Course Catalogue

The two principal themes in the programme are the development of computer science skills relating to information security, and the associated software engineering, management and analysis skills required to enact successful information security within networked computing environments. This is underpinned by themes of computing, networking and software engineering.

The main aims are:

• To provide students with the technical skills required for the development of computer security software solutions.
• To enable the student to acquire the skills needed in the investigation of user requirements and the development of a suitable software design using the appropriate specifications and design methodologies.
• To prepare students with the management skills required to implement Cyber security.
• To provide students with the knowledge of the wide range of issues involved in the implementation of Cyber security, such as legal, ethical and privacy requirements.
• To encourage students to engage with the development of employability skills by completing a self-awareness statement.
• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding, critical awareness and ability to conduct evaluation of current computer security research issues.
• To further develop students' originality in applying analytical, creative, problem solving and research skills.
• To provide advanced, conceptual understanding, underpinning career development, innovation and further study such as PhD in the area of Cyber Security.
• For students undertaking a placement year the aim is to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give the students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study, as well as attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment.

Acquisition of the skills is through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical sessions and laboratory work. These skills are assessed across the 3 upper levels of the programme in a range of different assessments such as coursework, presentations and examinations. Throughout the learner is encouraged to undertake independent reading both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught / learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject.

Level 4: 4203COMP Professional Practice - this module provides students with an opportunity to consider their future role as a computing professional and develop a plan to enable them to progress in their chosen career. Level 5: 5200COMP Group Project – this module provides further insight into developing the role of the student becoming a computing professional, via teamwork and consideration of professional issues within computer security. Students will be encouraged to become student members of appropriate professional bodies for the computing industry (e.g. ACM, IEEE or BCS) as part of their development. 5102COMSCI Sandwich Year Computer Security - The aim is to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment.