Business Computing (Systems) BSc (Hons)
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92%
overall student satisfaction* *Unistats
Available as Part Time and Full Time
Start Date: September
Technological advancement has an impact on every part of business and as more software and hardware is introduced, the need for skilled IT professionals is greater than ever. This course will give you those skills, opening up careers in systems analysis, programming, databases and management. You will have the opportunity to take a placement year after your second year, so that you can learn in industry and create contacts that will be useful when you graduate, improving your chances of getting the first step in your future career.
Starting university is a big step and we want you to have everything you need from day one. That’s why if you choose to study this course full-time at Northampton from September 2018, you will be provided with your own brand new Hewlett Packard laptop* to keep at no additional cost. For more information on this and many other benefits you can enjoy, please visit our benefits webpages.
*Terms and conditions apply. Please see the benefits webpages for more information.
This course shares a common first year with other Business Computing pathways, with flexible progression into the second year, so that you tailor your second and third years to a different subject specialism if you like. Find out more about the Business Computing (Web Design) course.
The Systems pathway of Business Computing explores design, technological development, management and commercial issues. You will be able to learn a range of development tools including SQL, php and java.
Avenue Campus
Just two miles away from Park Campus and linked by a regular weekday discounted bus service, Avenue Campus has an excellent reputation as an ‘Arts Centre for all’. It boasts theatre performances, exhibitions and its own art gallery, which exhibits work from established artists, students, graduates and University staff.
The campus is equipped with workshops, innovative laboratories and computer-aided design suites. Facilities available include Bassett Lowke Halls of Residence with various room options available to suit all budgets, the Students’ Union, student bar, restaurant and nightclub.
The University of Northampton
Avenue Campus
St George’s Avenue
Northampton
NN2 6JD
Course content
Year one
During the first year you will focus on the essentials of implementing business computing systems, including aspects of design, analysis, development and information management. These modules ensure that you understand current principles and practice while acquiring the knowledge and skills you need to study at degree level.
Year two
In the second year you will develop your core skills in quality and security management, programming and database application. There will also be opportunities to build skills in IT service management and Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) pactices for IT service management aligned with business needs. We focus on the importance of industry standards, so that you have an understanding of the working IT world, making you more employable when you graduate.
At the end of this year, you may choose to take an industry placement in your chosen career field or progress straight onto your final year.
Optional placement year
Taking a year out in industry is particularly beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate jobs. The experience, enhanced knowledge and networking opportunities that you get from placements will make you stand out against other graduates. We will help you to find a placement that suits your needs and support you throughout the placement itself.
Year three
This course culminates in an applied project with a real client, or a dissertation linked to your strengths and preferences. You will study Security, Business Intelligence, Project Management and Strategic IS at greater depth as you tailor your studies to your career aspirations and interests.
Course modules (17/18)
stage1
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Digital Footprint (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY1030
- Core module Y
This is a self-managed, online module that considers the data trail and shadow left by interactions in digital environments. The module will show you how to take responsibility for the integrity and protection of your digital footprint and shadow.
-
Web Development (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY1018
- Core module Y
-
Software Engineering 1 (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY1019
- Core module Y
-
Problem Solving and Programming (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY1020
- Core module Y
-
Databases 1 (20 credits)
- Module code: CSy1026
- Core module Y
-
Computer Systems (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY1014
- Core module Y
stage2
-
Quality and User-Centred Systems (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY2041
- Core module Y
-
Service Management (20 credits)
- Module code: BUS2015
- Core module Y
-
Group Project (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY2027
- Core module Y
-
Web Programming (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY2028
- Core module Y
-
Databases 2 (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY2038
- Core module Y
-
System Design and Development (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY2030
- Core module Y
stage3
-
IT Project Management (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY3037
- Core module N
The successful implementation of IT projects is crucial to the success of almost every organisation. This module uses industry standard principles to develop skills in initiating, directing and controlling enterprise application developments.
-
Computing Dissertation (40 credits)
- Module code: CSY4010
- Core module Y
-
Systems Development Approaches (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY3032
- Core module Y
-
Databases 3 (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY3024
- Core module Y
-
Business Intelligence (20 credits)
- Module code: CSY3034
- Core module Y
Module information is quoted for 17/18 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.
Schedule
You will spend 12 hours per week in class, and including self-directed study time you will spend 200 hours in total on each 20 credit module.
The course duration is three years full time, four years with industry placement or four years extended degree including work based learning for BSc. A part time programme can be tailored to suit your individual requirements.
Assessments
You will be assessed on theory and practice through practical implementations, reports, essays, presentations and examinations. Most modules are designed to develop problem solving techniques and interpersonal skills and many provide the opportunity for group work.
Facilities and Special Features
- Emphasis on hands-on practice
- Flexible programme and study route
- Dedicated server support for your website and database work
- The course is employability and industry focused, with an optional placement year available
- Staff are actively engaged with ITIL, itSMF, Prince2®, SFIA, APM and BCS.
- Computing Society – the largest Student Union’s Society. With activities and talks all year round, it has a long history of supporting Computing students. Whether you are seeking a graduate placement, a part-time job whilst you study, or just want to get your name out there for later, the Computing Society is a great place to start.
Progression Courses
-
Computing
- Award MSc
- Qualification Postgraduate
- Length 1 Year
-
Computing (Internet Technology and Security)
- Award MSc
- Qualification Postgraduate
- Length 1 Year
-
Computing (Software Engineering)
- Award MSc
- Qualification Postgraduate
- Length 1 Year
Careers
Career Opportunities
The skills that you will learn in this course will enable you to embark on a range of careers, with examples of roles including:
- Systems Analyst
- Programmer
- Database Developer
- Database Manager
- Test Engineer
- IT Support or management of web based systems, new developments and projects.
How to apply
For application information please see our how to apply page.
Entry requirements
Standard entry requirements apply. A typical offer would be BCC at A-Level or DMM at BTEC. No prior computing experience is required.
For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.
Fees and funding
Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 18/19 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.
| Full Time: | £9,250 |
|---|---|
| Part Time: | £1,350 per 20 credit module |
| International: | £12,000 |
Scholarships
-
TD Lewis Scholarship
The T D Lewis Scholarship provides both undergraduate and postgraduate students with financial awards of up to £1,500. This scholarship is awarded on educational excellence… -
The Chancellor’s Fund
The Chancellor’s Fund is a bi-annual fund providing students with awards of between £100 and £1,000. You must be a current student to apply. The… -
The International Scholarship
We are very pleased to offer a generous scholarship to applicants from outside of the European Union who have strong academic backgrounds. All full-time courses… -
Wilson Endowment Scholarship
The Wilson Endowment Scholarship provides a £1,500 scholarship to undergraduate students from the Northamptonshire area. The endowed scholarship was donated in memory of Mr Lynn Wilson,…
International
This course is available to international students.
Full-time international tuition fees
For information on our international tuition fees, please see our Tuition fees for international students page.
Please note that tuition fees for EU students will remain the same as UK fees for 2018/19. For more information, please visit the Gov UK website.
How to apply as an international student
For information on how to apply to study with us, please see our How to apply page.
Scholarships available to international students
For information on the scholarships available to you as an international student, please see our International scholarships page.