Cyfrifiadureg gyda Diogelwch a Fforenseg gyda blwyddyn mewn diwydiant (BSc)
- UCAS code: GKF4
- Next intake: September 2020
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode: Full time with sandwich year
Clearing and Adjustment
This course is available in Clearing and Adjustment for 2020 entry. Call us on 0333 241 2800 to discuss your options or view all of our vacancies.
Mae'r cynnwys hwn ar gael yn Saesneg yn unig.
Why study this course
Learn how to protect organisation's investment with an understanding of the principles, tools and technologies required to keep their systems secure. This four-year version of the degree provides the opportunity to complete an employability-enhancing third year working in a paid role at a leading organisation.
This accredited degree provides both the theoretical and practical knowledge required to become a part of the exciting and dynamic world of computer science which lies at the heart of almost all aspects of modern life, with a strong information security theme.
On this course you will develop transferable technical, analytical and professional skills, supported by a broad awareness of current technology trends, particularly in the field of computer security. The course covers a mixture of core techniques and concepts and evolving, technology-based subject matter.
Business use of web applications and rising cases of cybercrime has fundamentally changed the nature of information security. As a concern for big business economies and consumers alike, graduates with an understanding of computer security and forensics are exceptionally valuable to many employers.
Graduates are able to objectively analyse problems and develop appropriate computational solutions. Your detailed understanding of technology computer security and digital forensics will make you suitable for a range of professional careers and sought-after by employers.
The year in industry will give you the opportunity to broaden your experience, strengthen your transferable skills, and apply your knowledge to real-world problems.
Distinctive features
Year in Industry - You will complete a year working in industry where you will have the opportunity to gain the teamwork, time-management and leadership skills that graduate employers are looking for. Our current students are completing exciting placements at Admiral, Airbus, CERN, GSK, Hewlett Packard, Lloyds Bank, Red Bull Racing and more;
Specialise in Security and Forensics - Alongside learning core topics, you will gain in-depth knowledge and skills in the area of cybersecurity and forensics through project work and a range of optional modules. We have a dedicated cybersecurity and digital forensics laboratory to support your studies;
No prior knowledge required - You don't need to have any prior knowledge or experience of Computer Science to take this course. You will begin your studies with a month-long module which establishes core concepts and competencies and supports the transition from school to university;
Flexible degree schemes – In most cases, you're free to switch between degree programmes at the end of Year One if your interests change. Plus, you don’t need to commit to your Year in Industry placement until your second year, so there’s plenty of time to explore your options and decide where you would like to work.
Accreditations
Where you'll study
Yr Ysgol Cyfrifiadureg a Gwybodeg
Ein hymchwil amlddisgyblaeth sy'n rhoi ffurf i'n rhaglenni gradd, ac yn eu gwneud yn berthnasol i gyflogwyr heddiw, gan eu gosod mewn sefyllfa dda i fanteisio ar ddatblygiadau yfory.
Entry requirements
ABB - BBB. You will not need to achieve these grades from any specific subjects. Please note that General Studies are not accepted for entry.
Extended Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard A level offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.
The Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate will be accepted in lieu of one A-Level (at the grades listed above), excluding any specified subjects.
DDM - DMM in BTEC Information Technology (or Information Communication Technology), Computing and Engineering. If you are studying the RQF Diploma, please contact the University directly for further information.
32-30 points or 655 in 3 Higher Level subjects.
Other UK qualifications may also be accepted, often in lieu of A-levels, but subject requirements must be met. If you are offering non-UK qualifications, our qualification equivalences guide should allow you to calculate what kind of offer you are likely to receive.
Please be aware that this is a general guide, and that some programmes may have more detailed or specific entry requirements which will be reflected in your offer.
Find out about our Schools' admissions criteria, offer guarantee scheme, changes to programmes and translating your documents.
GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.
TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with minimum scores of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading and 20 for speaking.
PTE Academic
At least 62 overall with a minimum of 51 in all communicative skills.
Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.
Other accepted qualifications
Please visit our English Language requirements page for more information on our other accepted language qualifications.
GCSE Maths grade B/6. GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an accepted English Language equivalent
You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course. If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:
- access to computers or devices that can store images
- use of internet and communication tools/devices
- curfews
- freedom of movement
- contact with people related to Cardiff University.
Interview or selection process
All applications for a place on any of the Computer Science degree programmes must be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) application service. Applications can be made either in the English or the Welsh language. We recognise that if you are a Welsh speaker, you may feel more comfortable speaking to a Welsh speaking personal tutor. Provided there are Welsh speaking members of staff available, every effort will be made to allocate a Welsh speaker to you at any point in the application.
The School of Computer Science & Informatics assesses applications throughout the cycle. Each application is assessed by the admissions tutor who makes the decision whether or not to accept an applicant. After we have received and considered your application, we may invite you to visit the School some time during the period November to early March. This will include a guided tour of the School, Students’ Union and campus. You will meet students and staff, providing us with the opportunity of getting to know more about you and enabling you to find out what life is like as a computing student at Cardiff University.
Tuition fees
UK and EU students (2020/21)
| Tuition fee | Deposit |
|---|---|
| £9,000 | None |
Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section. Please note that these sources of financial support are limited and therefore not everyone who meets the criteria are guaranteed to receive the support.
Students from outside the EU (2020/21)
| Tuition fee | Deposit |
|---|---|
| £21,950 | None |
Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section. Please note that these sources of financial support are limited and therefore not everyone who meets the criteria are guaranteed to receive the support.
Costs for sandwich years
During a sandwich year (e.g. year in industry, placement year or year abroad) a lower fee will apply. Full details can be found on our fees pages.
Additional costs
There may be additional costs associated with the year in industry such as travel or accommodation, which will need to be covered by the student. These are typically offset by the salary received from the placement.
Course specific equipment
What the student should provide:
You will need to provide a calculator that satisfies Cardiff University examination regulations.
What the University will provide:
Computer laboratories equipped with modern computers. All software needed to undertake the taught modules at Cardiff University will be provided on these computers
Accommodation
We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget. Find out more on our accommodation pages.
Course structure
This four-year course begins by introducing basic computing skills and concepts which will underpin the degree. Short projects in year one are followed by a substantial team project in year two, when you use new skills and knowledge to design and implement a software system. You will spend year three undertaking a salaried work placement. In year four, you focus on emerging technologies and research-led options, and undertake an individual project demonstrating your understanding of computer security.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2020/21 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2020.
Year one
Modules taught in the first two semesters will introduce fundamental computing skills and concepts that form the basis of your degree. This includes the programming of algorithms using languages such as Python and Java™, an understanding of Internet and web technologies, computer architecture and operating systems, software engineering principles and mathematics for computer science. You will be expected to develop new technical and professional skills, and to demonstrate individual creativity and originality throughout the year.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Computational Thinking | CM1101 | 20 credits |
| Web Applications | CM1102 | 20 credits |
| Problem Solving with Python | CM1103 | 20 credits |
| Developing Quality Software | CM1202 | 20 credits |
| Architecture and Operating Systems | CM1205 | 10 credits |
| Maths for Computer Science | CM1208 | 10 credits |
| Object Oriented Java Programming | CM1210 | 20 credits |
Year two
Core modules taught in year two introduce advanced topics; some choice is introduced into the degree through optional modules. The structure and processing of data is further explored and simple algorithms are expanded into applications that are able to communicate via networks. Skills developed so far are applied during a team project to professionally design and implement a software system with an information security element. At the same time, your future career, employability or entrepreneurship and professional skills will be enhanced as you begin to look towards life after University.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Human Computer Interaction | CM2101 | 10 credits |
| Database Systems | CM2102 | 10 credits |
| Enhancing your Employability | CM2106 | 10 credits |
| Group Project | CM2305 | 20 credits |
| Communication Networks | CM2306 | 20 credits |
| Object Orientation, Algorithms and Data Structures | CM2307 | 20 credits |
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Computational Mathematics | CM2104 | 10 credits |
| Data Processing and Visualisation | CM2105 | 10 credits |
| Systems Modelling | CM2107 | 10 credits |
| Informatics | CM2203 | 10 credits |
| Introduction to the Theory of Computation | CM2207 | 10 credits |
| Scientific Computing | CM2208 | 10 credits |
| Distributed and Enterprise Architectures | CM2210 | 10 credits |
Year three: Sandwich year
Preparation begins during year two when you will be supported by our dedicated Placement Officer and other university services to help secure an appropriate salaried post, and ensure you have access to a broad variety of relevant placement opportunities. The School will also provide support and guidance during your placement year, in which you will be given the opportunity to enhance your CV and boost your employment prospects by gaining the valuable experience and skills that employers require.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Placement | CM2500 | 120 credits |
Year four
In year four you will focus on emerging technologies and advanced topics which are often informed by the School’s research. There are a number of optional modules to choose from depending on your specific interests. You will practice professional aspects of forensic computer analysis and gain first-hand knowledge at lectures delivered by experts in computer security and computer forensics. Your understanding of computer security will be demonstrated in completing an individual project.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Large-Scale Databases | CM3104 | 20 credits |
| Security | CM3110 | 10 credits |
| Forensics | CM3111 | 10 credits |
| Emerging Technologies | CM3202 | 20 credits |
| One Semester Individual Project - 40 | CM3203 | 40 credits |
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Knowledge Management | CM3107 | 20 credits |
| Combinatorial Optimisation | CM3109 | 10 credits |
| Artificial Intelligence | CM3112 | 10 credits |
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
The School of Computer Science and Informatics has a strong and active research culture, which informs and directs our teaching. We are committed to providing teaching of the highest standard. We received an excellent report in the most recent Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) review and BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, regularly reviews and accredits our undergraduate degree courses.
Key skills such as programming are taught through a combination of lectures and lab-based practical sessions. Further support mechanisms are used to help digest material. These include example classes, tutorials and help sessions, amounting to a total of between 15-20 formal contact hours a week in year one. Teaching delivery in years two and four mirrors that of year one, but there are fewer formal contact hours as you will have acquired the skills needed to take control of your own learning by these latter stages of the course.
Most of your taught modules will have further information for you to study and you will be expected to work through this in your own time according to the guidance provided by the lecturer for that module
Project
You will undertake project work throughout the course, with the opportunity to exercise increasing independence at each level.
In year one, you will participate in team project work. The tasks are well defined and enable you to put into practice knowledge and skills acquired earlier in the academic year.
In year two, you will undertake a group project fostering systems design, interpersonal and presentation skills. Each group is monitored by a supervisor with whom the group must keep in regular contact.
Year four individual projects give you the chance to demonstrate your ability to build upon and exploit knowledge and skills gained in earlier years.
Year 1
Scheduled learning and teaching activities
48%
Guided independent study
52%
Placements
0%
Year 2
Scheduled learning and teaching activities
45%
Guided independent study
55%
Placements
0%
Year 3
Scheduled learning and teaching activities
6%
Guided independent study
13%
Placements
82%
Year 4
Scheduled learning and teaching activities
31%
Guided independent study
69%
Placements
0%
How will I be supported?
The School prides itself on offering a comprehensive support structure to ensure positive student/staff relationships.
We believe that providing suitable feedback mechanisms is crucial to ensure that the best programmes of study are available to our students. We have a student/staff panel consisting of elected student representatives and members of teaching staff who meet to discuss academic issues. In conjunction with the work of the panel, all students are provided with an opportunity to complete feedback questionnaires at the end of the Autumn and Spring semesters. These mechanisms allow the School to regularly review courses and ensure our students receive the best provision, delivered in a consistent manner, across all of our degrees.
The course makes use of Cardiff University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Learning Central to provide course materials, and additional information is provided online.
You will be assigned a member of staff to act as your personal tutor, who will serve as a point of contact to advise on both academic and personal matters in an informal and confidential manner.
You will be assigned a member of staff to act as your personal tutor, who will serve as a point of contact to advise on both academic and personal matters in an informal and confidential manner. You will see your personal tutor on average once a month during your first year of study. There is a reduced schedule of contact sessions during the latter stages of the degree, which takes into account the increasing academic and time demands as you progress. Outside of scheduled tutor sessions, our Senior Personal Tutor runs an open-door policy, being on hand to advise and respond to any personal matters as they arise. Your Personal Tutor will monitor your academic progress and supply references in support of any job applications that you make.
During the year in industry, our Placement Officer will maintain contact with the host organisation as well as with the student. Academic staff from the School will visit, which will give you an opportunity to maintain links with the School, and raise any concerns that you might have. You will also be able to remotely access all the above support mechanisms at Cardiff University, and will maintain contact with your Personal Tutor via email and/or Skype.
Year 1
Written exams
29%
Practical exams
13%
Coursework
58%
Year 2
Written exams
52%
Practical exams
0%
Coursework
48%
Year 3
Written exams
0%
Practical exams
10%
Coursework
90%
Year 4
Written exams
47%
Practical exams
0%
Coursework
53%
What skills will I practise and develop?
Knowledge & Understanding:
On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:
- An understanding of the broad range of concepts, principles and theories underpinning Computer Science
- An ability to describe computing systems and solutions to problems
- An understanding of the representation of data in structured forms and its interplay with the implementation of algorithms
- A specialised understanding of Security and Forensics in both a theoretical and applied context
- An understanding of the concepts of risk and security in computing, and secure coding techniques
Intellectual Skills:
On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:
- An ability to critically appraise computing systems and solutions to problems, including those arising in Security and Forensics
- An ability to objectively analyse computational problems and develop appropriate, creative solutions
- An ability to model complex scenarios to design computer systems that meet stated requirements
- An ability to select, derive and analyse appropriate algorithms to solve computing problems
- An ability to recognise and specify the constraints, requirements and trade-offs in the design of computer systems
- An ability to apply tools and techniques appropriate to secure software development
- An ability to identify weaknesses in software and software architecture
- An appreciation of how skills and concepts encountered in the degree are implemented and used within industry
Professional Practical Skills:
On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:
- Awareness of relevant professional, ethical, legal and social issues that arise in the implementation of existing and future computer systems
- An ability to pursue opportunities for career development and lifelong learning and appreciate the importance of commercial awareness
Transferable/Key Skills:
On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:
- An ability to effectively communicate ideas, principles and theories by oral, written and electronic means
- An ability to work effectively in a team and as an individual
- An ability to make effective use of a range of IT systems
Careers and placements
Career prospects
Skilled computer scientists are in extremely high demand. This means the employment prospects for graduates in the computing and ICT industry are very strong. You will be equipped with transferrable skills that open doors to careers in many sectors.
In recent years, more than 90% of the School’s graduates were in employment or engaged in further study within six months of graduation.
Recent statistics show that the vast majority of our graduates are following their chosen career paths in roles such as Software Engineer, Web Developer, Computer Programmer, Associate Software Developer, Business Analyst and Systems Development Officer. They go on to work for companies including Airbus Group, Amazon, BBC, BT, Cardiff University, Capgemini, Confused.com, GCHQ, IBM, Lloyds Banking Group, MoD, Morgan Stanley, Sky, South Wales Police and Thomson Reuters. Others have chosen further study or research at Cardiff or other top universities.
Placements
Between year’s two and four you will have the opportunity to undertake a salaried placement year.
Preparation for the placement begins during year two when you will be supported by the School's dedicated Placement Officer and other university services to help you secure an appropriate salaried post, and ensure you have access to a broad variety of relevant placement opportunities. The School will also provide support and guidance during your placement year, in which you will be given the opportunity to enhance your CV and boost your employment prospects by gaining the valuable experience and skills that employers require.
