to maths and computer science, covering core concepts in computer science, and supporting `theoretical' maths with practical work.

Why choose this course?

This course brings together the fields of Computer Science and Mathematics. As such it provides a unique opportunity to explore and learn about subjects that are on the boundaries of both. It offers students the opportunity to combine mathematical skills with problems requiring the use of computers and will prepare students for careers that require high numerical and analytical skills. The skills and knowledge you will acquire on this course will open up employment opportunities in computer modelling, simulation and operational research, or as analysts, security theoreticians or applied statisticians.

During the course you will:

• Benefit from staff expertise in the link between mathematics and computer science (for example, between number theory and security, or OO and mathematical modelling)
• Have access to research rated as `internationally excellent in the Governments Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 2008
• Experience the seamless integration of maths and computer science
• Explore artificial intelligence, games development, internet computing and robotics, helping you decide which field you want to specialise in

Areas of study you may cover on this course include:

• Algebra and number theory
• Simulations and statistics
• Programming languages
• System integration
• Synergies between maths and computer science
• Logic and foundations of mathematics
• Research methodologies and emerging technologies
• Mathematical concepts as applied to computer science
• Project management and ethical issues

BSCMS-S

Assessment

The types of assessment used range from laboratory practical work that assesses the practical application of knowledge and concepts gained in lectures and seminars and also from learning acquired during self study to computer-based assessments and formal written examinations.

Educational Aims

This programme explores those areas of Mathematics that support modelling of systems, the analysis of systems and the encryption of text.

On completion of the Honours degree, students will be capable of making a positive contribution to computing and related industries.

The programme aims:

• To develop personal skills so that students have the confidence and ability to express their creativity both individually and as part of a team


• To promote a responsible attitude towards the use of the computing hardware and software


• To facilitate students' understanding of developments in computing technologies


• To introduce and develop students understanding of calculus, number theory, modelling principles and statistics


• To promote students awareness of the cultural, social, political, economic and ethical implications in the computing industries

The emphasis of the programme is to provide vocationally skilled programmers and mathematicians who have both a general overview of computer science and mathematics and the knowledge and skills to apply mathematics in practical situations.

The programme is consistent with the QAA subject benchmark abilities and skills statement 2.2 for Computing and with 2.2.3 and 2.2.9 for Mathematics, Statistics and Operational Research.

The objectives of the programme are that:

• Students will be able to demonstrate technical competence and project management in the production of the computer software and will be able to implement mathematical and statistical concepts and expressions


• Students will have made a significant contribution to computer software production in their practical work


• Students will be able to express and offer a reasoned defence of their own ideas


• Students will be able to contribute to team work at a number of levels, setting group aims, allocating roles and responsibilities, working to a common purpose, negotiating and effective problem solving


• Students will be able to identify and use computer technology to solve mathematical, statistical and optimisation problems


• Students will be able to demonstrate how computing and mathematics contributes to the cultural, social, political, economic and ethical aspects of society


• Students will be able to apply statistical performance analysis techniques to derive an understanding of complex systems

Student support

During the induction and PPAD there will be a series of diagnostic tests designed to identify the need for any specialist support (e.g. dyslexia). If identified, students will be referred to the University of Bedfordshire Disability Support Unit.

All students are supported by induction sessions at the start of each year, by personal and project tutors, by academic advice sessions and by dedicated technical support staff.

Student support is provided on a formal basis by the personal tutor system and in practical sessions, as well as informal support in the use of Blackboard. The University provides general help for learning skills through a centralised support tutor system, as well as academic English modules mainly for International students.

All students undertake Computer Assisted Diagnostic assessment. The results of such diagnostics enable a personalised program to address individual learning requirements in basic mathematical or language skills. Academic advice is provided both at Field level and also at Corporate level.

Team working

Group assessments are part of many units and the skills needed to work with others are specifically addressed as part of preparing for professional life. As such you will come across group working as a core concept within your degree. You will be expected to contribute to team discussions, complete tasks as part of a team and, in general, be able to show that you are able to work with others.

Career Management Skills

This forms a consistent thread progressing through each year with opportunities of engaging with industrial and business projects or through engagement with an employer during a sandwich year placement. Students will also be encouraged to engage with the Careers Development Unit (Job Shop) in order to assess the skills that they possess against positions within the current market. Any skills deficiencies can then be identified, and students can begin to address these in order to progress to their chosen career.

Career/Further study opportunities

Career:

Modelling and simulation, analyst, security theoretician, operational research and applied statistician.

Further study:

MSc Computer Science or Mathematics; MPhil / Ph.D.

Entry

Additional:

Grade C in A Level Mathematics or the equivalent point at International Baccalaureate in the Science group due to the specialist nature of the mathematics taught.

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.

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

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

Professional, Statuatory and Regulatory Body Accreditation

N/A

Students with disabilities

Physical impairment in the form of depreciated visual, audio, mobility and neurological cognitive faculties will, where identified and practicable, be ameliorated by the deployment of appropriate hardware, software and individual support. The department disability tutor is tasked with providing assistance for such students.

Skills Development

Communication:

Communication skills are assessed at the start of each course and individualised help is provided as required. In addition many assessments address the need for the development of both written abilities, especially with regard to technical subjects and spoken and visual communication in presentations.

Information Literacy

To help with the development of this you will:

Create written reports for your assignments (using, for example, Microsoft Word). You will also receive inductions from the University of Bedfordshire Learning Resources Team. To enhance your information literacy you will also have access to a wide range of Learning Resources courses (e.g. referencing) and your Professional Personal and Academic Development unit will develop your skills.

Research and Evaluation

To help with the development of this you will:

Be taught the basics of problem solving and lateral thinking during your course. You will be expected to work independently and to produce assignments that show your ability to synthesise and evaluate disparate sources in order to come to a successful conclusion.

Creativity and Critical Thinking

To help with the development of this you will:

Be taught how to problem solve, be given general scenarios from which you need to devise solutions and generally be able to develop critical arguments to support your hypotheses.

Improving learning and performance

First year students undertake a personal development module that looks at the learning styles of each participant and seeks to enhance these. In addition, you will receive formative feedback on tasks that you undertake. Any assessed piece of work will always receive written comments and you should use these in order to improve your performance (if necessary) at the next available opportunity.

Progress files

Please see http://bridgescetl.beds.ac.uk/curriculum/curriculum_guides for details.

Professional standards

The Department of Computing adheres to the professional standards and codes of conduct and code of practice of the British Computer Science (where applicable). As undergraduates on this course, students will be expected to adhere to these standards at all times particularly when undertaking their final year project.

Strategy for developing and embedding the professional standards

To ensure that standards are adhered to, the programme has been designed so that students will be educated about the professional standards of their field (this is covered within the Fundamentals of Computing module at Level 1, as well as the Social and Professional Project Management module at Level 3). It is also expected that students undertaking their final year project will sign an ethical form to show that the work they undertake during their project will be conducted in an ethically accepted manner.