Computing with Network Technology BSc (Hons)

Getting started - what will I need?

• Applicants should normally have five GCSE passes (grade C or above) or equivalent including GCSE English and Mathematics.

You will also need one of the following:

• An average GCE A Level offer is either 160 points or 180 points, dependent on the subject(s) an applicant is studying (see below). Please note that applicants must study at least two subjects through to A2 Level.
  • Grades CC (160 points) for applicants studying Computing, IT, Science or Business Studies.
  • Grades BC (180 points) for applicants not studying any of the above subjects.
• An average vocational A Level offer is normally 160 points, comprising either one 12 unit award at grade CC or above or two 6 unit awards at grade C or above. For applicants NOT studying Computing, IT, Science or Business Studies, an offer is normally 180 points, comprising either one 12 unit award at grade BC or above or two 6 unit awards at grades B and C or above.
• BTEC National Diploma in Computer Studies, IT, Science or Business Studies with all merits in the final year modules.
• NVQ Level 3 and City and Guilds Level 3 qualifications are acceptable in a related subject area.
• Applications are strongly encouraged from Access course students and others who do not possess the formal requirements but who can demonstrate an interest in and an aptitude for the study of Computer Science at degree level.
• Mature applicants should show evidence of recent relevant work experience.

For more information relating to any of the above please call the admissions officer on 0121 331 5200.

Tell me more...

This course is designed to allow you to have more flexibility to tailor your studies to your requirements by not specifying core modules in years two and three. A graduate of Computing would be considered to have more general computing skills than the other named routes but would also have skills in the major area of computing, those of networks, software creation and databases.

This modular programme requires you to have an advanced understanding and skills in computing and information technologies. The emphasis is placed on the tools and techniques used in software construction. The ‘new media’ – the Internet, multimedia and their applications – form an important element of the programme.

While primarily having a technological focus, the scheme also provides you with an awareness of the business context. It also encourages the development of interpersonal skills, which can make a vital contribution to problem-solving in organisations. The programme has a flexible structure and allows you a significant degree of choice within a wide spectrum of computing-related subjects.

A special feature of the programme ensures that you are eligible for intermediate qualifications, even if you do not complete the entire course. There are a number of ‘drop-off’ points within the programme so that, once a specified number of modules have been completed, students may leave with a Certificate of Higher Education, Diploma of Higher Education, or BSc degree, prior to achieving the credits required for the BSc (Honours) degree.

The sandwich award requires you to undertake an industrial placement of at least 48 weeks after year two. If you perform well during the industrial placement year and also complete the relevant documentation you can also obtain the City and Guilds Licentiateship award.

What will I study?

The Network Technology minor route will encompass areas of research and application of networking technology and networking infrastructure to enable you to effectively design both the networking topology and the effective implementation of networking administration.

This route also offers an opportunity to become familiar with some of the latest techniques and ideas used in the field of networking technologies e.g. network operating systems, Linux and networking application software and how they are used to support both the business and the network administrator.

Level 4 introduces essential material such as:

• Analytical techniques
• Computer technology
• Software design
• Information systems in business
• Business organisation
• Internet application development

It also covers research methods and communication and presentation skills.

Level 5 has core modules covering:

• Networks for business
• Database application development
• Programming languages and techniques

You then have a choice of modules covering topics such as:

• Applied systems engineering
• Systems and software utilities
• Artificial intelligence
• Multimedia and Internet design

Level 6 allows you to choose from a wide range of modules, which extend and deepen themes introduced earlier in the course. You can also undertake a significant final development project that brings together the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the course. 

This degree is available as a sandwich award, which includes a one year placement in industry or commerce.

How is my work assessed?

The course makes use of a wide range of assessment techniques. These will include traditional examinations at the end of modules, coursework tasks, group study assessments, online assessments, presentations and project work as appropriate to the individual subjects studied.

Can I study further?

Birmingham City Business School has a range of postgraduate programmes, details can  be found at www.business.bcu.ac.uk

What are my employability prospects?

A wide range of computing and IT-related careers exist for graduates of this course. Graduates may become business analysts, business application developers or business IT consultants.

For more information about Computing Courses please visit the Department of Computing web page.