BSc (Hons) Computer Science for Cyber Security

What you will study

All module information is for 2023 entry and is subject to change.

First-year

• Mathematics for Computing
• Technical and Professional Skills
• Fundamentals of Programming
• Computer Architecture and Systems Software
• Software Design and Development
• Internet Technologies

Second year

• Database Systems
• Data Structure and Algorithms
• Artificial Intelligence
• Enterprise-Pro
• Computer Communications and Networks
• System Security Management

Final year

Core

• Final Year Project
• Cyber Security
• Foundations of Cryptography
• Principles of Security Technologies

Learning and assessment

Most modules use a mixture of formal lectures, practical lab sessions, tutorials and seminars. Some modules involve supervised group work, usually with an assigned academic staff member for each group. All modules require students to undertake independent study, supported through distance learning technologies such as our Virtual Learning Environment.

Reading lists and suggested resources for independent study provide further direction for students to undertake this work, and regular contact hours and informal feedback throughout the courses provide opportunities for further guidance for learners. Some modules offer the opportunity to work on live industry projects through our Computing Enterprise Centre, where your learning and assessment are strongly linked to a real-world project with all the benefits to your CV and experience that you would expect.

Assessments for modules mostly take the form of practical coursework, lab tests and written exams, with all forms being well represented throughout all years of the course across all modules.

In the Enterprise Pro module, the students work on a project for external clients or collaborators in industry and academia. The projects are specifically tailored to be aligned with the studies and the topics that the students have studied.

Through these projects, the students gain crucial industry knowledge and experience to improve their employability prospects and professional skills as well as knowledge of industry developments and their needs, which helps enhance their skills. The clients end up with software products that could be potentially used by their organisations.

The students working in small groups are closely supervised and supported through laboratory practical sessions to ensure they have the right technical input to support the project and are delivering on time and keeping on track. Their interactions within the teams and with the external clients are continuously monitored by a group tutor.

Career prospects

The importance of cyber security is growing in every area of our technology-driven, interconnected society – from state-sponsored hacking to industrial espionage to personal privacy, the subject is now high profile and high priority.

Knowledge in this area is in high demand, and there is a significant skills gap – meaning you’ll be highly employable. A range of other career opportunities will also be open to you upon graduation.

Computers are what underpin, support, and transform science, business, society, and every aspect of modern life. Our graduates have been highly regarded and sought after.

Recent graduates from our computer science courses have gone on to work in many fascinating areas and industries, working at companies such as:

• IBM
• Intel
• Microsoft
• Hewlett-Packard (HP)
• Cap Gemini
• FDM Group
• Centrica
• BBC
• British Sky Broadcasting
• Rolls Royce
• JP Morgan
• NHS trusts
• GE
• Deutsche Post AG
• Goldman Sachs
• Skipton Building Society
• Societe General
• Expressbank
• Thomson Reuters

Inspiring the female IT leaders of the future

We are committed to increasing diversity in IT, as women are still under-represented across the industry, especially at higher echelons, and they're also likely to be paid less than their male counterparts for the same work.

The University of Bradford is a great place for women aspiring to work in the IT sector, offering a highly inclusive environment in which to develop your skills and learn from outstanding academics and professionals.

Career support

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programs. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work, and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the Careers website.

Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of our programs, there is direct input by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged workshops.