Undergraduate Guide 2010/11 - School of Computing and Information Technology

UNDERGRADUATE GUIDE 2010/11 SCHOOL OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

1 WELCOME

Welcome

to the School of Computing and Information Technology On behalf of all my colleagues, I am delighted to welcome you to the School of Computing and Information Technology. The School is a lively and friendly place, which prides itself on the quality of its academic staff, and the support that it provides for students.

We have excellent links with industry, a number of Research Groups with an international reputation, and educational partners in the UK and overseas. All of our programmes are underpinned by active research and scholarship.

Professor Robert Moreton Dean of School, BA (Hons), MTech, FBCS

Contents 2 CONTENTS

3

A School to be proud of

5

Facilities

7

Our teaching methods

9

Computer Science

11

Computing

13

Information Systems

15

Mathematics

17

Other courses

3 A SCHOOL TO BE PROUD OF

A SCHOOL TO BE PROUD OF 4

A School to be proud of At the School of Computing and Information Technology, we have a comprehensive range of courses to give you a head start in your career. To keep pace with industry and its application of the latest technology our courses are being revitalised for 2010, to equip you with the skills you will need in todays challenging employment market.

Our fully equipped advanced environments will enhance your learning experience. In the Media, Games, Wireless Mobile, and Ubiquitous Technology and Networking labs you can develop your skills using modern equipment and engage with ongoing leading edge research.

Our fully equipped Games Lab offers access to Xbox XNA development software and the ability to deploy directly to an Xbox 360. In addition we undertake development work using Torque Games Engine and Second Life. There are 16 networked gaming machines for both LAN gaming and network game development, and you have access to PS3 gaming consoles, Xbox 360 gaming consoles and Wii feedback development software and technology.

What our students say James Ferns BSc Hons Information Technology “As I was on an Information Technology degree the placement year was optional for me, doing the placement has been the best decision I’ve made since being at University. I was able to learn a lot of new skills, and enjoyed applying the theory I learnt from my degree to real life situations”

5 FACILITIES

FACILITIES 6

Tap into the latest technology Everything you need under one roof

You can develop your skills in the advanced learning environment of our iconic Technology Centre, which provides space for teaching, research and consultancy. There’s an open access IT lab with over 400 high specification PCs running software, both proprietary and Open Source, catering for all aspects of Computer Science, Computing and Maths.

The University has one of the largest single area wireless networks in UK Higher Education and offers other specialist software to support your study, including the software development and testing tool LRDA Testbed, Mathcad for working with formulae, numbers, text and graphs, and PCB Design, which allows you to edit audio files and create real-time video.

You can freely access the Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance (MSDNAA) website – this allows you to download free legal and licensed copies of the latest operating systems, software development environments and specialist products such as Visual Studio.

Free digital library

The impressive Harrison Learning Centre on City Campus offers four floors of educational resources. In addition there are online resources such as databases of electronic journals, including over 350,000 books. You will also have access to Safari, which is a FREE, on-demand digital library providing access to technology, creative and business books from leading publishers.

You’ll find WOLF (Wolverhampton Online Learning Framework) a convenient online learning environment where you can access the latest study resources such as lecture notes and presentations from your own home, or take part in interactive discussions no matter where you are based.

The IT labour market is set to grow by 163,000 from 2007 to 2016 (from 1,069,000 up to 1,232,000) MacKinnon 2009

7 OUR TEACHING METHODS

Our teaching methods Hands on teaching

Our teaching methods place an emphasis on promoting theoretical and practical skills, meeting current and future demands for skilled professionals in computing and mathematics. The lectures give you an overall view of our subjects, and you will have an opportunity to look more deeply into these subjects during tutorials. In order to consolidate your learning, you’ll put your new knowledge into practice during workshops where you have tutor support while you work on practical exercises.

Assessment methods are varied and include formal examinations, computer-based tests and written assignments. We recognise that you may want to develop additional skills within your degree, so we have added new modules, such as English as a Foreign Language (for International Students), Volunteering, and Work Based Learning. These modules have been carefully selected to enhance your knowledge and increase your employability prospects.

Our Computing, Computer Science, and Information Systems courses are in the process of being accredited by the BCS British Computer Society.

What our students say Jude Mahoney BSc International IT Management top-up degree graduate “Choosing the University of Wolverhampton was a natural choice for me, because I was impressed with the wide range of courses and facilities available”.

OUR TEACHING METHODS 8

9 COMPUTER SCIENCE

The single largest area of growth will be amongst Software Professionals, a role for which a high degree of technical knowledge, capability and training is required.

MacKinnon 2009

computer science 10

Smart Thinking Our Computer Science degrees take a technically-focussed approach to the study of computer systems. A major focus of this award the ability to program computers and other hardware.

Computer programs (software) are the “brains� that are essential to turn inanimate hardware into smart useful machines. All computers, mobile phones and mp3 players contain software.

Learning to program and hence control such equipment is an essential element of our Computer Science courses.

Bsc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Development)* Building on the core fundamentals of computer science, this course investigates the technologies behind games development including hardware (consoles, input devices) and software games engines. It also covers the mathematics and physics required to create believable agents, non-player characters (NPCs) and virtual worlds inside a computer game.

More than just programming

Bsc (Hons) Computer Science (Digital Media Technology)* Digital media technology involves developing computer applications that combine text, sound, pictures, computer animations, video images, and virtual realities. On our course, you will study both the hardware and the software tools for creating highly engaging visual applications, in addition to the core principles of computer science.

Whilst studying Computer Science you will be able to specialise in computer games development, software engineering, digital media applications or follow a more flexible route which will allow you to pursue areas of personal interest. By choosing our computer science routes, you will learn the computer languages which are most in demand from industry together with the tools, technologies and methodologies used by software professionals.

We offer four Computer Science degree courses: Bsc (Hons) Computer Science* The course aims to produce software developers who can seamlessly make the transition from university to the international computer industry.

Bsc (Hons) Computer Science (Software Engineering)* This course combines the core fundamentals of computer science with particular emphasis on software engineering.

11 COMPUTING

Changing Technology Recent years have seen rapid growth in the areas of mobile computing, the Web and a focus on fraud and security threats. In order to keep up to date with changing technology, our degrees enable you to develop your knowledge of computer hardware and software with particular reference to communication systems and networking technologies.

The mobile web

The School has been working with mobile phones and other mobile devices such as handheld games consoles and netbooks to support our students for a number of years. Our work in this area has led to us having a strong international reputation. The subjects of Web Design, Web Application Development and Web Frameworks are popular with our students – who recognise that the use of the Web has become increasingly important. Whilst studying BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering you will be taught how to develop interactive sites using Google Maps, mashups and the embedding of social network tools.

You’re safe in our hands

We are one of a relatively small number of universities in the UK to run a BSc (Hons) IT Security degree. Our staff work with police forces, nationwide and a number of government security organisations.

We have a specialist networks lab where students studying the BSc (Hons) IT Security degree and the BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering (Networks) degree are introduced to threats, and methods which may be employed to counteract them.

The future of Computing is one of a wireless, rather than wired, world where devices are increasingly embedded into every day objects and are aware of their surroundings. Our teaching and research reflects these trends and enable us to provide our graduates with relevant knowledge as they transit in to the workplace. Our research enriches our teaching, and our excellent facilities allow students to gain real practical knowledge and skills.

It is not essential to have previous knowledge of computers or computer programming before beginning your studies with us.

You will gain the required knowledge to participate in computer system development and cultivate the skills needed to support your continuing professional development within computing.

COMPUTING 12

We offer courses in: BSc (Hons) Computing* This course will provide you with a strong grounding in technological aspects of computing applications, and equip you with the knowledge and understanding in the field of databases, networks and programming.

BSc (Hons) IT Security* Our BSc IT Security degree has been offered in response to the growing demand for graduates with expertise in the area of IT Security. You will learn to identify threats and how to build robust systems to defend against them. You will also develop the knowledge and skills needed to identify and deploy counter measures. We are one of only a few universities in the UK to offer this degree.

BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering* This is a technical degree which focuses on hardware as well as software and how they interact. You will explore the pervasive elements of technology such as GPS, 3G and Wi-Fi and how they can be used to bring a multitude of different systems together.

BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering (Networks)* This course builds on the central principles of BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering and enables you to examine how networking and computer technology provide the data links increasingly necessary for our social networking, business and everyday lives.

13 INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Within the UK economy, over three quarters of people now use IT as part of their job role Technology Counts IT & Telecoms Insights 2008, e-skills UK, January 2008.

Information Systems 14

Where Business meets IT With many varied roles now available in this expanding sector, industry and commerce in the 21st century now require employees who possess people skills as well as a technical background. The range of courses in our Information Systems portfolio seeks to meet these IS/IT business needs. “The IT industry employs nearly 5% of UK workers. Within the UK economy, over three quarters of people now use IT as part of their job role. Use of IT is particularly important for over 90% of managers, professionals, associate professionals and secretarial/administrative staff�. www.prospects.ac.uk

Essential Business IT skills

We have designed our courses for those who want to study towards a career in computing, IT or business. Each course will prepare you for employment and will equip you with essential business, people and team-working skills.

We offer the following four courses: BSc (Hons) Information Systems* This course provides you with a foundation in the skills, knowledge and experience required for a career in the field of analysis, design, development and procurement of information systems, including IS risk analysis and project management.

BSc (Hons) Business Information Systems* On this course you will develop the skills and knowledge required for a career involving the acquisition and implementation of business computing applications. There is an emphasis on business areas and functions, business analysis, consultancy and project management skills.

BSc (Hons) Information Technology* This course focuses on the interrogation of business functions and information technology. There is a strong emphasis on IT support and the practical application of innovative technologies.

BSc (Hons) IT Management* This course is ideally suited to those who are looking to acquire the strategic planning and operational management of IS/IT. There is a strong focus on IT security management.

It is not essential to have previous knowledge of computers, information systems or information technology before beginning your studies with us. You will gain the required knowledge and cultivate the skills needed to support your Continuing Professional Development.

15 Mathematics

Choosing

Mathematics As a mathematics student, you will study the essential concepts, principles, theories and techniques relating to mathematics, statistics and operational research.

Be in demand

Each award is designed to help you achieve your long-term career goal, leading towards professions as diverse as teaching, business, finance, or even cryptography.

Mathematicians are valued in industry, business and commerce for their analytical skills and logical approach to unravelling complex issues.

A degree in mathematics is highly sought after, and graduates have the potential to command some of the highest graduate salaries. Shortages of suitably qualified professionals in areas such as teaching, academia and within industry suggest that career prospects remain strong.

The demand for statisticians is also high, with career opportunities available in the government, pharmaceutical companies, industry and medicine.

Our current BSc (Hons) Mathematics and BSc (Hons) Mathematical Sciences awards are accredited by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) The Mathematics department includes staff who achieved a very high rating in the recent Research Assessment Exercise. The team includes a professor who is internationally recognised as a leading authority in the field of Statistical Cybermetrics and his researchers.

We offer courses in: BSc (Hons) Mathematics* This course aims to develop your theoretical understanding of the subject. Emphasis is placed on pure mathematics, where you will enhance your technique in algebra and calculus.

The course will teach you advanced problem solving skills; these are skills which you will be able to employ in many different ways across a wide choice of careers.

BSc (Hons) Mathematical Sciences* Our course in Mathematical Sciences focuses on a range of areas in the subject with a particular emphasis on statistics and operational research.

You will study a broad range of techniques relating to mathematics and its applications; this will provide an excellent grounding in the application of theory to practical use.

Mathematics 16

17 OTHER COURSES

Other

courses we offer If you are not ready to study a degree we also offer the following courses: • CertHE Network Computing (taught at Telford College of Arts & Technology)* • FD Computing (taught at Telford College of Arts & Technology)* • FD Interactive Computing (taught at City of Wolverhampton College)* • HND Computing*

You can top-up your Computing HND or Foundation degree with one of our top-up degrees in: • • • • • • • • • • •

Computing* Business Information Systems* IT Management * Information Technology* Computer Science* Computing Software Development* Computer Systems Engineering* Computing Digital Media Development* Computer Systems Engineering (Networks)* Computing Games Development* IT Security*

Contact: School of Computing and Information Technology Marketing and Student Recruitment University of Wolverhampton, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton West Midlands WV1 1LY United Kingdom Tel: 01902 321402 Email: scit-enquiries@wlv.ac.uk Website: www.wlv.ac.uk/scit

* Courses subject to validation Disclaimer The University of Wolverhampton can accept no liability for the accuracy or otherwise of statements in these publications. It is a general guide and there may be changes following publication, which affect the contents. Courses and modules may be altered or withdrawn without notice. Before accepting any place offered on a course, prospective students should be aware that the provision of education services by the University of Wolverhampton is subject to written terms and conditions of contract set out in full on the University’s website at www.wlv.ac.uk Acknowledgements Written and produced by Marketing and Communications, University of Wolverhampton.

HR0164 (2)

University of Wolverhampton, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton West Midlands WV1 1LY

Tel: 0800 953 3222 Email: enquiries@wlv.ac.uk Website: www.wlv.ac.uk