Computer Science BSc (Hons) Top-up

Program Overview

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COMPUTER SCIENCE

BSc (Hons) Top-up

Award

BSc (Hons)

Duration

1 year FT

UCAS Code

G410

Entry

September

Fees

View Fees

Overview

Gain a broad range of computing knowledge studying up-to-date, industry-relevant topics

£25,000 average salary in IT, with other roles paying up to £70,000

Digital technology and computers have become essential for modern-day living, driving everything from the economy and finance to communication and leisure. If you are keen to advance your existing skills and knowledge in this field, our Computer Science top-up degree course will enable you to stay up-to-date with the latest information technology developments in preparation to make your impact on the industry.

Designed for anyone who has previously studied a relevant subject (up to Level 5), this course explores a range of key topics including mobile computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and Agile software development, while you will also have the chance to explore an area of computer science in depth for your final research project.

Throughout our Computer Science top-up course, you will have access to our state-of-the-art IT and computer facilities, including our Cyber Security Lab. On completion, the doors are open for you to pursue careers ranging from systems analysis to web or software development and more, as well as the opportunity to progress onto postgraduate level study such as our Computer Science master’s course.

Why should I choose to study Computer Science BSc (Hons) Top-up?

• PRACTICAL APPLICATION – Learn in our purpose-built computer labs including our Cyber Security Lab on campus
• IN-DEPTH RESEARCH – Take on a substantial research project exploring an aspect of computing science in depth
• AWARD-WINNING UNIVERSITY – Study at the highest-ranking university in the region according to student choice (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023)

Our facilities

Students on our computing university course will have access to computer labs specifically designed for this degree, while our new cyber security laboratory will enable students to learn and participate in cyber-related activities in a controlled environment.

• Based in Camden House, our computing facilities contain dedicated teaching labs complete with high-spec computers and industry-standard software
• Our Cyber Security Lab provides a controlled environment for students to learn and participate in cyber-related activities
• Located in Camden House, the Cyber Security Lab enables students to experiment and experience a range of cyber security scenarios safely using a discrete network

Course breakdown

Modules

Core Modules

Agile Software Development

The module studies in detail the activities associated with software development process as performed by a development team that adopts an Agile methodology. Topics covered include the concepts, principles, practice and philosophy of an Agile approach to software development. Students will work in groups to learn about collaboration: environment, programmer collaboration, team values, customer involvement, standards and reporting. The module covers planning, release, risk assessment and estimating. It also considers agile development: incremental requirements, customer tests, test-driven development, refactoring, simple design, incremental design and architecture, spike solutions and performance optimisation. Students will learn to manage agile projects: roles, values and team philosophy; management of scope and the business/economic issues such as time, cost, quality and risk.

Artificial Intelligence

The module will introduce the field of artificial intelligence and study the principal ideas and techniques in key topic areas including problem solving, knowledge representation and machine learning. The module will cover problem solving (problem representation, uninformed and informed search), knowledge representation (logic-based languages, e.g. description logic, and ontologies and the semantic web) and machine learning (symbolic learning, decision trees and Bayesian learning).

Final Year Project

This module will provide an opportunity for you to conduct research into an unfamiliar aspect of Computing Science and enable you to develop and apply computing skills to a substantial problem. You will synthesise what you have learned from other modules and be provided with an opportunity to work independently.

Mobile Computing

This module covers the integration of network flexibility into the architecture and policies of a commercial network. It looks at the issues related to the security and productivity linked to the deployment of a BOYD policy and in the use of diverse integrated delivery models.

Professional Issues in the Computing Sector

The purpose of this module is to bring together material in the key areas of professionalism and careers, finance, health and safety, environmental concerns, law and intellectual property, in the context of the software industry. You will apply relevant computing-related legislation and professional codes of conduct to day-to-day situations that arise in business, and evaluate risks associated with those situations. You will also explain your five-year career plan and know what steps need to be taken to achieve it.

Entry requirements

Academic

• A relevant HND or a foundation degree in the area of computer science, with 240 credits.

If you are unsure if your previous qualification is suitable, please contact us before completing an application.

International students

• European and International qualifications studied in a relevant subject matter will also be considered. Applicants will need to have achieved 120 ECTS or equivalent (European Credit Transfer).

If you are unsure if your previous qualification is suitable, please contact us before completing an application.

Key information

Teaching and assessment

• Teaching
  • Example of a typical teaching week (up to 14 contact hours):
    • Group teaching – 6 hours
    • Subject related workshops– 6 hours
    • Tutorials – 2 hours
  • You will also need to commit around 20 hours per week for individual study time.
• Assessment
  • Estimated breakdown of assessment for this degree course:
    • Coursework – 50%
    • Practical assessment / projects – 50%
  • Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy.

Tuition fees for home students

• If you are a home student enrolling on a bachelor's or foundation degree course at University College Birmingham, the 2024/2025 academic year tuition fee for full-time study is £9,250. For part-time study, the fee is £4,625.
• In 2025/2026, the full-time fee will be £9,535 per year, while the part-time fee will be £4,767.50 per year.

Accreditations, endorsements and partnerships

University College Birmingham works with a wide range of organisations to ensure you receive the best possible training and qualifications recognised by industry.

• 70% of graduate employers say relevant experience is essential to getting a job with them

Work experience

Work experience is vital for learning how to apply your training in the real world and for building your confidence and skills before you finish your course – and it may even lead to a job when you graduate. Our Hired team can help you find suitable work experience.

• We encourage students on our BSc Computer Science top-up course to gain work experience throughout your studies.

Career opportunities

The example roles and salaries below are intended as a guide only.

• Software developer: Average Salary: £31,000
• Systems analyst: Average salary: £30,000 – £40,000
• Database administrator (DBA): Average Salary: £30,000
• IT technical support officer: Average Salary: £28,000
• Computer security consultant: Average Salary: £44,000
• Web developer: Average Salary: £26,000
• Want to take your studies to the next level? Completing the BSc (Hons) degree will enable you to move onto our postgraduate courses such as Computer Science MSc/PGDip or Enterprise Management MSc/PGDip.

Meet your lecturers

• Edward Bird: Deputy Dean for Strategy, Recruitment and Innovation

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Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the modern digital landscape.

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Program Objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of key computing concepts, including mobile computing, artificial intelligence, and Agile software development.
• Acquire advanced research skills through an in-depth final year project exploring a specific area of computer science.
• Gain practical experience through access to state-of-the-art IT and computer facilities, including a dedicated Cyber Security Lab.
• Prepare for diverse career opportunities in the IT sector, ranging from systems analysis and web development to software development and postgraduate studies.

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Program Description:

• This one-year, full-time program is designed to be intensive and immersive, allowing students to quickly gain new skills and knowledge.
• The program features a blend of theoretical and practical learning, with emphasis on hands-on experience through access to cutting-edge facilities and project work.
• Students will work closely with experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and industry collaborations.
• The program culminates in a substantial research project, providing students with an opportunity to showcase their research skills and delve into a specific area of interest.

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Outline:

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The program comprises five core modules:

• Agile Software Development: This module explores the principles, practices, and methodologies of Agile software development, emphasizing collaboration, incremental development, and customer involvement.
• Artificial Intelligence: This module introduces students to the field of artificial intelligence, covering essential concepts like problem-solving, knowledge representation, and machine learning.
• Final Year Project: This module provides students with an opportunity to conduct independent research, delve into a specific area of computer science, and showcase their research skills.
• Professional Issues in the Computing Sector: This module equips students with the necessary knowledge and understanding of professional ethics, legal aspects, intellectual property, and other essential considerations in the computing industry.

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods vary depending on the specific module but may include:

• Coursework: Assignments, essays, and other written work demonstrating understanding of key concepts and application of acquired knowledge.
• Practical assessments: Projects, presentations, and other activities requiring students to apply their skills and knowledge to real-world scenarios.

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Teaching:

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The program utilizes diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and facilitate effective knowledge acquisition:

• Lectures: Interactive lectures delivered by experienced faculty members covering core concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Small group discussions and workshops fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.
• Tutorials: Individual or small group sessions providing personalized guidance and support for students.
• Laboratory work: Hands-on experience in dedicated computer labs and the Cyber Security Lab, applying theoretical knowledge to practical tasks.
• Independent study: Students are expected to dedicate significant time to independent study, research, and project work, further deepening their understanding and fostering critical thinking.

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Careers:

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The program prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in the rapidly evolving IT sector, including:

• Software Developer
• Systems Analyst
• Database Administrator
• IT Technical Support Officer
• Computer Security Consultant
• Web Developer

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Other:

• The program is delivered in partnership with the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIoT).
• The program is accredited by the University College Birmingham.
• Graduates from this program have a high employability rate, with an average starting salary of £25,000 and many earning up to £70,000.

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A half-year tuition fee is £4,625. There will be no change to this tuition fee for the forthcoming two academic years (2023/24 and 2024/25).

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International students

If you are an international student enrolling on a full-time foundation degree or a BA/BSc in 2023/24, your fee for this academic year will be £13,500 per year. The course fee for academic year 2024/2025 is £14,000 per year. If you complete a placement year, there will be an administration fee of £500 for a full year or £250 for a half-year placement.