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Computing The computing programme prepares you to work in the software industry in a technical role such as software designer or developer. Our course teaches you the latest object orientated techniques for programming and software design. Software development forms the core of the programme, but other skills and knowledge are seen as important; understanding databases and networks, working in groups, project management and professional issues. We are in close contact with industry and software practitioners who regularly attend our course meetings and give us their perspective. We have close links with the British Computer Society and have a lively and stimulating joint seminar series with talks from practitioners and leading academics. In your final year, you will work in groups to produce a major piece of software, using all the skills developed during your programme. Previous projects have included the implementation of electronic board games such as ludo and providing bespoke software for external clients. Frequently asked Questions Isn’t computing just for ‘anoraks’, usually made? No. It may have that image at school – but we take a broader, professional perspective. We emphasize communication and group working skills, as well as technical aspects. There is a diverse range of people on our course, with wide interests, we do have more male than female students and would like to encourage more women on our courses. Those women who do come to us often do very well, and frequently gain our top prizes fro academic achievement. Is a placement compulsory? Our students can choose whether to spend a year on placement and we provide support in finding a position. We have a built up links with many companies over the years, such as Chelsea Building Society, Intel, Kraft Foods, Lloyds TSB, Zurich Insurance and local firms and school. Our students are very positive about their year of work – it gives them relevant experience and their enthusiasm in the final year is very noticeable. What career options will I have? You will have the base knowledge and skills to easily move into a variety of roles: programmer analyst, project manager; database developer, test programmer or technical systems support. I haven’t got any programming experience. Does this matter? We do not assume any knowledge of programming. If you are the sort of person who likes solving problems, especially of logical nature, you will enjoy programming. We aim to give beginning programmers as much support as they need. Is it easy to find jobs after graduation? Our course is highly vocational and a high proportion of our students find relevant jobs soon after graduating. We have had students who run their own software business while studying for the degree. Some find jobs with their placement company, others go on to further study e.g. to gain a masters degree. Questions or queries about the course? Tel: +44 (0) 1242 534210 |