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The last intake for this course is Sept 2022/23. For 2023/24 entry, please visit BSc (Hons) Networks and Cyber Security.

Ready to learn the very latest computing techniques, which are set to put you ahead of the game in digital forensics?

On Northumbria’s hands-on digital forensics course, you will be taught to locate and analyse evidence and conduct digital forensic investigations to the highest standard. Using the same software as professionals, you will work in our specialist computer forensics and security laboratories, with support from our highly experienced staff and industry experts.

From day one, you will learn how to conduct investigations, undertake research to solve problems and write reports about your findings and present evidence in a court of law, all essential for a career as a digital forensics specialist. You will develop computing applications for varied discipline specific problem domains, plan and manage the development and use of computing systems and will be encouraged to work both individually and as part of a team. 

The course offers opportunities with Cisco CCNA module certifications, covering network technology, protocols and theory at deeper levels through Net Academy. 

100% of students said this course has provided them with opportunities to explore their own ideas or concepts in depth(National Student Survey 2018)

 

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional. (British Computing Society (BCS) 2019)

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirements for incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer  (British Computing Society (BCS) 2019)

For more information in relation to studying computer and digital forensics, contact Northumbria University today on 0191 406 0901. 

Course Information

UCAS Code
GF44

Level of Study
Undergraduate

Mode of Study
3 years full-time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

Department
Computer and Information Sciences

Location
City Campus, Northumbria University

City
Newcastle

Fee Information

Module Information

Department / Computer and Information Sciences

Across all of our undergraduate programmes approximately 85% of students graduate with a First Class or Upper Second Class honours degree (Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) 2015/16).

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Book an Open Day / Experience Computer and Digital Forensics BSc (Hons)

Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Computer and Digital Forensics. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.

Entry Requirements 2023/24

Standard Entry

GCSE requirements:
A good GCSE profile is expected including Maths and English Language at minimum grade C or equivalent.  If you have studied for a new GCSE for which you will be awarded a numerical grade then you will need to achieve a minimum grade 4.

UCAS Tariff Points:
120-128 UCAS Tariff points including one or more of the following: 

GCE and VCE Advanced Level:
From at least 2 GCE/VCE A Levels 

Edexcel/BTEC National Extended Diploma:
Distinction, Distinction, Merit 

Scottish Highers:
BBBCC - BBBBC at Higher level, CCC - BCC at Advanced Higher 

Irish Highers:
BBBBB  - ABBBB

IB Diploma:
120-128 UCAS Tariff points including minimum score of 4 in at least three subjects at Higher level

Access to HE Diploma:
Award of full Access to HE Diploma including 18 credits at Distinction and 27 at Merit

Qualification combinations
The University welcomes applications from students studying qualifications from different qualification types - for example A level and a BTEC qualification in combination, and if you are made an offer you will be asked to achieve UCAS Tariff points from all of the qualifications you are studying at level 3.  Should the course you wish to study have a subject specific requirement then you must also meet this requirement, usually from GCE A level.

Applicants from the EU
Applicants from the EU are welcome to apply and if the qualification you are studying is not listed here then please contact the Admissions Team for advice or see our EU Applicants pages here https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/international/european-union/eu-applications/ 

International applicants
The University is pleased to welcome international applicants from over 100 countries and considers a wide range of qualifications for entry to its programmes.  For specific information please visit our International Admissions pages here https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/international/international-admissions/ 

International applicants are also required to have one of the following English language qualifications with grades as shown below

  • A British      Council International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0      (or above) with a minimum score in each component of Reading, Writing,      Listening and Speaking of 5.5
  • Pearson      Academic score of 54 (or above) with a minimum score in each component of      Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking of 51

The University also accepts many other English language qualifications and if you have any que

Fees and Funding 2023/24 Entry

UK Fee in Year 1: TBC

* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.


EU Fee in Year 1: TBC

International Fee in Year 1: TBC


Please see the main Funding Pages for 23/24 scholarship information.



ADDITIONAL COSTS

There are no Additional Costs

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here

How to Apply

Please use the Apply Now button at the top of this page to submit your application.

Certain applications may need to be submitted via an external application system, such as UCAS, Lawcabs or DfE Apply.

The Apply Now button will redirect you to the relevant website if this is the case.

You can find further application advice, such as what to include in your application and what happens after you apply, on our Admissions Hub Admissions | Northumbria University



Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

KF5003 -

Network Technology 2 (Core,20 Credits)

You will be provided with a detailed, technical introduction to the problem of routing and switching data packets in computer networks and to the design and implementation of Local Area Networks using routers and switches. A particular feature of the module is that it closely follows the programme for CCNA 2 of Cisco’s Networking Academy programme.

The main topics you will engage with on this module include:

1. Basic and advanced IP addressing.
2. Switches, switching concepts and switch configuration. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP).
3. Virtual LANs (VLANs) and VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP).
4. Introduction to the role of routers and routing in modern computer networks.
5. An introduction to network security.

More information

KF5004 -

Advanced Operating Systems 1 (Core,20 Credits)

The lectures covering the theoretical/standards components of network services and functionality and how they map to a business infrastructure.
The Seminars will cover the current operating systems support for these protocols and services and allow the student to implement these services/facilities and apply them to business needs with a theoretical underpinning.
This module aims to provide an experience in the practical use and application of an operating system in a network environment to provide the essential services required for a commercial organisation.
This module will allow the student to develop skills in the configuration of an operating systems in a networked environment.
The module provides an opportunity for the student to develop an appreciation of services and the practical skills required for developing and deploying network services into a corporate infrastructure.

More information

KF5005 -

Principles of Digital Security and Forensics (Core,20 Credits)

You will have the opportunity to analyse and examine digital security and forensic case studies using the latest industry specialist utilities and tools, giving invaluable hands-on practical use. Learning and teaching will take place through a variety of mechanisms. Topics will be introduced in lectures and discussed through seminar activities and guided learning activities. The theoretical material on digital security and forensics will be re-enforced through the critical analysis and discussion of case studies in seminar sessions as well as sessions on the use of security and digital forensics tools in the analysis of chosen case studies in lab-based practical sessions.

More information

KF5006 -

Applied Programming (Core,20 Credits)

The module aims to provide you with the practical ability and understanding of the software development process to enable the production of efficient and robust software applications . The module follows on from the first-year module “Programming 1” and combines lectures and workshops that are designed to further develop your problem solving and algorithmic thinking focussed on a specific topic chosen from the areas of Computer Forensics, Computer Networking or Cybersecurity.

More information

KF5007 -

Security Case Project (Core,20 Credits)

The module provides you with the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge of cyber security through the examination of the principles, theories, technical skills and research issues associated with the disciplines of ethical hacking and computer security.

The module develops technical aspects of the subject with particular reference to enhancing computer and network security. You will have the opportunity to practice techniques and tools associated with penetration testing and evaluate a range of threats, including the use of various hacking tools and techniques over a variety of operating systems and platforms. You will also have the opportunity to develop their research skills in designing and evaluating security vulnerabilities and countermeasures.

More information

KV5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Computer and Information Sciences (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

KV5029 -

Human Factors in Cyber Security (Core,20 Credits)

This module is set in the context of human-centred security and highlights the symbiotic relationship between both parties for holistic security solutions. You will learn about the role of humans in security ecosystems, and how they can both be the weakest and strongest link across any threats or countermeasures. You will also learn how to tailor security processes and tools to different job roles, and move towards understanding security as a process rather than as a solution. Topics include basic definitions of terminology alongside practical and theoretical frameworks to help you identify key usability and security issues, and explore potential preventative measures. You will also be introduced to basic research principles, including ethics, quantitative and qualitative methods to support the completion of your assignment. Key topics include:

Usable authentication
Usable encryption
Social engineering
Organisational Security Culture
Inclusive security
Quantitative & qualitative research methods
Professionalism
Privacy
Ethics
User education and awareness
IoT & emerging technologies

More information

KV5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Computer and Information Sciences (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

KV5007 -

Work placement year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment to provide you with the option to take a one year work placement as part of your programme.

You will be able to use the placement experience to develop and enhance appropriate areas of your knowledge and understanding, your intellectual and professional skills, and your personal value attributes, relevant to your programme of study, as well as accreditation bodies such as BCS, IET, IMechE, RICS, CIOB and CIBSE within the appropriate working environments. Due to its overall positive impact on employability, degree classification and graduate starting salaries, the University strongly encourages you to pursue a work placement as part of your degree programme.

This module is a Pass/Fail module so does not contribute to the classification of your degree. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised both in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate.

Your placement period will normally be full-time and must total a minimum of 40 weeks.

More information

KV5008 -

Study abroad year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment and provides you with the option to study abroad for one full year as part of your programme.

This is a 120 credit module which is available between Levels 5 and 6. You will undertake a year of study abroad at an approved partner University where you will have access to modules from your discipline, but taught in a different learning culture. This gives you the opportunity to broaden your overall experience of learning. The structure of study will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria).

Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

More information

KC6012 -

Graduate Enterprise (Optional,20 Credits)

The aim of this module is to encourage the understanding and application of business and management competences as applied to small business. It will provide you with an understanding and application of competencies required to create and operate a small enterprise. You will gain a practical (learning by doing) insight into the setting up and operation of a small business, and will have a raised awareness of the self-employment opportunities that graduates can exploit, developing a critical awareness of small business creation and operation and of the enterprise economy.

You will cover topics such as:
• Small Business in the economy.
• Business idea generation.
• Entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial team.
• Business planning and finance and use of advisors.
• Marketing and market research.
• Sales for SMEs.
• Effective presentation.
• Networking.
• Public relations.
• Information and control of enterprise.
• Business growth.
• Financial outcomes and reporting.
• Legal issues.

More information

KF6000 -

Fundamentals of Digital Forensics Investigations (Core,20 Credits)

In this module you will engage with knowledge to professionally, systematically and impartially approach the preservation, extraction and interpretation of all relevant digital evidence. Further you will develop analytical and evaluative skills in the appropriate use of digital forensic tools for solving problems in a variety of environments and problem situations

More information

KF6001 -

Digital Forensics Investigatory Practice (Core,20 Credits)

You will aquire knowledge of the legal and evidentiary processes involved in digital forensic investigations, both civil and criminal. You will be taught about the legal processes involved with acting as an expert witness and the admissibility of evidence. Further, you will acquire knowledge of the requirements for corporate investigations and the implications of e-disclosure. You will also learn evidence processing techniques for dealing with large volumes of digital data, a prominent feature of many cases given the availability of large capacity digital storage media.

More information

KF6002 -

Legal and Evidentiary Aspects of Digital Forensics (Core,20 Credits)

Through the analysis and examination of digital forensic case studies, you will develop a critical appreciation of the legal and regulatory aspects of a digital forensic investigation. You will also apply the theory and skills derived from the relevant taught modules on this programme to an advanced level by undertaking a detailed digital forensics investigation. You will develop analytical and evaluative skills in the appropriate use of digital forensic tools for solving problems in a variety of environments and situations

More information

KF6005 -

Network Technology 3 (Optional,20 Credits)

You will be provided with a detailed examination of Enterprise and Wide Area Networks (WANs). A particular feature of the module is the incorporation of subject areas from the final module of Cisco’s Networking Academy programme CCNA.

The main topics you will engage with on this module include:



1. Introduction to Enterprise and Wide Area Networks (WANs): Theory and practice of relevant protocols and technologies, including: PPP, OSPF, MPLS, GRE, VPN, IPSec.
2. Topics related to Enterprise and WANs including NAT, PAT, DHCP.
3. Network performance and security in an Enterprise and WAN context.

More information

KF6015 -

Games Design (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will learn about the design of computer games, the needs of and the issues facing the games industry and their impact upon games design. You will analyse a games problem and create a design for their solution using industry standard methods. In particular you will learn about:
• Principles of good game design
• The elements of game design
• How games are made in the industry and the makeup of the industry
• Professional, legal, social and ethical issues faced by the industry in general, and how they affect the game designer.

More information

KF6018 -

Computer Graphics and Animation (Optional,20 Credits)

This module will provide you with knowledge and understanding of the theoretical background to and the practical implementation of computer graphics and computer animation, which are two major components in the movie and game industries. They are also used in other industries for design and advertisement, such as furniture and car companies. On this module you will have the opportunity to experience hardware equipment used in the industries, such as a 3D motion capture system, 3D scanners and 3D printers, to help you better understand state-of-the-art computer graphics and animation pipelines.

You will learn about 3D modelling and rendering, perception principles, visualisation techniques, animation algorithms and simulations and how to implement software algorithms for 3D modelling, rendering, visualization and simulations - which you will use to develop your own software artefact. This module will cover the following topics:

1. Basic 3D geometry concepts, such as coordinates, transformations, view projections, etc.
2. 3D rendering components, such as modelling, illumination, shadowing, texture mapping, etc.
3. Character animation algorithms, such as motion capture, keyframe animation, forward/inverse kinematics, etc.
4. Physical simulations algorithms, such as cloth simulation, deformable objects, etc.

The module will, where appropriate, make use of well-known research papers and journals in computer graphics and animation, to help you develop your critical thinking skills, as well as your research and development skills.

More information

KV5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Computer and Information Sciences (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

KV6003 -

Individual Computing Project (Core,40 Credits)

This module is an individual project where you have the opportunity to define your own project topic or select one provided by academic staff, and produce a significant piece of practical computing work related to the aims of your programme. To do this you will need to use and further develop skills and expertise that you have learnt elsewhere in your programme. You will become knowledgeable in your chosen topic including important concepts and literature and you will acquire new or extend existing skills or learning that are needed to carry out the project. These could be technical skills such as a new programming language, or other knowledge and skills such as experimental methods used in your chosen area and/or the use of statistical techniques to analyse your results. You will also acquire or further develop your professional skills and competencies including communication skills (both oral presentation and report writing), literature searching and review, research methods and design, data analysis, project management and personal time management.

Your project must include you undertaking practical work of some sort using computing/IT technology. This is most frequently achieved by the creation of an artefact as the focus for covering all or part of an implementation lifecycle. However, there are a number of approaches you can take. For example, you could choose to conduct a more product-focused project where the main deliverable is a product of some kind such as a piece of software, a game, a computer network, an information strategy, a hardware device with software, and the approach/design for this. Or it could be a more investigative and/or research-focused project such as a digital forensics investigation, a comparison analysis of AI algorithms, a user experience investigation, an experimental evaluation of a network protocol. Or your project could be a mix of both of these such as building a simulated network to investigate security vulnerabilities and mitigation schemes, creating a prototype to test the effectiveness of a digital technology. Projects based solely on literature review activity and/or user/market surveys are not acceptable.

More information

KV6006 -

Internet of Things (Optional,20 Credits)

This module is designed to provide you with an appreciation of Intenet of Things. It treats the theory and practical techniques required to implement such systems on commonly used IoT platforms. You will cover aspects of IoT architecture and topologies, sensors and actuators, IoT Standards and Communication Protocols, personal and pervasive sensing, IoT Security and security standards, and IoT applications.

The syllabus of the module will cover topics such as:
• Sensors & Actuators
• Platforms & intergation to the Cloud
• IoT data processing and analytics
• Human in the Loop
• Modular IoT approaches & working with industry
• IoT applications
• IoT Challenges: Security, Legal & Ethical

More information

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

KF5003 -

Network Technology 2 (Core,20 Credits)

You will be provided with a detailed, technical introduction to the problem of routing and switching data packets in computer networks and to the design and implementation of Local Area Networks using routers and switches. A particular feature of the module is that it closely follows the programme for CCNA 2 of Cisco’s Networking Academy programme.

The main topics you will engage with on this module include:

1. Basic and advanced IP addressing.
2. Switches, switching concepts and switch configuration. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP).
3. Virtual LANs (VLANs) and VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP).
4. Introduction to the role of routers and routing in modern computer networks.
5. An introduction to network security.

More information

KF5004 -

Advanced Operating Systems 1 (Core,20 Credits)

The lectures covering the theoretical/standards components of network services and functionality and how they map to a business infrastructure.
The Seminars will cover the current operating systems support for these protocols and services and allow the student to implement these services/facilities and apply them to business needs with a theoretical underpinning.
This module aims to provide an experience in the practical use and application of an operating system in a network environment to provide the essential services required for a commercial organisation.
This module will allow the student to develop skills in the configuration of an operating systems in a networked environment.
The module provides an opportunity for the student to develop an appreciation of services and the practical skills required for developing and deploying network services into a corporate infrastructure.

More information

KF5005 -

Principles of Digital Security and Forensics (Core,20 Credits)

You will have the opportunity to analyse and examine digital security and forensic case studies using the latest industry specialist utilities and tools, giving invaluable hands-on practical use. Learning and teaching will take place through a variety of mechanisms. Topics will be introduced in lectures and discussed through seminar activities and guided learning activities. The theoretical material on digital security and forensics will be re-enforced through the critical analysis and discussion of case studies in seminar sessions as well as sessions on the use of security and digital forensics tools in the analysis of chosen case studies in lab-based practical sessions.

More information

KF5006 -

Applied Programming (Core,20 Credits)

The module aims to provide you with the practical ability and understanding of the software development process to enable the production of efficient and robust software applications . The module follows on from the first-year module “Programming 1” and combines lectures and workshops that are designed to further develop your problem solving and algorithmic thinking focussed on a specific topic chosen from the areas of Computer Forensics, Computer Networking or Cybersecurity.

More information

KF5007 -

Security Case Project (Core,20 Credits)

The module provides you with the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge of cyber security through the examination of the principles, theories, technical skills and research issues associated with the disciplines of ethical hacking and computer security.

The module develops technical aspects of the subject with particular reference to enhancing computer and network security. You will have the opportunity to practice techniques and tools associated with penetration testing and evaluate a range of threats, including the use of various hacking tools and techniques over a variety of operating systems and platforms. You will also have the opportunity to develop their research skills in designing and evaluating security vulnerabilities and countermeasures.

More information

KV5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Computer and Information Sciences (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

KV5029 -

Human Factors in Cyber Security (Core,20 Credits)

This module is set in the context of human-centred security and highlights the symbiotic relationship between both parties for holistic security solutions. You will learn about the role of humans in security ecosystems, and how they can both be the weakest and strongest link across any threats or countermeasures. You will also learn how to tailor security processes and tools to different job roles, and move towards understanding security as a process rather than as a solution. Topics include basic definitions of terminology alongside practical and theoretical frameworks to help you identify key usability and security issues, and explore potential preventative measures. You will also be introduced to basic research principles, including ethics, quantitative and qualitative methods to support the completion of your assignment. Key topics include:

Usable authentication
Usable encryption
Social engineering
Organisational Security Culture
Inclusive security
Quantitative & qualitative research methods
Professionalism
Privacy
Ethics
User education and awareness
IoT & emerging technologies

More information

KV5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Computer and Information Sciences (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

KV5007 -

Work placement year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment to provide you with the option to take a one year work placement as part of your programme.

You will be able to use the placement experience to develop and enhance appropriate areas of your knowledge and understanding, your intellectual and professional skills, and your personal value attributes, relevant to your programme of study, as well as accreditation bodies such as BCS, IET, IMechE, RICS, CIOB and CIBSE within the appropriate working environments. Due to its overall positive impact on employability, degree classification and graduate starting salaries, the University strongly encourages you to pursue a work placement as part of your degree programme.

This module is a Pass/Fail module so does not contribute to the classification of your degree. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised both in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate.

Your placement period will normally be full-time and must total a minimum of 40 weeks.

More information

KV5008 -

Study abroad year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment and provides you with the option to study abroad for one full year as part of your programme.

This is a 120 credit module which is available between Levels 5 and 6. You will undertake a year of study abroad at an approved partner University where you will have access to modules from your discipline, but taught in a different learning culture. This gives you the opportunity to broaden your overall experience of learning. The structure of study will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria).

Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

More information

KC6012 -

Graduate Enterprise (Optional,20 Credits)

The aim of this module is to encourage the understanding and application of business and management competences as applied to small business. It will provide you with an understanding and application of competencies required to create and operate a small enterprise. You will gain a practical (learning by doing) insight into the setting up and operation of a small business, and will have a raised awareness of the self-employment opportunities that graduates can exploit, developing a critical awareness of small business creation and operation and of the enterprise economy.

You will cover topics such as:
• Small Business in the economy.
• Business idea generation.
• Entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial team.
• Business planning and finance and use of advisors.
• Marketing and market research.
• Sales for SMEs.
• Effective presentation.
• Networking.
• Public relations.
• Information and control of enterprise.
• Business growth.
• Financial outcomes and reporting.
• Legal issues.

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KF6000 -

Fundamentals of Digital Forensics Investigations (Core,20 Credits)

In this module you will engage with knowledge to professionally, systematically and impartially approach the preservation, extraction and interpretation of all relevant digital evidence. Further you will develop analytical and evaluative skills in the appropriate use of digital forensic tools for solving problems in a variety of environments and problem situations

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KF6001 -

Digital Forensics Investigatory Practice (Core,20 Credits)

You will aquire knowledge of the legal and evidentiary processes involved in digital forensic investigations, both civil and criminal. You will be taught about the legal processes involved with acting as an expert witness and the admissibility of evidence. Further, you will acquire knowledge of the requirements for corporate investigations and the implications of e-disclosure. You will also learn evidence processing techniques for dealing with large volumes of digital data, a prominent feature of many cases given the availability of large capacity digital storage media.

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KF6002 -

Legal and Evidentiary Aspects of Digital Forensics (Core,20 Credits)

Through the analysis and examination of digital forensic case studies, you will develop a critical appreciation of the legal and regulatory aspects of a digital forensic investigation. You will also apply the theory and skills derived from the relevant taught modules on this programme to an advanced level by undertaking a detailed digital forensics investigation. You will develop analytical and evaluative skills in the appropriate use of digital forensic tools for solving problems in a variety of environments and situations

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KF6005 -

Network Technology 3 (Optional,20 Credits)

You will be provided with a detailed examination of Enterprise and Wide Area Networks (WANs). A particular feature of the module is the incorporation of subject areas from the final module of Cisco’s Networking Academy programme CCNA.

The main topics you will engage with on this module include:



1. Introduction to Enterprise and Wide Area Networks (WANs): Theory and practice of relevant protocols and technologies, including: PPP, OSPF, MPLS, GRE, VPN, IPSec.
2. Topics related to Enterprise and WANs including NAT, PAT, DHCP.
3. Network performance and security in an Enterprise and WAN context.

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KF6015 -

Games Design (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will learn about the design of computer games, the needs of and the issues facing the games industry and their impact upon games design. You will analyse a games problem and create a design for their solution using industry standard methods. In particular you will learn about:
• Principles of good game design
• The elements of game design
• How games are made in the industry and the makeup of the industry
• Professional, legal, social and ethical issues faced by the industry in general, and how they affect the game designer.

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KF6018 -

Computer Graphics and Animation (Optional,20 Credits)

This module will provide you with knowledge and understanding of the theoretical background to and the practical implementation of computer graphics and computer animation, which are two major components in the movie and game industries. They are also used in other industries for design and advertisement, such as furniture and car companies. On this module you will have the opportunity to experience hardware equipment used in the industries, such as a 3D motion capture system, 3D scanners and 3D printers, to help you better understand state-of-the-art computer graphics and animation pipelines.

You will learn about 3D modelling and rendering, perception principles, visualisation techniques, animation algorithms and simulations and how to implement software algorithms for 3D modelling, rendering, visualization and simulations - which you will use to develop your own software artefact. This module will cover the following topics:

1. Basic 3D geometry concepts, such as coordinates, transformations, view projections, etc.
2. 3D rendering components, such as modelling, illumination, shadowing, texture mapping, etc.
3. Character animation algorithms, such as motion capture, keyframe animation, forward/inverse kinematics, etc.
4. Physical simulations algorithms, such as cloth simulation, deformable objects, etc.

The module will, where appropriate, make use of well-known research papers and journals in computer graphics and animation, to help you develop your critical thinking skills, as well as your research and development skills.

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KV5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Computer and Information Sciences (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

KV6003 -

Individual Computing Project (Core,40 Credits)

This module is an individual project where you have the opportunity to define your own project topic or select one provided by academic staff, and produce a significant piece of practical computing work related to the aims of your programme. To do this you will need to use and further develop skills and expertise that you have learnt elsewhere in your programme. You will become knowledgeable in your chosen topic including important concepts and literature and you will acquire new or extend existing skills or learning that are needed to carry out the project. These could be technical skills such as a new programming language, or other knowledge and skills such as experimental methods used in your chosen area and/or the use of statistical techniques to analyse your results. You will also acquire or further develop your professional skills and competencies including communication skills (both oral presentation and report writing), literature searching and review, research methods and design, data analysis, project management and personal time management.

Your project must include you undertaking practical work of some sort using computing/IT technology. This is most frequently achieved by the creation of an artefact as the focus for covering all or part of an implementation lifecycle. However, there are a number of approaches you can take. For example, you could choose to conduct a more product-focused project where the main deliverable is a product of some kind such as a piece of software, a game, a computer network, an information strategy, a hardware device with software, and the approach/design for this. Or it could be a more investigative and/or research-focused project such as a digital forensics investigation, a comparison analysis of AI algorithms, a user experience investigation, an experimental evaluation of a network protocol. Or your project could be a mix of both of these such as building a simulated network to investigate security vulnerabilities and mitigation schemes, creating a prototype to test the effectiveness of a digital technology. Projects based solely on literature review activity and/or user/market surveys are not acceptable.

More information

KV6006 -

Internet of Things (Optional,20 Credits)

This module is designed to provide you with an appreciation of Intenet of Things. It treats the theory and practical techniques required to implement such systems on commonly used IoT platforms. You will cover aspects of IoT architecture and topologies, sensors and actuators, IoT Standards and Communication Protocols, personal and pervasive sensing, IoT Security and security standards, and IoT applications.

The syllabus of the module will cover topics such as:
• Sensors & Actuators
• Platforms & intergation to the Cloud
• IoT data processing and analytics
• Human in the Loop
• Modular IoT approaches & working with industry
• IoT applications
• IoT Challenges: Security, Legal & Ethical

More information

To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.

Computer and Digital Forensics BSc (Hons)

Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS

International applicants please apply using the links below

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All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.

 

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