Foundation of Computer & IT Systems

Introduction to basic concepts, terminology, fields, and history of computer science, while providing students with the opportunity to develop their academic skills in studying, writing, researching, and presenting scientific topics. The course covers topics such as the history of computation, computational theory, number systems, introduction to algorithms and data structures, microprocessors, machine language and assembly, computer architecture, operating systems, compilers and interpreters, software, hardware, and networks.

Logic & Discrete Mathematics

Introduction to mathematical concepts and methods primarily applied in computer science, such as set theory, Boolean algebra, logic, differential and integral calculus, linear algebra, graph theory, numerical analysis, and iterative methods.

Programming

This module introduces the fundamental principles, concepts and practices of computer programming, with an emphasis on the design, implementation and testing of software applications. Practical work is undertaken using Python, one of the most widely used programming languages in both industry and the scientific community. Students develop strong foundations in algorithmic thinking and problem-solving, preparing them for more advanced modules in software development.

Fundamentals of Networks & Security

This module covers the fundamental concepts of computer networking, including the OSI and TCP/IP models, IPv4 addressing, the TCP, UDP, HTTP and DHCP protocols, as well as routing, switching and Local Area Network (LAN) design. Students gain practical experience in configuring and analysing networks using tools such as Cisco Packet Tracer, while also being introduced to the principles of cybersecurity through network traffic analysis using Wireshark.

Computer Systems, Data Structures & Data Management

The course explores two related but distinct fundamental concepts of computational applications in practice: human-computer interaction and data. The course includes product design, user interface design, usability, data representation, data modeling, and data storage. Data structures and their manipulation are implemented using the Java/Python programming languages.

Games Technologies

Introduction to graphics engines using Unity3d. The course explores all the concepts of a game engine and its use in game design and implementation. The course also includes scripting, where students learn to use C# within the Unity3d environment.

English I

Students develop general skills in the English language, such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and are introduced to academic English. Additionally, they improve their grammar, pronunciation, and general and specific vocabulary related to computer science terminology. By the end of the course, their proficiency in academic English will be at the intermediate B2 level according to the CEFR, equivalent to IELTS 5.5.

Functional Programming

This module introduces students to the fundamental principles of functional programming and the alternative problem-solving approach it offers compared with imperative and object-oriented programming. Practical activities are undertaken using Haskell and Python, enabling students to develop applications that employ concepts such as pure functions, recursion, advanced data types and functional programming techniques.

Legal, Ethical & Sustainability Issues

This module examines the legal, ethical and environmental aspects of the development and use of information systems. Students explore topics including data protection, cybersecurity, intellectual property, professional ethics, and the principles of sustainability and responsible digital technology use, in line with current international standards and relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

Software Engineering

The course views software development from an engineering perspective and provides the theory and practices for producing software that meets user expectations in terms of quality, functionality, and development within predetermined time and budget constraints. The course examines the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) in detail, presenting methodologies for analysis, design, standardization, implementation, testing, installation, and maintenance of programmes.

Network Systems Development

This course covers the development of network systems and protocols and how they are controlled through programming applications. Communication systems are rapidly expanding in scale and capabilities, and this unit will examine client-server and peer-to-peer systems, including bandwidth requirements and availability. At this point, students create network protocol control applications using Java/Python. This unit equips students with the necessary knowledge in programming solutions for network protocol and network communication problems.

Data-Driven Systems

This module explores the concepts, theories and technologies underpinning data-driven systems for the organisation, storage and retrieval of large volumes of data. Students develop the practical skills required to design and implement robust and scalable database systems while gaining an understanding of the challenges associated with storing, maintaining and managing large-scale data. The module also covers database optimisation techniques and the development of different database management systems.

Team Project

This module provides students with the opportunity to work collaboratively in teams to design, develop and deliver a complete software project using contemporary software development and project management methodologies. Through collaborative practice, students develop both technical and professional skills, including teamwork, communication, requirements management, version control, technical documentation and effective project organisation. The module also enables students to apply core Software Engineering principles, including project management, code review and standardisation, design patterns, prototyping and the production of professional technical documentation.

Operating Systems

This module introduces students to the fundamental principles underlying the design and operation of operating systems. Topics include process management, memory management, file systems and resource management. Through practical programming exercises in a Linux environment, students gain hands-on experience in developing applications that interact with the operating system and make use of contemporary multiprocessing and multithreading mechanisms.

Concurrency & Communication

This unit explores two closely related topics, Synchronization Systems and Distributed Systems. It analyzes various synchronization control concepts in different systems and their implications for design and implementation. It also investigates the fundamental characteristics of distributed systems, including their models and architectures, as well as the design implications of their software. It examines techniques that have been used for their construction, as well as use cases of well-designed distributed algorithms and applications.

Individual project

The thesis project allows students to demonstrate their ability to develop a substantial piece of work related to their specialization. It can be a significant research piece following a recognized research methodology or the implementation, testing, and evaluation of a significant "design and development" project in the field of computer science. Students are supported and guided by a member of the academic staff, i.e., a supervising professor, but the project is defined and implemented by the student.

Frontiers in AI and Data Science

This module introduces students to contemporary developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science, covering the core principles of machine learning, data analytics and knowledge discovery. Through practical applications using Python and modern AI libraries, students gain experience in developing, evaluating and deploying AI models to solve real-world problems.

Security Management

This unit examines strategic approaches that can be taken for security system management. It focuses on areas of critical importance for maintaining security in both daily operational bases and crisis situations. It covers information security management and risk management in relation to information technology, networks, information systems, data, and critical business systems. It addresses significant security management principles and operations involved in protecting critical information, network resources, and organizational assets. It provides information on what information/network security experts would do concerning systems and policies to ensure the secure operation of business unit networks and guidelines for recovery in case of a disaster.