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Undergraduate Programme Specification

BEng Computer Science (with International Year One)

Academic Year 2021/22

A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.

Programme Title BEng Computer Science (with International Year One) Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)
Bachelor of Engineering
Programme Code CSC-BENG-I UCAS Code G404 HECoS Code 100366 - Computer science - 100
ATAS Clearance Required No
Mode of Study Full Time
Type of Programme Single Honours Length of Programme Full Time - 3 Academic Year(s) Total Credits for Programme 360
Exit Awards available

Institute Information

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

Electronics, Electrical Engineering & Computer Sci

Quality Code
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code

Higher Education Credit Framework for England
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

Level 6

Subject Benchmark Statements
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/docs/qaa/quality-code/qualifications-frameworks.pdf

Computing (2016)

Accreditations (PSRB)

Regulation Information

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

None

Programme Specific Regulations

Progression from Stage 1 to Stage 2
Students may progress to Stage 2 only if they have achieved, as a minimum requirement, the level of performance in both academic modules and an English Language and Study Skills module, specified as follows:
English Language and Study Skills Module
A minimum of 50% overall (equivalent to IELTS 6.0) with a minimum of 40% (equivalent to IELTS 5.5) in the components: speaking, listening, reading, writing.
Academic Modules
A minimum average of 60% across all 10 academic modules with passes in 10 out of 10 modules (a module pass mark is 40%).
Average marks will be rounded to the nearest integer.
For the calculation of the average, a module mark will be capped at 40% if the module pass is achieved at a re-sit attempt.

Progression from Stage 2 to Stage 3
In order to proceed to Stage 3, students must normally have passed a minimum of 5 Stage 2 modules (100 CATS) taking account of any prerequisites.

Transfer to MEng

Students passing all Stage 2 modules (120 CATS) with an average of at least 55% on their first module enrolments may after consultation with the Advisor of Studies (and subject to UKVI regulations) transfer to the MEng Computer Science programme at Stage 3.
Students considered to have reached the appropriate academic standard will be invited to transfer before the start of Stage 3.

Transfer to Sandwich programme

Students may transfer to the corresponding sandwich programme if they have secured an appropriate one-year placement (subject to UKVI regulations).

Award of Degrees
For the award of a BEng degree, students must normally have accumulated at least 320 credits.
Classification of BEng Honours
When calculating the Honours classification of BSc the module weighting with be equal to:
• 33.3% of the marks for modules at Stage 2 to include all compulsory modules
• 66.7% of the marks for compulsory modules at Stage 3 to include all compulsory modules plus sufficient optional modules to a total of 6 taken.

For those students that have transferred to this programme from Stage 3 or Stage 4 of the equivalent MEng degree programme, the following conditions apply in place of the above.
For the award of an BEng Honours Degree students must normally have passed at least 16 modules to include a final year project: only one from either CSC3002 or CSC4006. For this purpose, a pass in CSC4006 will be awarded as a pass at Stage 3.

Students with protected characteristics

N/A

Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations

(Please see General Regulations)

No

Educational Aims Of Programme

Educational Aims of Programme

On completion of the programme the student will be able to:

• Embark on careers as professional software engineers or to undertake research in Computer Science.
• Understand the fundamental principles of Computer Science, with an emphasis on software development.
• Maintain a disciplined approach to software systems development which will remain through changes in technology.
• Develop sound engineering practice in the approach to system design and development.
• Understand and gain experience of the professional context and the wider business and legal environment in which Computer Scientists operate.
• To evaluate critically new developments in technology and take advantage of them where appropriate.
• Exercise experience through timely exposure to, and practical experience in, a range of current, emerging, novel and exciting developments in computing.

• Embark on careers as professional Software Engineers or undertake research in Computer Science.

• Understand the fundamental principles of Computer Science and Software Engineering.

• Understand and able to use a range of current, emerging, novel and exciting developments in Computer Science theory and practice.

• Apply the skills necessary to critically evaluate new developments in Computer Science and take advantage of them where appropriate.

• Maintain a rigorous approach to the design and development of computing systems and the analysis of their correctness and complexity, which will remain applicable through changes in technology.

• Exercise high levels of professionalism and an awareness of the wider business and legal environment in which computer scientists operate.

• Possess strong interpersonal skills, encompassing team-working skills and effective oral, written, presentation and listening skills.

• Uphold the values, attitudes and competencies needed to undertake CPD and self-directed learning throughout their careers

Consistent with the general Educational Aims of the Programme and the specific requirements of the Benchmarking Statement for Computing, this specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme, and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided.

Specifically, students graduating from the programme will have achieved the following learning outcomes, commensurate with degree classification, relating to subject specific knowledge and understanding; intellectual, practical and key transferable skills:

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Analyse, evaluate and interpret information.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

All modules have a coursework component (practical
work, homework or assignments) which supports, illustrates and reinforces the theoretical material presented in lectures.

Methods of Assessment

Analysis and problem solving skills are assessed through homeworks, assignments and end-of-module written examinations.
Design skills are assessed through assignments, reports on practical work and project reports, presentations and demonstrations.

Synthesise information from a variety of sources

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

All modules have a coursework component (practical
work, homework or assignments) which supports, illustrates and reinforces the theoretical material presented in lectures.

Methods of Assessment

Analysis and problem solving skills are assessed through homeworks, assignments and end-of-module written examinations.
Design skills are assessed through assignments, reports on practical work and project reports, presentations and demonstrations.

Evaluate designs, components, products and artefacts and make improvements.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

All modules have a coursework component (practical
work, homework or assignments) which supports, illustrates and reinforces the theoretical material presented in lectures.

Methods of Assessment

Analysis and problem solving skills are assessed through homeworks, assignments and end-of-module written examinations.
Design skills are assessed through assignments, reports on practical work and project reports, presentations and demonstrations.

Apply professional judgement to balance quality indicators in the design and construction of artefacts.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

All modules have a coursework component (practical
work, homework or assignments) which supports, illustrates and reinforces the theoretical material presented in lectures.

Methods of Assessment

Analysis and problem solving skills are assessed through homeworks, assignments and end-of-module written examinations.
Design skills are assessed through assignments, reports on practical work and project reports, presentations and demonstrations.

Recognise and analyse problems and develop strategies for their solution

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

All modules have a coursework component (practical
work, homework or assignments) which supports, illustrates and reinforces the theoretical material presented in lectures.

Methods of Assessment

Analysis and problem solving skills are assessed through homeworks, assignments and end-of-module written examinations.
Design skills are assessed through assignments, reports on practical work and project reports, presentations and demonstrations.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Grasp the underpinning mathematics and theoretical framework of Computer Science

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Combination of lectures, tutorials, practical exercises and coursework in Levels 1 and 2.

Methods of Assessment

Unseen written examinations. Homework
Project reports, presentations and demonstrations.

Apply the essential facts, concepts, principles and theories of Computer Science.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Combination of lectures, tutorials, practical exercises, coursework and projects in Levels 2 and 3.

Methods of Assessment

Unseen written examinations, assessed practical work and homework. Project reports, presentations and demonstrations

Adhere to good scientific and engineering practice in the specification, design, implementation, testing and delivery and maintenance of computer based solutions

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Forms an integral part of all technical strands of the programme assuming increasing importance as students’ progress through the levels and is the dominant feature of final year technical modules.
Acquisition of (c) is through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical exercises, coursework and projects at all levels.

Methods of Assessment

Unseen written examinations and assessed practical work Project reports, presentations and demonstration.

Understand the importance of quality and fitness for purpose of the software engineering process and resulting artefacts

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through lectures and projects in Levels 2 and 3.

Methods of Assessment

Unseen written examinations, project reports, presentations and demonstrations

Maintain knowledge of the professional, legal and ethical responsibilities of Software Engineers and their role within an organisation.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through lectures in Level 2.

Methods of Assessment

Unseen written examinations and assessed practical work, assignments and presentations

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Plan and manage a Software Engineering project

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Taught in Level 2 and developed in the final year
Software Engineering project.

Methods of Assessment

Practical skills are assessed through reports on practical work, coursework reports and project reports and presentations.

Implement a design using an appropriate programming language.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Taught through lectures and supplemented through practical and project work.

Methods of Assessment

Practical skills are assessed through reports on practical work, coursework reports and project reports and presentations.

Deploy appropriate theory, practices and tools for the specification, design, implementation, and evaluation of computer based systems

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Taught through lectures and developed through
homework, assignments, practical and project work

Methods of Assessment

Practical skills are assessed through reports on practical work, coursework reports and project reports and presentations..

Deploy effectively the tools used in the construction and documentation of computer systems.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Developed through practical and project work

Methods of Assessment

Practical skills are assessed through reports on practical work, coursework reports and project reports and presentations.

Prepare technical reports

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Developed through feedback on reports written for
practical and project work and presentations made on
project work and the Year of Professional Experience

Methods of Assessment

Practical skills are assessed through reports on practical work, coursework reports and project reports and presentations.

Give technical presentations.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Developed through feedback on reports written for
practical and project work and presentations made on
project work and the Year of Professional Experience

Methods of Assessment

Practical skills are assessed through reports on practical work, coursework reports and project reports and presentations.

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Work effectively within a team.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Taught in Level 2 and developed through the Group Project module and in the various smaller group T2projects associated with other modules.

Methods of Assessment

Peer assessment

Retrieve information from a variety of sources and by a variety of techniques

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Introduced during the University induction course and developed through assignments and project work involving library resources (catalogues), web-based resources (browsers and search engines) and personal contacts.

Methods of Assessment

Indirectly assessed

Use information technology effectively.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Developed through practical work, projects, assignments and other coursework activities and individual learning.

Methods of Assessment

Indirectly assessed

Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Developed through assignments, homeworks, reports, presentations and demonstrations and developed through feedback on submitted coursework and presentations.

Methods of Assessment

Assessed through reports of practical work, assignments, homeworks, project reports, presentations and through the end of module examinations.

Understand and present information involving a quantitative dimension.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Taught through lectures, homeworks and practical work and developed through feedback on submitted coursework.

Methods of Assessment

Assessed through reports of practical work, assignments, homeworks, project reports, presentations and through the end of module examinations.

Manage one’s own learning and development including time management and organisational skills.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Taught in level 2. Students apply the skill in meeting
deadlines set throughout the programme

Methods of Assessment

Indirectly assessed

Learn independently in familiar and unfamiliar situations with open-mindedness and a spirit of critical enquiry

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Nurtured and developed throughout the course which is structured and delivered in such a way as to promote this. Students apply and develop the skill during the Year of Professional Experience

Methods of Assessment

Indirectly assessed

Plan and manage their career

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Developed through assignments

Methods of Assessment

Indirectly assessed

Appreciate the need for continuing professional development in recognition of the need for lifelong learning.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Promoted throughout the course

Methods of Assessment

Skill development

Module Information

Stages and Modules

Module Title Module Code Level/ stage Credits

Availability

Duration Pre-requisite

Assessment

S1 S2 Core Option Coursework % Practical % Examination %
English Language and Study Skills NTO1001 1 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 60% 0% 40%
Computer Programming NTO1012 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 50% 0% 50%
Circuit Principles 1 NTO1020 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Digital System Design NTO1021 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Circuit Principles 2 NTO1022 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Electrical Power and Machines NTO1024 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Engineering Mathematics 1 NTO1026 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Engineering Mathematics 2 NTO1027 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Engineering Design and Practice NTO1038 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Electronic Materials and Devices NTO1051 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Communications NTO1052 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Cyber Security Fundamentals CSC2056 2 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 80% 0% 20%
Software Engineering and Systems Development CSC2058 2 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Data Structures and Algorithms CSC2059 2 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 50% 50% 0%
Theory of Computation CSC2060 2 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Architecture and Networks CSC2061 2 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 0% 0% 100%
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning CSC2062 2 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 60% 40% 0%
Professional and Transferrable Skills CSC2065 2 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Concurrent Programming CSC3021 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Formal Methods CSC3001 3 20 YES 24 weeks Y YES 30% 0% 70%
Computer Science Project CSC3002 3 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Software Testing CSC3056 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 60% 40% 0%
Advanced Computer Architecture CSC3058 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 60% 40% 0%
Malware Analysis CSC3059 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 0% 50% 50%
Network Security CSC3064 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Cloud Computing CSC3065 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Deep Learning CSC3066 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 60% 0% 40%
Video Analytics and Machine Learning CSC3067 3 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%

Notes