Computing in Business BA (Hons)

Businesses are looking for graduates who have an in-depth knowledge of computing. They want people who know their way around information technologies (IT) – but they also want people who know about business. This course aims to help you develop your understanding of both disciplines and how they are interlinked, and to build up your skills for future employment. To become a computing professional in a competitive and fast-paced environment, you need a range of skills and a good understanding of business, so we’ll look at both areas. We’ll give you the chance to design and develop computer systems and websites – and we’ll get you thinking about the issues that a business has to take into account when developing new information systems. The first year of your studies will cover a broad range of aspects of computing including: * Web programming * Database development * Storage and manipulation of data. You’ll also get the chance to work on projects individually and as a team. We'll give you a thorough grounding in the principles of IT including best practice in developing web technologies (using programs such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript). You’ll be supported in gaining advanced skills in developing database driven applications using Visual Studio and SQL Server, we'll also look at business theory and apply this to IT. We’ll look at data analytics, how user-friendly a system should be, and the strategic business needs of an organisation. You’ll spend most of your time studying in the School of Computing and Engineering, but some of your modules will be provided by our Business School too. During your studies you’ll also have the chance to spend a year working in industry. You could develop some great experience and pick up some useful contacts that could help you take the first steps in your career. Your time with us will be spent in a supportive and creative environment, you'll have support from staff who have a wealth of professional experience both in industry and in research. ~ Matthew Mantle, Senior Lecturer.Professional links and accreditation: This course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) (http://www.bcs.org/), the Chartered Institute for the IT industry. BCS accreditation is awarded to courses that provide a solid foundation in computing. It provides an indicator of quality to you and potential employers. Accreditation is independent recognition that this course meets the high standards set by the IT industry and meets industry needs. Courses are accredited for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status, BCS's own Chartered qualification. This course is accredited to also partially meet the requirements for CEng status. Accreditation also gives you a potential advantage when looking for a job as some employers may ask for graduates with accredited degrees. Please visit the BCS website (http://www.bcs.org/category/7065) for further details about accreditation and their regulations for professional membership. This accreditation is reviewed on a regular basis. Additional costs: On this course optional field trips may be offered to destinations in the UK, which you would need to pay for if you choose to attend. Previous trips in recent years have included a visit to The National Museum of Computing for 1 day at a cost of £20.00 per student. Other field trips may cost more.