STEM Computing and Communications

Study

Computing and Information Technology is the foundation to modern society and business. In this subject area we include specialism in computer science, data science, digital forensics, digital technologies, networking, software development and web development.

Our range of Computing and IT qualifications can be found in our online prospectus. For more information about studying Computing and Communications at the Open University, click on the links below. Our modules are supported by module team staff and by a large group of part-time associate lecturer staff based around the UK and Ireland.

Undergraduate

At undergraduate level, we offer several routes leading to a BSc honours degree:

• The BSc Computing and IT degree can be studied as a broad-based option, or you can specialise to concentrate on communications and networking, communications and software, or software.
• The BSc Data Science will equip you with the skills to explore and analyse complex data sets using applied mathematics, statistics and computing.
• The BSc Cybersecurity combines three sought-after streams of computing: networking, cyber security and digital forensics
• The foundation degree in Computing and IT practice can be followed by a top-up degree in Computing and IT Practice. The foundation degree is about acquiring skills and learning how to deploy them at work. The top-up degree will add skills and knowledge required to convert the foundation degree into a full BSc.
• The BSc Computing with Electronic Engineering is a combined degree which will enable you to develop skills and understanding in computing and electronics.
• The BSc Computing and IT with a second subject combines computing/IT modules with modules from one of the following subjects: business, design, mathematics, psychology or statistics.

You can also incorporate Computing modules into an Combined STEM degree or an Open degree.

We also offer a range of Diplomas and Certificates of Higher Education.

Higher Technical Qualifications

We offer Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) in Network Engineering and in Software Development. These qualifications are approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. They are based on the same employer-developed occupational standards as apprenticeships, but do not require employment as an apprentice.

Postgraduate

We offer one taught postgraduate degree:

• The MSc Computing is an industry-relevant qualification that provides a rigorous approach to the study and application of computing, covering a range of topics and incorporating transferable skills applicable to professional development. You can choose between the flexible route (offering a wide choice of modules to suit your needs) and the more focused software engineering route or information security and forensics route, (which enable you to develop in-depth specialist knowledge). All three routes finish with a substantial independent project that will either have a professional or research orientation.

You can also incorporate Computing modules into an Open MA or MSc degree.

Research degrees

We offer both full-time and part-time PhD and MPhil degrees on research projects related to our main thematic research areas. Browse our research pages to discover some of the things we do.

Teaching underpinned by research

The Open University doesn’t just teach: it’s a global leader in research and innovation too, with OU research and development ranking in the top third of UK universities. The Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics has a long and distinguished record of conducting high quality, internationally leading research. These researchers contribute to our state of the art curriculum material ensuring our teaching is up to date, informed by scientific research.

Miriam Fernandez

Professor Of Responsible Artificial Intelligence

OU Analyse

OU Analyse is a system powered by machine learning methods for early identification of students at risk of failing. All students with their risk of failure in their next assignment are updated weekly and made available to the course tutors…

Damian Dadswell

Senior Manager, Software Engineering Services