Information Technology BSc Honours

You will be learning the fundamentals of small, medium and large computer systems, their architecture, operating systems, networks and security. You will study programming and be introduced to new and developing technologies, using practical hands-on experiments and laboratory/workshops

The module covers the fundamental behaviour and components (hardware and software) of a typical computer system, and how they collaborate to manage resources and provide services - for small, embedded devices right up to the entire global internet. You will use practical hands-on laboratory experiments to understand the concepts, theory and associated terminology of Computer Architecture and Operating Systems and Networks. You will undertake lab work using C code, Batch, Bash and Python, and develop a range of programming skills that will support you in this module and other areas.  

In this module you'll learn how to programme effectively in the context of solving a range of problems around processing, storing and transmitting data. You will learn the role of a basic but important range of data structures and types and their use. For example, networking and security fields, such as those that represent RTP packets, to transmit audio- visual data using transport protocols such as the UDP protocol. You will learn about algorithms and the techniques for program implementation. You will undertake a variety of problem-solving tasks individually and within a small group setting.

In any modern business environment, data is used to store, preserve, search, retrieve and display information to improve important business processes. This module provides a comprehensive introduction to database design, technology, implementation and manipulation - core IT skills and a firm foundation for higher-level academic study or a rewarding career in many IT related areas, such as data analytics.

This module develops your knowledge and enthusiasm for current technologies in modern industrial and research-based academic settings, taking in current and potential future developments. The practical, lab-based approach enables you to develop your design and technology skills in real world settings, to become aware of future developments in computing and IT and of the potential social impacts of those developments. Topics include Artificial Intelligence (AI), immersive technologies (AR/VR), Internet of Things (IoT), robotic systems, smart homes and smart cities and you will consider both the drivers for technological development and the constraints on that development.  

This module teaches you the fundamental knowledge and principles computer science theory, such as discrete mathematics, propositional logic and graph theory. You will study the existing fundamental algorithms that are ubiquitous across computer networking and programming, gaining insights into their application in real-world computing systems.  

You will be honing your analytical and evaluative skills, and learn more advanced approaches for analysing and designing information systems, as well as performing project management activities for professional settings. You will apply key aspects of information systems modelling and associated development lifecycle best practices to scenarios similar to real-life ones.

In this module you will gain practical experience developing dynamic websites using HTML, CSS and JavaScript. You'll learn how to store client-side data and get first-hand experience of web services and the server-side data storage, considering the needs of a wide and diverse range of stakeholders. 

In this module, you will learn the key concepts of data science and machine learning, focusing on data handling, ethics, bias and security and emphasising ethical and sustainable practices. You will also explore a data analytics tool and hone your visualisation and analysis skills. You will develop your technical skills and ethical and inclusive data science practice, through a balanced approach combining theoretical knowledge and practical application.  

This module provides a firm grounding in information systems analysis and design using the Unified Modelling Language (UML) and the Unified Process, a disciplined approach to assigning and managing tasks and responsibilities. You will cover key aspects of information systems modelling and associated development lifecycle issues, their application to real-life scenarios, plus ethical, professional and legal issues. 

In this module you will learn about cybersecurity regulations and standards, and the requirements and impact of international compliance standards. You will develop skills highly valued by employers, including all aspects of professional practise such as IT project management and you will study ethical, legal, regulatory, organisational and business issues within the fields of cybersecurity, computer communications and connected computer systems.

You will undertake compulsory modules, as well as specialised optional modules for further enriching your skills and curriculum. You will also undertake an individual project to demonstrate your knowledge achieved so far and ability to learn independently and under the supervision of academics. You will have also the opportunity to choose a work placement.

In this module you will develop a deep understanding of the latest full stack programming techniques, frameworks and methodologies used by industry to develop the next generation software, for deployment on a wide range of devices and systems. You will learn the three fundamental components of a complete architecture for a software application: front-end, back-end, and system administration. You will investigate, develop and deploy the latest programming language standards, which are fundamental to app development, and widely employed in industry. You will learn how modern programming frameworks provide the essential software architecture for large-scale software development across a wide range of platforms. 

This is your opportunity to demonstrate your skills, knowledge and experience from other modules with an individual project. It must incorporate a solution to a computer science or IT problem or to a theoretical research problem relevant to the computer science or IT discipline.

You will learn the competencies and skills for generating technology innovations and creating business opportunities by utilising available resources.

Blockchain technology is changing how organisations communicate and operate, resulting in a challenge and opportunity for blockchain developers and analysts. In this module you will learn how to apply blockchain technology to practical problems, how to develop and implement compliance and regulation strategies for business and how to perform blockchain analytics. 

You will study different types of network and cyber threats to computer systems and networks, and learn the various measures needed to secure systems to counteract and mitigate against these threats. 

Descriptive data models can be used to gain a better understanding of overall organisation and predictive data models inform decision making in all aspects of business. In this module you will learn techniques and approaches used to capture, store and analyse organisational business intelligence data. You will learn about information retrieval, data presentation, pattern recognition techniques and data models that can be used in business intelligence applications.  

This module introduces you to a range of AI theories and techniques, including the most used algorithms for search space and optimisation approaches. You will appraise and critically evaluate each algorithm for effectiveness metrics and learn how to implement these techniques, to enhance your software development knowledge and skills. 

In this module you will learn fundamental concepts and practical techniques for considering the user perspective when designing products and services. You will learn how to analyse the user experience through user characteristics and their tasks, and the technical, organisational and physical environment in which products or systems operate.

In this module you'll learn about information systems in the business management domain. You'll cover information technology solutions such as business intelligence (e.g. data analytics), digital technology solutions (e.g. smart environments) and modern forms of communication (e.g. social networks) to improve business processes. At the same time you'll be engaging in strategic management activities and following a pattern of work resembling project management practices in controlled environments, which are key employability skills.

You will undertake a relevant work placement to gain work experience in a technical employment role, applying your theoretical knowledge to practical problems and providing solutions. You will develop your professional qualities, communication skills and work in a management structure and as part of a team. A placement is the opportunity to learn independently and develop the maturity required to perform well in your final year. Placements are a minimum of nine months and a maximum of 15 months.

You will learn through a variety of different methods, including laboratory and practical work, group and individual projects, which will include designing websites and IT systems, class discussions, and role-play exercises. And of course, lectures, seminars, workshops and group tutorials – either online or face-to-face.

Seminars and practical workshops are a great opportunity to discuss topics covered in lectures and through independent study with your peers and tutors. Seminar work might also include student presentations and problem-solving exercises. Some topics are taught only in lab sessions, as they involve practical work and discussion to assist with understanding.

Outside of teaching hours, you’ll learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework, presentations and exams.

Here is an indication of how you will split your time:

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Whether you are studying full or part-time – your course timetable will balance your study commitments on campus with time for work, life commitments and independent study. 

We aim to make timetables available to students at least 2 weeks before the start of term. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on-campus sessions. 

During your first year, your weekly timetable will typically consist of:

• 4 hours of lectures/workshops and group work
• 6 hours of lab/tutorials/group work
• Up to 1 hour of support from a Student Learning Advisor
• Up to 2 hours of additional drop-in classes, timetabled as required.

Our excellent teaching and support teams will help you develop the skills relevant to your degree from research and practical skills to critical thinking. Our Sheppard Library is open from 7am to 11pm Monday to Sunday during term time. And we offer free 24-hour laptop loans with full desktop software, free printing and Wi-Fi to use on or off campus, even over the weekend.

Your knowledge, understanding and skills are assessed through assignments that aim to simulate real work scenarios in industry wherever possible, and include: 

• Coursework and project work 
• Practical laboratory tests 
• Online quizzes 
• Case Studies  
• Group and individual assignments 
• Technical and Reflective reports  
• Use of case tools for analysis and design  
• Individual and group presentations 
• Lab and seminar activities  
• Project milestones 
• Coding and commenting.  

To help you achieve the best results, we will provide regular feedback including on formative assessment and summative assessments. Feedback is given in different ways - written, online, and verbal. 

Placements and internships greatly improve graduate employment prospects, and those who take part achieve excellent academic results through applying their learning in a professional setting.

Our course gives you the option to extend your studies by a year to spend the third year doing a paid work placement in an IT-based industry. We’ll help you secure your placement and even cover your tuition fees for the year.

Our specialist employability service will help you find placement opportunities.