Computer Systems & Networks BEng (Hons)

Program Overview

This full-time four-year Computer Networks degree offers a comprehensive understanding of network systems, computer systems, and application development. It includes database systems and human-computer interaction, preparing students for careers as Network Systems Administrators, Network Engineers, and Network Architects. The program features a year-long work placement option and international study opportunities.

Program Outline

You will gain academic knowledge in areas of computer systems with the possibility to broaden your skills through a year-long work placement.

Objectives:

• Develop an understanding of the design and evaluation of network systems hardware and software.
• Gain knowledge of the concepts and principles of network operation, including the storage, retrieval, and analysis of data.
• Develop the ability to specify the hardware and software required for networked services in a structured and systematic manner.

Outline:

Mode of Study:

Full-time

Duration:

4 years

Start date:

September

UCAS code:

H602

Placement:

Yes (optional year-long work placement)

Study Abroad:

Yes

Course Schedule:

Year 1:

• Software Development 1
• Information Systems in Organisations
• Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction
• Computer Systems
• Practical Networks 1

Year 2:

• Database Systems Applications
• Operating Systems
• Scripting for Cybersecurity & Networks
• Practical Networks 2

Year 3:

• Network Security and Cryptography
• Practical Network 3
• Network Communications & Analysis
• Networked Services
• Group Project (or Professional Internship Module)

Year 4:

• Security Systems for Internet of Things
• Information: Society and Security
• Security Testing and Advanced Network Forensics
• Honours Project

Module Descriptions:

• Software Development 1: Introduces fundamental programming concepts and techniques, focusing on software design, development, and testing.
• Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction: Introduces the principles of human-computer interaction, focusing on user experience design, usability testing, and accessibility.
• Computer Systems: Covers the fundamental concepts of computer architecture, operating systems, and hardware components.
• Practical Networks 1: Provides hands-on experience with network technologies, including network protocols, network devices, and network troubleshooting.
• Database Systems Applications: Explores the design, implementation, and management of database systems, covering topics such as data modeling, database security, and query languages.
• Operating Systems: Covers the principles of operating systems, including process management, memory management, and file systems.
• Practical Networks 2: Builds upon the knowledge gained in Practical Networks 1, covering advanced network technologies and network security.
• Network Security and Cryptography: Explores the principles of network security and cryptography, covering topics such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption algorithms.
• Practical Network 3: Provides hands-on experience with advanced network technologies, including network virtualization, cloud computing, and network automation.
• Network Communications & Analysis: Covers the principles of network communication protocols, network performance analysis, and network troubleshooting.
• Networked Services: Explores the design, implementation, and management of networked services, covering topics such as web services, cloud services, and distributed systems.
• Group Project: Provides students with the opportunity to work in teams on a real-world project, applying the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program.
• Professional Internship Module: Offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in a professional setting, working on real-world projects under the guidance of industry mentors.
• Security Systems for Internet of Things: Explores the security challenges and solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT), covering topics such as device security, data privacy, and network security.
• Security Testing and Advanced Network Forensics: Covers advanced techniques for security testing and network forensics, including penetration testing, malware analysis, and incident response.
• Honours Project: Provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice, culminating in a written thesis and oral presentation.

Assessment:

• Mixture of practical assignments, essays, and exams.

Teaching:

• Lectures and tutorials.

Careers:

• Network Systems Administrators
• Network Engineer
• Network Architect
• Technical Support Specialist
• Network Designer

Other:

• A year-long Work Based Learning module is available for this program, which can be undertaken in the 3rd year and consists of 60 credits.
• A Student Futures Placement Coordinator is available to support students with their placement applications and approving placements as part of the course.
• While on placement, students undertake work-related assessments alongside gaining valuable work experience.
• If the year-long placement option is chosen, the course duration will be extended by one trimester.
• If students are not undertaking the year-long placement, then there is a Group Project or the Professional Internship Module in Year 3 (one trimester), which gives students the opportunity to complete a project for an external client.
• International study is available and is intended to develop overall graduate attributes and global citizenship.

Tuition fees for 2024/25

Students from 2024/25 2025/26 Scotland £1,820 £tba England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland £9,250 £tba Overseas and EU £19,340 £tba Students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland will be invoiced the tuition fees for 3 years of their 4 years of study. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here. Please note that the tuition fees liable to be paid by EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be the Overseas fee rate. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here. View Tuition Fees for 2025/26