Open University

Diploma of Higher Education in Computing with Electronic Engineering

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this qualification, you’ll have developed knowledge and understanding of:

• The fundamental principles, concepts and techniques underlying computing and electronic engineering
• A range of models, analytical methods and languages support the understanding and analysis of computing systems and electronic systems
• A range of situations in which computing systems are used, how people interact with them, and the possibilities and limitations of such systems
• A range of electronic systems, their purpose and how they operate, and the possibilities and limitations of the components from which they are built
• An awareness of major trends in computing and electronic engineering and of the implications of these trends.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll have developed the following cognitive skills:

• Apply and critically evaluate key computing and electronics concepts in a range of contexts
• Select and apply techniques and tools for abstracting, modelling, problem-solving, and testing computing systems and electronic systems and their components, and be aware of the limitations involved
• Compare, contrast, critically analyse and refine specifications and implementations of software systems and simple hardware systems.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• Analyse, evaluate and/or test computing systems and electronic engineering solutions, 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 electronic engineering
• Identify and address the ethical, social and legal issues that may arise during the development and use of computing systems and electronic systems
• Use appropriate professional tools to support your work.

Key skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• Communicate information, arguments, ideas and issues clearly and in appropriate ways; bearing in mind the audience 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 mathematical and analytical techniques to solve problems
• Recognise and understand a range of technological and engineering problems and select suitable techniques for solving them.

This diploma of higher education has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• In Stage 1, you’ll study two 30-credit computing modules and two 30-credit engineering modules.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study two 30-credit modules from a choice of computing focus areas, choose one 30-credit computing module and study a 30-credit electronic engineering module.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

Computing

You'll study both of the following:

• Introduction to computing and information technology 1 (TM111)
• Introduction to computing and information technology 2 (TM112)

Engineering

You'll study both of the following:

• Engineering: frameworks, analysis, production (T193)
• Engineering: mathematics, modelling, applications (T194)

Stage 2 (120 credits)

Computing

Choose one of four computing focus areas:

Communications and networking

You'll study both of the following:

• Cisco networking (CCNA) part 1 (TM257)
• Communication and information technologies (TM255)

Computer science

You'll study both of the following:

• Object-oriented Java programming (M250)
• Algorithms, data structures and computability (M269)

Software development

You'll study both of the following:

• Managing IT: the why, the what and the how (TM254)
• Object-oriented Java programming (M250)

Web development

You'll study both of the following:

• Object-oriented Java programming (M250)
• Web technologies (TM252)

Choose a further computing module:

You'll choose one from:

• Algorithms, data structures and computability (M269)
• Change, strategy and projects at work (T227)
• Cisco networking (CCNA) part 1 (TM257)
• Communication and information technologies (TM255)
• Managing IT: the why, the what and the how (TM254)
• Object-oriented Java programming (M250)
• Web technologies (TM252)

Engineering

You'll study the following:

• Electronics: sensing, logic and actuation (T212)

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 diploma is useful if you already work or would like to work with computing and IT systems. Equipping you with the foundational knowledge of hardware-, software-, and systems-based technologies. And preparing you for employment in software engineering, communications, networks, or web technologies.

Also, you’ll be able to work towards roles like a designer of a wide range of instruments. Examples are industrial process monitoring equipment such as meters and gauges, production line systems, and industrial robotic systems. And to be a useful member of a systems integration team. You’ll develop transferable skills such as teamwork, time management, numeracy, and problem-solving.

Career relevance

The digital sector must meet the need for skills in IT and telecommunications. Computing and IT graduates are in demand by providers (such as software houses) and user organisations. The range of organisations employing computing and IT graduates is extensive. It includes:

• Broadcast Media
• Digital Media
• Financial Services
• Healthcare
• Leisure and Gaming
• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Telecommunications
• The Public Sector
• Transport
• Tourism

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.