Open University

BSc (Honours) in Computing and IT (Communications and Networking)

Knowledge and understanding

Upon completion of this degree you will have:

• A broad critical understanding of the fundamental principles, concepts and techniques underlying computing and IT
• An understanding of a range of models and languages to support the analysis and design of computing and IT systems
• An understanding of the range of situations in which computing and IT systems are used, how people interact with them, and the possibilities and limitations of such systems
• A critical awareness of the ethical, social and legal issues that can be associated with the development and deployment of computing and IT systems
• An awareness of major trends in computing and IT and of the implications of these trends.

Cognitive skills

On completion of the degree you will be able to:

• Apply and critically evaluate key computing and IT concepts in a range of contexts
• Select and apply appropriate techniques and tools for abstracting, modelling, problem-solving, designing and testing computing and IT systems, and be aware of the limitations involved
• Compare, contrast, critically analyse and refine specifications and implementations of software systems and/or simple hardware systems
• Devise and carry out a project in computing and IT that applies and extends your knowledge and understanding, and critically reflect on the processes involved and the outcomes of your work.

Practical and professional skills

On completion of the degree you will be able to:

• Analyse, design, evaluate and/or test computing and IT systems, using appropriate simulation and modelling tools where appropriate
• Plan and organise yourself and your work appropriately, including keeping systematic records of work in progress and outcomes
• Demonstrate the ability to undertake ongoing learning to keep up to date with computing and IT
• Identify and address the ethical, social and legal issues that may arise during the development and use of Computing and IT systems
• Use appropriate professional tools to support your work.

Key skills

On completion of the degree you will be able to:

• Communicate information, arguments, ideas and issues clearly and in appropriate ways; bearing in mind the audience for and the purpose of your communication
• Work in a group, communicating effectively in a distance setting where the communication is computer-mediated
• Work independently, planning, monitoring, reflecting on and improving your learning
• Find, assess and apply information from a variety of sources, using information technology where necessary
• Select and use accurate, appropriate numerical and analytical techniques to solve problems
• Recognise and understand a range of technological problems and select suitable techniques for solving them.

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• In Stage 1, you’ll study three 30-credit computing and IT modules and choose one 30-credit mathematics module.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study four 30-credit modules.
• In Stage 3, you’ll study two 30-credit modules, choose a 30-credit option module and complete a 30-credit project module.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

You'll study all three of the following:

• Introduction to computing and information technology 1 (TM111)
• Introduction to computing and information technology 2 (TM112)
• Technologies in practice (TM129)

You'll choose one from:

• Discovering mathematics (MU123)
• Essential Mathematics 1 (MST124)

Stage 2 (120 credits)

You'll study all four of the following:

• Cisco networking (CCNA) part 1 (TM257)
• Communication and information technologies (TM255)
• Managing IT: the why, the what and the how (TM254)
• Web technologies (TM252)

Stage 3 (120 credits)

You'll study both of the following:

• Communications technology (TM355)
• Cisco networking (CCNA) part 2 (TM357)

You'll choose one from:

• Interaction design and the user experience (TM356)
• IT systems: planning for success (TM353)
• Software engineering (TM354)

You'll study the following:

• The computing and IT project (TM470)

Assessment

Our assessments are all designed to reinforce your learning and help you show your understanding of the topics. The mix of assessment methods will vary between modules.

Computer-Marked Assignments

• Usually, a series of online, multiple-choice questions.

Tutor-Marked Assignments

• You’ll have a number of these throughout each module, each with a submission deadline.
• They can be made up of essays, questions, experiments or something else to test your understanding of what you have learned.
• Your tutor will mark and return them to you with detailed feedback.

End-of-Module Assessments

• The final, marked piece of work on most modules.
• Modules with an end-of-module assessment won’t usually have an exam.

Exams

• Some modules end with an exam. You’ll be given time to revise and prepare.
• You’ll be given your exam date at least 5 months in advance.
• Most exams take place remotely, and you will complete them at home or an alternative location.
• If a module requires you to take a face-to-face exam, this will be made clear in the module description, and you will be required to take your exam in person at one of our exam centres.

Skills for career development

This degree course is useful if you already work, or would like to work, in computing and IT systems. It will equip you with a sound grasp of hardware, software, and systems-based technologies. Depending on your choice of modules, the knowledge and skills you pick up will prepare you for employment in software engineering, communications, networks or web technologies. The course also gives you opportunities to develop important transferable skills such as teamwork, time management, numeracy, and problem-solving.

Career relevance

Computing and IT is a rapidly growing sector of employment, and the UK is recognised as a world leader in producing talented graduates. You could develop your skills and knowledge in the key employment areas in need of skilled candidates. Employers highly regard Open University computing and IT graduates for their ambition, time management and organisational skills.

Computing and IT graduates are in demand by providers (such as software houses) and user organisations alike. The extensive range of organisations employing computing and IT graduates includes retail, financial services, leisure and gaming, telecommunications, broadcast media, digital media, manufacturing, transport, tourism, the public sector and healthcare.

Growth areas and areas of high demand include cyber security, mobile development, cloud computing and the management of Big Data.

Other careers

Beyond pure technology roles, some graduates also enter management consultancy firms or corporate roles, while others go into technical writing roles or work freelance.

Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.

With our unique approach to distance learning, you can study from home, work or on the move.

You’ll have some assessment deadlines to meet, but otherwise, you’ll be free to study at the times that suit you, fitting your learning around work, family, and social life.

For each of your modules, you’ll use either just online resources or a mix of online and printed materials.

Each module you study will have a module website with

• A week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
• Course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
• Module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
• Details of each assignment and their due dates
• A tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
• Online versions of some printed module materials and resources.