Throughout your academic journey, this program provides a comprehensive exploration of networking, covering protocols, network design, tools for constructing distributed applications, and network security strategies to defend against cyber threats. 

In the initial two years, the focus is on establishing a well-rounded foundation that integrates key concepts in the field. The first year introduces fundamental subjects such as an overview of the discipline, programming, modeling, and computing platforms. Building on this, the second year delves deeper into advanced skills with technical modules in software development, programming, databases, operating systems, and networks, along with optional modules. Moving into the third year, you learn to evaluate, compare, and contrast different auditing and monitoring techniques for various security threats and understand the legal aspects and the different standards companies can employ.

The final year encompasses an in-depth study of computer security, project planning, specialised modules in network protocols and architecture, cyber security, and additional options. Culminating in an individual project, typically an extensive practical endeavor, students refine their expertise in their chosen specialization.

You will undertake a wide variety of assessment tasks as you progress through your degree course. Their nature will vary according to your level and the nature of the task. Some, such as group work, will help you to develop practical skills alongside the more specific skills that are being assessed. You will write essays and research reports, and learn to write in a style suitable to a piece of academic work, and to make proper use of references and bibliographies. 
Other forms of assessment will include practical exercises ranging from small tasks that might be completed in a tutorial, to something more complex like designing and writing a larger computer program. There will be some formal examinations (usually at the end of each academic year). Some of the work will be completed individually, and sometimes you will work with other students as part of a team, emulating as close as possible the environment you will face in your later life in industry. 
Many assessments will be based on real-life scenarios typically found in the software industry. This might include client requirement elicitation, extracting hard software requirements from given business requirements, then designing and implementing a solution. 
 

Blackboard

Blackboard is a key resource during your time at Westminster – every course and module has a Blackboard site. Blackboard helps students and tutors to: 

• Share learning resources (module outlines, lecture notes, assignment briefs)
• Communicate via announcements and email
• Collaborate through discussion boards, blogs, and wikis
• Complete online group work takes short answer tests and submit coursework electronically.

Blackboard is available at click here  and Blackboard help for students is available via the ‘Help’ link at the top right of every Blackboard page. You can also access Blackboard on a smartphone or tablet device by downloading the appropriate app – just visit the app store for your device and search for Blackboard Mobile Learn. For further information on Blackboard Mobile please visit Blackboard Mobile Learn - Welcome to Blackboard Help for Students (google.com)