For Bsc Honours

For Bsc Honours

Programme Specification

for BSc Honours

Information Technology

and Networking

1. Programme title / BSc Honours Information Technology and Networking
2. Awarding institution / Middlesex University
3. Teaching institution / Middlesex University
4. Programme accredited by
5. Final qualification / BSc Honours
6. Academic year / 2012/2013
7. Language of study / English
8. Mode of study / Full Time + Part Time + Thick Sandwich
9. Criteria for admission to the programme
We normally make offers on a minimum of 200 UCAS tariff points, plus GCSE Maths and English Language at grade C. BTEC National Diploma/International Baccalaureate/Advanced Progression Diplomas at equivalent tariff. Access to HE - Pass. Applications from candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed.
The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components) or TOEFL internet based 72 (with at least 17 in listening & writing, 20 in speaking and 18 in reading).
Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email .
10. Aims of the programme
By combining the study of Information Technology with networking this programme aims to provide students with a core set of IT skills and abilities, complemented by a sound knowledge of the technology underpinning computer networks. The programme aims to produce graduates who are strong technically and who are equipped with a combination of IT and network skills that are highly sought after by the computing industry.
The programme focuses on leading trends in information technology, with particular emphasis on the design and development of networks and software applications. Depending on the choice of options, students can explore developments in the Internet, interactive design and multimedia, in addition to computer networks, operating systems, distributed systems, or network engineering.
Successful graduates are equipped with knowledge and skills in both IT and networking that meet industry’s needs for practitioners who understand the key aspects of computer networks, and who recognise how business competitiveness and effective organisation are critically dependent on network performance and effective use of networked systems. Graduates of the programme can enter a broad range of computing fields, including information technology, computer networks and communication technology. The programme will also appeal to students considering careers in internet and web design, computer support and IT software training, or as application developers or network engineers.
11. Programme outcomes
A. Knowledge and understanding
On completion of this programme the successful student will:
  1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the mathematics and data communications theory and principles relevant to the efficient, secure transmission and storage of data in the analysis and solution of computer network problems.
  1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of core theories, concepts and contemporary research underpinning the way people use computer-based systems as individuals or in groups and of a range of leading edge interaction technologies.
  1. Demonstrate knowledge of the software design and development process appropriate to the development of interactive systems including analysing and describing user’s needs, capabilities and related ethical and security issues.
  1. Understand the factors involved in successful IT project management, and recognise the professional, legal and ethical issues involved in the design and development of computer systems.
  1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of underlying theory, processes and issues relevant to designing and implementing multimedia websites including the use of a number of scripting languages.
/ Teaching/learning methods
Students will gain these skills through weekly lectures, tutored seminars, supervised laboratory work, small group exercises, individual research, feedback on assignments and project work.
Assessment Method
A variety of assessment methods are employed including formal group work, design investigations, essays, oral presentations and project work.
Formative assessment may include on-line multiple-choice, coursework, formal class tests and model building exercises. The main vehicles for summative assessment are an unseen examination, various coursework and an individual project.
B. Cognitive (thinking) skills
On completion of this programme the successful student will be able to:
  1. Understand the factors involved in successful IT project management, and recognise the professional, legal and ethical issues involved in the design and development of computer systems
  1. Specify, design, evaluate and manage a range of network systems, taking into account relevant current network, wireless and Internet standards, models, protocols, functional and operational characteristics of Internet infrastructure components and criteria of network and network component quality
/ Teaching/learning methods
Students learn cognitive skills through weekly lectures, tutored seminars, supervised laboratory work, small group exercises, individual research, feedback on assignments and project work.
Assessment Method
A variety of assessment methods are employed including formal group work, design investigations, essays, oral presentations and project work.
Formative assessment may include on-line multiple-choice, coursework, formal class tests and model building exercises. The main vehicles for summative assessment are an unseen examination, various coursework and an individual project.
C. Practical skills
On completion of the programme the successful student will be able to:
  1. Specify, design and construct prototype implementations of computer-based systems using appropriate techniques and computing technologies.
  1. Select and deploy effectively, techniques and tools used for the analysis and prototyping of interactive computer-based applications and to evaluate such systems from a user perspective employing a range of appropriate techniques.
  1. Effectively select, use and personalize a range of media editing tools and authoring software.
  1. Apply sound programming principles and reasoning, with appropriate knowledge of data structures, to design, code, test and document program solutions to simple but well-defined problems.
  1. Deploy appropriate project management strategies and tools to effectively analyse, plan, implement and evaluate a number of project types.
  1. Select, configure and operate the principal components of Internet and network infrastructure and tools or select, configure and manage a variety of operating systems, safely and effectively
/ Teaching/learning methods
Students’ practical abilities are developed through closely supervised laboratory work, design and modelling exercises and individual and group projects with appropriate and timely feedback. Students are encouraged to raise questions and be open-minded to suggestions from other team members when seeking solutions to practical problems.
Abilities C1 – C4 and C6 are developed through a combination of lectures, directed laboratory exercises, coursework assignments and the Level 6 project. C5 is developed primarily through the project modules at Level 6.
Assessment method
Students’ practical abilities are assessed through laboratory exercises, individual and group coursework, tutorial seminars and workshops, and the Level 6 project. Assessment is both formative and summative at all Levels but special emphasis is placed on formative feedback at Level 4. The acquired skills are then progressively enhanced and reinforced as the student advances through the programme.
D. Graduate Skills
On completion of this programme the successful student will be able to:
  1. Communicate effectively in writing, verbally and through graphical notations, and be able to present technical material succinctly to a range of audiences.
  1. Learn independently, and effectively use organisational, research and time management skills in preparation for life long learning.
  1. Effectively retrieve information from a range of sources (including libraries and electronic catalogues and databases) and be able to cite and reference those sources appropriately.
  1. Demonstrate numeracy, by using mathematical notations competently, and by understanding, and effectively presenting, numerical data in different contexts.
  1. Operate computing systems or equipments effectively, and be fluent in a range of information and communication systems and devices.
Work effectively as a member of a team and be able to take responsibility for a range of activities and make decisions within a group context. / Teaching/learning methods
Students acquire graduate skills througha combination of individual and group exercises, coursework, essays and presentations delivered across the Level 4 modules. These skills are further developed at Levels 5 and 6 in the context of individual module requirements.
Assessment method
A variety of assessment methods are used to determine whether, and to what extent, students have acquired the relevant stipulated transferable skills. These include individual and group assignments (D1 – D6), presentations (D1, D6), mini reports (D1 – D3), lab-based exercises and demonstrations (D4, D5), and through the Level 6 project (D1, D2, D3, D5). At Levels 5 and 6, assessment of these skills is contextualised within the learning objectives of each individual module.
12. Programme structure (levels, modules, credits and progression requirements)
12. 1 Overall structure of the programme
Three years full-time, 100% University-based
Four years full-time ‘thick-sandwich’, where year 3 is an industry placement
Part-time study over 4 – 6 years
The course is undertaken at three Levels, 4, 5 and 6. Each Level represents one academic year of study in full-time mode. There are 24 study weeks in each year and each year of the programme comprises 120 (4 x 30) credits.
The course is divided into study units called modules. Each module has a credit value of 30-credits and each 30-credit module represents approximately 180 hours of student learning, endeavour and assessment.
The programme structure is driven by the desire to combine key IT skills with knowledge and competence in the design, operation and management of computer networks. The main themes include: Internet and web technologies, Human-computer interaction, Multimedia, Network design and security and Network management. Students must study all four modules at Level 4. At Level 5, students can choose to take either the Network Design and Security path or the Network Management path.
At Level 6, all students must either undertake an individual project or study the Computing Project Management module.
The study units within the course and the Levels at which they are studied are shown below.
12.2 Levels and modules
Starting in academic year 2010/11 the University is changing the way it references modules to state the level of study in which these are delivered. This is to comply with the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. This implementation will be a gradual process whilst records are updated. Therefore the old coding is bracketed below.
Level 4
COMPULSORY / OPTIONAL / PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS
Students must take all of the following:
CMT1300
Discovering Interaction Design
CMT1314
Programming with Data Structures and Algorithms
CCM1418
Introduction to Operating Systems, Architectures and Networks
CCM1416
Computer Networks / To progress to Level 5, students MUST achieve 120 Level 4 credit points.
Level 5
COMPULSORY / OPTIONAL / PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS
Students must take all of the following:
CMT2317
Web Development and Scripting Technologies
CMT2326
Designing Interaction: Principles and Practice
CCM2420
Data Communications / Students must also choose 1 of the following:
CCM2412
Network Routing and Protocols
CCM2424
Host Operating Systems and Security / To progress to Level 6, students must achieve at least 210 credit points at Levels 4 and 6 with a minimum of 90 credit points at Level 5.
A student may be allowed to proceed to Level 6 with 60 Level 5 credit points if they are advised, or if they wish, to finish with an ordinary degree. Such students may not be allowed to do the individual project or study the Computing Project Management module.
Level 6
COMPULSORY / OPTIONAL / PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS
Student must take all of the following:
CMT3321
Novel Interactive Technologies
CMT3331
New Media
CMT3342
Computing Project Management
OR
Individual Project
CCM3422
Computer Communications Project
or
CMT3333 Software Development Project / Students must also choose 1 of the following:
CCM3415
Advanced Network Design and Security
CCM3419
Network Management and Security / To qualify for an honours degree, students must achieve 360 credit points with a minimum of 120 credit points at Level 6.
Students must achieve at least 300 credit points to qualify for an ordinary degree.
12.3 Non-compensatable modules (note statement in 12.2 regarding FHEQ levels)
Module level / Module code
All modules are subject to the university rules and regulations on compensation

IT&N Programme Handbook 2012/13Page 1

13. A curriculum map relating learning outcomes to modules
14. Information about assessment regulations
  • Information on how the University formal assessment regulations work, including details of how award classifications are determined, can be found in the University Regulations at
  • Practical aspects of the programme are often assessed via coursework that may be carried out using specialist software and may include lab tests.
  • Theoretical material is assessed by coursework and examinations.
  • Grades are awarded on the standard University scale of 1–20, with Grade 1 being the highest. To pass a module all components, both coursework and examination, must be passed individually with a minimum grade of 16. Failure in one of the components will result in the failure of the module.
For additional information on assessment and how learning outcomes are assessed please refer to the individual module narratives for this programme.
15. Placement opportunities, requirements and support (if applicable)
All Undergraduate students have the opportunity to go on Industrial Placement. Industrial Placements are encouraged as this valuable experience enhances a student’s future career prospects. Additionally students normally achieve better results in their final year. In brief:
  • The placement provides a years experience as an appropriately paid graduate trainee.
  • Industrial placement is conditional on the successful completion of all modules at Level 4 and Level 5, therefore students need 240 credits before they are able to embark on an industrial placement.
  • Obtaining a placement is co-ordinated through the Campus Placement Office.
  • For Undergraduate programmes, students wishing to undertake a placement position must register for CMT3985.
  • Each placement will be assigned to an industrial tutor who will visit the student on placement.
  • On graduation the degree will be qualified with the term “…with approved industrial experience”.
The placement option is not available to direct-entry students in their final year.
16. Future careers (if applicable)
All programmes in the School of Science and Technology – their curricula and learning outcomes – have been designed with an emphasis on currency and the relevance to future employment.
  • The majority of graduates are employed in IT posts relevant to the subject.
  • Over 20% of students pursue further postgraduate study or research.
The employer links with the School are encouraged in a number of ways e.g. by inviting practitioners from industry as guest speakers in lectures; through links with companies where students are employed as part of their Industrial placement and through alumni both in the UK and overseas
Campus Careers Offices can be found on each campus for advice, support and guidance – or go to
17. Particular support for learning (if applicable)
The School’s Teaching and Learning Strategy is compliant with those of the University, in seeking to develop learner autonomy and resource-based learning. In support of the students learning experience:
  • All new students go through an induction programme and some have early diagnostic numeric and literacy testing before starting their programme. Learning Resources (LR) provide workshops for those students needing additional support in these areas.
  • Students are allocated a personal email account, secure networked computer storage and dial-up facilities
  • New and existing students are given module handbooks for each module they study. Soft copies of all module handbooks can be found on My UniHub. Web-based learning materials are provided to further support learning
  • Extensive library facilities are available on all campuses. WebCT pages are available as learning resources through My UniHub
  • Students can access advice and support on a wide range of issues from the Student Services Counter and the Student Information Desk. Student Advisers aligned to subject areas offer confidential one to one advice and guidance on programme planning and regulations
  • Placements are supported by Campus Placement Offices and School academics; please refer to section 15 of this programme specification
  • High quality specialist laboratories equipped with industry standard software and hardware where appropriate, for formal teaching as well as self-study
  • Access to campus based teaching and learning support drop in sessions, arranged by the school to provide assistance and guidance
  • School Academic Advisers for each subject offering personal academic advice and help if needed. Rotas for the operation of Academic Advice Rooms at each campus can be found at UniHelp
  • Tutorial sessions for each module organised for groups of up to 20 students are provided for additional teaching support
  • Formative feedback is given on completion of student coursework
  • Past exam papers with solutions and marking schemes for all modules are available for students in module handbooks and at
  • Research activities of academic staff feed into the teaching programme, which can provide individual students with ad-hoc opportunities to work with academics on some aspect of research
Middlesex University encourages and supports students with disabilities. Some practical aspects of School of Science and Technology programmes may present challenges to students with particular disabilities. You are encouraged to visit our campuses at any time to evaluate facilities and talk in confidence about your needs. If we know your individual needs we’ll be able to provide for them more easily. For further information contact the Disability Support Service (email: ) or contact SobiaHussainon 020 8411 4945.
18. JACS code (or other relevant coding system) / G400
19. Relevant QAA subject benchmark group(s) / Computing
20. Reference points
The following reference points were used in designing the programme:
  • QAA computing subject benchmark statement
  • QAA framework for higher education qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
  • QAA/QAAS guidelines for programme specifications
  • QAA code of practice for the assurance of academic quality and standards in he
  • University’s regulations
  • Module narratives
  • British computer society (BCS) guidelines for exemption and accreditation
  • Middlesex University and School of Science and Technology teaching learning and assessment policies and strategies
University policy on equal opportunities.
21. Other information
Middlesex University has formal links with 250 institutions world-wide, including student exchange agreements with more than 100 institutions. Currently a number of students both from the UK/EU and overseas take part in such exchanges.
For further details please visit or contact Elli Georgiadou, the School of Science and Technology coordinator of European Affairs & International Exchanges (email: ).
This is a new programme which will be submitted for partial BCS exemption from the Certificate, Diploma and Diploma Project

Please note programme specifications provide a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information about the programme can be found in the student programme handbook and the University Regulations.