This interesting and challenging course combines hands-on development with the theories behind how and why computers work as they do. You will have full access to the University’s outstanding IT facilities, which include specialist networking laboratories. We provide professional-level developer software and advanced hardware through accreditations with Cisco and other major companies.
Topics include programming, software development, database systems, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things and Cybersecurity.
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Year 1 (national level 4):
Gain an overview of basic design principles of systems and software, including modelling principles and the use of tools, and design patterns. Investigates different software processes, data integration, project management and be introduced to software testing methods. Discover key concepts that will allow you to begin to break down programmatical application areas and begin to devise, document, test, develop and improve working solutions for a given problem.
Learn the basic principles of computer architectures. Gain an understanding of the underlying mathematics, operations and components used by computer architectures. Be introduced to the concept of operating systems and the types of hardware that can be attached to a computer to facilitate input and output. Explore in detail the considerations and tasks required to install, manage, and maintain computers both in stand-alone and virtual environments.
Learn the basic principles of programming. Develop your skills in logical analysis into formal representation within structured program code. Cover the core principles of computer programming that underpin all computer science disciplines. Focus on simple data storage and manipulation using the primary programming structures of sequence, selection, and repetition. Develop programs using industry standard techniques.
Be introduced to the fundamentals of client-server web-based development from a programming perspective. Learn key concepts that will allow you to start building dynamic web applications in response to business requirements. Develop web applications using industry standard tools and techniques and use of a range of programming, markup, and query languages.
Develop a sound knowledge of networking protocols and technologies, together with the techniques to install, configure and troubleshoot a network operating system. Acquire the skills to maximise network availability to all users. Learn about client server architectures and cloud computing paradigms.
Gain a rounded introduction to the underpinning development of computing disciplines from the first beginnings to the present day. Discuss computing as a profession and a discipline from an historical and developmental perspective, evaluating the development of software, hardware and computer systems.
Year 2 (national level 5):
Learn key skills such as self-determination, planning and actioning of goals, time management, independent learning and team working.
This module has been developed with the support of the Institute of Coding, a network of employers, universities, training providers and professional bodies working together to create the skills needed for the digital economy. The module on this programme has been modified as a result of collaboration with a number of industry partners including SAGE and Adlink, to enhance industry relevant employability skills.
This module will move beyond the basic object oriented concepts associated with simple classes and objects to cover a series of more sophisticated object-oriented ideas, including ‘inheritance’ and ‘polymorphism’.
The module provides you with in-depth knowledge of issues associated with the modern software development life cycle, including the application of standard industrial methods to the design, development and testing of complex OO systems, including those with multi-threaded and distributed components.
The aim of this module is to enable you to understand how information systems can be used and developed to support enterprises.
Gain the specialised skills necessary to develop applications for IoT devices within real-world contexts, including the use of robotics and sensors. Focus on programming, network connectivity, configuration and deployment of IoT devices in simulated and practical environments. Use industry-standard tools to acquire, interpret and visualize data retrieved from them. Consider science, HCI and security techniques
Final year (national level 6)
Core modules:
Undertake advanced study, including a literature review, in order to research and develop to completion a substantial piece of work that demonstrates the range of skills you have acquired. You will also submit a dissertation that describes and evaluates the problem and solution. Past examples include an Android audio application, a Trojan detector and a network monitoring tool.
Develop your knowledge of current AI principles and your skills in this fast-moving area, which is a particular focus of Sunderland’s research.
Learn how to analyse the range of tradeoffs in balancing the security properties of confidentiality, integrity and availability. You will also learn how to select the appropriate tools and techniques to address and manage concepts of risk, threats, vulnerabilities and potential attacks.
Optional modules (choose two):
Analyse, design, develop, test and deploy native mobile applications using Java and Android Studio. You will be introduced to native programming, application build and deployment, the Android ecosystem, security and software engineering in a student led and practical manner.
Explore solutions related to complex database systems such as: enhanced data models, query optimisation, clustering, scalability, security, forensic investigation, data warehousing, data analysis tools and more.
Gain the knowledge and skills that will enable you to explore and exploit business opportunities for software enterprises.
Undertake a work-based placement to support computing in a school or equivalent learning environment.
Consider usability and user experience principles. Examine user-centred design techniques and usability evaluation methods
This course has a strong emphasis on real-world learning that boosts employability and equips you to make a bigger contribution in the workplace.
Sunderland has a good reputation with employers and, according to the Destination of Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2016/17, 93.4% of our graduates are in employment, further study or training within six months of graduating (based on full-time, first degree, home leavers). The top type of job gained by our graduates is ‘information and communication technology professional’.
Our graduates have gone on to become web programmers, IT managers, information analysts and software developers. Employers that have taken on our graduates include Sage, British Airways and the NHS. Other graduates have started their own businesses or become software contractors earning over £50,000 a year.
Insurance-Single: 300 GBP/year
