Information and Communication Technology

The BSc in Information and Communication Technology at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive education in the core principles and practices of modern ICT. This programme is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving digital world. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including computer programming, networks, cybersecurity, data management, and software development. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative approaches to technological challenges, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in the IT industry. Students have opportunities to engage in hands-on projects, work with emerging technologies, and develop strong technical competencies. The programme also focuses on the development of communication skills, teamwork, and ethical considerations in technology usage, ensuring students are well-rounded professionals ready to contribute positively to society. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and close ties to industry, the course provides a solid foundation for further study or employment in sectors such as software engineering, network administration, cybersecurity, and data analysis. The University of Essex's supportive learning environment, combined with research-led teaching, ensures students receive a high-quality education that is both relevant and adaptable to future technological developments. Graduates of this programme are equipped to tackle the complex challenges facing the digital world and to innovate in fields that rely heavily on information and communication technology.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking science and engineering subjects, then these options are slightly restricted because our science modules tend to rely on previous knowledge of the subject.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BSc, then you are qualified to enter the second year not only of that course but also of a range of other courses: for example, if you are a BSc student who takes economics, politics, philosophy and sociology in your first year, then you have a choice of at least two courses and, in some cases, as many as five. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you. Some of our science courses offer an optional extra year of an industrial placement.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1
Professional Development;
Mathematics for Computing;
Introduction to Programming;
Object-Oriented Programming;
Introduction to Databases;
Web Development;
Network Fundamentals; and
Digital Systems Architecture

Year 2
Group Project and Industrial Practice;
Software Engineering;
Databases and Information Retrieval;
ICT Systems Integration and Management;
Computer and Data Networks;
Computer Security; and
two second-year options

Year 3
Individual Project (double module);
Business Information Systems;
Large Scale Software Systems;
Network Security; and
three appropriate options from your third-year list
We offer you a wide range of interesting modules to choose from throughout your time at Essex. All modules include a significant coursework element, while teaching draws on the most up-to-date and exciting research. (Please note that modules with a 4 in the middle of their module code are for first-year undergraduates, those with a 5 are for second-year undergraduates and those with a 6 are for third-year undergraduates).

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

A-levels: ABB-BBB
GCSE Mathematics: C
GCSE English: C
IB: 32-30 points, including Standard Mathematics grade 4, if not taken at Higher Level (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM
Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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 Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Bachelor of Science in Information and Communication Technology at the University of Essex is a comprehensive programme designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the rapidly evolving field of ICT. The programme offers a balanced mix of theoretical foundations and practical applications, enabling graduates to adapt to various roles within the industry. Students will study core areas such as programming, networking, systems analysis, database management, and cyber security, alongside modules that explore emerging technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data science. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication, which are vital in ICT-related careers. Additionally, the programme emphasizes teamwork and project management through group projects and real-world case studies, preparing students for the collaborative nature of the tech industry. The university’s modern facilities and strong links with industry partners ensure that students gain hands-on experience using current tools and software. Graduates of this programme are well-positioned to pursue careers in software development, network administration, cybersecurity, IT consultancy, and many other domains. The university also offers opportunities for industrial placements, allowing students to gain valuable practical experience and industry insights. The programme encourages an entrepreneurial mindset, fostering innovation and improvement in ICT solutions. With excellent academic support, a diverse student community, and a vibrant campus life, students are well-supported throughout their studies to succeed academically and professionally. Overall, the BSc in ICT from the University of Essex aims to produce capable, innovative, and adaptable ICT professionals ready to meet the technological challenges of the future.