BSc (Hons) Computer Science
Overview
The British higher education system and university degrees are recognised as being amongst the best in the world and so are highly sought after. The University of Chester recently celebrated its175th anniversary, making it one of the oldest higher education institutions in the UK. High rankings in student satisfaction ,reflect its commitment to excellence in education
In this course you explore: how computers work, how computer software is developed, how computers communicate with each other, the ways in which software manipulates, stores and processes data ,the creation of a safe and interesting online environment for commerce, the study of robotics and artificial intelligence, and the operation of networking systems within organisations are just some of the themes we will cover.
Today, there are very few organisations that do not rely on the use of computers for information processing and problem solving. The study of Computer Science means the acquisition of the knowledge and skills needed to develop software and hardware solutions for many of the new challenges facing today’s computer users A degree in Computer Science is an excellent foundation for a wide range of computing job roles in web site design, app development, database design and system development. The technology sector in the UK is booming – offering many opportunities for qualified and skilled programmers, designers and developers.
Examples include:
Web Site Developer
Web Developers plan, create and code web pages, using both non-technical and technical skills to produce websites that fit the customer’s requirements.
They are involved in the technical and graphical aspects of pages, producing not just the look of the website but determining how it works as well. Web Developers might also be responsible for the maintenance of an existing site.
Application Developer
App Developers translate software requirements into workable programming code and maintain and develop programs for use in business. Most will specialise in a specific development field – such as mobile phone applications, accounting software, office suites or graphics software – and will have in-depth knowledge of at least one computer language.
Applications, or ‘apps’, can be written for a particular system, such as Windows, Apple or Android, or across numerous platforms, including computers and mobile devices.
Database Administrator
A DBA is responsible for the performance, integrity and security of a database. They will also be involved in the planning and development of the database as well as troubleshooting any issues on behalf of the users. A DBA makes sure that databases have the following qualities:
- data remains consistent across the database;
- data is clearly defined;
- users access data concurrently, in a form that suits their needs;
- there is provision for data security and recovery control (all data is retrievable in an emergency).
Games Developer
Games developers are involved in the creation and production of games for personal computers, games consoles, social/online games, arcade games, tablets, mobile phones and other hand held devices. Their work involves either design (including art and animation) or programming.
Games development is a fast-moving, multi-billion pound industry. The making of a game from concept to finished product can take up to three years and involve teams of up to 200 professionals.
A degree in Computer Science is an excellent foundation for a wide range of computing job roles in business, health, science and the creative industries.
Information Systems Manager
Information systems managers oversee the development, maintenance and functioning organizations’ computer technology systems. These systems include networks, databases, hardware and software. Information systems managers often supervise other IT department employees, and many specialize in computer systems management or project management.
Business Analyst
The business analyst role is often seen as a communication bridge between IT and the business stakeholders. Business analysts must be great verbal and written communicators, tactful diplomats, problem solvers, thinkers and analysers – with the ability to engage with stakeholders to understand and respond to their needs in rapidly changing business environments. This can often involve dealing with very senior stakeholders and can often involve challenging and questioning to ensure that value for money is achieved from IT developments.
Course Content
The Course is divided into 3 parts with 6 subjects or modules in each part as the table below explains
| No. | LEVEL 4 | LEVEL 5 | LEVEL 6 |
| 1 | Introduction to User Experience | Experiential Learning | Dissertation / Project |
| 2 | Information Analysis & Presentation, | Systems Development | |
| 3 | Cisco 1 | Database Principles & Practice | Modern Database Management Systems |
| 4 | Introduction to Computer Systems | Computer Systems and Networks | Network Infrastructure and Management |
| 5 | Introduction to Programming | Further Programming and Problem Solving | Advanced Programming |
| 6 | Introduction to Web based technologies | Website Production and Development | Managing a Web based environment |
The subjects are assessed by a combination of coursework and examinations with exams mostly used for the Accounting and IT subjects and coursework for the others and for which in each subject the pass mark is 40%
If the student
- Only completes the first 6 subjects/modules or Level 4 they will be awarded a University Certificate of Higher Education in Computer science
- Only completes the first 12 subjects/modules or Level 5 and 6 they will be awarded a University Diploma of Higher Education in Computer science
- Completes all 18 subjects or level 4,5 and 6 they will be awarded a University Degree ie a BSC Hons in Computer science The Class of the degree though will depend upon the average of the marks obtained in the final part 3 of the course
Course Duration
The Course has 2 different start dates throughout the year, which are September and January.
The year is divided into 2 terms of 13 weeks each, with 4 week holiday break between each term.
The Course is designed to make it possible to complete the whole degree in 3 years:
- If the student studies for 2 terms in a 12 month period for each academic year OR has resit subjects in term 3.
| Degree | Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 | Total modules studied per year | Duration |
| BA in 3 years | 3 Modules | 3 Modules | Extended Holidays or Resits of coursework/ exams | 6 Modules | 18 subjects over 3 years of 9 months study per year |
A choice of start dates and time taken to obtain the degree gives students the maximum flexibility.
Key Benefits
- Knowledge and skills – During this course you will explore: how computers work, how software is developed, how computers communicate with each other, the ways in which software manipulates, stores and processes data, the creation of a safe and interesting online environment for commerce, the study of robotics and artificial intelligence, and the operation of networking systems within organisations. These are just some of the subjects which will be covered.
- Career opportunities – A degree in Computer Science is an excellent foundation for a wide-range of computing job roles.
- The technology sector is booming, offering many opportunities for qualified and skilled programmers, designers and developers. Examples include; Website developer, Application Developer, Database Administrator, Games Developer, Information Systems Manager and Business Analyst.
- Own business opportunities – The world of computing is full of small business start-ups and one person companies. Website design, database design, network maintenance and games programming are all activities that can be carried out on a small scale. The opportunities for enterprise are endless.
- Professional recognition – University of Chester degrees are currently awaiting BCS accreditation, which will ensure students have the right skills for a career in the computing profession.
- Further study – Postgraduate study opportunities include MSc Information Systems and MBA Information Technology. Students may also go on to take MPhil, DPhil and PhD degrees.
Entry Requirements
The typical applicant will have completed one of the following;
| Typical Entry | 112 UCAS points |
| GCE A Level | 112 UCAS points from GCE A Levels or equivalent. Typical offer – BCC/BBC |
| BTEC | BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM BTEC Diploma – D*D* |
| Irish/Scottish Highers | Grades BBBB |
| International Baccalaureate | 26 points |
| Access | Access to HE Diploma, to include 45 credits at level 3, 30 of which must be at Merit |
| OCR | OCR National Extended Diploma – Merit 2 OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – DMM OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma – D*D* |
| Extra Information | Please note that we accept a maximum of 8 UCAS points from GCE AS Levels and that the Welsh Baccalaureate (core) and A Level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs. |
- Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study.
- We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also take into account appropriate work experience.
- English Language Requirements: IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in any band)
| Course / Duration | Fees |
| BSc(Hons)Computer Science (3 years) | £6,165 per year |
Student Funding
We are committed to our prospective students to understand the costs and funding for them if they choose to apply in our partner universities. Studying with us is a real investment in your future; if you are studying a Higher National Certificate or Higher National Diploma (HND) you may be eligible for funding through Student Finance.
Click Here: https://www.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance
Student Loans & Student Grants
- A loan to cover your tuition fees and a maintenance loan towards your expenses. The loan is paid directly into your bank account at the start of term. You have to pay the loan back.
- The student grant is paid into your bank account at the start of term. Additional money (up to £3,250) for qualifying full-time students only, which you will not have to pay back.
- Learn more. https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
Help for Students with Children
- Full-time higher education students with children can apply for a Childcare Grant that provides additional money for childcare costs or other financial support for parents.
- Learn more. https://www.gov.uk/childcare-grant
Are you eligible?
Click Here: https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/who-qualifies
If you are not sure, then please feel free to contact us for further assistance.
