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University of Derby

BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technologies (Top-Up)

Course Title

BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technologies (Top-Up)

Course Type

Top-Up

Course Level

Undergraduate

Study Method

Distance Learning

Start Date

September / January / May

Course Duration

24 months

Awarded & Delivered By

University of Derby
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Course Description

BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technologies (Top-Up) degree is ideal for those who already hold an HND, foundation degree, or equivalent qualification in Computing and want to progress further. It suits IT support engineers, network professionals, systems administrators, and developers who wish to strengthen their CV, improve career prospects, or prepare for postgraduate study. Flexible online delivery makes it accessible worldwide, with options to complete in one year.

The programme is developed by leading specialists and offers strong academic advantages. Learners benefit from updated content reflecting cutting-edge digital developments, guest speakers from industry, and support from experienced academic professionals. With three annual start dates and part-time online study, students can tailor their learning to personal schedules. The vibrant virtual classroom fosters collaboration, networking, and engagement with peers across the globe, enhancing both academic and professional growth.

Modules focus on practical and ethical dimensions of computing. Students will learn to critically appraise digital systems, conduct incisive research, and design or test programmes and hardware. Outcomes include the ability to define and execute independent projects, evaluate emerging technologies, and formulate professional ethical positions. Teamwork, communication, and problem-solving are emphasized, ensuring graduates leave with both technical competence and the professional awareness required to thrive in the computing and IT sector.

Course Content

To complete this top-up degree you will need to complete a total of 120 credits. This will be made up from the two core modules and three of the optional 20-credit modules in your preferred area of Computing and Information Technologies.

Core modules

This module offers a transdisciplinary introduction to evolving digital technologies, emphasizing their societal, individual, and environmental impacts. Learners gain research-driven insights, engage in case studies or practical projects, and develop ethical awareness, teamwork, and critical appraisal skills essential for computing professionals.
This module develops essential research skills through theoretical or practical projects, including surveys, modelling, or prototype design. Students learn methodologies, ethics, data analysis, and report writing, while conducting independent enquiries. Outcomes include defining projects, applying methods, evaluating findings, and managing time effectively

Optional modules

This module explores the growing threat of cyber-attacks, fraud, and the need for robust defence strategies. Learners gain practical skills in ethical hacking, penetration testing, and digital forensics, while critically evaluating vulnerabilities. Outcomes include applying tools ethically, reporting on system security, and understanding professional responsibilities in cybersecurity.
This module introduces relational database systems from the ground up, covering design, analysis, and implementation in multi-user and web-based environments. It explores relational theory, query languages, optimization, and security, while also addressing non-traditional data, web-enabled techniques, and ethical issues. Learners gain skills to model, design, and implement databases with web interfaces, and critically evaluate emerging database technologies.
This module introduces techniques for developing distributed applications across multiple networked systems. Learners explore architectures, web service protocols, peer-to-peer computing, and cloud technologies, while critically evaluating platforms and methods. Outcomes include applying web services, assessing effectiveness, and collaborating effectively in group projects.
This module introduces the Internet of Things (IoT) and pervasive computing, exploring connected devices, sensors, and communication protocols. Learners gain practical experience through design projects using Arduino or Raspberry Pi, or research case studies. Outcomes include understanding IoT principles, evaluating ethical and social impacts, and assessing applications across commerce, health, and the environment.
This module provides an in-depth study of large-scale computer network management, highlighting security, risk management, and the consequences of compromise. Learners explore configuration, performance, and capacity planning, alongside cryptography, encryption, and disaster recovery. Outcomes include justifying network management needs, critically reviewing research in security, and designing secure network systems tailored to specific scenarios.
This module provides a practical introduction to the software life cycle, covering specification, design, programming, testing, and documentation. No prior coding experience is required, though learners with skills can deepen their knowledge. Outcomes include competence in algorithm design, coding, debugging, and applying engineering techniques across development stages, while critically appraising processes and producing high-quality, documented software.
This module provides a practical introduction to building large-scale, multi-function websites, combining e-commerce, communication, social networking, and content management. Learners critically evaluate web technologies, design decisions, and implementation strategies. Outcomes include reviewing development options, interpreting web application issues, and justifying design choices for complex, fully featured sites.

Study Method

You’ll study across three 10‑week trimesters, with one 20‑credit module requiring about 20 hours weekly. If you choose the accelerated plan with two modules per trimester, expect 40 hours of study each week.

Assessment is 100% coursework, including essays, reports, presentations, group projects, and practical tasks. Virtual classrooms are held during each trimester, with recordings available if you cannot attend live.

Entry Requirements

  • Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Information Technology, or equivalent qualification.

  • If you have relevant work experience but no traditional qualifications, or if you have other professional qualifications (e.g. ILM, CMI), we still encourage you to apply as all applications are considered on an individual basis.

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This degree programme has intakes in September, January and May. Click the Enrol Now button and share your information so that one of our Academic Advisors will get in touch with you promptly.

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Progression

Upon completing the BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technologies (Top-Up), you will be able to progress directly into:

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Course Fees

Please get in touch with us to get the most up-to-date course fee for this programme.

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Apply now to embark on your academic journey and unlock endless opportunities! Join our vibrant community of scholars and leaders, and pursue your passion with an internationally recognised British qualification.


Click Apply Now to start your application for the BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technologies (Top-Up) programme today.

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