Business Computing (Extended Degree) BSc (Hons)

What will I study each year on the BSc in Business Computing?

To start, you will set yourself up for success. You will study computer science essentials like computational thinking, programming and data, and also get your first introduction to business computing. Thanks to some shared modules, you will get to know other students on our computer science degrees and make connections between the different topics we teach. 

Next, you become a specialist, focusing almost entirely on business computing. You will study Business Information Systems, IT Service Management and Human-Computer Interaction. You will also get the chance to work on a consultancy project, getting practical experience of the real-world application of business computing. 

Your final year makes you an expert, ready for the world of work. You study Business Intelligence (BI) and explore experimental design for interactive applications. 

You will also complete a group computing task with fellow students and work independently on your dissertation. This is your chance to impress employers by designing, building, and evaluating your own project. 

How will I be assessed during my degree?

During your course, the assessments are designed to help you develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required of a computer science graduate. You will be assessed through a variety of different methods including exams, reports, presentations, individual, group and project work. 

• See all the Modules for this course

Who teaches the BSc in Business Computing?

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience from the business computing sector. As well as teaching you and conducting research, your tutors work with other organisations and regularly publish work in prestigious publications, contributing solutions to business computing challenges.

Computer Science programmes at Northumbria take place in a dynamic learning environment where you will have access to an expert team of staff - developing in-depth technical expertise as well as career-ready skills like teamwork, communication and critical thinking.

View all Staff profiles.

Where will I study?

The Computer Science facilities at Northumbria will provide you with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic learning environment.

During your studies, you will have the opportunity to access state of the art facilities and equipment which will encourage your individual intellectual freedom and allow your creative vision to become a reality.

Our £7m Computer and Information Sciences building was opened in 2018, especially for our computing students, and it is packed with high quality services to support your learning. Here, you will have access to dedicated computing areas which you can use during free periods and into the evenings and weekends. These areas are useful spaces for completing your coursework, stocked with the latest PC, Mac and Linux machines. You can take a virtual tour of the facilities here. Plus, our award-winning Library has lots of resources and study spaces to support your learning, with professional support services for students at all levels of study.

Eco-friendly building

We are proud to say that the Computer and Information Science building at Northumbria University is a sustainable ‘Smart Building’, which is able to run itself efficiently and sustainably. This ‘Living Lab’ supports student learning and provides useful links between sustainability and technology.

Institute of Coding Partnership

Northumbria also contributes to the Institute of Coding - a £40m collaboration between 25 UK universities – delivering education to people of all ages, helping them gain the skills they need to become the next generation of digital talent.

How does BSc (Hons) Business Computing apply its research focus to teaching?

We are living in a digital age where all of our lives are impacted by computer sciences and digital technologies, from cyber security and computational intelligence to games and visual effects, meaning it is essential that research continues to broaden our understanding.

In studying Computer Sciences at Northumbria University, you will be immersed in a research-rich environment with new and exciting insights into the discipline by our rapidly expanding Computer and Information Science research groups, helping to overcome challenges and understand the future of technology.

You will be taught by staff with a strong academic background in research-informed areas.

With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria.

What job can I get with a degree in Business Computing?

Almost every business relies on computer hardware, software and systems to function and grow, meaning they need highly skilled Business Computing professionals to maintain and develop everything.

Your future career options include Business Analyst, Software Engineer, Data Analyst, IT Management, Interaction Design Specialist, and more.

This work could be in a wide range of sectors such as: Financial services, Healthcare, Technology, Media, Marketing, Government, Military, Agriculture, Gaming, and Retail.

What skills will I develop for my future career?

You will graduate with specialist skills and knowledge in Business Information Systems, IT Service Management and Human-Computer Interaction, as well as essential professional skills such as Effective communication, Problem solving, Informational literacy, and Teamwork.

Will I get work experience on my Business Computing degree?

Yes. You will have the chance to take up to a year-long work placement. This will give you a real head-start in your career because you will understand how your learning applies to real-life problems that businesses face, have more confidence about working life and what it involves, and could gain valuable contacts.

Thanks to Northumbria’s excellent professional links, you will have the opportunity to apply for a placement in the public or private sector, in the UK or abroad. Previous students from the department have been on placement with blue-chip companies such as Hewlett Packard and GlaxoSmithKline and at CERN in Geneva.

An alternative option for your third year could also be study abroad. This option allows you to get a global perspective on your subject, which could pave the way for an international career in the future.