Program Overview

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Overview

This course provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to apply best practice in developing software systems to solve problems in organisations.

Summary

This course is offered at the Derry~Londonderry campus by the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment. If you wish to develop your skills of problem solving and computational thinking to an advanced level, this is the course for you. This course will enable you to learn about the principles and practice of software development and to apply these skills in developing a wide range of computer-based systems in any organisation.

About this course

About

The Computer Science course aims to develop graduates that study computational systems and how they can solve problems in the real world, focusing on the use and creation of hardware and software systems. There are four broad streams of study within the course:

• Software Development Principles and Practice;
• Networking and Cyber Security;
• Cloud Computing and Operating Systems; and
• Intelligent Systems.

The duration of the course is dependent on the number of modules you study and successfully complete each year. There are normally six modules at each of three levels in the course. Each year, you can choose to undertake a minimum of two modules and a maximum of four modules. This choice aims to enhance flexibility and empowers you to complete the course as slowly or as quickly as you like. You will have an annual opportunity to review and adjust your rate of progress. All modules are compulsory.

During the final year of the course, you will have the opportunity to gain practical experience in the planning, development and implementation of your Final Year Project and this can be used to showcase your skillset to future employers.

Attendance

This course is part-time. Part-time students are taught alongside full-time students, and modules are scheduled to accommodate day-release from employment.

Each student must complete between 40 and 80 credits (usually two to four modules) in each academic year. Modules are taught on campus on a single day per module basis and are web-supplemented.

Start dates

• September 2026

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The course is taught using a range of teaching and learning methods, including lectures, tutorials and practical laboratory sessions.

Lectures are used to present theory and concepts, which are normally supported by tutorials to delve deeper into a topic, and provide opportunities for students to develop their problem-solving skills.

Practical laboratory sessions enable the practical application of theoretical concepts, facilitating a deeper understanding of key topics. In programming laboratories, there is an emphasis on small group tutoring and support.

Modules are either assessed by coursework only or by a combination of coursework and formal examinations (January and May). Coursework assessment is carried out using any combination of written assignments, class tests, presentations, and group assignments as appropriate to meet the learning outcomes of each module.

Modules

Year one

Mathematics for Computing

• Year: 1
• Status: C

This module is designed to give the student an appreciation of the mathematical concepts required for computer science. This module provides fundamental topics necessary for developing student competencies in the essential mathematics that forms an integral part of an undergraduate honours degree in computing.

Software Development I

• Year: 1
• Status: C

This module provides students of computing with an initial competence in the development of software through the medium of a modern programming language with facilities for both structured and object-oriented programming

Software Development II

• Year: 1
• Status: C

This module is a direct follow-on to Software Development I. Students are introduced to more advanced features of both an algorithmic programming language and an object-oriented language, and will be expected to acquire a higher level of competence in writing software.

Database Systems

• Year: 1
• Status: C

The module covers the fundamental principles and theory of database design and provides practical experience in designing and developing database systems using a range of techniques, tools and technologies. It emphasises the important role of databases within an organisation and addresses the use of scalable and secure relational database management systems to facilitate the development of software systems involving large volumes of data and over the web.

Year two

Computer Hardware and Operating Systems

• Year: 2
• Status: C

Differences in the internal structure and organisation of a computer lead to significant differences in performance and functionality, giving rise to an extraordinary range of computing devices, from hand-held computers to large-scale, high-performance machines. This module addresses the various options involved in designing a computer system, the range of design considerations, and the trade-offs involved in the design process.

Systems Analysis and Design

• Year: 2
• Status: C

This module is devoted to the understanding of organisations as systems, the environment in which they operate and the processes they undertake.

It provides the student with knowledge of the tools and techniques of modern systems analysis, essential to the creation of information systems using industrial best practice.

It investigates concepts associated with business analysis, methodologies and modelling techniques in use today. The module also develops project management and communication skills.

The module will develop a student as an IT professional analysing and designing effective systems in industrial and commercial environments.

Students nurture their professional skills and learn how to work collaboratively in teams.

Year three

Computer Networks & Security

• Year: 3
• Status: C

This module provides an in-depth study of computer, communications and networks. This module will introduce the concepts and principles of computer networks to guide the installation and maintenance of modern, high-quality reliable networks. In addition, students will be given the opportunity to learn how to configure and test networks, deploy network-based software applications and resolve network infrastructural problems. Students will have an in-depth knowledge of basic skills in networking, and an appreciation for emerging themes that could impact networking in the future.

UX

• Year: 3
• Status: C

This module builds on programming foundations covered in Year 1 and provides a foundation for the Web development modules in Year 2 and 4. In addition, it offers an appreciation of user factors in application design and provides students with the tools to specify and develop high-quality user interfaces across all modules.

Object-oriented Programming

• Year: 3
• Status: C

This module builds on knowledge and skills attained in previous modules, i.e., core programming concepts and capabilities involving loops, conditions, functions, problem-solving, design, and logical thinking. Typically, a student's first exposure to programming in our degree is with Java, and in this module will have an opportunity to learn a new language (e.g., C#, C++, or Python).

Students will have an opportunity to increase their coding skills and learn about more complex programming and software engineering concepts such as Object Orientation, Decomposition, Functional Programming, Memory Management, Input/Output, Exception Handling, Testing, Debugging, and Version Control. Students will design and implement code solutions to set problems both individually and in groups.

Algorithms and Data Structures

• Year: 3
• Status: C

The module builds upon the expertise acquired in Year 1 software development. Students are introduced to the classic data structures and algorithms that are used to process them, the specification of methods and classes and the measurement of algorithm performance.

Professional Development

• Year: 3
• Status: C

This module is designed to equip students with the appropriate research and transferable skills needed to secure employment within the Computing and Engineering domain.

The module prepares students for professional work by developing knowledge of the responsibilities and obligations of employees, employers and clients as determined by codes of professional conduct. Students will have the opportunity to practise the presentation of themselves in, for example, application forms, curriculum vitae, interview, elevator pitches and aptitude tests.

The module provides an underpinning foundation of research concepts, methods and techniques necessary for project development and delivery. The students employ research skills developed during the module to gather research from a variety of sources and critically review this literature. Embedded in all these activities is the reinforcement of the need for adhering to recognised ethical standards and taking a professional approach to employability.

Year four

Cloud Computing

• Year: 4
• Status: C

This module explores a range of modern development and deployment concepts in the context of scalable and high-performance cloud and distributed computing systems.

The module combines the study of the key theoretical concepts of Cloud Computing and Distributed Computing development techniques, with practical-based industry-focused problems, enabling the student to translate the associated theoretical concepts into practical implementation. The module provides an understanding of the role and function of the core technologies involved and address the design principles required for development.

Mobile Application Development

• Year: 4
• Status: C

This module will provide students with the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills that will equip them to mature as software developers specialising in application development for mobile technologies. Students will gain detailed knowledge of the mobile app creation process and of developing software solutions targeted at the Android environment. The knowledge gained and the solid foundation developed will equip the student with the confidence and capability to be able to extend their study to wider environments both existing and yet to emerge.

Year five

Cyber Security

• Status: O
• Year: 5

This module is optional

This module provides an in-depth study of secure computer systems. This module will introduce the concepts and principles of secure systems. In addition, students will be given the opportunity to learn how to configure and test application and network security, deploy secure network-based software applications, configure cloud systems and resolve security problems. Students will have an in-depth knowledge of basic skills in security, and an appreciation for emerging themes that could impact secure systems in the future.

Concurrent and Distributed Systems

• Status: O
• Year: 5

This module is optional

This module provides a theoretical foundation in the area of concurrent and distributed systems. This is an increasingly important area of computing as these types of systems are now manifest in a wide range of internet/intranet-based application domains. The module first covers the key theory and design principles and then provides a learning path for software development in this exciting and evolving area of computing/engineering. As a consequence, it facilitates students to develop expertise in the core skills area of multithreaded, networked and web-enabled computer systems.

Mixed Reality

• Status: O
• Year: 5

This module is optional

The module provides an in-depth overview into the theoretical and technical issues underpinning mixed reality application design and development and provides practical experience in pitching and developing mixed reality applications using a range of techniques, industry-standard tools, skills artificial intelligence and technologies. It emphasises the important role of testing and user feedback in the development and implementation process. The module will explore emerging technologies, business models and market trends in the industry.

Year six

Cloud Operating Systems

• Status: O
• Year: 6

This module is optional

The module combines an in-depth study of the key theoretical concepts of Cloud Computing and modern Networked Operating systems, with practical hands-on industry-focused techniques to enable the student to understand the relationship between this theory and the practical implementation of Cloud Computing and modern Operating Systems

Advanced Mobile Technology

• Status: O
• Year: 6

This module is optional

This module addresses and develops understanding and knowledge of key and emerging concepts associated with mobile technologies, and fosters related mobile application software design and development principles.

Intelligent Robotics

• Status: O
• Year: 6

This module is optional

This level 6 module will present some of the sensing, perception, planning, learning, control, and movement generation principles necessary to design and program intelligent robots.

Computer Vision

• Status: O
• Year: 6

This module is optional

This module provides a foundation in the concepts and techniques used in vision systems. Vision systems is a rapidly expanding field and, as such, has applications in areas such as medical imaging, biomedical sciences, factory automation, autonomous vehicle, facial recognition software and manufacturing. The module provides students with the opportunity of studying a subject area that is at the forefront of developing state-of-the-art advances in technology.

Computational Intelligence Technology

• Status: O
• Year: 6

This module is optional

This module will provide students with an understanding of the computational intelligence research area. The module addresses both existing techniques used individually and in hybrid forms. The module also introduces the current research topics within this domain, of Fuzzy Logic and Approximate Reasoning and Neuro-computing.

Year seven

Final Year Project

• Year: 7
• Status: C

Students are required to undertake a major project during the final year of the course. The module offers students an opportunity to develop a realistic and meaningful piece of work during their final year. This module allows a chosen subject area to be researched in depth and a solution developed as a consequence. Students will have the opportunity to integrate and apply the learning achieved from other modules in the course. The module runs during both semesters and allows students to develop a comprehensive approach to all aspects of working on a large project. The project encourages innovation and creative thinking in the development of the solution. It also develops the entrepreneurial mindset, which can influence the challenges undertaken and final decisions made.

Standard entry conditions

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course, you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

A level

• Grades CCC.
• All subjects are considered.
• Reduced offer: Grades CDD
• One subject from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Software Systems Development, Computing (not IT/ICT).

Applied General Qualifications

• QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2012 Suite)
• Award profile of DMM
• RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2016 Suite)
• Award profile of MMM

Irish Leaving Certificate

• 96 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at higher level) to include English and Maths at H6 if studied at Higher level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.

Scottish Highers

• Grades CCCCD.
• All subject areas considered.

Scottish Advanced Highers

• Grades DDD.
• All subject areas considered.

International Baccalaureate

• Minimum of 24 points to include 12 at Higher Level.
• Grade 4 in Mathematics and Grade 4 in English Language is also required in overall profile.

Access to Higher Education (HE)

• Access Course (120 credits) with an overall mark of 55% to include a pass in NICATS Maths (level 2) or GCSE Maths at Grade C.
• GCSE English at Grade C is also required.

GCSE

• GCSE Profile to include to include minimum of Grade C or above in Mathematics and English Language.

Careers & opportunities

Career options

Graduates with computer science and software systems development skills will find many career opportunities available to them in developing new software. On completing this course successfully, students will be able to choose from a number of career options such as software engineer, computer programmer, computing consultant, or systems’ manager or administrator. Skills developed in the course will always be in strong demand, as virtually every modern enterprise needs increasing numbers of computer-literate graduates.

Opportunities for postgraduate study in computing, engineering or related areas are substantial. The course has been designed to enable students who graduate with a good honours degree to apply for postgraduate study towards a PhD, MSc, MRes or other higher qualification.

Professional Recognition

Accreditations reflect the excellence of our teaching, research, and knowledge exchange and ensure our programmes realise the highest expectations. By studying at Ulster University you’ll gain insight and be at the forefront of current industry practices, while our many accredited degree programmes open doors to the world’s top professional organisations, making you more attractive to future employers and giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Science Council for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Scientist.

Fees and funding

2026/27 Fees

Undergraduate fees are subject to annual review, 2026/27 fees will be announced in due course.

See our tuition fees page for the current fees for 2025/26 entry.

View Available Scholarships

See if you can access financial or other forms of support, including mentorship to excel in your studies.

Search our Scholarships

Additional mandatory costs

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.

There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.

See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.