Computing

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Our supportive tutors will guide you through topics that include software development, networks, database systems and web development. We help you develop the necessary skills to undertake a Masters-level project in designing and implementing IT systems, without assuming previous experience.

By the end of the course you will have an expert understanding of the processes and knowledge that are needed to design, implement and support an IT system. You will also be able to make a significant contribution to IT research activities as well as to team-based IT projects.

The research aspects of the course are supported by Sunderlands on-going research programme. The specialisms of our Digital Innovation Research Beacon include intelligent systems, internet technologies, information retrieval and interaction design.

Sunderland has invested heavily in state-of-the-art technology for computer sciences and IT. We are among the UKs top ten universities in terms of spend per student, according to The Guardian University Guide 2013.

Modules on this course include: * Research Skills and Academic Literacy (15 Credits)

This module covers research methods including qualitative and quantitative approaches. You will carry out literature surveys, data collection, data analysis, critical evaluation and appraisal of published work and data sets. You will also learn how to research and write a technical paper.

* Architectures and Operating Systems (15 Credits)

In this module you will examine the basic architecture of a modern day computer system. You will cover the functions and operations of the principal hardware and software elements as well as different types of computer systems. This practical module will give you the opportunity to get inside real computers and see how the various components and subsystems work.

* Web and Multimedia Development (15 Credits)

This module includes the HCI fundamentals of context, design and evaluation. You will also explore the context of user research through studies of users, tasks, activities and environments. You will study web development including HTML and CSS and gain an understanding of common tools as well as knowledge of web development and the skills used in multimedia programming.

* Software Development (30 Credits)

This module covers object-oriented programming languages; design and implementation inheritance in an OOL; specification of requirements; software design using interaction diagrams and state diagrams; testing and design patterns; and testing OO systems.

* Networks (15 Credits)

This module covers different aspects of network systems, including LANS, MANS, WANS, WLANS, topologies, ISO 7-layer and TCP/IP models, media (radiated and conducted), signalling techniques, routers, switches, print servers, file servers, web/ftp servers protocols (routing and routed), wireless network configuration and security measures. You will also cover related software and hardware.

* Database Systems (15 Credits)

This module is about the design and implementation of information systems using database technology. You will cover: data models (relational, object-oriented and object-relational models); data manipulation languages; database security; transaction management; client-server systems; distributed databases; internet database technologies and connectivity; database warehousing and data mining.

* Foundations of Computer Science (15 Credits)

During this module you will study soft systems approaches to problem understanding such as rich pictures, CATWOE and root definitions. You will also cover object oriented techniques for analysis, systems level understanding and modelling/algorithms.

* Masters Project (60 Credits)

You will undertake a real world project through the support of a sponsor. It will include both a research and a practical element.

This course is for applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree in a discipline related to computing. We usually require at least a 2:2 honours degree in any discipline. We will also consider applicants with other backgrounds and experience. We expect you to have basic IT skills.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. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 60 (Grade C) IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

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

Accreditation

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional. Please note that accreditation is currently for cohorts commencing in the 2012 intakes only and is subject to confirmation to the full five intakes by BCS.