Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science programme at Aston University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in computer science, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. This programme is ideal for students who are new to the field or looking to deepen their expertise in computer science.

Programme Overview

The programme is taught entirely online, offering flexibility and dedicated support to students. It is designed to help students succeed on their own terms, providing access to essential resources, expert tutors, and interactive live events. The teaching of the programme is delivered by Aston Online, a partnership between Aston University and OES, Aston University's college for online learning.

Why Choose This Programme

There are several reasons why students may choose to study the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Aston University:

• BCS-accredited degree: The programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), providing a pathway to professional recognition, such as Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.
• Future-ready skills: The programme builds expertise in AI, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for the future of tech.
• Industry-relevant: The programme is designed with Aston's Industry Advisory Board, ensuring that student learning aligns with real-world demands.
• No coding experience required: The programme takes students from beginner to industry-ready, with no prior coding or A-level Maths required.
• Access to industry leaders: Students gain free membership to Aston's Computer Science Industry Club, connecting them with recruiters and tech leaders.
• Gold-standard teaching: Aston University's Triple Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 recognises excellence in teaching, student experience, and student outcomes.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises 12 compulsory modules, aimed at building students' understanding of computer science practices and equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in today's dynamic technology landscape. Each module contains practice activities, knowledge tests, and topic quizzes, as well as graded assessments, projects, and tests.

Modules

The programme includes the following modules:

• Object-oriented programming: An introduction to object-oriented programming and an object-oriented approach to problem-solving.
• Internet applications and database design: Understanding the fundamentals of web design, including markup, styling, databases, and server-side scripting.
• Mathematics and digital systems: An introduction to the mathematical foundations required for computing and how this works in practice in digital systems.
• Power skills and professional, social, and business aspects of computing: Unpacking the importance of social, legal, ethical, and business aspects of computing required to become a successful computer scientist.
• Software engineering, data structures, and algorithms in Java: Introducing essential facts, concepts, principles, theories, and contemporary approaches to facilitate systematic software specification, development, evaluation, and maintenance.
• Human-computer interaction and information security: Exploring effective and accessible design of computer systems to ensure ease of use, the importance of keeping data secure, and methods to achieve it.
• Introduction to artificial intelligence and programming language concepts: Acquiring additional programming experience in a range of programming languages and paradigms, and beginning programming for artificial intelligence.
• Team project: Exploring design processes, documentation, software development lifecycles, and working as a team.
• Secure network services and operating systems: Designing, configuring, monitoring, and maintaining secure and efficient networks and infrastructure.
• Software project management and enterprise computing strategies: Learning project management principles and theories used by small and large projects, and understanding the current computing strategies employed by enterprises to deliver competitive advantage.
• Cloud computing, DevOps, and system administration: Applying system administration principles and best practices to ensure compliance and security.
• Individual project: Developing and managing a project from start to finish, applying all the knowledge learned so far.

Programme Aims

The programme aims to:

• Produce graduate software engineers who specialise in object-oriented software design and implementation.
• Develop practical information systems engineering capability based on well-founded principles.
• Instil generic attributes appropriate to professionally oriented graduates.
• Enable students to opt for the sandwich variant of the programme to enhance their career preparation through a period of structured professional training.
• Provide a participation route that may lead to professional computing employment that is accessible if students have demonstrated good intellectual aptitude rather than necessarily subject-specific preparation.

Entry Requirements

The standard entry requirements for the programme are:

• A levels: BBB (any subject) or BBC including one STEM subject.
• BTEC: Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma: DDM.
• IB: 31 overall points and above, with 5, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects.
• T Levels: The following T levels are accepted qualifications for this programme.
• GCSEs: Additional to the Level 3 requirement, students will also need to have achieved GCSE Maths Grade C/4 and English Grade C/4 and above.
• Non-standard entry routes: Students who do not meet the standard entry requirements may still be considered if they are aged 21 or over, can demonstrate strong professional achievements, have three years of work experience in a related field, and have the relevant qualifications.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of a recognised English language qualification, taken within the last two years and accepted by Aston University.

Career Prospects

As a BCS-accredited programme, this degree also boosts career prospects by putting students on the path to professional recognition, such as Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status. It enhances employability and ensures qualifications are internationally recognised. Aston graduates from this versatile and globally in-demand degree have gone on to successful roles for a range of employers, such as Capgemini, Microsoft, Toyota, Unisys, Coca-Cola, IBM UK, Ford, Hewlett Packard, Logica CMG, HSBC, and PCMS.

FAQs

• How will I benefit from studying the Computer Science (BSc) Online programme?: The programme offers a distinctive learning experience for aspiring technology and programming professionals, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
• How does this programme ensure that I'm exposed to the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly evolving field of computer science?: The programme keeps students updated on the latest trends and technologies by incorporating industry practices and regularly refreshing the curriculum.
• What language will the Computer Science (BSc) Online programme be taught in?: The programme will be taught in English, and applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.