Computer Science with Business
The BSc (Honours) Computer Science with Business course combines the strengths of the School of Management with the long-standing provision of the Department of Computer Science to provide a unique combination of computer science in the context of business practice. The course is a Computer Science degree in its emphasis upon the importance of a firm theoretical foundation to the study of computer systems and rigorous development methods. This is integrated with the study of organisations, their management, and business strategy so that the role and impact of computer systems within organisations is understood and applied to the analysis, design, development and deployment of effective computer-based systems.
Brief Outline
Year 1
Year long units
Systems requirements and design
Year 1, Semester 1
Principles of programming 1
Discrete mathematics for computation
Organisational behaviour
Year 1, Semester 2
Principles of programming 2
Analytic mathematics for applications
Introduction to business accounting
Year 2
Year 2, Year Long Units
Advanced programming principles
Software systems development
Designing interactive systems
Year 2, Semester 1
Computer systems architecture 1
Managing human resources
Year 2, Semester 2
Computer systems architecture 2
IT in its business context
Final Year
Final Year, Year Long Units
Final Year, Semester 1
Optional Units
Foundations of computation 1
Computer algebra
Advanced compilers
Intelligent agents
Parallel computing
Decision making
Privacy, trust and security in information systems
Director of Studies approved unit in the School of Management
Final Year, Semester 2 - optional units
Advanced algorithms & complexity
Advanced human computer interaction
Logic and semantics of programming languages
Intelligent control and cognitive systems
Supply management
Business strategy
Director of Studies approved unit in the School of Management
Aims
- to provide a stimulating and supportive environment which encourages students to be creatively and critically receptive and responsive to new ideas and to develop towards their full academic potential;
- to provide a strong conceptual and theoretical understanding that will enable students to evaluate, adapt, create and utilise appropriate methods, theories and techniques in the face of changing technology;
- to develop in students the ability to evaluate, select and apply appropriate models, methods and technologies in the comprehension, manipulation and development of complex computer-based systems;
- to expose students to established and emerging theories, methods and techniques and challenging problems that take them towards the edge of current knowledge;
- to develop critical, analytical and interpersonal skills that prepares students to become active professionals and contribute to the intellectual life of society;
The 'with industrial placement' route includes the following additional aims:
- to provide practical experience in an industrial or commercial environment applying knowledge and skills gained within their studies;
- to develop personal skills, including communication skills (oral and written), planning and time management, problem solving and analytical skills, decision-making skills, and have gained confidence in their own ability to appraise new information critically and operate as a part of a team;
- to have acquired an understanding of the general structure of an organisation and of the contribution of an individual to the aims and objectives of an organisation.
The 'with study year abroad' route includes the following additional aims:
- to develop in students the ability to work effectively in a culture different from that of the U.K.
- (where appropriate) to develop the ability to operate at a scientific level in a second language.
