All types of computer systems are now an important part of our lives, with well-engineered, reliable and usable systems crucial to the survival of most organisations. People, who can design, implement and maintain these ever-evolving systems are in constant demand. Studying in the field of computing is challenging and enjoyable, and can lead to a rewarding career. At UEL you can study the Computing degree which provides the option of developing knowledge in such specialised areas as Business Information Systems, Computer Networking, Internet Technologies, Software Engineering and Communications Systems Security. This wide coverage area is provided by the number of options uniquely available only to students on the Computing Programme.

The computing programme at UEL allows you to study a variety of subjects, including the development of information systems, programming, computer architecture, operating systems, networking, and the business contexts in which computer-based information systems are used. In addition the programme also offers students the option of gaining knowledge or specialise in such areas as Computer Networking, Communications Security and Surveillance, and Project Management. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition of practical-based skills, including the opportunity for one year's work experience, which provides a solid foundation for a career in computing.

Computing programmes are three or four years in length, as the sandwich degrees include a one-year work placement. If you want to change to one of our specialised degrees, rather than the Computing degree, this is easy to arrange. Students are able to work in groups to develop computer-based solutions to real-life situations, often in co-operation with local companies.

As well as the usual teaching and learning facilities such as laboratories, lecture and seminar rooms and a well-resourced library, students have access to a wide range of computing resources. Specialised labs are used for study of networking and operating system environments such as Windows and UNIX. Students are provided with software tools for programming, database development, computer-aided software engineering, Internet access and Web-based development. The virtual learning environment UEL-Direct is used to give extra support to students and allow easy communication between students and staff. The placement year which is optional and can take place abroad, is the ideal opportunity to add (commercial / business experience) to the skills gained during the first two years of your programme.

A variety of assessment methods are used. Some modules are entirely assessed by coursework, and others are assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. Coursework assessment can take a number of different forms, including presentations, software demonstrations, research-based assignments and practical exercises involving system or program specification, coding and testing. Examinations might be multiple choice tests or more traditional unseen questions.

On our sandwich programmes, students undertake a 48 week industrial placement during the third year. This placement is normally paid. The university has long-standing links with a large number of well-known employers who can provide UEL students with worthwhile work experience. Many students are offered permanent employment by their placement organisation when they graduate. In addition to enhancing employment prospects, the placement provides a valuable learning experience, the results of which feed into our students’ final year of study.

Students complete a project in their final year. This is a major piece of work that allows students to choose the direction of their research, to develop their own ideas and to integrate the various subjects studied.

In addition to the IT-related skills and knowledge acquired during the programme, you will develop a wide range of personal and professional skills including communication, presentation, negotiation, team working and project management skills. These sought-after skills will be useful throughout your working life and will increase your chances of finding well paid and interesting job after graduation.

• how computer systems can be used to provide business solutions
• understanding how computer systems are able to communicate across vast geographical areas and across numerous national and international telecommunications platforms
• developing and using complex software applications and information systems
• using the Internet to provide commercial and business solutions for modern organisations

• identifying and solving technical problems
• the challenge of finding a solution to seemingly insoluble problems
• listening to and working with others to identify and develop these solutions

• the opportunity to work in a well-rewarded and fast-developing area
• sought-after and up-to-date skills
• to communicate and work with a wide variety of people to solve a range of business and technical problems
• to combine your interest in computing with other subjects

........then our programme in computing could be for you!

There is still a significant shortage of up-to-date computing skills in the UK. Organisations need to have access to these skills to make best use of computing and internet resources.

Graduates of the computing degree programmes are qualified for a variety of jobs including the systems analysts, management information systems developers, database designers, network design and administrators, inter-networking developers, internet / web systems developers and Project Managers.

For graduates who wish to continue their studies at postgraduate level, the computing degree programmes provide a suitable entry route to a variety of Masters courses, both at UEL and elsewhere.

• Programme Leader support throughout the programme duration
• Personal tutor support throughout the programme
• Support for development of study skills, preparation for employment and research
• Placement Office with well-established links with employers to provide support for finding placements
• Specialist support for dyslexia and English as a second language
• Student advice services for accommodation, finance, careers, IT training, learning resources.

The proximity of London means that UEL is ideally placed for developing links with a wide range of well-established, prestigious and innovative employers. The Knowledge Dock Centre based at the Docklands Campus provides a natural channel between business and higher education, by making the knowledge and expertise of UEL available to local employers.