Network Computing

Description

Compared to Computing BSc (Hons), this course has a much stronger focus on computer network technologies. You will develop both practical skills in designing and building networks, as well as expertise in five key areas of network management: fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security. For each of these, you will learn about available protocols and how to analyse different models and standards.

At the same time the course covers all the fundamentals of computing. Topics include web applications, database systems, programming and software development.

Throughout the course you will have the support of ultra high-tech facilities. We have three laboratories packed with CISCO networking equipment including routers, switches, terminals and specialist equipment for simulating frame relay and ISDN links.

We encourage our students to undertake a year-long placement between the second and final years, although it is not compulsory. It’s a great opportunity to get paid to put your learning into practice and to extend your experience.

Graduates of our course will automatically gain exemption from some of the requirements of the British Computer Society BCS, the UK’s Chartered Institute for IT. Becoming chartered through the BCS is a further way to demonstrate your professionalism and value to potential employers.

See what some of our staff and students have to say about Computing at the University of Sunderland:

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline 15th January/October Tuition fee

• GBP 7800 Year (EEA)
• GBP 9500 Year (International)

Start date September 2015 15th Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

Year 1 (national level 4)

Fundamentals of Computing (100 Credits)

• Software Development and Theory – Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, Formal Methods.
• Programming – Microsoft C# .NET and Java programming for Robots.
• Web and Multimedia Applications – Markup Languages (HTML 5, CSS 3), Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Flash, and Actionscript, Adobe Photoshop, Javascript, Web APIs (such as Google Maps and Yahoo APIs).
• Database Systems – Database Design, Relational Databases and SQL, Database Integrity and Security, PHP and MySQL.
• Computer Systems and Networking – Operating Systems, Networks and Computer Architectures.
• Specialist Mini Project – you can showcase your talents through a project in your chosen area of computing. Past projects have included a Facebook app, a hack challenge and the creation of a retro arcade games

Systems Administration (20 Credits)

This module explores how to manage large installations in Windows and UNIX. It provides an insight into the role of system administrator, which is one of many possible roles for computing graduates after the end of their studies.

Year 2 (national level 5)

• Software Engineering Enterprise and Innovation Project (40 Credits)

Choose to develop a software project for a client or yourself. You will gain valuable experience of working within a team-based software development environment.

• Network and Routing Fundamentals (40 Credits)

This module introduces theories behind networking and basic router configuration. You will work in our networking laboratories to develop practical skills in designing and building routed networks of the kind typically found in industry. This module also offers the opportunity to undertake exams for CISCO accreditation for CCNA, which is a well-recognised and valued industry accreditation.

Final Year (national level 6)

• Computing Major Project (40 Credits)

You will research a topic and develop software that’s connected to that topic. Past examples include an Android audio application, a Trojan detector and a network monitoring tool.

• Network Management (20 Credits)

This module introduces the five key activities associated with network management: Fault, Configuration, Accounting, Performance and Security. For each of these activities you will learn about standards / models / protocols and how to analyse their effectiveness.

• Telecommunications (20 Credits)

module moves from analogue principles to digital telephony, VOIP, packetized voice, GSM and converged networks. You will have an opportunity to build a fully converged modern telecommunications system.

Optional modules (choose 40 Credits):

• Ethical Hacking (20 Credits)

You will develop knowledge and understanding of ethical hacking, which is about locating and strengthening security weaknesses in computer systems. The module will also cover a range of legal and social aspects in the ethical hacking domain.

• Concurrent and Distributed Systems (20 Credits)

This module covers modern multi-processor and distributed system software development using appropriate programming languages, frameworks and APIs.

• Project Management (20 Credits)

You will learn modern approaches to the development and management of IT-related projects, making use of the latest principles and research.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 60(Grade C)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

Our typical offer will be in the region of 260 points from a minimum of two A Levels or equivalent (for example 1 x AVCE double award).

We accept a maximum of 20 points from Level 3 Key Skills qualifications.

Please note we do not accept AS/A Level General Studies.

We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language, or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.

If you have already covered one or more of the topics covered by the course, and would like to apply for accreditation of prior learning (APL), please contact the course leader.

Other acceptable qualifications

BTEC National: 260 points from a BTEC Certificate or Diploma.

Access Courses: We would require successful completion of an Access to Higher Education course that is accredited by the Quality Assurance Agency. We would also require a minimum of grade C in GCSE in Mathematics and English Language or the equivalent as part of your course.

Scottish Highers: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Sunderland.

Funding

Scholarships on offer include cash bursaries, reduced tuition fees, free accommodation and free public transport.

Accreditation

Recognition by the British Computer Society, the UK's Chartered Institute for IT.