30 credits

This module builds upon foundational computing knowledge to develop technical competencies in networks and operating systems. You will gain understanding of the infrastructure that underpins modern digital environments, cloud services, and enterprise IT operations. The module emphasises both theoretical principles and practical implementation skills essential for professional IT practice.

Building on introductory computing concepts from Level 4, this module is delivered through integrated theoretical instruction and extensive hands-on laboratory work.

You will develop professional-level skills in network design, configuration, and management, alongside comprehensive understanding of operating system architecture, administration, and security hardening.

The module prepares you to address complex real-world challenges in enterprise IT environments and positions you for advanced study in specialised areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and systems engineering.

Teaching and learning

This module adopts a project-centred, active learning approach designed to foster technical problem-solving, critical evaluation of infrastructure solutions, and professional application of networking and systems administration principles. The teaching strategy integrates theoretical seminars with practical workshops, supported by structured independent study and comprehensive formative feedback opportunities.

Seminars introduce networking and operating systems concepts, principles, and industry best practices, whilst workshops provide hands-on experience with network configuration, system administration tasks, security implementation, and troubleshooting exercises.  

Assessment

This module will be assessed by laboratory-based coursework (60%) and a team-based network and systems integration project (40%).

30 credits

This module significantly advances your software development skills, focusing on the design and implementation of complex software systems.

You will take a model-driven approach throughout, integrating Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), Unified Modelling Language (UML), and software design patterns to effectively bridge conceptual modelling and practical development.

You'll deepen your understanding of OOP principles, including abstraction, encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism, through hands-on Java programming. You will learn to capture requirements and design robust systems using UML diagrams such as Use Case, Class, Sequence, State Machine, Activity, Component, and Deployment diagrams. The module also introduces model-based testing, enabling you to validate UML models against their Java implementations.

You will gain proficiency in applying design patterns (creational, structural, and behavioural), understand their architectural implications, and employ them within the Model-View-Controller (MVC) framework. You'll use modern component-based frameworks to understand code reuse and integrate event-driven programming techniques to develop graphical user interfaces (GUI) using best design practices.

Throughout the module, emphasis is placed on best coding practices, testing and quality assurance using JUnit, and integrating emerging technologies such as AI into modern software development workflows.

You will gain comprehensive knowledge of robust system design, architecture, and industry-standard practices. This, combined with the analytical precision and advanced problem-solving methods taught, prepares you for advanced technology roles or further academic study.

Teaching and learning

Lectures will introduce modelling concepts, UML notations, design patterns, and architectural principles, whilst workshops will consist of hands-on modelling exercises, code implementation tasks, design pattern applications, and case study analyses.

This module adopts a model-driven, active learning approach designed to foster problem-solving, critical thinking, and the application of software engineering principles to practical scenarios. The teaching strategy combines theoretical lectures with extensive practical workshops, supported by guided independent study and formative feedback opportunities.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a UML modelling and design patterns portfolio (40%) and system implementation and testing (60%).

30 credits

This professional practice-focused module gives you the opportunity to use and enhance your programming skills while experiencing how complex software projects are developed and managed in industry.

In this module, you will work in a group throughout the term to create a full-stack web application using industry-standard Agile development methodology and modern project management techniques.

You will use industry-standard tools to create designs, establish shared development environments, design a database, develop, share, test code, and finally deploy and run your applications. In this experience of the entire software development lifecycle, you will need to combine and develop your full range of technical, professional, and teamwork skills.

Each week's class is divided into individual and group work sessions.

In your individual work, you will be introduced to a new skill or technique to develop. These will include introductions to commonly used frontend and backend development frameworks, as well as ‘devOps’ and testing technologies, for example Docker and GitHub Actions, Jest unit testing and Nightwatch browser automation.

In the group session, you will review your weekly tasks and goals and hold a supportive 'standup' meeting with your lecturer to ensure the project progresses efficiently and with equal participation. You may be allocated a specialist role in your group (for example, Project Manager, Frontend Developer, DevOps Engineer, Quality Assurance specialist), but you will also build skills and experience across all these areas.

You will be expected to communicate with your group between the weekly sessions to ensure that planned work is undertaken within the required timeframe.

Groups are encouraged to create a project that serves social and environmental purposes. This requires you to explore user needs, ethical and professional issues, and security. You will establish Personal Learning Journey (PLJ) goals at the beginning of the module and maintain a PLJ journal throughout. This will prepare you for your third year and enable you to start focusing on specialist areas for your Final Year project. A professional Agile coach will conduct a masterclass of best practices in project planning and teamwork.

This module will give you ample opportunity to become familiar with industry practice and build your professional portfolio.  You will be encouraged to reflect on your experiences and understand how these can support your job applications and interviews.

Teaching and learning

You will gather technical skills in lab sessions, that build on your earlier modules and immediately apply these to the group project via carefully planned weekly tasks.

The technical skills are supported by screencasts and lab sheets so that there are easy to use resources available for you to implement the technical features required for their projects.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a group software development project (70%) and an individual reflective practice and mock interview (30%).

30 credits

This module develops your ability to design, analyse, and evaluate complex software systems using the principles and practices of modern software architecture.

You will explore how architectural decisions, the foundational choices about a system's structure shape the entire software lifecycle, from initial ideas (requirements) and modelling to implementation and long-term evolution.

You will learn how effective design enables solutions that are extensible (easy to add new features to), maintainable (easy to fix and update), and scalable (can handle growing numbers of users or data).

You will examine key architectural concepts, including components (reusable parts of a system), interfaces (the communication point between components), and connectors (mechanisms that link components). You will apply requirement-driven design methods using UML component models (visual blueprints for system structure) and Java-based implementations.

The module covers clean architecture (a design philosophy for building robust systems) and the SOLID principles (a set of guidelines used to write maintainable and flexible code). You will study compound components and various architectural styles and patterns such as:

• Layered: structuring the system into horizontal tiers (e.g., presentation, business logic, data).
• Repository: managing data access logic in one place.
• Client-Server: a central server providing resources to client machines.
• Pipe-and-Filter: processing data sequentially through a series of steps.

Advanced topics include enterprise architecture, Service-Oriented Architectures (SOA) (systems built from collections of small, independent services), cloud-based systems, and the role of emerging technologies like AI in shaping modern architecture.

Teaching and learning

Through practical coursework projects, you will apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, designing and implementing complete system architectures that demonstrate your ability to integrate design patterns, technologies, and best practices in professional software development.

Seminars will introduce architectural concepts, principles, and methodologies, whilst workshops will consist of hands-on design exercises, UML modelling activities, code implementation tasks, and case study analyses.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a technical portfolio (40%) and a practical architecture implementation (60%).

30 credits

This module develops your ability to design, implement, and manage modern data systems within cloud environments. It builds on your prior knowledge of software engineering and using data to introduce the key principles, tools, and practices that underpin scalable, secure, and sustainable data engineering in the cloud.

You will learn how to model, ingest, and process data using distributed and virtualised resources; orchestrate and automate data workflows; and integrate analytics or machine learning components to generate actionable insights.

Core topics include:

• Introduction to Cloud and Data Engineering
• Cloud infrastructure and services for data engineering
• Data modelling, ingestion, and integration techniques
• Data transformation and processing in the cloud
• Data storage solutions in cloud and on-premises environments
• Pipeline orchestration and automation
• Cloud data security, privacy, and governance
• Integrating machine learning into cloud workflows
• Cloud monitoring and performance optimization
• Designing and presenting end-to-end cloud data solutions

Teaching and learning

Teaching combines seminars and practical lab sessions, and project-based group work, encouraging you to solve real-world problems and collaborate effectively.

Seminars will introduce key concepts, frameworks, and case studies, while labs will focus on hands-on development and collaborative problem-solving teams.

Independent study, guided tasks, and formative feedback points ensure that you are supported in applying theory to authentic technical challenges.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a design and implementation of a cloud data pipeline, group project (40%) and an integrated cloud data solution, group project (60%).

30 credits

This module is designed to develop the professional skills and mindset needed to succeed in technology-related careers, alongside enhancing your research and academic skills.

Taking key emerging technologies and current professional issues within your chosen pathway as a starting point, you will define and develop your own area for enquiry. You will be supported to systematically find and analyse academic and industry research publications and review existing technical solutions relevant to your area.

You will return to key topics in professional practice, including project lifecycle management, professional frameworks, agile and traditional methodologies, technical communication, ethical and legal considerations with deeper understanding, and apply these to your own project.  You’ll also engage with global perspectives and inclusive practices relevant to your discipline.

Teaching and learning

Your learning will be active and applied. In class, you’ll participate in seminars, lab-based workshops, and project supervision sessions. Outside the classroom, you’ll conduct independent research, collaborate with peers, and use industry-standard tools such as Git, Trello, and JIRA to manage your work.  

Each week includes a four-hour teaching session, structured as:

• Interactive keynote discussion - introducing key concepts, frameworks, and professional contexts.
• Guided workshop activities - hands-on practice with tools, methods, and scenarios; individual and collaborative problem-solving.

You will begin to engage with outside stakeholders relevant to your project and apply your knowledge and skills in user research and requirements gathering.

Assessment

This module will be assessed through coursework, where you will prepare a literature review on a chosen topic (50%) and poster project proposal with a Q&A session (50%).

30 credits

Designing, building, deploying, and maintaining secure software in today’s digitally connected world presents significant challenges. Traditional software development often prioritises features and functionality over security, leaving systems vulnerable to exploitation. This module addresses these challenges by introducing you to the principles of security by design and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into secure development practices.

Throughout this module you will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to apply Secure Software Development Lifecycle (SSDL) frameworks across the entire development process, from requirements gathering and solution design to coding, testing, deployment, and implement secure coding practices to prevent common vulnerabilities. Emphasis will be placed on embedding security considerations at every stage.

The module covers both Static Application Security Testing (SAST) and Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST), enabling you to identify, analyse, and remediate security weaknesses at different stages of development. You will explore how AI and machine learning technologies are transforming vulnerability detection and security testing, while critically examining AI's dual role as both a security enabler and potential attack vector.

Teaching and learning

This module adopts a workshop focused teaching and learning approach, designed to foster an active, collaborative, and student-led learning environment. The strategy blends hands-on practical exercises, problem-based learning, and bite-sized lectures, all supported by group discussions and guided independent study.

Active sessions and computing labs are used to introduce, develop, and consolidate understanding of new key topics while accompanying carefully designed learning materials of directed study focuses on examples of application to acquire deeper insight.

Weekly workshops provide you with hands-on experience in secure software development. Working both individually and collaboratively in teams, you will use industry-standard tools and techniques to identify, assess, and mitigate vulnerabilities in software systems. Under the guidance of the lecturer, you will compare approaches, share insights, and develop strategies that directly support your coursework and project assessments.

Assessment

This module will be assessed through coursework, software security assessment video and written document (50%) and coursework on AI based software design and documentation (40%).

30 credits

The Capstone Project provides you with the essential opportunity to deeply explore a subject of high personal interest, situated within the context of your overall programme of study.

You are expected to apply and synthesise your professional practice and research capabilities throughout this project. By bringing these skills together, you will conduct a substantial investigation that extends and demonstrates your practical and academic knowledge. Upon completion, you will produce a significant technical artifact alongside a detailed report.

Building on the Professional Practice in Technology module, you will be able to critically engage with current literature and established research methodologies. Using the knowledge and feedback gained from this module, you will be equipped to develop your research question or problem statement. This work will lead you to systematically evaluate relevant sources, creating a strong foundation for your investigation.

Implementing knowledge gained from the earlier module will enable you to strengthen your methodological approach and demonstrate advanced research and problem-solving skills in your capstone project. You will be able to design and implement an evidence-based solution that addresses your research question and stated objectives. The project culminates in a critical evaluation and reflection on the impact of your solution in relation to your original research goals.

You will be assigned a named individual supervisor who will provide expert guidance throughout your project. While your supervisor is key, you are strongly encouraged to access the full range of academic and research support systems available across the university to enhance your work.

Collaboration is often a feature of the Capstone Project: you may either work with external stakeholders who provide a real-world project brief, or you may have the chance to work alongside an academic, contributing directly to their ongoing research. This project is not undertaken in isolation; peer support is fundamental, and your Capstone Project is developed within a strong, supportive learning community of both staff and fellow students.

Teaching and learning

The module is delivered via three modes of study:

• On-campus sessions that help you conform to the necessary timeline and project requirements
• One-to-one feedback from a named supervisor
• Independent study

The on-campus sessions provide practical activities which directly contribute to the students’ project deliverables.

Peer support via on-campus session activities and group supervisory meetings is strongly encouraged and rewarded via digital badges in Moodle.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a feedback-feedforward and Q&A session (30%) and a report and artefact (70%).

30 credits

You will develop your core academic and integrated English language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You will become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone. You will apply these skills and knowledge to both broad topics and also your chosen subject pathway.

Teaching and learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs.

30 credits

You will develop your core academic and integrated English language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You will become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone. You will apply these skills and knowledge to both broad topics and also your chosen subject pathway.

Teaching and Learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs. 

30 credits

You will develop your research, numeracy and information technology skills. You will investigate the difference between primary and secondary research, conduct your own research project and demonstrate your findings through data analysis. You will also develop your awareness of equality, diversion and inclusion in the UK, through a real-world issue; discrimination in the workplace.

Teaching and learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs. 

30 credits

You will be taught about how the use of computing software impacts the environment from day-to-day activity through use of business and everyday jobs. This is through the excessive use of computing software as well as the changing way that society operates. You will be encouraged to engage in debates and discussions regarding energy consumption in the use of computing software, in terms of the amount of use as well as the type of materials utilised. You will be encouraged to look at responsible innovation and software impact and the long-term effects this may have.

You will look at how the increased use of IT and computing has contributed to the significant development of globalisation in the interconnectivity and internationalisation of the job market. Discussions on how globalisation has contributed to the international development of education, technology development and the emerging market economies through operating systems and internet operations. This is also linked to their assignment in the international platform of Linked In in developing their e-portfolio.

Teaching and learning

The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour lab session each week with pair and group work.

There will also be a 30-minute weekly virtual task and multiple-choice quizzes.

Assessment

This module will be assessed using a multiple-choice test and online portfolio.

40% - multiple choice test, which will take place online during a class.

60% - online portfolio, in this written task you will create a blog post, which reports on an individual data research and processing project. You will also create a LinkedIn profile and subject weekly learning journal entries.

30 credits

This module focuses on how to solve problems via program development. The module initially builds your understanding of logic, before teaching you how to develop algorithms. The latter half of the module focuses on programming using a Visual Programming Language (VPL) such as Android App Inventor or Google’s Blockly. The module ends with a discussion on the limits of computation, including data representation and physical limitations.

You will be taught about how the use of computing software impacts the environment from day-to-day activity through use of business and everyday jobs. This is through the excessive use of computing software as well as the changing way that society operates. You will be encouraged to engage in debates and discussions regarding energy consumption in the use of computing software, in terms of amount of use as well as type of materials utilised. You will look at responsible innovation and software impact and the long-term effects this may have.

The module explores how advancements in computing and IT have accelerated globalisation by enhancing interconnectivity, transforming industries, and expanding access to information. You will examine the role of computational thinking and problem-solving in a global context, including the impact of software development, and automation on international markets. Discussions will focus on how programming and algorithm design contribute to technological advancements, remote collaboration, and the evolving global job market. Additionally, you will be able to engage with international computing standards and digital platforms, such as LinkedIn, to develop your profile and understand the significance of global networking in the technology sector.

Teaching and learning

The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour lab session each week with pair and group work.

There will also be a 30-minute weekly virtual task and multiple-choice quizzes.

Assessment

This module will be assessed using programming coursework and a class test.

60% - coursework, you will design a simple algorithm to solve a problem using flowcharts and pseudocode.

40% - class test, you will construct a program to solve using a Visual Programming Language.