UCAS Code: 8B35

Course Length: 4 Years Full-Time

Start Dates: September 2020, September 2021

Department: Computer Science

Location: Edge Hill University

Example Offers: BBC-BBB (A Level) or DMM (BTEC)

Modern businesses depend on their networkinfrastructure and so it is essential they areprofessionally managed. This integrated Masters degreetakes you beyond technical network administration tointegrate IT management, security and forensics, projectmanagement, network theory and practice. Developing

Prepare to manage a modern IT infrastructure, specialising in networking, security andcomputer forensics, on a programme accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

Studying Abroad Option Available Sandwich Year Option Available International Students Can Apply

Work Placement Opportunity Professional Accreditation

MComp Computer Security and Networks

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both the technical and managerial perspectives to be ableto exploit the network as a strategic resource, you willwork on real life projects and be introduced to the latestindustry-standard equipment within a lively and highly

effective learning environment. You will graduate as anetworking and security specialist with the in-depthprofessional knowledge demanded by employers in thissector.

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Course in Depth

What will I study?

This MComp programme is an integrated Masters degreewhich combines study at Bachelor of Science withHonours (BSc) level with study at Masters level over fouryears.

In Year 1 you will study a balanced range of currentcomputing topics covering the fundamentals of analysisand construction of systems, as well as the foundations ofcomputer science, multimedia technologies, and webdesign and development.

Year 2 provides a more specialised focus on networkingand data communications, introducing security andforensics, together with core computing subjects such asdatabase design. There is also a dedicated modulefocused on enhancing your employability and developingessential skills for the workplace. This module includesthe opportunity of a work placement to enable you torelate theory to practice.

Year 3 provides the platform for you to developknowledge and skills in more specialised and developingareas of technology, such as information and networksecurity applications and forensic computing. Theemphasis at this level is on the development ofindependent study and learning.

Year 4 is Masters level study which comprises in-depthmodules covering information security management,cloud application management and biometric security. Akey part of this final year is a significant individual projectwhich enables you to pursue an area of interest in detail.

How will I study?

Teaching methods are designed in consultation withleading employers in the region. Many classes are basedin computer workshops, focusing on student activity as ameans of learning. We introduce theoretical concepts bybuilding on concrete practical activity.

To enhance your employability, you will be givenopportunities to work together and develop the essential

people skills to complement your technical ability.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through a combination of practicalexercises, reports, essays and examinations. We want youto develop the ability to work effectively bothindependently and as part of a team, thereforeassessment includes both of these forms, though theemphasis is strongly on individual work.

Who will be teaching me?

You will be taught by staff who are passionate aboutstudent learning and development. The programme teamincludes specialists in computing and active researchersin areas including security, networks and forensics.Academic staff are regular contributors to conferencesand journals.

A Great Study Environment

The Department of Computer Science is based in thestate-of-the-art £13m Technology Hub. Thispurpose-built development offers highly contemporarysuites of outstanding facilities for Computer Sciencestudents.

Our modern computer laboratories are equipped withhigh-specification computers, high-resolution screensand the latest hardware and software.

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A four-screen CAVE (Computer Augmented VirtualEnvironment) provides a super immersive 3D virtualenvironment, enabling users to immerse themselves in avirtual room and experience real life scenarios in 4Kresolution.

There are also specialist laboratories for networking andgames programming, in addition to a specialist researchlaboratory, open access laboratory, a Harvard stylelecture theatre, and 'The Hatchery', a working space fornew business ideas.

Learning resources include robots and a roboticssimulator, wired and wireless networking hardware,graphics software, web development tools, softwaredevelopment environments, big data servers, eyetrackers, giant 3D interactive teaching screens, and otherspecialist software required for studying forensics andinternet security techniques.

The department has strong links with industry. Thecurriculum is kept current and highly relevant throughinput from our Employer Advisory Panel.

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Modules

Year 1

CIS1107: Foundations of Computer Science (20 credits)Foundations of Computer Science introduces you to the concepts and practices of problem solving through a series ofinnovative class seminars and individual experiments. You will learn to identify a problem, analyse it, and produce astructured solution. Exploring common issues within computing, you will also see how all of the separate areas merge,overlap and depend on each other in order for a robust computing system to be developed.

CIS1108: Digital World: Information Systems and Design (20 credits)Digital World: Information Systems and Design explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned bycomputing technology. The module will develop your understanding of the essential concepts of systems analysis,including identifying systems processes, understanding business needs and presenting appropriate IT solutions. Youwill then apply this knowledge of systems analysis and design methods to make suggestions for improvement of abusiness, its processes and information systems.

CIS1109: Digital World: Computer Architecture and Networks (20 credits)Digital World: Computer Architecture and Networks explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned bycomputing technology while challenging you to envision your future developments as a Computing professional. Themodule discusses how current and modern computer architectures operates. It also analyses the technology on whichcomputer architecture depends, starting with current central processing units (CPUs) and their instruction sets andprogressing to the principles of modern multitasking operating systems that are supported by the underlyinghardware architectures. An important aspect of modern computer technology is networking. The module introducesand covers basic principles of networks, their interconnecting components and protocols used in enabling reliablecommunications.

CIS1110: Web Design and Development (20 credits)Web Design and Development is a fusion of two distinct areas in the world of web content production. The modulewill enable you to develop a sound understanding of the World Wide Web, the related technologies, the relationshipsbetween them and also their use. You will also explore colour and design theories, layout and typography. In addition,the module provides an appropriate setting to introduce some of the more powerful, user friendly web developmenttools used widely in the industry today, along with HTML and CSS and both client and server side scripting.

CIS1111: Programming: Concepts to Construction 1 (20 credits)Programming: Concepts to Construction 1 provides a practical introduction to the fundamentals of anobject-oriented approach to software development. You will be introduced to the analytical techniques and processesthat are essential for specifying, designing and implementing applications.

CIS1112: Programming: Concepts to Construction 2 (20 credits)Programming: Concepts to Construction 2 provides a practical introduction to the fundamentals of anobject-oriented approach to software development. You will explore and develop object-oriented modellingtechniques and receive an introduction to programming through event-driven program design and graphical userinterfaces.

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Year 2

CIS2143: Databases (20 credits)Databases introduces you to the fundamental concepts in database design. You will acquire practical skills in databasemodelling, development and design using the rules of normalisation and entity relationship modelling. The module willenable you to identify the legal implications of creating and maintaining a database system, recognise and apply theprinciples underpinning the relationship model, utilise an appropriate database language, and extract and present datain a meaningful format suitable for the required use.

CIS2145: Computer Networks (20 credits)Computer Networks is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the basic principles ofmodern networking and data communications. The module will also enhance your understanding and awareness ofemerging new technologies in the field. You will explore the major components of communications networks includingWifi networks. In addition, you will learn how to evaluate, plan, design and present appropriate networking solutionsto given specifications, and develop a critical understanding of routing, network addressing and how networks can besubnetted.

CIS2151: Introduction to Security (20 credits)Introduction to Security is designed to introduce you to the key concepts in information security and computerforensics. Society depends increasingly on computer systems; the systems are accessible from the internet, thereforeincreasing the risk to system integrity. Furthermore, the growth of social networking systems and e-commerce meansthat personal data is also at risk. It is therefore essential that internet users have a sound understanding of the risksinvolved, together with preventative and recovery measures. Security is a complex topic and this module provides anunderstanding of the context and overall security issues that apply in the use of networked computer systems from aperspective of personal data. You will explore the concepts of information security and identify security risks indifferent scenarios.

CIS2153: Computer Systems Architecture (20 credits)Computer Systems Architecture is about advanced features of modern computer architectures which enhancesystem performance. The central processing unit (CPU) instruction set design and choices have been explored in thecontext of system performance. Cache and instruction pipeline technologies are studied as examples of techniquesdeveloped to get round the limitations of the von Neumann bottleneck. Novel reduced instruction set computer (RISC)architecture is also examined and justified.

CIS2162: Employability (20 credits)Employability simulates, as accurately as possible, what it's like to work in a given Computer Science specialism. Youwill be introduced to the 'world of work' via a simulated work environment, as part of a team representing a fictionalcompany, but which need to produce real products or engage in realistic work-related activities. A 15-day placementwill also enhance essential employability skills and provide you with the opportunity to relate theory to practice, buildon your transferable skills and evaluate your learning.

You will select one of the following modules:

CIS2159: Wireless and Mobile Networks (20 credits)Wireless and Mobile Networks is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the basicprinciples of modern wireless and mobile networks. The past decade has seen an enormous expansion in the use ofmobile technology. A further trend has been the convergence of various forms of digital communication which hasenable enterprises and individuals to make wide use of mobile devices to access personal and corporate data. The

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business benefits of mobile access require organisations to extend the availability of corporate data, essentiallyblurring the perimeter of the organisation's network. Such developments present huge challenges to informationsecurity specialists. This module therefore explores the technologies of mobile and wireless networking and discussessecurity challenges. It also provides you with hands-on experience in the set-up, configuration and testing of wirelessnetworks.

CIS2165: Introduction to Digital Forensics (20 credits)Introduction to Digital Forensics teaches the methods, tools, techniques and forensic principles required for evidencerecovery from a variety of digital media together. Legal and ethical considerations for undertaking such aninvestigation will also be considered. The module provides the background knowledge and understanding necessary toundertake a forensic computing investigation in a systematic, methodological manner, to develop an understanding ofexisting applications and investigative techniques and to understand the forensic issues and obstacles to conductingan investigation.

Year 3

CIS3142: Operating Systems (20 credits)Operating Systems focuses on the internal structure of modern multi-tasking operating systems. The module exploresthe techniques used in order to efficiently manage the resources of computer systems and provide protection to theseresources and its users. The hardware/software interfaces and the levels of abstractions are studied in detail.

CIS3144: Forensic Computing (20 credits)Forensic Computing teaches the methods, tools and techniques required for data recovery and analysis. The legalrequirements for presenting such data will also be considered. The module provides the skills and knowledgenecessary to undertake a forensic computing investigation in a systematic manner, as well as to develop anunderstanding of the role of a computer forensics analyst through the use of existing applications and investigativetechniques.

CIS3150: IT Management (20 credits)IT Management develops your understanding and knowledge to underpin the acquisition and ongoing management ofsystems and services within an organisation. The module enhances your awareness of the need for a tactical andoperational view in the management of technology services, encompassing selection, implementation, third partyrelationships, and legal and security necessities. You will gain an appreciation of the issues involved in the managementof technology services, enhance your knowledge to manage the pre and post systems acquisition process, gain anappreciation of organisation and user support requirements and build your awareness of the security and complianceneeds of modern business organisations.

CIS3151: Internet Security (20 credits)Internet Security equips you with an in-depth understanding of the principles of computer and network security,outlines the key vulnerabilities of a networked computer system, and demonstrates how to design and construct asecure network. While society depends increasingly on computer systems, the systems are accessible from intranetsand the internet, thereby increasing the risk to system integrity. A sound understanding of the threats andvulnerabilities of a system, as well as the associated preventative and recovery measures, is therefore important. Thismodule will develop your analytical and evaluative skills in the context of a complex and unpredictable systemsenvironment in order to define an appropriate level of security to meet the needs of a network owner.

CIS3154: System Penetration Testing (20 credits)System Penetration Testing provides an introduction to the ethics, principles and practice of an essential componentof information security, systematically analysing system vulnerabilities and their exploitation. This process provides

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evidence of the effectiveness of system security controls. It is sometimes called 'ethical hacking', though professionallyit is referred to as system penetration testing.

CIS3155: Advanced Databases (20 credits)Advanced Databases enhances your knowledge of databases, modelling tools and database management systemsincluding object-relational database management systems and NoSQL systems. You will compare and contrast therange of modern DBMS architectures and critically evaluate the implications of the different tools and techniques theymake available. You will also critically evaluate the key concepts of advanced databases and their application todatabase implementation, as well as designing and constructing databases using advanced concepts and techniques.

Year 4

CIS4114: Research and Development Project (60 credits)Research and Development Project provides experience of designing and executing a substantial project in a limitedtime, based on a project plan, employing practical skills, problem solving and underpinned by relevant research.You will apply and extend skills and knowledge learned in taught modules and demonstrate your competency toconstruct and complete a coherent project as a Computing professional.

CIS4115: Research Methods (20 credits)Research Methods provides you with the knowledge and skills to develop a proposal for, and subsequently undertake,a research project at Masters level. You will engage with the essential considerations when analysing a problemand designing a solution. The module will also immerse you in data collection from the user, literature reviews,interface designs and project planning. On successful completion, you will have a well-formed proposal suitable forMasters level study.

CIS4131: Implementing Secure Network Systems (20 credits)Implementing Secure Network Systems provides an in-depth understanding of concepts of computer and networksecurity. Security is of increasing importance for a number of reasons. Society depends increasingly on computersystems, however the systems are accessible from intranets and the internet, thereby increasing the risk to systemintegrity. IT professionals need a sound understanding of the threats and vulnerabilities of a system, as well aspreventative and recovery measures. This module analyses the key vulnerabilities of, and threats to, a networkedcomputer system together with relevant counter measures. The aim is to enhance your analytical and evaluative skillsin the context of a complex and unpredictable systems environment in order to be able to define an appropriate levelof internet security to meet the needs of a network owner.

You will select one of the following modules:

CIS4123: Biometric Security (20 credits)Biometric Security provides you with in-depth knowledge of authentication, authorisation and identificationtechniques. With the advent and boom of mobile devices the amount of authentication attempts we make hasincreased exponentially. Therefore the need to devise and develop secure authentication techniques, and safeguardthe authenticated information, has become more and more important. Coupled with the huge amount of personal datathat is held within systems used daily, the detection and prevention of false authentication techniques is a vitalcharacteristic of any secure system. The module offers a modern focus on biometric devices and biometric securitysystems. It will enable you to identify traditional security techniques, such as password and key-based environments aswell as novel techniques such as biometric security solutions.

CIS4124: Information Security Management (20 credits)Information Security Management outlines the process by which information assets are assessed in order to

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determine the threats and corresponding risks to those assets. The module also encompasses the methods requiredfor controlling those risks, provides a systemic view of the process and encompasses legal compliance issues.

CIS4134: Cloud Application Management and Security (20 credits)Cloud Application Management and Security equips you with an in-depth understanding of the development andmanagement of applications that are deployed in a computing Cloud. You will gain a critical understanding of thesecurity implications that exist when applications are distributed in a global framework and explore the frameworksrequired to support the management and security of both data and applications in such environments.

Optional modules provide an element of choice within the programme curriculum. The availability of optional modulesmay vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that theavailability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected bytimetabling requirements.

Timetables

Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You canexpect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while wemake every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place onany day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.

Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes aresubject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellationof, courses.

Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies, revisions to subject benchmarksstatements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right tomake variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.

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Entry Criteria

Entry Requirements

Typical offer 112-120 UCAS Tariff points, for which nospecific subjects are required, plus GCSE Mathematics atGrade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent).

Please note, for all programmes in the Department ofComputer Science, a level 2 numeracy qualification is notconsidered as equivalent to GCSE Grade C or Grade 4 inMathematics.

Example Offers

Some examples of how you can achieve 112-120 UCASTariff points are detailed below.

• A Level: BBC-BBB;

• BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTECQCF qualifications): Distinction, Merit, Merit(DMM);

• International Baccalaureate (IB): We are happy toaccept IB qualifications which achieve the requirednumber of UCAS Tariff points;

• Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 credits atLevel 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and30 credits at Merit or 24 credits at Distinction and21 credits at Merit. The required total can beattained from various credit combinations.

Please note, the above examples may differ from actualoffers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awardsmay also be accepted.

As long as you have a minimum of two A Levels (orequivalent), there is no maximum number ofqualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. Thisincludes additional qualifications such as the WelshBaccalaureate and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ),AS Levels that haven't been continued to A Level, andGeneral Studies AS or A Level awards.

For further information on how you can meet the entryrequirements, including details ofalternative qualifications, please visitwww.edgehill.ac.uk/offers.

EU students can get country-specific information aboutthe University's entry requirements and equivalentnational qualifications at www.edgehill.ac.uk/eu.

International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international for information on the entry criteria foroverseas applicants.

English Language Requirements

International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score nolower than 5.5 in each individual component, or anequivalent English language qualification.

If your current level of English is half a band lower, eitheroverall or in one or two elements, you may want toconsider our Pre-Sessional English course.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Edge Hill University recognises learning gainedelsewhere, whether through academic credit andqualifications acquired from other relevant courses ofstudy or through recognition of an individual'sprofessional and employment experience (also referredto as 'experiential learning'). This may include credit orlearning undertaken at another university.

Previous learning that is recognised in this way may beused towards meeting the entry requirements for aprogramme and/or for exemption from part of aprogramme. It is your responsibility to make a claim forrecognition of prior learning. For guidance, please consultthe University's academic regulations (sections C7 andF3.1) or contact the faculty in which you are interested instudying.

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Career Prospects

What are my career prospects?

This programme prepares you for entry into a wide rangeof professional IT positions. These include roles such assecurity analyst, security penetration tester, databaseadministrator, software support specialist, computersales professional, network engineer/administrator, ITmanager or IT support. Alternatively, you may wish totrain to teach.

The programme is accredited by BCS, The CharteredInstitute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting theacademic requirement for registration as a Chartered ITProfessional. Successfully completing an accreditedintegrated Masters degree is the first step to full BCSmembership and to being awarded chartered status.

How can I enhance my employability?

It is useful to consider, even before you apply, how youwill spend your time while studying and make the most ofyour university experience.

Optional, additional activities may be available on thisintegrated Masters degree which could help to prepare

you for a stimulating and rewarding career. Theseinclude:

• Sandwich Years - you may have the opportunity toapply to complete a sandwich year placement,usually as the third year of a five year integratedMasters degree, and gain highly relevant workexperience;

• Erasmus+ and Study Abroad - you may have theopportunity to apply to spend time studying orworking abroad, usually as the third year of a fiveyear integrated Masters degree, enabling you toimmerse yourself in a different culture;

• Learning a Language - you may be able toparticipate in Language Steps classes, delivered atthe Edge Hill Language Centre, as additional study.

Please note, the availability of these additional activitiescannot be guaranteed for all students. Depending onavailability and the number of students wanting toparticipate, there may be a competitive applicationprocess for sandwich year placements or studying abroadopportunities or you may be required to secure a relevantplacement yourself.

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Finance

Tuition Fees

If you are a prospective UK or EU student who will bejoining this integrated Masters degree in academic year2020/21, the tuition fee will be £9,250 per annum.Tuition fees for international students enrolling on theprogramme in academic year 2020/21 are £12,250 perannum.

The University may administer a small inflationary rise intuition fees, in line with Government policy, insubsequent academic years as you progress through thecourse.

Financial Support

Subject to eligibility, UK and EU students joining thisintegrated Masters degree can apply for a Tuition FeeLoan from the Government to cover the full cost oftuition fees. UK and EU students enrolling on theprogramme may also be eligible to apply for additionalfunding to help with living costs.

For comprehensive information about the financialsupport available to eligible UK and EU students joiningthis programme in academic year 2020/21, together withdetails of how to apply for potential funding, please viewour Money Matters 2020/21 guide atwww.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfinance2020.

Financial support information for international studentscan be found at www.edgehill.ac.uk/international/fees.

Scholarships

Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships with acompetitive application process for prospective full-timeundergraduate students.

These scholarships aren't linked to academic success andcelebrate determination, talent and achievement beyondyour coursework, for instance in creativity, enterprise,ICT, performance, sport or volunteering.

An additional scholarship, which you may qualify toreceive, rewards outstanding grades and is available toeligible UK and EU students.

To find out more about scholarships, to assess youreligibility, and to meet some of our dedicated scholarshipwinners, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

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Apply

How to Apply

Apply online through UCAS at www.ucas.com.

Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyucas to find out moreabout the application process.

Further information for international students about howto apply is available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyinternational.

Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us andformally enrol as a student, you will be subject to theprovisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions andpolicies which apply to our students. These are availableat www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

Visit Us

If you are considering applying to study at Edge Hill

University, the best way to gain an insight into studentlife is to discover our stunning campus for yourself byattending an open day. You can view dates and book yourplace at www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays.

Alternatively, if you are unable to attend an open day, youcan find out more about our full range of events forprospective students, including campus tours and virtualactivities, at www.edgehill.ac.uk/visitus.

Request a Prospectus

If you would like to explore our full range of degrees andintegrated Masters degrees before you apply, you canorder an undergraduate prospectus atwww.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradprospectus.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about this programme or whatit's like to study at Edge Hill University, please contact:

• Course Enquiries

• Tel: 01695 657000

• Email: study@edgehill.ac.uk

International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk withany queries about overseas study.

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