Computer Science BSc (Hons)

Key Facts

  • UCAS Code

    BSc: I100
    BSc with Foundation: I101

  • Level

    Undergraduate

  • Duration

    Full Time: 3 years
    Full Time Foundation: 4 years
    Part Time: 4-6 years

  • Starting

    September

  • BCC at A-Level or,
    DMM at BTEC

  • Fees UK 24/25

    Full Time: £9,250
    Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
    Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250

  • Fees International 24/25

    Full Time: £15,200
    Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200

  • Location

Get in touch


For questions regarding study and admissions please contact us:

UK/EU Students enquiries

study@northampton.ac.uk
0300 303 2772

International Students enquiries

international@northampton.ac.uk
+44 (0)1604 893981

Overview


Computer Science BSc (Hons) enables students to acquire a range of theoretical principles. This is done through engaging with concepts and theories, developing practical skills across the broad range of fields within the subject, and applying these in the creation of tools and systems to solve real world problems.

Our course is carefully designed to strike an all-around balance among key aspects of computer science. The course covers essential theories in the field with an emphasis on practical skills for implementation of a variety of applications. We are very confident that our graduates will be equipped with all the key skills needed for their future career in the computing industry.

Updated 18/03/2024

Highlights


  • Coverage of fundamental principles of computer science with plenty of practical applications.
  • A state-of-the-art computer lab for teaching and learning.
  • Progression courses available.
  • Student Support Initiative.
  • Opportunity to attend seminars/workshops/conferences with guest speakers and presenters from the local, national and international industry.
  • HP laptop and software included with this course for eligible students* (*see Eligibility criteria and Terms and Conditions).
  • Guaranteed paid internship with the Northampton Employment Promise.

Course Content


  • Our Computer Science BSc (Hons) degree gives you the opportunity to explore different ideas and develop innovative solutions to current issues in the computing industry. This three-year Computer Science degree will give you an insight into the computing industry, investigating the wide-reaching influences that computers and computing technology have on the world. Studying this course will also contribute towards helping you find your ideal path for a career in Computing.

    Networking Opportunities

    You will have the opportunity to attend seminars, workshops and conferences with guest speakers and presenters from the local, national and international industries. This is a great opportunity for the students to meet and work with colleagues from different year groups but also with professionals with several years experience in the industry.

    Year 1

    During the first year of this computer science degree, you will study common computer science modules such as Computer Systems, Software Engineering Fundamentals, Mathematics for Computer Science, Web Development, Problem Solving & Programming. These will help you build a foundation for more advanced topics in subsequent years.

    Year 2

    In the second year, you will continue your journey with the core computer science modules such as Data Structures and Algorithms, Operating Systems, Object-oriented programming, Web development,  Relational Databases, etc. There will also be a group project where you will be a part of a small team to design and implement a solution of decent quality for a given task. This will help you develop not only technical skills but also key soft skills such as teamwork, effective communication, leadership, etc.

    Year 3

    In the final year of this computer science degree, you will further enhance your Computer Science knowledge/skills by doing high-level modules such as Advanced AI and Applications, Modern Databases, Cyber Security and Applied Cryptography, and Media Technology. You are also expected to complete an independent dissertation on a topic of your choice in the field of Computer Science (with some guidance from an assigned supervisor). This benchmarking module will allow you to showcase your overall knowledge/skills learnt from the course.

    Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 23/24. The modules relating to the academic year 24/25 will be available from June 2024.

      • Module code: CSY1020
        Status: Compulsory
        This purpose of this module is to: introduce students to the skills, principles and concepts necessary to solve problems in computing; to develop essential skills to enable the solution of these problems with the construction of appropriate algorithms and a computer program; introduce principles underlying the design of a high level programming language (HLPL); gain experience and confidence in the use of a HLPL to implement algorithms; implement HLPL programs using an appropriate programming language e.g. Java; introduce an object-oriented language initially as a non-object language.
      • Module code: CSY1060
        Status: Compulsory
        This module introduces a set of mathematical topics, which include binary number system, logic circuits, linear systems, graph theory, probability and statistics, that are widely studied by those learning computing sciences. The module equips students with fundamental mathematical skills which underpin a range of computing disciplines.
      • Module code: CSY1061
        Status: Compulsory
        This module provides knowledge of the hardware and software components that make up a computer system and overview the important concepts in preparation for future study of computer science.
      • Module code: CSY1062
        Status: Compulsory
        This module develops student?s understanding of the principles of communication networks and how to classify the various network devices in the appropriate layer of the protocol stack. Students will learn how to manage IP addresses in a small network and will develop confidence in using network simulation software.
      • Module code: CSY1063
        Status: Compulsory
        This purpose of this module is to give students an understanding of client side web technologies. This module provides students with: the essential knowledge and practical skills to design, develop and implement a Web site to contemmporary web standard
      • Module code: CSY1064
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to develop student's experience with the multiple stages of software engineering life-cycles from initial need and requirements identification through to the design and implementation of code in order to develop confidence in the use of terminology and techniques for each of the stages.
      • Module code: CSY2080
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to understand and apply the principles of database integrity to implement and utilise efficient databases. RD is a practical module that employs data modelling and SQL techniques to design, define and manipulate data.
      • Module code: CSY2087
        Status: Compulsory
        This module provides students with a conceptual understanding of common data structures and algorithms used in Computer Science and Software Engineering. It enables students to implement and evaluate a selection of algorithms and abstract data types, including linked lists, stacks, queues, graphs and binary trees using an object-oriented language.
      • Module code: CSY2088
        Status: Compulsory
        The module is designed to develop higher-order intellectual skills (problem-solving) and appropriate personal qualities including team working. Each group will develop and document effective, robust and high-quality computing systems to a professional standard in response to a supplied specification of requirements.
      • Module code: CSY2089
        Status: Compulsory
        This purpose of this module is to give students an understanding of the conceps and technologies of web based server side technologies; teach students to use up-to-date programming techniques to design and develop coherent server side software for websites with a focus on security, functionality and usability.
      • Module code: CSY2092
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is designed to give an understanding of the theory, application, structure and design principles of operating systems. This module requires a significant practical element delivered as formal laboratory sessions.
      • Module code: CSY2094
        Status: Compulsory
        This purpose of this module is to extend and apply system design and development to large scale systems; explore building GUIs so that the idea of specifying general software components and implementing re-usable classes will become familiar; provide tools and skills which the student will require when encountering design projects.
      • Module code: CSY3058
        Status: Compulsory
        Media Technology is an important aspect to Computer Science. This module will introduce a range of technologies relevant to modern multimedia systems. This includes computer graphics, digital image processing, online video streaming, immersive media, and other advanced applications. Student will develop audio-visual systems in a third generation computer language.
      • Module code: CSY3059
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to study advanced/latest database topics. The module focuses primarily on NoSQL databases (e.g., graph and document databases), from designing and creating to querying the databases.
      • Module code: CSY3060
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to: teach students the fundamental theories and practical applications of advanced artificial intelligence techniques including artificial neural networks, image classification and object detection. The underpinning concepts will be introduced, followed by examples of how responsible and ethical artificial intelligence applications are developed and tested.
      • Module code: CSY3062
        Status: Compulsory
        This module provides students with the necessary practical skills and theoretical understanding of the technologies used to secure communications and protect the privacy of users within an online environment. Concepts introduced, and skills learnt, provide the necessary technical underpinning to enable the student to address the issues of effective Security.
      • Module code: CSY4022
        Status: Compulsory
        This project module provides the opportunity for the student to undertake independent research, development, and self-management of a Computing related project leading to completing a dissertation. An essential outcome for this module is that the student?s project deliverable includes the design and development of a system, or a software application, or a novel functional approach that relates to the main areas of student study, and that can be used, applied or demonstrated in some way. Students on the BSc Business Computing may engage on a research centered project resulting in a report of analysis of an appropriate topic.
  • A typical offer could be:

    • BCC at A-Level or,
    • DMM at BTEC or,
    • Pass (C or above) at T Level

    Applicants will be expected to have achieved GCSE Mathematics (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above. We welcome international applicants and applications from students with a range of non-traditional educational or professional qualifications.

    For information on how to apply to study with us, please see our How to Apply page.

    Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) Entry Requirements

    Admission to this foundation course is:

    • DEE at A Level or,
    • MPP at BTEC or,
    • Pass (D or E) at T Level

    However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.

    English Language Requirements

    All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

    • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
      for study at undergraduate level.

    For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

  • 2024/25 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
    • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £15,200
    • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200
    Additional Costs

    There are currently no additional costs anticipated for this course for 2024 entry.

    2023/24 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
    • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £14,750
    • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £14,750
    Additional Costs

    There are currently no additional costs anticipated for this course for 2023 entry.

    For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

    For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.

  • At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

    If you join this full time Computer Science degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

    Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study, you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

    To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

    *UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).

  • The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

    If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

    Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

Staff


James Xue, Senior Lecturer - Computing
James Xue

Senior Lecturer - Computing


Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology

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Suraj Ajit, Associate Professor in Computer Science
Suraj Ajit

Associate Professor in Computer Science


Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology

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Careers and Employability


Students on this programme will benefit from our excellent links to the computing industry (e.g., Barclaycard, GE) and other organisations such as BCS, IEEE, CISCO Network Academy and more. Upon successful completion of the Computer Science BSc, we are confident that students will find a graduate level job; if this is not the case, through our Northampton Employment Promise, we will help you secure a three–six month paid internship to get you started.

Postgraduate Opportunities

Our postgraduate courses are a great way to enhance the skills you have already learnt. Benefit from our 20% alumni discount on postgraduate fees to give you a CV that will catch the eye of employers.