BSc Computer Science (Cyber Security and Networks)

Program Overview

The BSc Computer Science (Cyber Security and Networks) program combines a strong foundation in computer science with a specialization in networking and security. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, develop, and secure networked systems and applications, preparing them for careers in the IT sector. The program features a blend of academic, professional, and practical study, including industry certifications and a paid placement year. Graduates have excellent employment opportunities in various sectors, including IT, business, education, and government.

Program Outline

BSc Computer Science (Cyber Security and Networks) Program Details:

Degree Overview:

This program combines a broad foundation in computer science and software development with a specialization in networking and security. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to design, develop, and secure networked systems and applications.

Key Objectives:

• Develop a strong understanding of software development, professional programming, and system and data modeling.
• Gain expertise in network protocols, design, distributed applications, and cybersecurity.
• Learn to create and evaluate systems and applications within a networked environment.
• Prepare for a career in the IT sector through a blend of academic, professional, and practical study.

Outline:

Foundation Year (Likely Topics of Study):

• Engineering Mathematics 1 & 2: (15 credits each, compulsory)
• Engineering Science 1 & 2: (15 credits each, compulsory)
• Intensive English for Academic Study 1 & 2 / Standard English for Academic Study 1 & 2 + Project: (30 credits each, compulsory)
• Applied Engineering Sciences: (15 credits, compulsory)

Level Four (Likely Topics of Study):

• Introduction to Programming and Discrete Structures: (30 credits, compulsory)
• From Silicon to C: (30 credits, compulsory)
• Data Modeling for Databases: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Computational Problem Solving: (30 credits, compulsory)
• Team Software Project: (15 credits, compulsory)

Level Five (Likely Topics of Study):

• Algorithms and Data Structures: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Operating Systems and Networks: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Accessibility and Usability: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Artificial Intelligence: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Computing Things: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Database Systems: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Principles and Practices of Large-Scale Programming: (30 credits, compulsory)

Level Six (Likely Topics of Study):

• Network Protocols and Architectures: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Cyber Security: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Incident Response Digital Forensics: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Responsible Computing: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Software Architecture: (15 credits, compulsory)
• Cyber Security and Networks Project: (30 credits, compulsory)
• Professional Work Placement in Computer Science: (0 credits, optional)
• Machine Learning and Neural Computing: (15 credits, optional)
• Advanced Database Topics: (15 credits, optional)
• Information Security Management: (15 credits, optional)

Teaching:

• Taught by highly qualified staff, most with a PhD or other advanced degree plus research, teaching, or professional experience.
• Part of a well-established computer science department with excellent facilities, a strong research background, and links to business and industry.
• Offers a mix of academic, professional, and practical study, with opportunities for industry certifications and a paid placement year.

Careers:

• Excellent graduate employment opportunities across various sectors, including IT, business, education, and government.
• Graduates have become software developers, programmers, web developers, business analysts, database administrators, project managers, and IT consultants.
• Some graduates have pursued postgraduate degrees at the University of Hertfordshire or other universities.
• This course prepares students for specialist roles such as network designer, manager, or administrator, operations administrator, developer of distributed systems, and cybersecurity consultant.
• Recent employers include Blackberry, GSK, HP, IBM, John Lewis, and T-Mobile.

Other:

• The program is subject to validation.
• Computer Science research at the University of Hertfordshire was ranked 90% world-leading (Research Excellence Framework, 2021).

Note:

The program duration is 4 years.