BSc Computer Science with Year in Industry

Program Overview

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers a highly practical and career-enhancing BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Year in Industry degree. This four-year program distinguishes itself by integrating a crucial year of professional work experience into its rigorous academic curriculum. Designed to meet the escalating demand for skilled computer scientists and software engineers, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of advanced software development, high-performance computing, and large-scale data analysis. The "Year in Industry," typically undertaken between the second and final academic years, offers students an invaluable opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a real-world business environment, significantly boosting their employability and professional confidence upon graduation. The program adopts the pioneering CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate) approach, fostering a hands-on, project-based learning experience that covers the entire lifecycle of computing projects.

Curriculum: The BSc Computer Science with Year in Industry curriculum at CCCU provides a robust and evolving education in core computing principles, designed to prepare students for both their academic studies and their industrial placement. Early modules typically include foundational concepts such as "Application Development in C#," "Fundamentals of Computer Systems," "Mathematics for Computer Science," and "Ethics, Professionalism and Employability in Computing." The curriculum then progresses to more advanced areas including machine architecture, problem modeling, parallel computing, Artificial Intelligence, Web Development, and Agile Software Development practices. The third year is dedicated entirely to the "Year in Industry" professional placement, where students apply and further develop their skills in a commercial or industrial setting. The final academic year integrates this practical experience with advanced theoretical concepts, often culminating in a major individual project where students can specialize in an area of personal interest. The program's practical orientation ensures students are familiar with industry-standard tools and methodologies.

Research Focus: The Computer Science program at Canterbury Christ Church University is taught by academics who are actively engaged in research across various domains within computing and related technological fields. The School of Engineering, Technology and Design, where this program is housed, emphasizes research-informed teaching, ensuring that the curriculum is current and reflects the latest advancements and challenges in the field. Faculty research interests often encompass cutting-edge areas such as Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security and Digital Forensics, and advanced manufacturing and simulation. This active research environment not only enriches the learning experience by exposing students to contemporary issues but also provides opportunities for students to engage with, and even contribute to, ongoing research projects, fostering their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a cornerstone of the BSc Computer Science with Year in Industry program at CCCU, profoundly enhancing student employability. The compulsory "Year in Industry" provides unparalleled practical experience, allowing students to work on real-world projects and solve authentic industry problems. CCCU provides strong support to students in securing these placements, leveraging its extensive network of industry connections. Students have successfully completed placements with major national and international organizations such as Amazon, CGI, Fidelity International, Holiday Extras, and Mace, gaining invaluable practical skills, building professional networks, and enhancing their CVs. Beyond the placement year, the program's curriculum is designed with input from industry professionals, and students benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and opportunities to work on projects that mimic real industry scenarios, further preparing them for the workplace.

Global Perspective: The BSc Computer Science with Year in Industry program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently incorporates a strong global perspective, acknowledging the transnational nature of computing and technology. The skills acquired, such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity expertise, are universally applicable in the globalized tech industry. The curriculum explores concepts that address international standards, global data flows, and the impact of technology on diverse societies worldwide. While the "Year in Industry" placements are primarily within the UK, the experience gained in a professional environment, coupled with the academic understanding of global technological trends, prepares graduates to work effectively in multinational corporations, engage in international collaborations, and contribute to technological solutions that have global relevance and impact.