INU0130 : Computing Science with Cybersecurity
INU0130 : Computing Science with Cybersecurity
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Tanya Morgan
- Co-Module Leader: Mr Keith Howlett
- Lecturer: Mr Karl Rautenbach, Dr Sirio Orozco Fuentes
- Owning School: INTO Newcastle University
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 20 |
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 20.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
None
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
None
Aims
To provide students with a comprehensive foundation in key computing concepts for computing systems, including hardware, software, data science, networking and cybersecurity.
Outline Of Syllabus
· Computer architecture, representing numbers, text and other media
· Logic
· Algorithms, computational thinking, simulations, and machine learning
· Relational databases
· Data science
· Networks and the Internet
· Cyber security
· Agile Software Development
· Object oriented programming
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
On satisfactory completion of the module students should be able to:
• Specify, design, develop and test object-oriented software to carry out a specific function using an Agile development methodology.
• Design and normalise a relational database to third normal form and query the database using Structured Query Language.
• Apply representation of numbers, text, sound and images to computing systems.
• Analyse the functions of computing system components in the context of modern computing architectures.
• Analyse the characteristics of networks and the Internet and their communications protocols.
• Apply the principles of cyber-security to design effective countermeasures to common cyber security attacks.
• Evaluate the properties of data structures, algorithms and design patterns used to create software systems and analyse the time and storage efficiency of an algorithm.
• Apply key concepts in data science to perform data analysis.
• Critically evaluate and debate the implications of computer use to society and the environment in context of cyber security.
Intended Skill Outcomes
After completing the module students should be able to demonstrate:
• Develop software to carry out a specified function.
• Design a computing system to carry out a specific function.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 95:00 | 95:00 | Portfolio 2 |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | Lecture (in person) |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 1 | 8:00 | 8:00 | Formative Assessments |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 65:00 | 65:00 | Portfolio 1 |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 44 | 2:00 | 88:00 | Computer work |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | Tutorials |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 20 | 5:00 | 100:00 | N/A |
| Total | 400:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The lecture materials introduce students to the required topics and provide a foundation for each subject.
Small group work with practical activities and discussion is used for consolidation and further exploration of the subject areas.
The portfolio of individual and group coursework allows students to further consolidate their knowledge and apply it to the analysis and evaluation of computing systems.
Programming coursework allows students to gain practice in designing and implementing computer systems and in finding software and hardware solutions to problems they encounter.
Formative assessment and feedback give guidance and develop student engagement.
Structured independent study helps to prepare students for university by developing their self-regulated learning skills.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portfolio | 1 | M | 40 | Portfolio of evidence of learning - two 30 minute Canvas quizzes - 14 questions each and two 5 minute programming presentations |
| Portfolio | 2 | M | 60 | Portfolio of evidence of learning - four 30 minute Canvas quizzes - 14 questions each and four 5 minute programming presentations |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer assessment | 1 | M | Computer based test of theoretical knowledge. |
| Computer assessment | 2 | M | Computer based test of theoretical knowledge. |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The portfolios assess the ability of the students to implement the knowledge gained from lectures and private study. Feedback following each piece of work will help learning in this area of study. The assessment is weighted heavier in Semester 2 to allow students to develop their knowledge base.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- INU0130's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- INU0130's past Exam Papers
General Notes
Original Handbook text:
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.
You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.
Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.