This interesting and challenging course combines hands-on development with the theories behind how and why computers work as they do. Specialist topics include the development of database-driven applications using - among others - PHP, Oracle, SQL Server and MySQL. Distinctive core modules include ‘Artificial Intelligence’ and ‘Concurrent and Distributed Systems’. To support these modules, we have several high-performance computing platforms including a grid distributed system. The course also covers all the fundamentals of computing. Core topics include web applications, database systems, programming and software development. Teaching is fully up-to-date with the latest developments and is enriched by Sunderland’s research that has been classed as ‘world-leading’ by the Research Assessment Exercise. We encourage our students to undertake a year-long placement between the second and final years, although it is not compulsory. It’s a great opportunity to get paid to put your learning into practice and to extend your experience. Recognition by the British Computer Society, the UK's Chartered Institute for IT Graduates of our course will automatically gain exemption from some of the requirements of the British Computer Society BCS, the UK’s Chartered Institute for IT. Becoming chartered through the BCS is a further way to demonstrate your professionalism and value to potential employers.

Sunderland has a good reputation with employers and, according to the Destination of Higher Education Leavers Survey 2010, 86% of our computer science graduates are in employment or further study within six months of graduating. The top type of job gained by our graduates is ‘information and communication technology professional’. Our graduates have become web programmers, IT managers, information analysts and software developers. Employers that have taken on our graduates include Sage, British Airways and the NHS. Other graduates have started their own businesses or become software contractors earning over £50,000 a year. Placements The employability of Sunderland graduates reflects our mix of academic rigour and practical skills. To enhance this mix, we encourage you to undertake a 48-week placement between your second and final year. It effectively becomes a third year of a four year course. Placements are paid, with an average salary of £14,000-£18,000 a year depending on your location. Placements are an excellent opportunity to put your learning into practice and understand the context for your new knowledge. The contacts made during placements can also be valuable for future job offers. Developing your e-portfolio Employers are increasingly looking not only for strong CVs but also real-life demonstrations of technical know-how and commitment to self-development. All computing students at the University of Sunderland develop e-portfolios that become showcases of personal progress. A typical e-portfolio would include audits of your skills, reflections on your areas of strength, evidence of how you have tackled weaker areas, and tools for joining up your learning in different modules. Final Year project In your Final Year you will undertake a major individual project, often working with a company. This adds to your hands-on experience and, in some cases, leads to a job offer that can be taken up as soon as the course ends. Recognition by BCS, the UK’s Chartered Institute for IT Graduates of our course will automatically gain exemption from some of the requirements of the BCS, the UK’s Chartered Institute for IT. Becoming chartered through the BCS is a further way to demonstrate your professionalism and value to potential employers. Software Hatchery Students with business ideas can develop them at our office space specifically for software entrepreneurs, based at our campus and supported by Sunderland Software City. Our ‘Software Hatchery’ package includes mentoring, state-of-the-art computing infrastructure, a meeting area and networking opportunities. Other support for student entrepreneurs includes our annual Blueprint Business Planning Competition, run by the University's Enterprise Team. University Language Scheme It is usually possible to take a module from the free University Language Scheme, which will earn credits towards your degree. The language module can be taken on top of or as part of the 120 credits needed to complete a year. Language skills increase your international mobility and you can choose between French, German, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese at a range of levels. If your first language is not English, please check with your tutor about entry requirements. Experience The University of Sunderland is committed to ensuring that every student has an impressive range of opportunities to enhance their CV and gain valuable experience. CV-enhancing opportunities include: Work placements Graduate internships Studying abroad Student Ambassador Scheme Mentoring Starting your own business Student jobs and volunteering Careers advice