U08021 Computer Networks

A study of the fundamental concepts of computer networking and the problems experienced in their design and implementation. Various goals of such systems are discussed and placed into the context of local and wide area networking. The nature and types of communications protocols typically found in modern computer networks are also studied in some depth. Local and wide area network architectures, protocols, services and applications. Physical data transmission, the elements of reliable and unreliable communications protocols. Transfer of information between machines with similar and different characteristics. How communications services fit in with the hardware and operating system.

U08049 Relational Database Design

This module builds on the knowledge of various software engineering techniques, programming skills and file organisation to show the role of databases in contemporary computing. Topics that are covered in this module include the following:

• Database approach to information systems. Database architecture.
• Data analysis and modelling. The EAR approach.
• The relational model and its properties:
• Integrity constraints. Data dependencies. Normalisation. Relational algebra.
• Set-oriented software structures and their representation.
• Optimisation and implementation of algebraic operations.
• Programming in SQL:
• Data definition. Manipulation of database structures.
• User interfaces, program files, substitution variables.
• Query processing.

U08086 Advanced Topics in Database

Study of advanced topics in databases: non-relational database models (Object-Oriented, Functional), dependency theory, design and implementation of Object-Relational and Object-Oriented databases. operations of large database systems.

U08182 Information Systems Design

This module builds on the knowledge introduced in U08048 Requirements Specification to show how the analysis phase is taken forward into the design phase for the development of an automated information system.

U08784 Software Project Management

A software development project involves three main activities; the technical development of the product, the quality assurance of the delivered product and the management of the project activities. The technical aspects of software engineering have been comprehensively covered on many modules you have taken in the computing fields and it is assumed that you are familiar with these; this course addresses the twin issues of project management and quality control. It covers: software development methods, stage planning, methods and tools for project analysis, work breakdown, effort estimation, task planning, risk analysis, documenting project plans, software metrics, determining quality factors and methods for monitoring and measuring quality

U51020 Management Information Systems

This module introduces students to the nature and purpose of information systems. It develops knowledge of the types of information system used in business, the technologies used and the process of designing and implementing effective systems. The nature of information and its transmission, systems theory and its application . Business information systems - entity, attribute, relationship modeling . An introduction to databases and distributed database management systems

• Decision support systems and their links with information systems
• Expert systems - their benefits and limitations
• Computer software capabilities
• Computer hardware technologies - existing and forthcoming
• Systems development methodologies - a review
• Performance, security and legal issues

U08096 Interdisciplinary Project

An extended study of a topic selected from a suitable area common to the fields of the student’s programme, involving the solution of a practical problem. The joint supervisors will determine the apportionment of the student effort with respect to the fields involved. The overall aim of this module is to enable the students to produce a substantial piece of work on a topic of special interest chosen from those laying on the boundary of the studied fields. It is expected that by doing so the students will consolidate knowledge and strengthen the skills acquired throughout their period of study on both fields.