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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Ulster UniversityUlster’s Computer Science Software Systems Development specialization program equips students with cutting-edge skills to design, build, and maintain complex software systems. Accredited by BCS (Chartered Institute for IT), this four-year degree (with placement year) blends theoretical foundations with hands-on projects, preparing graduates for roles like software developer, systems analyst, or cybersecurity specialist
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
You’ll build strong foundations through core modules like:
Computer Hardware and Operating Systems
Software Development I & II
Mathematics for Computing
Database Systems
These introduce essential computing concepts including algorithms, system, and logic, supported by practical labs and software-based assessments.
Year 2
You’ll advance your knowledge and begin to specialize with modules like:
Object-Oriented Programming
Algorithms & Data Structures
Networks & Security
Cloud Computing
Year 3 – Placement Year
Opt to undertake a 12-month industry placement, applying skills in a real professional context.
Supported by Ulster’s placement office
Employers include Liberty IT, Kainos, Deloitte, and others
Placement is credit-bearing and leads to a Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP)
Year 4 (Final Year)
Individual Project (40 credits): Develop a bespoke software system or conduct applied research, often in collaboration with industry
Choose from advanced modules like:
Intelligent Robotics
Advanced Cybersecurity
Distributed Systems
Computer Vision
Projects often align with real industry challenges, such as IoT tools, e-health solutions, or intelligent systems.
Assessment Methods
Modules are either assessed by coursework only or by a combination of coursework and formal examinations (January and May). Coursework assessment is carried out using any combination of written assignments, class tests, presentations, and group assignments as appropriate to meet the learning outcomes of each module.
Focus Areas
Programming (Java, Python, C++) • Algorithms & Data Structures • Full-Stack & Web Systems
AI, Cybersecurity & Cloud Computing • Software Engineering & Team Projects • Industry Placement
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
Design and deploy scalable, secure software applications
Use mathematical reasoning to analyse and optimise algorithms
Apply cybersecurity and cloud principles to real-world systems
Collaborate in agile teams using industry-standard tools
Conduct applied research or advanced development through capstone projects
Professional Alignment & Accreditation
BCS and IET accredited, meeting academic requirements for:
Chartered IT Professional (CITP)
Incorporated Engineer (IEng)
Partial fulfilment for Chartered Engineer (CEng)
Emphasis on employability, professional development, and global awareness
Reputation & Employability Rankings
Top 10 in the UK for graduate employability
Alumni work with leading employers: Seagate, Allstate NI, BT, Citi, Microsoft
Research-active teaching staff bring current expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and IoT into the classroom
Ulster’s BSc in Computer Science delivers real-world tech experience from day one through hands-on labs, practical projects, and optional work placements. You’ll master programming, databases, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud systems while building a strong portfolio supported by innovative labs and industry collaborations.
Facilities & Learning Environment
24/7 Lab Access: High-spec Linux/Windows computing labs across campuses with Python, Java, C++, SQL, and full-stack tools.
Specialist Research Facilities:
Intelligent Systems Research Centre (ISRC): Robotics platforms, IoT systems, and brain-computer interfaces
Cognitive Analytics Research Lab (CARL): AI, machine learning, and data analytics research spaces
Cloud & Immersive Tech Tools: Access to AWS, Power BI, VR kits, and hyperspectral imaging systems for advanced visual projects
Experiential Learning Highlights
Practical Integration Across Core Modules
Modules embed hands-on learning using technologies such as:
Languages: Python, Java, C++
Database Design: SQL, NoSQL
Web Development: Full-stack, cloud-native systems
AI & ML: Tools like TensorFlow, computer vision APIs
Placement & Internship Opportunities
Optional 12-Month Placement (Year 3): Work with major employers like Kainos, Deloitte, or Liberty IT
Summer Internships (6–12 weeks): Focus on IoT dashboards, ecommerce platforms, AI applications
Project-Based Learning
Final-Year Project: You would develop a significant software solution or applied research system using lab resources and faculty supervision
Client-Led Projects: Collaborate with external partners on real-world challenges which helps in enhancing teamwork, presentation skills, and employability
Research & Innovation Labs
Benefit from access to unique, cross-disciplinary research spaces:
Connected Health Living Lab: Test assistive technologies in smart environments
BT Ireland Innovation Centre (BTIIC): Focused on smart network solutions and enterprise partnerships
Hyperspectral Imaging Facility: Supports applications in medical diagnostics, agri-tech, and food authentication
Ulster Computer Science graduates enjoy excellent early outcomes: over 90% are employed or in further study within 6 months, with salaries often exceeding the Northern Ireland average. By 15 months, around 91% are working, most in highly skilled IT roles like:
Software Engineer or Developer
Cloud or Mobile App Developer
Cybersecurity Specialist
Database Administrator
Systems Analyst or Engineer
University Services that Support Employment
Year-Long Industrial Placement (Year 3)
All students undertake a professional practice year in the software/IT sector earning a Diploma in Professional Practice (with optional international experience). Placements frequently lead to graduate offers.
Career Development Support
Ulster’s Careers & Employability teams offer CV and interview coaching, access to exclusive databases, tailored workshops, and funding to support internships and placement-related travel.
Partnerships & Employer Networks
Students benefit from strong links with employers like Allstate NI, Citi, Kainos, Civica, and Liberty IT. Ulster also collaborates on hybrid ‘Earn-As-You-Learn’ schemes (e.g. with Kainos), which combine paid work with part-time study.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures
90% in employment or further study within 6 months; 91% by 15 months
85%+ in graduate-level, highly skilled roles
£26–33.5k: typical earnings within 6–15 months
University–Industry Partnerships
Degree Apprenticeships & ‘Earn-As-You-Learn’
These allow you to study part-time while earning a salary and gaining real-world experience, altimately minimizing student debt.
Employer Engagement
Ulster graduates secure roles across both large firms (e.g. IBM, BT, Deloitte) and Northern Ireland-based SMEs, with placement opportunities often leading directly to job offers.
Long-Term Accreditation & Reputation
Fully BCS-accredited: Meets the academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status and supports CEng pathways.
University of the Year 2024: Named by Times Higher Education, reflecting outstanding research and teaching impact.
ISRC (Magee): £20m research hub focused on AI, robotics, and cognitive computing—closely integrated with student research and honours projects.
Further Academic Progression
Graduates may continue into:
An MSc in areas such as Cybersecurity, AI, Software Engineering, or Data Science
A PhD, particularly in intelligent systems via ISRC
A degree apprenticeship, blending advanced study and paid work experience
Professional certification through BCS (e.g., CITP) and conversion into fintech, consultancy, or teaching pathways
IB: Overall profile is a minimum of 25 points to include 12 at Higher LevelIELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. All Indian Standard XII (Central Boards or a State Board) with an overall average of 60%.A Level: Grades BBC. All subjects are considered. or Grades CCC One subject from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Software Systems Development, Computing (not IT/ICT).UCAS Application • Official High School Transcripts • Personal Statement • Educational Resume • Letter of Recommendation by School TeacherA Level: Grades BBC. All subjects are considered.International Baccalaureate (IB): 25 points (12 at Higher Level) including Higher or Subsidiary Level in Mathematics and English Language required at Grade 4 or above.All Indian Standard XII (Central Boards or a State Board) with an overall average of 60% to include 60% or above in 5 subjectsIELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5 TOEFL: 80 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writingRequired Subjects: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Software Systems Development, Computing (not IT/ICT).Offers optional Industrial Placement or Study Abroad Year. Tuition Fees: £4,900Database AdministratorSystems Security SpecialistSoftware DeveloperSoftware ProgrammerTechnical AnalystSoftware QA EngineerQuality Assurance Engineer
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