BSc Hons Computing Systems (with Diploma in Professional Practice)

This module provides an introduction to core areas of discrete mathematics such as logic, set theory and probability, that form the foundation of computer science and that are required in other modules within the Computing Systems course at Ulster. Each concept is introduced at an abstract level, before being applied to areas of computing such as logic circuits and data analysis.

This module introduces programming to students who are assumed to have no previous programming experience.

You are introduced to key terms in object-oriented (e.g. classes, objects) and software development concepts. This reinforces the view that students must become object users before they can design their own. Objects and their representation will be discussed, concentrating on primitive data types and the terms and techniques used in OOP.

Computer-related professionals need to be aware of a wider range of issues that go beyond the mere technical knowledge necessary to practice their chosen discipline. They should have knowledge of government legislation affecting their work, along with a series of transferable skills that facilitate the successful completion of their course of study and the seeking of employment upon course completion. This module is designed to make future computing professionals aware of the nature of the professional working environment, as well as to increase your awareness of the issues raised by the spread of computer and communication technologies into all aspects of life.

Differences in the internal structure and organisation of a computer lead to significant differences in performance and functionality, giving rise to an extraordinary range of computing devices, from hand-held computers to large-scale, high performance machines.

This module addresses the various options involved in designing a computer system, the range of design considerations, and the trade-offs involved in the design process.

This module introduces the database technologies that support the storage, update and retrieval of large quantities on information in computer systems. We examine the need for structured storage and discuss modelling, representation and retrieval techniques to avoid data redundancy while ensuring consistency and integrity. In this module students will study the design, construction and use of such databases, as well as the understanding of need for other types of the databases and their roles in supporting big data platform.

Human-Computer Interaction is an important topic given that there is a number of novel and emerging user interfaces being developed. More than ever, there are also user demands and expectations for intuitive and usable user interfaces. This module will address these important topics and provide a foundation for user experience researchers and interactive designers.

The principal aim of this module is to provide an understanding of computing systems security concerns and how they can be addressed and mitigated so that security considerations are taken into account, and embedded in organisations and IT projects planning and management.

Software Development is a crucial module is further developing student’s understanding of programming fundamentals. Using contemporary examples, this module provides students with an in-depth coverage of data structures and algorithms within the scope of object oriented programming.

This module presents you with the opportunity to learn how to develop AI models for the important processes, resources and structures that together make up intelligent agents.

AI has become an essential part of the technology industry, providing the heavy lifting for many of the most difficult problems in computer science. Therefore, there is a need to provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills required to understand the core areas of AI, to solve real world problem more “intelligently”, and ultimately to build intelligent artefacts.

This module promotes knowledge and skills necessary for understanding and deployment of Agile development, traditional development and solution procurement. This model will focus on robust modelling, design, testing and implementation both in Agile and traditional contexts.

An expositional module on the topics of Networks and Communications to educate Computing you on the fundamental principles, latest trends, and commercial needs in the sector. This module is essential to understand the current industrial needs and to hone the central insight required of graduates.

Networks – The ubiquitous use of LANs, the Internet and cloud computing/virtualisation requires an understanding of the underlying communication protocols and the issues involved in their management. In this module the emphasis will be on network, design, planning, and management. Issues such as performance, detection of faults and security management are emphasised.

Computer programming is a fundamental skill expected of computing graduates. This module will introduce you to the foundational concepts of programming relating to web authoring that will be used as building blocks in future modules. You will also develop and enhance your problem solving skills and data analytics skills as an integral part of the module.

This module aims to provide the student with a work based learning environment in which they can apply the knowledge gained during their academic studies. The module also provides an opportunity for students to develop knowledge and expertise that can be utilised in their final year studies, and in particular their final year project.

This module enables students who have secured a placement job to complete a period of appropriate work experience in a supportive environment. Students will have opportunities to gain employability skills, reflect upon the applicability of their subject specific skills, and gain insight into the graduate job market. Students who successfully complete the module are eligible for the award of Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) or Diploma in Professional Practice International (DPPI).

This module presents modern process and project management (that is the application of knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to project activities to meet process and project requirements) principles and techniques as a means to help deliver successful software development projects and process improvement.

This module also provides the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on organisational change and improvements.

This module addresses and develops understanding and knowledge of key and emerging concepts associated with mobile technologies, and fosters related mobile application software design and development principles.

Mobile information access has almost become pervasive, with the consequence that it creates the need for adaptation of traditional Software Engineering techniques and practices to meet the demands and constraints of the rapidly developing mobile ecosystem.

Accordingly, there is a need for graduates to have a solid understanding of the latest mobile operating system technologies and thinking within this area, as well as an understanding of the design and development tools and techniques associated with mobile operating system platforms, this module will prepare you for this.

This module provides the opportunity for you to appreciate the capabilities of a full stack developer through the addition of server side programming. The module puts into practice the client-server model through practical implementation of problem based scenarios and the design and development of a mini project.

This module introduces the student to embedded micro controller system design with particular reference to real time systems.

You are required to undertake a major project during the final year of the course. The project module allows a selected topic area to be investigated in depth and for a solution to be developed in response. Within the project, you are expected to integrate and apply material from other modules in the course.

The module allows you to develop a comprehensive approach to all aspects of working on a large project and exercise the stages of an entire development cycle. The project also encourages an entrepreneurial mindset and professional approach. The module offers you an opportunity to develop a realistic and meaningful piece of work during your final year.