Undergraduate Prospectus 2009

Computing

Why computing?

Computing is an essential part of 21st-century life, and is an exceptionally fast-moving subject that gives rise to a range of interesting and challenging problems. The implementation of today’s complex computing systems, networks and multimedia systems requires the skills of knowledgeable and versatile computer scientists. Computer networks and the internet are now central to the study of computing and information technology, presenting both technical and social challenges. Artificial intelligence (AI) – the study of intelligent behaviour – is having an increasing influence on computer system design.

The expertise of graduates in computing is in high demand, and the degrees we offer will equip you with the skills and knowledge required for a career in this dynamic market.

Why computing at Sussex?

• We are a leading centre for teaching and research in many aspects of computing, including computer science, IT, multimedia, human-centred computing, music informatics, AI and cognitive science.
• Cutting-edge courses informed by our international research – grade 5 in the last Research Assessment Exercise (RAE).
• Our courses teach core skills such as Java programming and teamwork, and professional issues and career development, with a focus on employability.
• Our degree programmes provide a firm foundation in the core topics and in addition allow you to select strands of courses that reflect your particular interests (for example computer graphics and animation, robotics, or web technologies).
• Attractive, well-equipped computer laboratories with high-spec PCs, a state-of-the-art multimedia laboratory, and a special-purpose studio with computers, PA and recording equipment for music-based courses.
• InQbate – the on-campus Centre of Excellence in Teaching and Learning in Creativity, with state-of-the-art technology to support the creative process – offers you opportunities to work in spaces that foster collaborative, self-directed and experiential learning.
• One of the world’s largest groups of researchers studying artificial life and evolutionary computation – research in ALife at Sussex has lead to breakthroughs in the development of autonomous, mobile robots.

Applicants to computing degrees do not require previous programming experience. We encourage applications from anyone who enjoys the challenges of problem solving and relishes the potential of new technology.

What sort of career could I have?

The range of careers open to computing graduates is constantly widening as the IT industry diversifies. Computing graduates have higher employment and average pay levels than graduates from most other disciplines.

IT-related:

• software/multimedia development
• games programming
• project management
• search engine analysis
data migration and IT consultancy.

Non-IT-related:

• treasury associate
• retail manager
• examinations officer
• corporate finance and investment banking.

We maintain a database of employers and cultivate personal links with relevant organisations to help you find jobs. Many of our graduates find employment in the flourishing computing, multimedia and games industry in the Brighton area, and these employers also provide opportunities for interesting and fulfilling summer jobs and part-time work.

How will I learn?

We teach by a combination of lectures, seminars, exercise classes, small-group supervisions and computer-based practical work. Some teaching is by means of group projects, linked to particular courses, while studio work provides a team-based environment for technical development and implementation.

We also run a peer-assisted learning scheme, which has non-compulsory additional group-study classes to provide extra support for particular courses. These classes are run by students who have already taken the course.

Assessment is by a combination of exams, coursework (such as software exercises, reports, oral presentations and essays), group projects and a large-scale individual project. Nearly all courses are assessed at least partly by coursework, and many also have an end-of-year exam.

What will I achieve?

• You can expect to develop a firm foundation in your chosen area that will provide a solid basis for your future career development. Our degrees also provide a range of invaluable transferable skills, including those of presentation, organisation, communication, problem solving, time management and teamworking.
• You learn to apply and implement appropriate theories and techniques to the design and development of computing systems, and to use the correct criteria and tools for the planning, development, documentation, testing and evaluation of software systems.
• You will gain an understanding of the underlying hardware and software that supports computer systems and the internet, and attain a fundamental knowledge of how sound, image and video applications are supported, developed and used.
• In the AI courses, you discover how AI supports the design of intelligent computer systems and gain an understanding of the study of intelligence in both humans and machines.
• You also learn to manage your own personal professional career development in preparation for further study or the world of work, and beyond.

‘I see computing as a platform for creating. As a musician, it was only natural that at some point I should use computing as a means for creating music.

‘I found Sussex offered exactly the degree I had in mind, in the form of Music Informatics. I was concerned that my background in computers or my knowledge of music might not be substantial enough, but the degree is constructed in a way that allows for exploration of either discipline with guidance from the ground up.

‘I enjoy studying Music Informatics because it’s exactly what I want to be doing with my life. I make music every day, and when I’m not making music I get to play with computers! If this degree programme sounds like fun to you, I can guarantee you’ll enjoy it.’

George Bashi

‘I chose Multimedia and Digital Systems because I wanted to learn about creating graphics, video and animation, as well as the more technical side involving programming and computer systems. I also wanted a degree programme that would be recognised by employers as worthwhile.’

‘For the Technical Communications Skills course we had to give a presentation based on a technical subject. We had to present in front of a camera, while our slides were shown on a green screen behind us, and other students watched in the next room. I did mine on “How to turn cows’ methane into energy”. I was nervous at first, but I loved it!’

‘Studying at Sussex has helped me to learn new skills that will be valuable in the world of employment. Group coursework projects allow you to gain experience of working with others to get the work finished and handed in on time. From studying at Sussex I have also made friends with students of varying ages and from different walks of life that I would otherwise not have met.’

Nicola Cousins