COURSE CURRICULUM

This computer science course provides a comprehensive and practical education across three years, starting with a shared foundation year that introduces programming, digital creativity, data fundamentals, and teamwork. Students explore core principles of computing, gain hands-on experience with digital media and game technologies, and develop early project management and technical skills through small-scale collaborations. In the second year, the focus deepens into specialist topics, including complex problem solving, computational mathematics, web technologies, distributed systems, algorithms, optimisation, and artificial intelligence. Emphasis is placed on systems thinking, cybersecurity, ethical computing practices, and sustainable development, with students working on real-world projects in partnership with peers from Cornwall Business School. The third year offers students greater autonomy and professional preparation through advanced modules and significant research projects. Students begin a major individual research and development project, producing a prototype artefact alongside a written dissertation, which includes statistical analysis and academic reporting. Advanced topics such as compiler design, functional programming, big data analytics, and safety-critical software development are also introduced, encouraging engagement with both the theoretical and practical sides of the discipline. A strong focus on commercial awareness and future employability is embedded through the Future Skills module, which prepares students for entrepreneurship, freelancing, or professional employment. The course culminates in a major collaborative project where multidisciplinary teams develop innovative digital products or services, either continuing previous work or addressing new challenges from industry or research stakeholders. Throughout all years, students are encouraged to think critically about ethics, inclusivity, and the social impacts of technology, while continually building on technical proficiency and collaborative experience. The course balances creative exploration, theoretical learning, and applied development to prepare graduates for a range of computing careers in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.