COURSE OVERVIEW
- Learn from a specialist team of research-active academics who work at the forefront of the field
- Access a wide range of specialist software and tools including dedicated Cyber Security and Forensics, Networking and Software Development laboratories in a state-of-the-art new development
This programme offers a multi-disciplinary perspective to the subject of Computer Science giving students an excellent basis for a future career in the field.
Our three year degree provides in-depth knowledge and skills in computer science, networks and applications, enabling you to progress into any area of the computing industry. You will learn the necessary skills to develop cutting edge, state-of-the-art innovative applications.
You will benefit from links to professional and industry bodies, including EnCase Academic Programme, Cisco Networking Academy and the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT.
In year 1, you will develop fundamental core knowledge in computer programming, operating systems, mathematics, networks and database design. Legal and regulatory frameworks are explored together with developing your personal and professional skills.
In year 2, you will engage with new subjects that will help you identify possible career paths. You will develop an in depth understanding of web, mobile and object orientated and programming languages together with the principles of network security and artificial intelligence. The Integrated Project module incorporates your knowledge learned in Year 1 and enables you to design, develop and evaluate a security application as part of a team.
An optional placement year provides you with the opportunity to enhance your employability, business understanding and professional skills through a sandwich placement year.
In your third year you will deepen your knowledge in critical network security concepts including distributed systems and leadership development. You will develop an appreciation of the legal, ethical and regulatory frameworks focusing on developing your core employability skills. The Computing Project module helps you to develop specialist skills and expertise through the undertaking of a substantial body of work. You will spend the rest of the time studying your optional modules including Information Futures, Intellectual Property and Penetration Testing.
Careers
Students will be equipped to enter a variety of cyber security graduate roles including software developer, information systems engineer and application analyst.
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment and further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021, HESA.
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours degrees with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
ABOUT THIS COURSE
Suitable for applicants from:
UK, EU, World
Work placements
Students can undertake an optional 12 month sandwich placement following successful completion at Level 5. BS3958 - Employment Experience offers students the opportunity to undertake meaningful and relevant employment experience (underpinned by the UoW Employer Engagement Strategy 2017).
Learning and teaching
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures and seminars, allowing opportunities to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars etc., you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity.
While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.
YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4): TIMETABLED TEACHING AND LEARNING ACTIVITY*
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 288 hours
- Independent learning: 912 hours
YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5): TIMETABLED TEACHING AND LEARNING ACTIVITY*
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 240 hours
- Independent learning: 960 hours
YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6): TIMETABLED TEACHING AND LEARNING ACTIVITY*
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 168 hours
- Independent learning: 1032 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Location
Taught elements of the course take place on campus in Winchester.
Teaching hours
All class based teaching takes places between 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday during term time. Wednesday afternoons are kept free from timetabled teaching for personal study time and for sports clubs and societies to train, meet and play matches. There may be some occasional learning opportunities (for example, an evening guest lecturer or performance) that take places outside of these hours for which you will be given forewarning.
Assessment
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
Percentage of the course assessed by coursework
The assessment balance between examination and coursework depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessed by different assessment modes is as follows:
YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)*:
- 75% coursework
- 25% written exams
- 0% practical exams
YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)*:
- 82% coursework
- 13% written exams
- 5% practical exams
YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)*:
- 87% coursework
- 13% written exams
- 0% practical exams
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
Feedback
We are committed to providing timely and appropriate feedback to you on your academic progress and achievement in order to enable you to reflect on your progress and plan your academic and skills development effectively. You are also encouraged to seek additional feedback from your course tutors.
Further information
For more information about our regulations for this course, please see our Academic Regulations, Policies and Procedures.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
2023 Entry: 104-112 UCAS tariff points
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
- A-Levels: BCC-BBC from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBC is comparable to ABD in terms of tariff points)
- BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4
- T Level: Pass (C or above on the core) in a T Level
In addition to the above, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS.
In addition to level 3 study, the following GCSE’s are required:
- GCSEs in Mathematics and English Language at grade 4 or C, or higher. Functional Skills at level 2 is accepted as an alternative, however Key Skills qualifications are not. If you hold another qualification, please get in touch and we will advise further.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
- IELTS Academic at 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all four components (for year 1 entry)
- We also accept other English language qualifications, such as IELTS Indicator, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and TOEFL iBT.
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
Course enquires and applications
Telephone: +44 (0) 1962 827234
International students
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by emailing our International Recruitment Team at International@winchester.ac.uk or calling +44 (0)1962 827023
Visit us
Explore our campus and find out more about studying at Winchester by coming to one of our Open Days.
Year 1 (Level 4)
Modules Credits
Information Systems and Organisations | 15 | |
The aim of the module is to introduce the application of information, information systems and information technologies within organisations and understand the impact of such systems on organisational performance. Students will develop an understanding of the project lifecycle focussing on the importance of the customer and will look at the process involved in creating information systems by learning how to investigate and define customer requirements and understand future needs. Undertaking this module gives students an introduction to information systems and organisations, giving them the skills to work effectively within an IS organisation on projects and giving them the base for understanding other IS modules within the degree programme. |
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Innovative Systems | 15 | |
Using inspirational demonstrators from both academia and industry, this module provides an overview of a range of innovative systems and applications in the fields of computer science, cyber security, psychology, social sciences, digital media and business decision making. It will also facilitate hands-on experience on the choices and applications of innovative systems to interdisciplinary fields. This module is suitable for students from technical programmes and from psychology, business, digital media and social sciences. |
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Introduction to Software Development | 15 | |
This module will introduce technical students to programming and testing concepts. Students will develop an understanding of the general principles of how programs and projects are delivered within the IT services industry and the application of the concepts of testing and programming. The module will develop introductory skills using a specific but not defined programming language and platform. Undertaking the module will develop the student’s skills in developing and testing programmes using industry techniques. |
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Database Analysis and Design | 15 | |
This module imparts an understanding of analysis and design concepts that are essential for developing and implementing software and database systems. Design concepts and procedures such as Business Rules, Requirements Analysis, Data Modelling, Relational Data Modelling, Object Orientated Analysis and SQL will be explored. Students will also learn how to apply Unified Modelling Language (UML) within different computing scenarios. |
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Introduction to Cyber Security and Networks | 15 | |
The aim of this module is to introduce concepts of IT security in order to understand the security threats to an IT system and the operational impact of these threats on an organisation. The module will explore different protection methods for data and develop knowledge of security policies and procedures, including risk assessments, and how these procedures can be implemented and maintained. This module will introduce topical case studies of attacks on organisational information systems, highlighting the business consequences. |
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Data Structures and Operating Systems | 15 | |
This module imparts an understanding of operating systems including concepts such as scheduling, concurrency and synchronisation, memory management, input and output systems, kernel security and file systems. Fundamentals of data structures and core algorithms and analysis are also explored. |
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System and Software Analysis and Design | 15 | |
This module will teach the design concepts of object orientated programming and creativity and ideation techniques. This module will develop the student’s skills in analysing business and technical requirements to select and specify appropriate technology solutions; capturing client requirements and producing the solutions architecture and software design. Systems Development: The concept will be tested with reference to the business case. |
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Business Expertise 1 | 15 | |
The aim of this module is to develop student understanding of the skills and competencies required in both academic and professional environments. Students will work individually and in teams to develop the knowledge and skills required to plan, design and conduct a research project. Students will have the opportunity to engage in a range of activities which will build industry awareness at a national and international level; enhance communication and negotiation skills; and increase awareness of the importance of evidence based thinking and reflective practice. This module provides the foundation for continuing personal and professional development building confidence to provide students with the potential to maximise academic and career aspirations. |
Year 2 (Level 5)
Modules Credits
Software Testing | 15 | |
This module will build on the knowledge technical students obtain in the introduction to programming and testing module. This module presents a systematic approach to software testing as an extension to Software Design and a precursor to Software Development. Agile methodologies will underpin the Design, testing and development modules. This module prepares students to work in testing roles. |
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Network Security | 15 | |
Organisations are increasingly relying on their information systems and thus there is a corresponding need to ensure that the underlying network infrastructures are secure. This module develops essential concepts and skills relating to the ability to design, implement and support of the security of networked devices and to embrace current best practices in network security. It will develop an applied working knowledge of network security principles, tools and configurations. The module identifies modern network security threats and the impact they have within an organisational context. It will then explore how to secure network devices, how to deploy authentication, authorisation and accounting and how to deploy network security technology such as firewalls and intrusion prevention systems. Cryptography, LAN security considerations and the implementation of endpoint and layer 2 security features will be explored. Methods for implementing data confidentiality and integrity will be described along with the implementation of secure Virtual Private Networks. |
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Object Orientated Software Development | 15 | |
The module develops theoretical and practical skills in software engineering principles including abstraction, encapsulation, aggregation and inheritance. Students will learn the processes from analysis to design, implementation, testing and documentation together with software quality principles. |
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Integrated Project | 15 | |
This module provides an opportunity for students to work as part of a collaborative team to manage and complete a substantial project for a given scenario. Students are expected to utilise and extend the knowledge and understanding imparted previously and contextualise the material already covered. |
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Risk Management and Cyber Security | 15 | |
The aim of this module is to further develop student understanding of IS Security. The main focus of this module will be to explore key themes, trends and issues in cyber-security, policing and governance of the internet and business vulnerabilities. The module provides students with an opportunity to analyse risk management, information risk assessment, risk mitigation, management standards and methodologies, implementing a risk management strategy and business continuity planning. |
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Year 2 Optional Modules | ||
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Optional Credits
Software Testing | 15 | |
This module will build on the knowledge technical students obtain in the introduction to programming and testing module. This module presents a systematic approach to software testing as an extension to Software Design and a precursor to Software Development. Agile methodologies will underpin the Design, testing and development modules. This module prepares students to work in testing roles. |
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Network Security | 15 | |
Organisations are increasingly relying on their information systems and thus there is a corresponding need to ensure that the underlying network infrastructures are secure. This module develops essential concepts and skills relating to the ability to design, implement and support of the security of networked devices and to embrace current best practices in network security. It will develop an applied working knowledge of network security principles, tools and configurations. The module identifies modern network security threats and the impact they have within an organisational context. It will then explore how to secure network devices, how to deploy authentication, authorisation and accounting and how to deploy network security technology such as firewalls and intrusion prevention systems. Cryptography, LAN security considerations and the implementation of endpoint and layer 2 security features will be explored. Methods for implementing data confidentiality and integrity will be described along with the implementation of secure Virtual Private Networks. |
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Object Orientated Software Development | 15 | |
The module develops theoretical and practical skills in software engineering principles including abstraction, encapsulation, aggregation and inheritance. Students will learn the processes from analysis to design, implementation, testing and documentation together with software quality principles. |
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Integrated Project | 15 | |
This module provides an opportunity for students to work as part of a collaborative team to manage and complete a substantial project for a given scenario. Students are expected to utilise and extend the knowledge and understanding imparted previously and contextualise the material already covered. |
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Risk Management and Cyber Security | 15 | |
The aim of this module is to further develop student understanding of IS Security. The main focus of this module will be to explore key themes, trends and issues in cyber-security, policing and governance of the internet and business vulnerabilities. The module provides students with an opportunity to analyse risk management, information risk assessment, risk mitigation, management standards and methodologies, implementing a risk management strategy and business continuity planning. |
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Year 2 Optional Modules | ||
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Year 3 (Level 6)
Modules Credits
Penetration Testing | 15 | |
This module introduces the skills required and methodology used to perform penetration testing. Penetration testers simulate cyber-attacks to find security weaknesses in networks, operating systems, and applications. Students will acquire hands-on experience using different tools and techniques for penetration testing by working in our specialised lab equipped with tools such as Kali Linux, Wireshark, WebGoat, Nmap and Burp Suite. In this module, the student will learn how to crack passwords and wireless networks, test web applications for vulnerabilities, use the Metasploit framework to launch exploits and write customised Metasploit modules, automate social-engineering attacks, bypass antivirus software and turn access to one machine into total control of the enterprise in the post exploitation phase. |
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Distributed Systems | 15 | |
This module explains how concepts and techniques from networking, operating systems and object-orientated programming can be combined to develop distributed systems. The module will impart a detailed understanding of event ordering, logical and physical clocks together with the practical facets of distributed system structuring using the client-server approach. |
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Computing Project | 30 | |
The Computing Project provides the opportunity to undertake a major computing related problem in an approved topic area relevant to the programme of study. |
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Year 3 Optional Modules | ||
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Technology and Cyberlaw | 15 | |
The law has often been required to adapt to new and emerging technologies. Recently, however, the pace and scale of technological change has far exceeded anything previously encountered. Data and data processing now underpins the global economy. Sophisticated surveillance and analytics pose a substantial threat to any concept of personal privacy, but also promise previously unattainable levels of crime detection and anti-terrorist security. In this module, we examine the response of lawmakers, regulators and the courts to the fundamental legal challenges posed by technology, ranging from ownership of online content to the attribution of liability for harm caused by artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles. |
Optional Credits
Penetration Testing | 15 | |
This module introduces the skills required and methodology used to perform penetration testing. Penetration testers simulate cyber-attacks to find security weaknesses in networks, operating systems, and applications. Students will acquire hands-on experience using different tools and techniques for penetration testing by working in our specialised lab equipped with tools such as Kali Linux, Wireshark, WebGoat, Nmap and Burp Suite. In this module, the student will learn how to crack passwords and wireless networks, test web applications for vulnerabilities, use the Metasploit framework to launch exploits and write customised Metasploit modules, automate social-engineering attacks, bypass antivirus software and turn access to one machine into total control of the enterprise in the post exploitation phase. |
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Distributed Systems | 15 | |
This module explains how concepts and techniques from networking, operating systems and object-orientated programming can be combined to develop distributed systems. The module will impart a detailed understanding of event ordering, logical and physical clocks together with the practical facets of distributed system structuring using the client-server approach. |
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Computing Project | 30 | |
The Computing Project provides the opportunity to undertake a major computing related problem in an approved topic area relevant to the programme of study. |
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Year 3 Optional Modules | ||
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Technology and Cyberlaw | 15 | |
The law has often been required to adapt to new and emerging technologies. Recently, however, the pace and scale of technological change has far exceeded anything previously encountered. Data and data processing now underpins the global economy. Sophisticated surveillance and analytics pose a substantial threat to any concept of personal privacy, but also promise previously unattainable levels of crime detection and anti-terrorist security. In this module, we examine the response of lawmakers, regulators and the courts to the fundamental legal challenges posed by technology, ranging from ownership of online content to the attribution of liability for harm caused by artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles. |
Please note the modules listed are correct at the time of publishing, for full-time students entering the programme in Year 1. Optional modules are listed where applicable. Please note the University cannot guarantee the availability of all modules listed and modules may be subject to change. For further information please refer to the terms and conditions at www.winchester.ac.uk/termsandconditions.
The University will notify applicants of any changes made to the core modules listed above.
Progression from one level of the programme to the next is subject to meeting the University’s academic regulations.
2023 Course Tuition Fees
UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland |
International | |
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Year 1 | £9,250 | £14,700 |
Year 2 | £9,250 | £14,700 |
Year 3 | £9,250 | £14,700 |
Total | £27,750 | £44,100 |
Optional Sandwich Year* | £1,385 | £1,440 |
Total with Sandwich Year | £29,135 | £45,540 |
If you are a UK student starting your degree in September 2023, the first year will cost you £9,250**. Based on this fee level, the indicative fees for a three-year degree would be £27,750 for UK students.
Remember, you don't have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year. If finance is a worry for you, we are here to help. Take a look at the range of support we have on offer. This is a great investment you are making in your future, so make sure you know what is on offer to support you.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £77.08 and a 15 credit module is £1,156. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £6,935.
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £122.50 and a 15 credit module is £1,837.
* Please note that not all courses offer an optional sandwich year. To find out whether this course offers a sandwich year, please contact the programme leader for further information.
**The University of Winchester will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying. The following highlights the mandatory and optional costs for this course:
Mandatory
Laptop
Students are expected to have their own laptop to use on this course. Indicative cost is £200-£1,000.
Printing and Binding
The University is pleased to offer our students a printing allowance of £5 each academic year. This will print around 125 A4 (black and white) pages. If students wish to print more, printer credit can be topped up by the student. The University and Student Union are champions of sustainability and we ask all our students to consider the environmental impact before printing.
Optional
Core texts
Core texts are available from the University Library. However some students prefer to purchase their own copies. Some core texts can be bought second-hand or as an ebook which can often reduce this cost. Indicative cost is £150 for whole course.
SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND AWARDS
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards.
Key course details
- UCAS code
- I100
- Duration
- 3 years full-time; 4 years full-time (sandwich); 6 years part-time
- Typical offer
- 104-112 points
- Location
- On campus, Winchester