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The aim of this module is to equip you with a grounding in the foundations of computing; it underpins many aspects of computer science-related degree programmes. This module aims to provide the skills needed for other modules on computer science-related degree programmes. More specifically, it introduces you through regular lectures and labs to computer systems (devices), computer networks (networks), and ethics in computing.

Firstly, you will gain knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with computing, and be exposed to the theoretical and practical aspects, including data representation, computer components, desktop virtualisation, mobile computing, traditional PCs, cloud services, etc. Moreover, this module will help you develop a sufficiently rich and detailed, generally applicable theoretical and practical knowledge of computer networks and the internet, including networking concepts, techniques and typical networking components. Additionally, this part of the module will cover how to install, configure, upgrade, troubleshoot, backup and maintain client ICT solutions.

Secondly, this module is intended to give you a chance to reflect on the social and professional impact of computer technology in modern society, by focusing on ethical and legal issues faced-by and facilitated-by computing professionals, including those related to professional responsibility and accountability, networking and the internet, intellectual property, privacy, security, reliability, and liability.

Python is an interpreted language with a simple syntax, a rich programming environment, and a powerful set of libraries. The Python programming module has no pre-requisites; it is designed for learners with no prior programming experience and avoids all but the simplest mathematics. Anyone with moderate computer experience should be able to master the materials in this course. As well as covering the basics of how one constructs a program from a series of simple instructions in Python, this module aims to teach you the basics of programming computers using Python.

You will be introduced to fundamental theories and related concepts of the Python programming language; the module will help the learner develop a sufficiently rich and detailed, generally applicable background and hands-on practical knowledge. Learners will solve problems, explore real- world software development challenges, and create practical applications. It aims to prepare you for more advanced programming at level 5.

This module introduces the techniques for data collection, summary and presentation. You will develop an understanding of basic concepts associated with the analysis and interpretation of statistical data within a business and organizational context. The module will allow you to understand the theoretical foundation of data analytics, data analytic processes and techniques. Extensive use will be made of a variety of software, e.g. Minitab, Excel etc. Indicative Content: Descriptive Statistics, Data visualisation, Probability, Normal distribution, Statistical inferences, Sampling, Hypothesis Tests, Descriptive data analytics, predictive data analysis, prescriptive data analytics etc.

This module will also provide you with skills on data analytics and basic quantitative techniques to be able to summarise and present financial data within a business and organisational context. You will be able to apply financial mathematical techniques to simple but real-life scenarios to make decisions. The module will also introduce the formulation, solution and interpretation of linear programming models and cover network models and project management. Extensive use will be made of a variety of software, e.g. Minitab, Excel, The Management Scientist etc. Indicative Content: Mathematical function to solve financial problems. Descriptive data analytics, predictive data analysis, prescriptive data analytics etc. Correlation and Simple linear regression analysis, Linear Programming Problem formulation, Graphical solution and sensitivity analysis, Network models, Project management, PERT/CPM.

This module gives an insight into the many tasks that must be carried out during the analysis and design stages of an information system development project. It provides a practical introduction to the techniques used at different stages of a project. It also illustrates how these tasks fit together within the overall project framework and how they can be managed to ensure that the aims of the project are met.

The intention of this module is to provide you with a practical, integrated overview of the Information Systems (IS) analysis and design, from project selection and inception, through the capture and analysis of user requirements, to the design of a solution that satisfies those requirements. A constrained case study will be used to take the student through the steps of the project lifecycle. The module also introduces relevant theory including- the concept and different types of IS; the impact of IS on people, organisations and society; the systems development lifecycle (SDLC) and the various forms it can take; the nature and purpose of abstraction; typical models created during systems analysis and design; the key documents produced at stages of the SDLC. Information systems depend on their databases to provide information essential for their day-to-day operations. Therefore, an understanding of database tools and technologies is an essential skill for designing and developing systems.

Databases stand as the back-end of most information systems to support the needed functionality of the IS. Database design is a fundamental and highly beneficial skill for you to master. The module lays a foundation of skills and understanding for a number of later modules. It also provides an understanding of the context in which all IS work is undertaken, and thus helps you to develop a coherent view of their future profession.

This module builds on the introduction to the Python programming language and data analytics modules that are studied at Level 4. In this module further data analytics using Python is taught, covering a wide range of analytics including text analytics, predictive analytics and sentiment analysis. The module will also include the use of Python for data extraction, storage and analysing textual and numeric data. Visualisation is also covered alongside data analytics in this module.

This module aims to introduce a range of techniques, that typically fall under the headings of Operational Research, Management Science or Decision Science, which can be used as part of an effective and pragmatic decision-making process. The techniques covered include a selection of the more popular and commonly applied methodologies which have wide ranging applications such as optimisation methods, and forecasting, amongst others. The emphasis throughout is on the formulation (structuring) of real problems and the development of practical solution using computer software.

In an emerging digital world, data is essential to all aspects of human life. What is of more importance is how data is efficiently stored, retrieved, and presented in a way that makes sense. using appropriate database management systems (DBMS). This module will take you through the fundamentals of DBMS, shedding light on the two broad categories of DBMS: relational (structured) and non-relational (unstructured) databases. You will understand the business and technical motivations behind the use of specific DBMS for managing information in specific situations.

Whilst unstructured DBMS will be discussed at an introductory level, the module will provide a more detailed understanding of structured DBMS, such as relational DBMS design principles, data modelling using Unified Modelling Language (UML), entity relationship diagrams, and manipulating data using Structured Query Language (SQL). The relational database design may be related to business scenarios. You may also be expected to make modifications to pre-prepared databases through redesign, allowing them to reflect on the implications.

The module will investigate the importance of Information Security in the context of Information Systems. The module will investigate the challenges to application and system developers in relation to the requirement for secure design and implementation. The module is a foundation of security foundations as required in terms of requirements analysis and the design of software. The module will provide a theoretical framework for providing security solutions with reference to secure application development.

This module consolidates and integrates knowledge gained in earlier stages of the BSc (hons) degree. You will work in teams to manage and complete a substantial project for a given scenario. The project integrates the various aspects of software development encountered on the programme (project management, analysis, design, development and testing). To develop your teamworking and project management skills, you will build on knowledge gained from previous modules, engage with programme-specific materials, and work on a more complex and substantial scenario than you have encountered before. The project will also help you to contextualise the material already covered, as well as to investigate new content.

This module provides an overview of data analytics practices and their implications in businesses. Analysing business cases and running hands on-experiments on data, we explore how organisations leverage new data resources to develop and implement emerging business ideas, innovating the process of value creation and transforming their relationships with their customers and other stakeholders. The module delves into business practices, structures and processes that leverage big data generated in organisations to create value.

This module emphasis on simple and multiple linear regression and regression analysis. It also emphasis on decision analysis, time series analysis and forecasting, optimization and the information to be found by the categorization of data into discrete groupings with similar properties. Integrating the underlying theory with a thorough practical grounding using modern laboratory software, you will be taught to formulate and model the problems mathematically. They will learn to apply standard software packages, such as Excel LP Solver, Minitab, SAS etc. You will be trained in presenting, interpreting and critically analyzing the result of the problems.

The aim of this module is to provide you with the essential knowledge to critically evaluate IT decisions that are made at managerial level. You will explore the implications of digital transformation, and the changing roles of the C-Suite to accommodate global changes in the business environment. The role of IT and different solutions available to a business, based on their need will be discussed; for example, enterprise systems, cloud-based systems, and business intelligence/analytics solutions. With the growing role of data and emerging technology, you will also explore the importance of strategic, tactical and operational decision-making and the role of business analytics in supporting the business problem solving process. Finally, you will also explore and understand the ethical implications of IT, which influence the decisions around how IT is designed, implemented and used in an organisation.

The project provides you with the opportunity to carry out a significant piece of work involving critical analysis and reflection to provide an effective solution to a given technical and/or research-based problem. It enables you to apply and integrate previous material covered in the programme as well as to extend the work covered in the programme through research and self-learning. You will be expected to demonstrate appropriate and proactive project management and written/verbal presentation skills throughout the period of the project. As well as analysing, designing, delivering and appraising a product of suitable quality, you will be expected to undertake, research, analyse, evaluate and report on some aspects of a subject explicitly allied to the project.

Choose one from the following:

Advanced Database Management and Programming

Based on modules studied in previous years involving databases and computer programming, this module provides you with further training on the essentials of advanced database management and programming, developing your ability to differentiate between relational databases and non-relational databases.

It develops the skills to choose a suitable database for an application from a business perspective to meet stated requirements using realistic scenarios and the ability to analyse semi-structured data and to choose an appropriate storage structure. It also develops skills in database design and data retrieval using a variety of complex data structures and NoSQL programming including aggregation methods.

Data Mining

Data mining is fast becoming essential to the modern competitive business world. This module aims to review the methods available for uncovering important information from large data sets; to discuss the techniques and when and how to use them effectively. The module uses the data mining tool SAS Enterprise Miner. SAS is a comprehensive data management software package that combines data entry and manipulation capabilities with report production, graphical display and statistical modelling.

Information and Communication Technologies for Development

This module will expose you to issues that influence the adoption, implementation, uptake, and sustainability of ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) in developing countries. You will recognise the historical perspectives to the ICT4D concept and why it offers significant possibilities towards addressing some diverse development issues, but also at times exacerbating these existing issues.

You will learn how to apply theoretical frameworks, such as (but not limited to), the ICT4D value chain, stakeholder matrix, and responsible research and innovation (RRI), in the analysis of ICTs issues and appraisal of ICT implementation solutions and uptake status of a developing country. In addition, the module will discuss the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and debate how ICTs might, if at all, progress these Goals.

Privacy and Data Protection

There continues to be a growth of databases holding personal and other sensitive information in multiple formats including text, pictures and sound. The scale of data collected, its type and the scale and speed of data exchange have all changed with the advent of ICT. Whilst the potential to breach privacy continues to increase organisations are subjected to a considerable amount of legislation governing privacy and data protection.

This module examines the balance between maintaining business effectiveness, legal compliance and professional practice in the field of IT/IS. The module will address the legal, social and technological aspects of privacy and data protection, consider privacy enabling technologies and privacy invasive technologies and identify and evaluate the role of the computer professional in providing privacy and data protection.