Undergraduate Diploma in Computer Science

Module Code	Module Title	ECTS	Mode of Teaching	Mode of Assessment
UGDIP-CS-D1	Introduction to Formal Logic	10	Lectures, tutorials	Exams and Assignments
UGDIP-CS-D2	Introduction to Programming in Python	10	Lectures, tutorials, Lab Sessions	Assignments
UGDIP-CS-D3	Computer System Architecture and Operating Systems	10	Lectures	Exams and Assignments
UGDIP-CS-D4	Introduction to Databases	10	Lectures, Lab Sessions	Exams and Assignments
UGDIP-CS-D5	Scientific Reading and Writing for Computer Science	10	Lectures, tutorials	Assignments
UGDIP-CS-D6	Software Engineering	10	Lectures, tutorials	Exams and Assignments
TOTAL		60

Target Group

This undergraduate course is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career or further studies in computer science or related fields. It is suitable for students who have little to no prior experience in computer science but have a strong interest in technology and logical problem-solving.

The programme prepares students for the following entry-level occupations:

1. 1. Junior Software Developer/Engineer:
   Develop and maintain software applications and systems using programming languages like Python. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, implement, and test software solutions based on client requirements.
2. 2. Junior Systems Analyst:
   Analyse business requirements and user needs to design and implement IT solutions. Evaluate existing systems, identify areas for improvement, and propose enhancements to streamline processes and increase efficiency.
3. 3. Junior Web Developer:
   Design and develop web applications, websites, and e-commerce platforms using frontend and backend technologies such as HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like Django or Flask. Ensure websites are responsive, user-friendly, and optimised for performance across different devices and browsers.
4. 4. Junior Database Administrator (DBA):
   Manage and maintain databases, including installation, configuration, backup, and recovery. Optimise database performance, troubleshoot issues, and implement security measures to protect data integrity.
5. 5. Junior IT Support Specialist:
   Provide technical support and assistance to end-users, troubleshooting hardware and software problems, and resolving technical issues. Install, configure, and maintain computer systems, peripherals, and software applications.
6. 6. Junior Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst/Tester:
   Develop and execute test plans, scenarios, and scripts to ensure the quality and reliability of software products. Identify and report software defects, collaborate with developers to resolve issues, and ensure adherence to quality standards and best practices.
7. 7. Junior Data Analyst:
   Analyse and interpret data to extract meaningful insights and trends using statistical techniques and data visualisation tools. Prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
8. 8. Junior Technical Consultant:
   Provide expert advice and guidance to clients on technical solutions, best practices, and industry trends. Assist with system implementation, integration, and customisation to meet client requirements.
9. 9. Junior Cybersecurity Analyst:
   Assist in monitoring and analysing security events and incidents to detect and mitigate cyber threats. Assist in implementing security measures, policies, and procedures to safeguard IT infrastructure and data /assets against unauthorised access and attacks.

Knowledge and Understanding

The learner will be able to:

Programming Proficiency

• Mastery of fundamental programming concepts and proficiency in Python programming for solving computational problems and automating tasks.
• Application of modular programming principles and development of debugging skills for efficient code organisation and error resolution.

Logical Reasoning and Critical Thinking

• Develop knowledge on and explain formal logic principles, including propositional and predicate logic, enabling deductive reasoning and logical analysis.
• Development of critical thinking skills for identifying logical fallacies, inconsistencies, and errors in reasoning, and application of formal logic concepts to real-world scenarios.

Effective Communication and Research Skills

• Advanced reading comprehension skills and proficiency in scientific reading and writing for critically evaluating academic literature and communicating technical concepts effectively.
• Application of citation and referencing techniques for proper documentation and communication of research findings to diverse audiences.

Software Development and Database Management

• Knowledge of software engineering methodologies and best practices for designing, developing, and maintaining software systems that meet user requirements and quality standards.
• Develop knowledge on and explain database management systems, relational database concepts, and SQL for designing and optimising database schemas and executing database operations effectively.

Computer Systems Understanding and Troubleshooting

• Develop knowledge on and explain computer architecture principles and operating system concepts for managing hardware resources, executing processes, and ensuring system security and reliability.
• Proficiency in system-level programming, shell scripting, and command-line interface usage for analysing and troubleshooting system-level issues and optimising system performance.

Skills

The learner will be able to:

Proficient Programming Skills

• Ability to proficiently write Python programs to solve computational problems and automate tasks, demonstrating mastery of fundamental programming concepts and modular programming principles.

Logical and Critical Thinking Abilities

• Mastery of formal logic principles, enabling deductive reasoning, logical analysis, and critical thinking for identifying and evaluating logical fallacies, inconsistencies, and errors in reasoning.

Effective Communication and Research Competence

• Advanced reading comprehension skills and proficiency in scientific reading and writing for critically evaluating academic literature, effectively communicating technical concepts, and properly documenting research findings.

Software Development and Database Management Proficiency

• Competence in software engineering methodologies and best practices for designing, developing, and maintaining software systems meeting user requirements and quality standards.
• Develop knowledge on and explain database management systems, relational database concepts, and SQL for designing and optimising database schemas and executing database operations efficiently.

Comprehensive Understanding of Computer Systems

• Develop knowledge on and explain computer architecture principles and operating system concepts for managing hardware resources, executing processes, ensuring system security, and optimising system performance.
• Proficiency in system-level programming, shell scripting, and command-line interface usage for analysing and troubleshooting system-level issues.

General Pedagogical Methods

When it comes to pedagogical methods, we have included quite a variety of student-centric methods, to cater for different learning styles. All components of the programmes will be delivered face-to-face. Our modes of delivery include lectures, tutorials, group work, project work, hackathons and competitions.

In our classes with the students, we will draw from academic and professional literature, present real-world case studies, present current affairs, show videos such as TED talks, invite experts on the topic as guest speakers, and ask students to actively participate in their own learning by participating in class, as well as carrying out their own reading. In addition, students will be asked to prepare questions and comments on current affairs or on an agreed article (academic or professional) to be discussed during tutorials.

For students who will require additional assistance, our lecturers can also be reached by email to support the students in their learning process.

General Assessment Methods

When it comes to assessment methods, we have included quite a variety that will allow learners with different learning styles and abilities to complete the programme successfully. Students will also have to prepare individual and team reports and presentations, apart from written and multiple-choice examinations. Most modules have a heavy assignment component which vary from term papers to implementing algorithms stemming from the unit.

Grading and Progression

For each module, students are required to achieve the minimum pass mark. Students who fail the module have an opportunity to resit. Should the student fail a second time, they will need to repeat the complete module.

• 1. Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science (MQF/EQF Level 5, 30 ECTS) — requires successful completion of: (a) Introduction to Formal Logic (10 ECTS), (b) Introduction to Programming with Python (10 ECTS), (c) Introduction to Databases (10 ECTS).
• 2. Award in Introduction to Formal Logic (Undergraduate Diploma in Computer Science) (MQF/EQF Level 5, 10 ECTS).
• 3. Award in Introduction to Programming with Python (Undergraduate Diploma in Computer Science) (MQF/EQF Level 5, 10 ECTS).
• 4. Award in Computer Architecture and Operating Systems (Undergraduate Diploma in Computer Science) (MQF/EQF Level 5, 10 ECTS).
• 5. Award in Introduction to Databases (Undergraduate Diploma in Computer Science) (MQF/EQF Level 5, 10 ECTS).
• 6. Award in Scientific Reading and Writing in Computer Science (Undergraduate Diploma in Computer Science) (MQF/EQF Level 5, 10 ECTS).
• 7. Award in Software Engineering (Undergraduate Diploma in Computer Science) (MQF/EQF Level 5, 10 ECTS).