This module introduces students to the programming utilising an Object Oriented paradigm. Students begin with simple programs to handle input and output and quickly progress to incorporate classes and objects into code and develop more fully fledged object oriented programs.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of core programming concepts

2. Solve computation problems using a high level programming language

3. Develop object-oriented programs

4. Utilise software constructs for the storage and manipulation of data

5. Test and debug object-oriented programs

This module describes how relational databases are used to ensure high quality information is available to businesses. Students will design a relational database and learn how to query one. Students will work with a RDMS to produce a database. They will also learn SQL programming.

1. Design a relational database schema for a software application

2. Develop a set of relational tables and develop the relational database

3. Query a relational database using SQL
4. Implement basic table joins and stored procedures

This module will enable the learner to design and develop a website using client-side technologies such as HTML, CSS and client-side scripting. The module will also enable the students to gain an understanding of the web design process.

1. Describe the architecture of the world wide web and its applications

2. Create and style website content using HTML and CSS, applying appropriate accessibility guidelines

3. Describe the fundamentals of the Javascript language

4. Dynamically style a webpage employing knowledge of the Document Object Model

Computer Architecture covers the topics of number systems and codes, Boolean algebra, sequential and combinational logic circuits, adders, registers and counters, and fundamental computer organisation. The representation of data in computer systems is outlined. Laboratory exercises help students gain the knowledge necessary to understand number systems and logic circuits.

Operating systems introduce students to the fundamental operation of a computer operating system. It focuses on practical work in installing, using and managing the Linux operating system.

Networking introduces networking architecture, structure, and functions. It outlines the principles and structure of IP addressing and the fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations.

1. Describe the basic architecture and operations of a micro-processor based system

2. Implement number systems and logic circuitry

3. Describe the major components of an operating system
4. Control the behavior of an operating system through command line interface
5. Describe the major components of a Network
6. Implement a simple network using switches and routers

This module provides an introduction to the software development process, from project inception, through requirements gathering to software testing. Students will study object-oriented modelling(OOM) techniques supported by the Unified Modelling Language(UML) framework, including how these are applied at different stages of the software lifecycle. This will be supplemented by an exploration of more agile approaches to software development. In particular, agile approaches to requirement gathering, software development and software project management will be examined.

1. Evaluate core Software Development Lifecycles

2. Describe a system’s requirements, using OO analysis models and agile methods.

3. Complete the OO Design using core UML features for a software system.

4. Describe and apply testing approaches for software applications
5. Apply project management principles to a software project
6. Apply and evaluate soft skills for systems analysts

This module builds upon introductory programming to develop object oriented applications utilising modern software development practices.

1. Develop graphical interfaces with event driven programming.

2. Implement advanced OO features in software applications
3. Interact programmatically with databases .

4. Develop a substantial software application utilising modern software development practices.

Web Applications Development equips the student with the skills needed to build and deploy object orientated applications for the web. Students learn to develop and deploy web applications using appropriate processes and tools. They also learn how to implement and consume a web service.

1. Implement a web application using a modern web application framework.

2. Explain the term web application architecture and compare the different options.

3. Apply design principles and patterns to Web Applications developed using an OO programminglanguage
4. Develop and deploy a web application using appropriate processes and tools

5. Implement and consume a web service.

The module cloud computing will introduce the learner to the domain of cloud computing, architecting for a cloud environment and evaluating appropriate cloud services.

This module may also allow the learner the opportunity to undertake certification with a public cloud provider.

1. Describe the evolution of cloud computing and the principles of good architectural design

2. Describe the variousstorage options, compute services, networking components and security services in a public cloud environment

3. Configure and deploy appropriate cloud servicesfor web-scale use cases

4. Describe best practices for building and deploying an optimised cloud environment

The student will be able to analyse, design, configure, verify and troubleshoot a secure enterprise network.

1. Configure, verify and troubleshoot routing protocols

2. Configure, verify and troubleshoot a Layer 2 Switched Network.

3. Connect to the outside world using IP Addressing services.

4. Secure a network by filtering out unnecessary traffic.

5. Manage Network Infrastructure

The work-placement/ internship component is an integral part of the academic programme of the Higher Diploma in Computing.

The aims of the component are to: Offer the student the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course in a relevant work-place setting. Facilitate the student in developing the practical competencies and communication skills necessary to function as an effective team member in the work environment. Where it is not possible to secure a work placement for a student, an alternative of an industry related project will be available addressing the same learning outcomes.

1. Contextualise the knowledge gained in the programme in an area relevant a selected area of interest.
2. Describe the organisation of the host company/organisation and his/her role within it.
3. Describe the operational practices within the host enterprise
4. Apply the practical skills acquired on the academic programme within the workplace.
5. Work as a member of a team and have developed appropriate communication and interpersonal skills

This module introduces students to some advanced database concepts. Topics covered include transaction handling and database programming techniques. Students study both relational and NoSQL databases. Designing and querying document databases is covered in some detail.

1. Develop advanced table joins, stored procedures and views

2. Develop SQL queries utilising multiple functions

3. Describe the need for storing semi-structured and unstructured data with appropriate use cases

4. Develop solutions for storing and processing non-relational data

In this module, students will undertake a significant piece of independent work under supervision with the objective of preparing students for the demands of the workplace and/or further research. The module aims to encourage innovation, exploratory learning and to act as an integrating module to allow the student to draw on knowledge learned and developed across the programme. The module exposes the student to the application of research, current design and development methodologies, and aims to develop critical thinking and analysis skills.

1. Undertake a comprehensive review of relevant and appropriate literature in the project domain and construct a detailed argument in support of the project direction.

2. Analyse the problem through the lens of research undertaken, evaluate options and select the most appropriate methodology and/or technology to apply to the project area.

3. Develop a project plan that manages the available time and delivers a successful project.

4. Develop a major project that aligns with the project plan and involves stages for design, development, testing and deployment and apply industry standards and best practice at each stage.

5. Produce a written report which meets the required standards of scholarship and technical expertise.

6. Demonstrate the appropriate written and oral communication skills required of a professional practitioner.