Computer Science (Consultancy)

Description

Computer Science is an exciting and rapidly developing subject that offers excellent employment prospects and well-paid careers.

At the University of Kent, we teach you the fundamentals of computer science as well as giving you the opportunity to choose from a broad range of options in areas such as computer security and cryptography, mobile computing and parallel computing.

Our degree programme can be studied as the Computer Science general degree, where a subject focus is decided during the course of your study, or as a themed degree, such as Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence), where a specific focus is decided at the time of enrolment and named in the degree title.

Over half our students choose to do a year in industry. This gives you work experience, a salary and the possibility of a job with the same company after graduation. You can also work during your studies as a consultant at our Kent IT Clinic, earning credit towards your degree while providing computing support to local businesses.

The School of Computing is an internationally recognised Centre of Excellence for programming education, with 95% of our research judged to be of international quality. The School is also home to two National Teaching Fellows, authors of widely used textbooks and award-winning Java teaching systems such as BlueJ and Greenfoot.

Those students who choose to take the year in industry option, find the practical experience they gain gives them a real advantage in the graduate job market. In addition, the Kent It Clinic gives you the opportunity to take on consultancy work for local companies, giving you real-world experience and earning credits towards your academic studies. Our high graduate employment rate speaks for itself, with recent graduates going on to work at Accenture, BT, Cisco, GlaxoSmithKline, IBM, Intel, Lilly, Microsoft, Morgan Stanley, Oracle, Thomson Reuters, Siemens and T-Mobile.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 14860 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

• CO320 - Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming

  This module provides an introduction to object-oriented software development. Software pervades many aspects of most professional fields and sciences, and an understanding of the development of software applications is useful as a basis for many disciplines. This module covers the development of simple software systems. Students will gain an understanding of the software development process, and learn to design and implement applications in a popular object-oriented programming language. Fundamentals of classes and objects are introduced, and key features of class descriptions: constructors, methods and fields. Method implementation through assignment, selection control structures, iterative control structures and other statements is introduced. Collection objects are also covered and the availability of library classes as building blocks. Throughout the course, the quality of class design and the need for a professional approach to software development is emphasized

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO322 - Foundations of Computing I

  Mathematical reasoning underpins many aspects of computer science and this module aims to provide the skills needed for other modules on the degree programme; we are not teaching mathematics for its own sake.Topics will include algebra, reasoning and proof set theory, functions, statistics.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO323 - Databases and the Web

  • An introduction to databases and SQL, focussing on their use as a source for content for websites.
  • Creating static content for websites using HTML(5) and controlling their appearance using CSS.
  • Using PHP to integrate static and dynamic content for web sites.
  • Securing dynamic websites.
  • Using Javascript to improve interactivity and maintainability in web content.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO324 - Computer Systems

  14. A synopsis of the curriculum
  This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the fundamental behaviour and components (hardware and software) of a typical computer system, and how they collaborate to manage resources and provide services. The module has two strands: ‘Hardware Architecture’ and ‘Operating Systems and Networks,’ which form around 35% and 65% of the material respectively. Both strands contain material which is of general interest to computer users; quite apart from their academic value, they will be useful to anyone using any modern computer system.
  Hardware Architecture
  Data representation: Bits, bytes and words. Numeric and non-numeric data. Number representation.
  Computer architecture: Fundamental building blocks (logic gates, flip-flops, counters, registers). The fetch/execute cycle. Instruction sets and types.
  Data storage: Memory hierarchies and associated technologies. Physical and virtual memory.
  Operating Systems and Networks
  Operating systems principles. Abstractions. Processes and resources. Security. Application Program Interfaces.
  Device interfaces: Handshaking, buffering, programmed and interrupt-driven i/o. Direct Memory Access.
  File Systems: Physical structure. File and directory organisation, structure and contents. Naming hierarchies and access. Backup.
  Background and history of networking and the Internet.
  Networks and protocols: LANs and WANs, layered protocol design. The TCP/IP protocol stack; theory and practice. Connection-oriented and connectionless communication. Unicast, multicast and broadcast. Naming and addressing. Application protocols; worked examples: SMTP, HTTP).

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO325 - Foundations of Computing II

  This module follows from CO322 and aims to provide students with more understanding of the theory behind the formal underpinnings of computing. It will build upon the abstract reasoning skills introduced in CO322. Matrices, vectors, differential calculus, probability and computer arithmetic will be introduced.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO328 - Human Computer Interaction

  This module provides an introduction to human-computer interaction. Fundamental aspects of human physiology and psychology are introduced and key features of interaction and common interaction styles delineated. A variety of analysis and design methods are introduced (e.g. GOMS. heuristic evaluation, user-centred and contextual design techniques). Throughout the course, the quality of design and the need for a professional, integrated and user-centred approach to interface development is emphasised. Rapid and low-fidelity prototyping feature as one aspect of this.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO334 - People and Computing

  Design and communication, what makes for good written communication, how people get and process information, Personal Development Project, effective spoken communication, how to work successfully in a group, doing academic research, about preparing and giving a presentation, history of computing and the history of communication, the effects of technology, Health and safety issues with computing, the Business of Computing, Employment in IT, software development and software engineering, preparing for examinations, designing –for the web: web usability and web accessibility, the basics of IPR, relevant Laws applying to the use and development of computing, such as the Computer Misuse Act and the Data Protection Acts.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO520 - Further Object-Oriented Programming

  This module builds on the foundation of object-oriented design and implementation found in module CO320 Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming to provide a deeper understanding of and facility with object-oriented program design and implementation. More advanced features of object-orientation, such as inheritance, abstract classes, nested classes, graphical-user interfaces (GUIs), exceptions, input-output are covered. These allow an application-level view of design and implementation to be explored. Throughout the module the quality of application design and the need for a professional approach to software development is emphasized.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

• CO522 - Algorithms, Data structures and Complexity

  By the end of this module you will have gained: the ability to design and use linked data structures; the ability to analyse the time and space behaviour (efficiency) of algorithms; an understanding of known algorithms, in particular graph, text manipulation and geometric algorithms; an understanding of the computer representation and manipulation of numerical data along with a general appreciation of numerical calculation and approximate reasoning.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO526 - Distributed Systems and Networks

  This module looks at the way distributed systems are modelled to contain and control the problems that naturally arise from distribution. It introduces the major techniques used to achieve coordinated and consistent use of distributed resources, both in terms of the construction of application components and the support of system-wide features such as support for security and management. It shows, by discussing the incorporation of multimedia information, how suitable use of abstractions can assist in requirements capture and system evolution.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO527 - Operating Systems and Architecture

  This module aims to provide students with a more in-depth understanding of the fundamental behaviour and components (hardware and software) of a typical computer system, and how they collaborate to manage resources and provide services. It will consider systems other than the standard PC running Windows, in order to broaden students’ outlook. The module has two strands: “Operating Systems” and “Architecture”, which each form around 50% of the material.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO531 - Software Engineering Practice

  Software systems are typically large and complex systems that require a disciplined and professional approach to their analysis, design and implementation. We show you how to deal with problems of scale and complexity combining software engineering and traditional systems methodologies.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO532 - Database Systems

  This module provides an introduction to the theory and practice of database systems. It extends the study of information systems in Stage 1 by focusing on the design, implementation and use of database systems. Topics include database management systems architecture, data modelling and database design, query languages, recent developments and future prospects.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO534 - IT Consultancy Methods

  The principal aim of this module is effectively to equip computing students to operate as IT consultants to small businesses. The module is designed to support students who wish to work in the Kent IT Clinic http://www.cs.kent.ac.uk/students/kitc/index.html
  but will also provide students with a general appreciation of the environment of IT consultancy.
  A pervading theme is that students of this course (as well as students conducting projects for KITC) should be the primary players in developing KITC’s quality plan, ensuring that quality issues are thoroughly understood by KITC participants, and that participants have a sense of ownership of the Clinic’s procedures.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO536 - Advanced Programming Techniques

  This module takes a deeper look at advanced techniques in both low and high level programming languages. Topics include: Introduction to Unix; Low-level architecture; memory layout; pointers; C programming and debugging; pre-processing, compiling, linking and loading, including the use of dynamically linked libraries.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO537 - Functional Programming

  Expressions, values and types. Introduction to a Haskell system (sessions and scripts). Numbers, Booleans and characters. Function definitions, case analysis. Approaches to testing programs. Polymorphic types. Lists and common list processing functions. Tuples. Higher order functions and currying. Pattern matching, recursive function definitions. Library functions. Algebraic data types. Working with monads, monadic IO. The QuickCheck library.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO528 - Introduction to Intelligent Systems

  This module covers the basic principles of machine learning and the kinds of problems that can be solved by such techniques. You learn about the philosophy of AI, how knowledge is represented and algorithms to search state spaces. The module also provides an introduction to both machine learning and biologically inspired computation.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO525 - Dynamic Web

  The World Wide Web has become one of the most significant and revolutionary technologies in its ability to deliver new forms for both business and personal communication. In order to be able to fully utilise the power of the Web a good understanding of several key technologies is required. In this module you will learn how to utilise XML to create new forms of Web based documents. You will find out how flexible Web pages can be created using stylesheets and client side scripting. You will also discover how to use server side scripting to support dynamic content and interaction with other applications

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

• CO650 - IT Consultancy Project

  Students taking this module will undertake two or (typically) more assignments for the Kent IT Clinic (KITC). Each assignment will be of one of three types: .

  Credits: 30 credits (15 ECTS credits).

• CO652 - Computer Games Programming with C++

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO831 - Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing

  In this module you discuss the characteristics and limitations of hardware devices, communication and software infrastructures and environments used on small devices and in mobile and ubiquitous computing contexts. You look at the current practice in mobile and ubiquitous computing contexts, and deal with a range of professional and ethical issues, particularly those relating to security and privacy in mobile and ubiquitous computing.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO528 - Introduction to Intelligent Systems

  This module covers the basic principles of machine learning and the kinds of problems that can be solved by such techniques. You learn about the philosophy of AI, how knowledge is represented and algorithms to search state spaces. The module also provides an introduction to both machine learning and biologically inspired computation.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CB612 - New Enterprise Startup

  The module will examine the characteristics required of a business to succeed and the reasons for business failure, risks and uncertainties, skills requirements for business ownership, & sources of advice and support for businesses. It will look at the new business planning process,developing and evaluating the business idea, & producing a business plan for potential lenders and investors. It will cover the financial aspects, market research & planning, quality standards, legal issues, staff and physical resources, and the overall planning and implementation of the business plan.
  This module is closely linked with Network612, a small business, graduate entrepreneurship and business support services forum. There are six network events during the year.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO633 - Computer Networks and Communications

  This modules contains two main components. It starts with a comprehensive and detailed study of current computer networks and communications technologies. You learn how the various hardware and software components are organised and how they actually work . A selection of key topics are then looked at in even greater depth to reveal the state-of-the-art and issues (problems) that remain to be solved.
  Network Architectures and Protocols: This component provides a comprehensive study of network architecture and individual protocol layers, including details of the technologies, algorithms and protocols currently used.
  The Advanced Topics component takes an in-depth look at a number of advanced topics in the area of computer communications, including details of the current practice and outstanding issues in a number of state-of-the-art areas.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO634 - Computer Security and Cryptography

  Security has always been an important aspect of computing systems but its importance has increased greatly in recent years. In this module you learn about areas where security is of major importance and the techniques used to secure them. The areas you look at include computer operating systems (and increasingly, distributed operating systems), distributed applications (such as electronic commerce over the Internet) and embedded systems (ranging from smart cards and pay-TV to large industrial plant and telecommunications systems).

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO636 - Cognitive Neural Networks

  In this module you learn what is meant by neural networks and how to explain the mathematical equations that underlie them. You also build neural networks using state of the art simulation technology and apply these networks to the solution of problems. In addition, the module discusses examples of computation applied to neurobiology and cognitive psychology.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO637 - Natural Computation

  This module enables students to take ideas from the natural sciences and use them as inspiration for new computational techniques. You examine developments in biological-inspired computation and other areas such as bioinformatics. There is also a practical element to the module; you gain knowledge of a widely-used computing paradigm – genetic algorithms (GA). Topic covered include evolutionary computation, swarm intelligence and artificial immune system

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO639 - Electronic Commerce

  E-commerce is an increasingly important area for consumers, businesses and national economies. This module introduces what is meant by electronic commerce, and discusses its economic and social implications, its drivers and limitations. You will learn about the principal features of business-to-business and business-to-customer e-commerce and compare them with traditional forms of trading. The course also includes the chance to implement a simple end-to-end e-commerce system

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO641 - Computer Graphics and Animation

  •Digital Imaging and Video:
  Human vision
  Colour models
  Images, video and 3D
  Capture and display
  Enhancement and conversion
  Formats and compression (e.g. GIF, JPEG, MPEG)

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO643 - Computing Law and Professional Responsibility

  Professional issues and professional organisations.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO646 - Computing in the Classroom

  Students will spend one half-day per week for ten weeks in a school with a nominated teacher. They will observe sessions taught by their designated teacher and possibly other teachers. Later they will act somewhat in the role of a teaching assistant, by helping individual pupils who are having difficulties or by working with small groups. They may take ‘hotspots’: brief sessions with the whole class where they explain a technical topic or talk about aspects of university life. They must keep a weekly log of their activities. Each student must also devise a special project in consultation with the teacher and with the module convener. They must then implement and evaluate the project.

  Credits: 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits).

• CO519 - Theory of Computing

  You look at the topic of theoretical

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 CAE score : 60(Grade C)

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

Requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification

Typical offer/minimum requirement

• A level: ABB
• GCSE: C in Mathematics
• Access to HE Diploma: The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.
• BTEC Level 5 HND: Distinction for direct entry to Stage 2
• International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall or 16 at HL including Mathematics 5 at HL or SL, or Mathematics Studies 6 at SL

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 Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

Accreditation

Accredited by: This programme has full CITP and partial CEng accreditation from the British Computer Society (BCS).