Overview
Do you want to work in the IT sector, but don’t have the formal qualifications to make the transition? This conversion course is designed for those whose first degree is not related to computing, but who now want to move into the industry. It is designed to fit the current needs of employers with topics that include software development, networks, database systems and web development. You'll explore the fundamentals of computer science as well as the basic architecture of a modern-day computer system. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to undertake a placement (subject to availability) and put your skills into practice, enhancing your employability. You can find your own placements or develop professional practice projects, working in our Digital Incubator or research-based projects with one of our academic research teams.
Learning alongside other graduates in non-computing disciplines, you'll rapidly extend your knowledge and experience of fundamental computing concepts which are applicable to your future career.
By the end of the course, you'll have an expert understanding of the processes and knowledge that are needed to design, implement and support an IT system. You'll also be able to make a significant contribution to IT research activities as well as to team-based IT projects.
This highly practical course means you’ll have the opportunity to experience the latest technologies and tools used in industry, giving you the confidence to be productive and effective when you go out into the workplace.
Why us?
- This conversion course allows you to change the direction of your career, enabling you to gain a qualification in a new area
- The course includes practical experience throughout, enabling you to transfer your new skills to industry
- Sunderland was named Smart City of the Year 2020 (Digital Leaders UK). Boasting the second-fastest growth in digital turnover outside of London, Sunderland is the ideal city to study computing and set up a business
- The course is 100% coursework-based with no exams
- There is a strong employability focus with strong links with companies in the region, and our modules are created in collaboration with employers so you graduate with the key skills and knowledge to make an immediate impact in your career
Course structure
We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, group work, research, discussion groups, seminars, tutorials and practical laboratory sessions. Compared to an undergraduate course, you will find that this Masters requires a higher level of independent working.
Assessment is 100% coursework-based with no exams. Methods include individual written reports and research papers, practical assignments and the Masters project.
The placement element of the course will be assessed by a portfolio of evidence gathered during your work, regular logs of your progress, progress reviews and a final presentation or video.
Facilities
Sunderland’s outstanding IT facilities include the David Goldman Technology Centre, which has hundreds of computers so it’s easy to find a free workstation with the software you need.
We are also an accredited Cisco Academy and have two laboratories packed with Cisco networking equipment.
Career ready
This course features relevant work experience that will enhance your skills, build up a valuable network of contacts and boost your employability.
Career options
On completing this course you will be equipped as a skilled professional with essential up-to-date knowledge in computer networking and mobile communication technologies. You will also have advanced knowledge of systems development, including web-based and database systems development.
Our graduates have gone on to work in roles such as PHP Web Developer, Solutions Developer and JavaScript Developer, while others have continued their studies and undertaken PhDs and other research degrees.
Potential employment includes roles in:
- Internet and systems development
- Database administration and development
- User systems analysis and support
- Technical computing knowledge management
- Technical support
- Consultancy
- Research and education
Professional practice placement
This course provides you with the opportunity to undertake professional practice by either undertaking a placement in an industry organisation (subject to availability) or undertaking professional or relevant, research-based practice work.
The placement will allow you to develop your research, knowledge and technical skills, and will improve your interpersonal, team working and project management skills, boosting your academic performance and future employability prospects.
We cannot guarantee external placements for all students but will support you in securing these and will offer professional or research-based practice projects if an industrial placement is not possible.
My name is Kavisha Prince Anthony, and I always had a dream of studying abroad. Thankfully, that dream came to life since I applied to the Study Advisor. I was able to receive my visa within four days. I also had some visa refusals in the past; I had about six UK visa refusals in the past, but thankfully, it was not an issue since the Study Advisor was able to make things work this time. I highly recommend Study Advisor for your dreams of going abroad, whether it be the UK or any other European country there is.