Faculty of
Informatics & Computer Science

Academic Overview
Why Computer Networks?
Programme Features
Curriculum
Academic Overview

Prof. Amal El Nahas

Acting Computer Networks Coordinator

Programme Overview

This specialization is designed to give you knowledge of both wired and wireless technology to enable you to enter a career in this fast-paced industry. Graduates of the Computer Networks degree specialization will gain sound understanding of the constructs, architecture and design of networks and data communication systems. This degree option emphasizes the analysis, design, and management of the software and hardware that control digital networks, as well as the skills necessary to set-up, administer and maintain such networks.

The Advanced modules specific to the specialisations are as follows:

  • Computer Networks.
  • Data Communication Protocols.
  • Network Management and Operation.
  • Wireless and Mobile Computing.
  • Security and Privacy.

Job options

Jobs directly related to your degree include:

  • Network engineer consultant
  • Network administrator

The first 5 semesters are common, Prep year and degree year 1.

Minimum Requirements

Admission to the programme: In accordance with the University’s regulations as defined in Section 1 of the General Academic Regulations.

Admission to specialisation: The Faculty Council determines at the end of the first semester of Year 2 (level-5) the number of students for each specialisation according to the availability of educational resources. A student is admitted to a specialisation according to:

  • Overall GPA of Degree-Year-1
  • His/her marks in the designated modules for the specialisation: “Introduction to computer networks and data communication” module (CSCN01I)
Why Computer Networks?

Why Computer Networks?

Mission

The mission of the Computer Networks undergraduate programme is to develop students’ breadth of knowledge across the subject areas of Computer Networks, including their ability to apply the defining processes of computing theories, abstraction, design, and implementation to solve problems in the discipline. The programme structure prepares students for professional practice and continuing professional development in the evolving IT and computing industry. The programme’s long-term goal is to be recognised for its quality and innovation at national, regional and international levels

Programme aims

The programme aims at preparing the students for professional practice and continuing professional development in the evolving IT, computing industry, and especially in the field of Computer Networks. The programme’s long-term goal is to be recognised for its quality and innovation at national, regional and international levels. Graduates of the Computer Networks degree specialisation should gain sound understanding of the constructs, architecture and design of wire-line as well as wireless networks and data communication systems. This degree option emphasizes the analysis, design, and management of computer networks, as well as the skills necessary to design and install such networks efficiently and securely. The skills acquired will enable the students to understand how computer hardware and software work together to provide a platform for solving problems encountered in the field.

Program Specification
1 Programme title Computer Networks (CN)
2 Name of the final award BSc with Honours
3 Awarding body/institution The British University in Egypt (BUE)
4 Faculty Informatics and Computer Science (ICS)
5 Department Computer Networks (CN)
6 Dean Prof. Omar Karam
7 Head of Department Associate Prof. Amal El-Nahas
8 Programme Director Associate Prof. Abeer Hamdy
9 Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body Accreditation The programme is accredited by the Egyptian Supreme Council of Universities (SCU); the Informatics and Computing Sector for all the specialisations on a periodical base.
10 Last revision date March 2017
Programme Features

Programme Features

The BUE delivers programmes based on a British philosophy of education. These results in programmes that are very much focused on student learning rather than those that deliver the subject material. Graduates from UK programmes typically exhibit:

  • The ability to think creatively and with strong problem-solving skills;
  • High-level key and transferable skill sets;
  • The ability to maintain independently a high level of professional and subject specific competence (often through Continuous Professional Development);
  • Technical competence;
  • The ability to conceptualise problems at a high level;
  • Diligent and ethical working practices;
  • The ability to work both independently and as part of a team;
  • Flexibility and the ability to apply their subject specific knowledge to fields outside their own;

Other distinctive features of the programme include:

  • Tailored to local market needs that are unique in the region;
  • Modules are updated frequently;
  • Research oriented modules are encouraged to help students learn to develop solutions independently under the supervision of our teaching staff;
  • Opportunities for summer training as part of the degrees.

The relatively modest annual student intake number of the Informatics and Computer Science faculty means that every undergraduate receives individual attention. With the tutorials and small class teaching system, the faculty strives for personal development as well as academic attainment. Informatics and Computer Science students will graduate with an impressive array of practical problem-solving skills and extensive transferable skills, which will make them highly sought-after professionals both in industry and continued academic research.

The BUE’ Mission is to be the leading provider of high quality UK style education in the MENA region. The University is committed to ensuring UK validation of its programmes and to ensure a student experience that is in line with UK standards. Built on top of institutional quality, assurance is subject level validation and the Faculty is committed to ensuring that its UK validating partners confirm that its degree programme is in line with UK standards.

The Informatics and Computer Science faculty will also be seeking accreditation from the British Computer Society (BCS), the UK’s leading professional body for computing and IT professionals. The Society is able to consider higher education programmes for accreditation leading to Chartered IT Professional (CITP), Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and/or Chartered Scientist (CSci) status. For further information on the BCS please refer to http://www.BCS.org/. Accredited degree programmes are the preferred and fast track routes for those who aim to obtain the professional qualification required to achieve such status.

In addition to these attributes, the Faculty of ICS has successfully been accredited by the Egyptian National Authority for Quality Assurance and Accreditation of Education (NAQAAE) and was the first faculty of Informatics and Computer Science in Egypt to achieve this accreditation.

At the time of writing this and to the best of our knowledge, this combination of a programme based on a learning culture fostering key and transferable skill sets in addition to technical ones, together with academic and professional accreditation, makes our programme in Informatics and Computer Science quite unique in both Egypt and the surrounding region.

+ Subject benchmark statements and other external and internal reference points
+ The graduate attributes
The graduates should be able to:
  1. Apply the fundamental theories and principles of computing and information.
  2. Integrate and evaluate the computing tools and facilities.
  3. Apply knowledge of mathematics and science.
  4. Design computing systems, components and processes to meet the required needs within realistic constraints.
  5. Exploit the techniques, skills and up-to-date computing tools, necessary for computing and information practice.
  6. Display professional responsibilities and ethical, societal and cultural concerns
  7. Use, compare and evaluate a range of formal and informal techniques, theories and methods to develop computing and information applications.
  8. Consider and deal with the individual, social, environmental, organizational and economic implications of the application of computing and information.
  9. Carry out a work plan with minimal supervision.
  10. Communicate effectively.
  11. Hold knowledge and skills required by the computing and information industry.
  12. Engage in self and life-long learning and research in computing and information.
  13. Fulfil requirements of potential employers.
  14. Have deep knowledge of the required technologies to build different types of networking systems.
  15. Use efficient methodologies, techniques and appropriate tools to design, construct, manage, maintain computer networks and evaluate their performance.
+ Programme outcomes

The programme provides opportunities for the students to develop and demonstrate skills as follows:

  1. Knowledge and Understanding
    On successful completion of this programme, students should acquire the knowledge and understanding of:
    A1. Essential facts, concepts, principles, basic sciences and theories related to computing and information applications. [QAA-C2,C3; BCS-C1; NARS-K1]
    A2. Tools, practices and methodologies used in the specification, modelling, designing, implementing and evaluating software and computing systems bearing in mind the trade-offs. [QAA-C4,C6; BCS-C2; NARS-K3, K2]
    A3. Technical specifications, practical constraints and commercial requirements for computing systems development. [QAA-C5; NARS-K11]
    A4. Scientific method and its applications for problem solving in the computing area. [QAA-C2; BCS-C1; NARS-K4]
    A5. The extent to which a computer-based system meets the criteria defined for its current use and future development. [QAA-C6; BCS-C4; NARS-K5]
    A6. The current and underlying technologies that support computer processing and inter-computer communication. [NARS-K6]
    A7. Principals of generating tests which investigate the functionality of computer programs and systems as well as evaluating their results. [QAA-C6, C7; BCS-C5; NARS-K7]
    A8. Management, economic, social, and environmental issues relevant to computing and information disciplines. [QAA-C8, NARS-K8]
    A9. Professional, moral and ethical issues involved in the exploitation of computer technology and the appropriate professional, ethical and legal practices relevant to the computing and information industry. [QAA-C8; BCS-C6; NARS-K9]
    A10. Current developments in computing and information research. [NARS-K10]
    A11. Different network technologies in terms of their types: wired/wireless, as well as size: local/wide along with the corresponding protocols. [NARS (CN) – K1,K5,K7,K8,K10,K11]
    A12. Aspects related to analyse, organize, and secure data and networks. [NARS (CN) – K6]
  2. Intellectual Skills
    On successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:
    B1. Consider computational thinking including its relevance to everyday life. [QAAC1]
    B2. Analyze computing problems and provide solutions related to the design, construction and evaluation of computing systems. .[QAA-C7, NARS-I1]
    B3. Explain the concepts, principles, theories, architecture, practices and tools behind computing, computers, computer networks and information as an academic discipline. [QAA-C7; BCS-C5; NARS-I2]
    B4. Identify criteria to measure and interpret the appropriateness of a computer system to a specific problem, and plan strategies for current deployment and future evolution. [QAA-C5; BCS-C4; NARS-I3]
    B5. Analyze and critically evaluate the performance of computer systems, techniques, algorithms and processes taking into account limitations, trade-offs and quality constraints. [QAA-C4; BCS-C3; NARS-I4]
    B6. Choose ideas, proposals, models and designs using rational and reasoned arguments for presentation of computing systems. [QAA-C4; BCS-C3; NARS-I5]
    B7. Evaluate the results of tests to investigate the functionality of computer systems. [QAA-C6,C7; NARS-I6]
    B8. Achieve judgments considering balanced costs, benefits, safety, quality, reliability, and environmental impact. [NARS-I7]
    B9. Appraise the professional, legal, economic, social, environmental, moral and ethical issues relevant to the computing industry and be guided by the adoption of good practices. [QAA-C8; BCS-C6; NARS-I8]
    B10. Evaluate research papers in a range of knowledge areas. [NARS-I9]
    B11. Derive requirements for a computer networking istallation and evaluate different communication systems, security techniques, and network protocols. [NARS (CN) – I2,I3,I7,I8,I9, I10]
    B12. Analyse traffic flow in a computer network and critically appraise the performance and operation of communication technologies to optimize their performance. [NARS (CN) – I6,I9,I11,I12]
  3. Practical and Professional Skills
    On successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:
    C1. Operate computing equipment, recognizing its logical and physical properties, capabilities and limitations. [QAA-P5; BCS-P5; NARS-P1]
    C2. Use appropriate programming languages, web-based systems and tools, design methodologies, principles of human-computer interaction and database systems to solve computer-based problems. [QAA-P1; BCS-P1; NARS-P2]
    C3. Plan and manage projects to deliver regular and complex computing systems including those with incomplete information, constraints of requirements, devices, timescale and budget. [QAA-P3, P6]
    C4. Deploy the equipment and tools used for the construction, maintenance and documentation of computer applications and information systems. [QAA-P5; BCS-P1, P4; NARS-P3]
    C5. Apply the principles of effective information retrieval, acquisition, information management, organization, and information-retrieval to text, images, sound and video in computing community environment and industry. [NARS-P4]
    C6. Develop a range of fundamental research skills, through the use of online resources, technical repositories and library-based material. [NARS-P5]
    C7. Design, implement, maintain and manage software systems. [QAA-P1; BCS-P1; NARS-P6]
    C8. Construct systems taking into consideration quality attributes and possible tradeoffs presented within the given problem. [QAA-P2; BCS-P2]
    C9. Assess the implications, risks or safety aspects involved in the operation of computing equipment within a specific context. [QAA-P4, P5; BCS-P3; NARSP7]
    C10. Handle a mass of diverse data, assess risk and draw conclusions. [ NARS-P8]
    C11. Use effective tools and use suitable network protocol, security algorithms to develop different types of computer networks within commercial and industrial constrains. [NARS (CN) – P6,P8,P9,P11]
    C12. Plan, design, manage, evaluate, troubleshoot and maintain network-based systems with high technical performance. [NARS (CN) – P3,P5,P7,P10]
  4. General and Transferable Skills
    On successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:
    D1. Demonstrate the ability to make use of a range of learning resources, to manage one’s own learning, to act on initiative and to innovate. [QAA-T3, T5; BCS-T2; NARS-T1]
    D2. Demonstrate skills in group collaboration, team management and leadership, negotiation to mutually acceptable decisions, time management, and organizational skills. [QAA-T5; BCS-T1; NARS-T2]
    D3. Retrieve information effectively including the use of browsers, search engines, libraries and digital resources. [BCS-T2; NARS-T3]
    D4. Use an appropriate mix of tools and aids in preparing and presenting grammatically correct, appropriately referenced reports for a range of audiences, including management, technical, users, industry or the academic community. [QAA-T4; BCS-T2; NARS-T4]
    D5. Exhibit appropriate numeracy skills in understanding and presenting cases involving a quantitative dimension. [QAA-T2; NARS-T5]
    D6. Reveal communication skills, public speaking and presentation skills, and also delegation, writing skills, oral delivery, and effectively using various media for a variety of audiences. [QAA-T1, T4; NARS-T6]
    D7. Use general computing and IT facilities effectively. [NARS-T7]
    D8. Demonstrate an appreciation of the need of self-awareness, self-management, goal setting, action planning, and professional development for life-long learning. [QAA-T3; NARS-T8]
    D9. Develop skills for critical thinking, making a case, presenting rational and reasoned arguments that address a given problem or opportunity, to a range of audiences (orally, electronically or in writing).[QAA-T2, T4; BCS-T2]
    D10. Understand and meet the needs of individuals, business and the community, and understand how workplaces and organizations are governed. [QAA-T6; BCS-T2]
    D11. Recognize factors in environmental and societal contexts relating to the opportunities and challenges created by computing systems across a range of human activities. [QAA-T7]
+ An overview of teaching, learning and assessment strategies

A. Learning and teaching methods

The programme is using student centred approaches, where students are encouraged to undertake independent reading both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. Intellectual and practical and key skills are acquired, developed and reinforced continually throughout the programme. Targeted delivery may come from a variety of sources such as lectures, tutorials, problem-solving classes, laboratory exercises, coursework exercises and self-study and particularly through project work undertaken both in groups and individually. Further support is gained through study skills delivered as a matter of policy within both the English language programme and relevant individual modules offered by other programmes at BUE.

B. Assessment

Learning outcomes are tested and assessed throughout the programme using a variety of forms, which are based on the NARS and QAA Computing Benchmark and typically include a combination of unseen written examinations, unseen open-book written examinations, unseen multiple-choice examinations, written examinations based on previewed material, open-book written examinations based on laboratory exercises, oral examinations on laboratory exercises, oral examinations on project work, computer aided assessments, unseen coursework tests, open-book coursework tests, coursework assignments, design studies, essays and reports, laboratory logbooks, laboratory formal reports, project reports and/or papers, oral presentations and visual presentations.

Coursework forms a particularly important part of the assessment. This method of assessment can be used to strongly motivate independent learning, to improve student planning and time management skills and to develop the comprehension and usage of technical English.

Examinations show how well the student can demonstrate their mastery of an area of scholarly knowledge by selecting appropriate material from memory and applying it to unseen questions in a limited time period. Coursework allows the student to demonstrate a wider academic skill of focused scholarly research, drafting, editing and polished writing.

Practical skills are tested and assessed throughout the programme using a combination of coursework assignments, design studies, project reports and/or papers, project logbooks and work placement reports.

+ Programme structure, levels, modules, credits and awards

The programme provides opportunities for the students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, abilities and skills in the following areas quoted from the Computing benchmark NARS and QAA. Advanced modules are offered as stated in the details of programme structure:

  1. Algorithms and Complexity
  2. Architecture and Organisation
  3. Discrete Structures
  4. Human Computer Interaction
  5. Information Assurance and Security
  6. Networking and Communications
  7. Operating Systems
  8. Platform-based Development
  9. Programming Languages
  10. Software Development Fundamentals
  11. Software Engineering
  12. Systems Fundamentals
  13. Social and Professional Issues
  14. Communication Protocols
  15. Network Management and Operation
  16. Network Design
  17. Wireless and Mobile Computing
+ Entry requirements, assessment regulations and support for learning
Entry requirements

Admission to the programme: In accordance with the University’s regulations as defined in Section 1 of the General Academic Regulations.

Admission to specialisation: The Faculty Council determines at the end of the first semester of Year 2 (level-5) the number of students for each specialisation according to the availability of educational resources. A student is admitted to the Computer Networks specialisation according to:
  • Overall GPA of Degree-Year-1
  • His/her marks in: “Introduction to computer networks and data communication” module (CSCN01I)
Assessment regulations

In accordance with the University’s regulations on assessment and progression, as defined in the Undergraduate Academic Regulations.

Support for learning

The available learning resources are as follows:

  • Personal Tutoring.
  • Office hours.
  • The library.
  • University Welfare Counsellor.
  • Free internet access through labs and Wi-Fi.
  • E-Learning system.
  • Programming Help-Desk.

These learning resources facilitate self paced learning and provide the students with greater interaction and collaboration both with themselves and with their teachers. Students can study wherever they have access to a computer and Internet at their own pace. Module leaders encourage students to peruse information by posting hyperlinks and sites on the eLearning. Also, forums help group learning as students share what they know with others. E-Learning can accommodate different learning styles and facilitate learning through a variety of activities such as online quizzes, wikis and workshops. The BUE eLearning site http://learn.bue.edu.eg/

+ Programme management

The Dean is responsible for overseeing all Faculty strategies design, write-up and following up of their execution including modules delivery and Module Leader performance in addition to the day to day operation of the Faculty.

The Vice Dean for Teaching and Learning is responsible for overseeing all teaching and learning activities including schedules and all related resources in addition to all programme specifications and content.

The Module Leaders are in charge of managing and executing the Module delivery including task distribution for their specific TAs. They are responsible for all assessment design, marking and mark entry.

The Programme Director coordinates all efforts regarding the academic Programme specifications and content. His/her duties include monitoring student performance and feedback.

The FTLC discusses, approves and recommends to the Faculty Council and to the UTLC all matters regarding Teaching and Learning and Programme and Module Specifications and Content.

Managing the quality cycle is distributed amongst the Dean, the Vice Deans and the Senior Assistant Registrar.

Curriculum

Levels, modules, credits and awards

The Computer Networks specialisation degree is offered as a full-time, four-year programme. In each year, students study modules with a combined weight of 120 credits delivered over two 15-week semesters; where week 13 is a revision week, and weeks 14-15 are final assessment weeks at the end of each semester.

The programme is divided into module teaching units, which are each assigned a credit weighting. A typical 10-credit module requires approximately 100 hours of student effort, which usually includes around 33 hours of contact time. The remaining time is required for course work and tutorial completion, self-directed study and assessment. Each semester contains the equivalent of 60 credits.

Modules that are delivered in one semester have their assessment completed within the semester in which they are taught, with formal examinations (where applicable) taking place in weeks 14 to 15.

The programme is structured such that formal examinations can take place at the end of each semester. The first five semesters are common across the four BSc degree specialisations programme and concentrate on developing students’ skills in programming, mathematical foundations of computing, analysis and design, the fundamentals of computing systems, as well as advancing students’ practical and interpersonal and teamwork skills through group projects and presentations.

Students choose a specialisation after successfully completing the first five semesters of the programme. Their final year contains a substantial piece of project work and further widening of knowledge and skills through additional taught material.

All students have the option of taking one module in industry (for 10 credits) between the 3rd and 4th taught years and select options from a range of modules in the 4th year. Students may select their optional modules across specialisation areas provided they have sufficient foundational and background knowledge that will enable them to successfully achieve the intended learning objectives for each module selected. For full details of the programme content, refer to the ICS Module Specifications

Notes:
  • The data is presented in the following order: module code, title, number of credits, level, and semester(s) of delivery.
  • If a different programme is approved from that currently offered at the University a migration and transition strategy will be formulated so as to ensure that the students are not disadvantaged.
  • Modules in the optional listing may also have been offered to one or more of the specialisation degrees. They are listed as optional to provide flexibility for students to select topics across specialisation disciplines.
Prep Year (120 credits at level P, Common for all Specialisation)
Module Name: Introduction to Information Systems
Code: CSIS01P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 1
Aim: The module is intended to provide a broad introductory understanding of information systems, seen within organisational and societal contexts. The aim is to provide students with an appropriate balance of technical and organisational perspectives to serve as the basis for further study in the field.
Module Name: Introduction to Computing
Code: CSCI01P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of the module is to introduce the principles of structured programming. The module shows a clear view of loading, compiling and executing a program through the hardware components. It develops the ability to choose an appropriate problem-solving method for developing an algorithmic solution of a problem.
Module Name: Humanities
Code: CSCI04P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 1
Aim: This module aims to help the student to: understand why philosophy is studied, and the way in which it seeks systematically to examine and question the assumptions which guide our lives. In particular it will look at the problems of replicating human qualities in machines and the developments of a digital world. It looks to improve critical thinking ability.
Module Name: Mathematics for Computer Scientists I
Code: SCIB06P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 1
Aim: The aim(s) of this module is / are to ensure that all ICS students have a basic knowledge and understanding of elementary mathematics and also provide basic cognitive and practical skills required for future study.
Module Name: Discrete Mathematics
Code: SCIB09P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 1
Aim: The aim(s) of this module is / are to provide the necessary mathematical foundation for further university degree studies in Computer Science. Students will find that the concepts of discrete mathematics and problems requiring the techniques of discrete mathematics occur throughout the Computer Science field.
Module Name: Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving
Code: CSCI02P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of the module is to introduce the advanced concepts of structured programming. These concepts include the simple and structured data types, data abstraction and classes. The students are expected to use these concepts to develop an efficient computer programs for problems.
Module Name: Principles of Web Programming
Code: CSCI03P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of this module is to provide the student with the essentials of web design principles using latest version of mark-up and styling languages and to present web design concepts and techniques that form the underlying aspects of web design.
Module Name: Scientific Thinking
Code: CSCI05P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 2
Aim: The module is designed to cover the non-technical aspects of science and technology, and emphasise the unifying aspects of the scientific approach to the study of nature and human behaviour. The module focuses on delivering some understanding of the human cognitive process and the different methods by which science discovers new knowledge and applies it into practice, as well as, how such understanding is essential to functioning effectively in modern society.
Module Name: Mathematics for Computer Scientists II
Code: SCIB07P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 2
Aim: The aim(s) of this module is / are to ensure that all ICS students will have a basic knowledge and understanding of elementary mathematics and also provide basic cognitive and practical skills required for future study.
Module Name: Physics – Electricity and Magnetism
Code: SCIB08P Credits: 10 Level: S Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of this module is to provide the students with the basic principles of physics required to enter the computer science field.
Year 1 (120 credits at level C, Common for all Specialisation)
Module Name: Object Orientated Programming
Code: CSCI02C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 1
Aim: This module extends the student’s basic procedural design and programming knowledge into the object-oriented paradigm. The student will be expected to learn and apply the basic concepts of object-oriented design and programming, i.e. abstraction, inheritance, and polymorphism, in the context of the C++ language. Key software engineering principles such as decomposition and component re-use will also be emphasised.
Module Name: Human Computer Interaction
Code: CSCI09C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester:1
Aim: The aim of the module is to impart an understanding about the use of Human Computer Interaction – HCI methods and techniques to identify issues of communication between computers and people, to identify and analyse interaction strengths and weaknesses, apply appropriate HCI theories and practices to the design, implementation, and evaluation of interfaces and design (or re-design), test and evaluate an interface.
Module Name: Electronics and Digital Circuits
Code: CSCI10C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of this module is to let the students be familiarized with the impact of electronics on the progress of different IT fields and to acquaint the student with the basics of signal processing and the related circuit-analysis and design. Furthermore; the students will be provided with an advanced treatment of digital design in the context of an introduction to the design of VLSI systems. Students are introduced to a design methodology which encompasses the range from logic models and circuit simulations to high-level specification techniques. Practical applications in modern familiar digital devices are presented.
Module Name: Technical Writing
Code: CSCI12C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 1
Aim: The purpose of this module is to provide the computing students with all basic concepts that give them guidance and practice in the key skills of oral and written communication, especially those needed for technical reports and papers.
Module Name: Database Systems
Code: CSIS03C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of the module is to give students a sound understanding of the theoretical concepts and practical issues that influence the design and implementation of database systems and associated querying languages, and build an appreciation of the role of database systems in information management. The module integrates database theory with a hands-on approach to database design and implementation considering both the theory and the applied design and implementation issues involved.
Module Name: Probabilities and Statistics
Code: SCIB03C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 1
Aim: The aim(s) of this module is / are to provide necessary mathematical foundation in probability and statistics for computer scientists
Module Name: Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithm Design
Code: CSCI01C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of the module is to introduce the concepts of data structures and algorithm design and provide a foundation for advanced studies in computer science. The main focus is on the use of data structures and abstraction methods, both in terms of data representation and algorithmic access.
Module Name: Programming in Java
Code: CSCI04C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of this module is to provide basic grounding in Java language programming and lay a firm foundation from which other modules, that require Java programming, may rely upon. Students will learn to write moderately complex Java code, understand the basics of the language API, and development practices (the object-oriented development process, test-driven development, and refactoring).
Module Name: Introduction to Embedded Systems
Code: CSCI11C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 2
Aim: This course aims to introduce the student to a broad overview of the techniques and challenges involved in designing embedded systems, focusing in particular on microcontroller based embedded systems. The ultimate aim of the module is to provide the students with the hardware and software skills necessary to create microcontroller based embedded systems for use in real world applications.
Module Name: Legal and Professional Issues in Computing
Code: CSCI13C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of the module is to give students an informed awareness of the principal issues of professional ethics and responsibility in the design, implementation and use of computer and information systems. The module also aims to help in the recognition of ethical problems when they occur, and to enable students to deal effectively with ethical, legal and professional issues now and in their future careers.
Module Name: Software Engineering I
Code: CSSE01C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 2
Aim: The module aims at giving students a thorough introduction to software engineering topics in a way that enables them to understand and assess the potential, limitations and the factors critical to the successful development of a software project on an organisational level.
Module Name: Numerical Techniques
Code: SCIB05C Credits: 10 Level: C Semester: 2
Aim: The aim(s) of this module is/are to ensure that all students will have a basic knowledge and understanding of how to set up and solve mathematical problems numerically.
Year 2 (120 credits at level I)
First Semester

(Common for all specialisations)

Module Name: Analysis of Algorithms
Code: CSCI01I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of the module is to enable students to analyse the amount of resources needed to solve a given computational problem and to compare the efficiency of using different algorithms in addressing and solving the problem.
Module Name: Operating Systems
Code: CSCI03I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of this module is to provide a broad introduction into the basic concepts and constructs of operating systems – OS. It also provides students with a solid background in the principles that underlie the design and function of modern operating systems. Develop sound knowledge and understanding of the basic OS components and the general principles of OS implementation. Operating systems like Linux, Windows and MSDOS are used to reinforce this understanding.
Module Name: Software Project Management
Code: CSCI08I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of the module is to provide an understanding of the methodologies, considerations and issues particular to software projects management. The module provides knowledge and hands-on experience of the techniques practiced and tools used to plan and manage software projects in its different stages. The module further aims to build basic project management skills by highlighting the concepts of team building, organizational behaviour, motivational theories, and of the role of good management in the successful and timely delivery of software projects.
Module Name: Computer Architecture
Code: CSCI10I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of the module is to provide an understanding of the methodologies, considerations and issues particular to software projects management. The module provides knowledge and hands-on experience of the techniques practiced and tools used to plan and manage software projects in its different stages. The module further aims to build basic project management skills by highlighting the concepts of team building, organizational behaviour, motivational theories, and of the role of good management in the successful and timely delivery of software projects.The module aims to impart fundamental knowledge of modern computer architectures in terms of instruction set architecture, organisation and hardware. It develops an understanding of the architectural features and the principles of operation of modern microprocessors and peripheral devices. The module further seeks to provide a sound understanding in the following:

  • The main families of microprocessors and their differences;
  • How computers execute their programs at machine instruction level; and
  • Principles of the practical design of processor architectures and how design features influence machine coding and performance features.
Module Name: Introduction to Computer Networks and Data Communication
Code: CSCN01I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 1
Aim: The aim of the module is to develop a structured approach in analysing the components and overall interconnection of networks in an abstract way. It provides the students with basic concepts of data transfers over interconnected networks. The module also aims at addressing many techniques and applications of computer networks and protocols, as well as the analysis of the functionality and purpose of essential networking devices. Internet is considered as a case study.
Module Name: Systems Analysis and Design
Code: CSIS01I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 1
Aim: The aim(s) of this module is to provide the students with the chance to experience the recent issues and trends, the important aspects in software development of different software systems including interactive applications and computer games. Experiencing these issues, the students then will appreciate the systematic and organized way to develop software of specific nature like games.
Second Semester
Module Name: Internet Programming
Code: CSCI04I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of this module is to provide students with advanced level education in theory and practice relating to Internet technologies. The module also introduces techniques for programming and Internet development, including the ability to critically assess and carry out various implementation approaches. Building on this practical foundation, the module addresses both client side and server side scripting as well as developing database-driven web applications.
Module Name: Legal and Professional Issues in Computing
Code: CSCI09I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of the module is to give students an informed awareness of the principal issues of professional ethics and responsibility in the design, implementation and use of computer and information systems. The module also aims to help in the recognition of ethical problems when they occur, and to enable students to deal effectively with ethical, legal and professional issues now and in their future careers.
Module Name: Operations Research
Code: SCIB04I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of this module is to introduce various aspects of Operations Research to ICS students, with special emphasis on modelling.
Module Name: Distributed Systems
Code: CSCI07I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 2
Aim: The module aims at explaining the fundamental principles of distributed systems, their design and implementation. Students are provided with sound theoretical knowledge, and sufficient practical experience with the tools and techniques currently available in distributed programming. These tools and techniques are necessary to develop distributed system solutions for a broad range of applications over heterogeneous computer networks.
Module Name: Network Programming
Code: CSCN04I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 2
Aim: This course aims at introducing the development of network applications and software on the Internet. It introduces the student to the different concepts of computer network programming, with focus on transport layer and client/server networking.
Module Name: Networks Communication Protocols
Code: CSCN03I Credits: 10 Level: I Semester: 2
Aim: The aim of this module is to provide students with detailed knowledge and working understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of network communication protocol operation, design, as well as routing protocols. The module will be using the Internet as a running case study, introduces a formal notation for writing networking protocols and provides hands-on experience implementing them.
Year 3 (120 credits at level H)
Code Title Credit Level Semester
CSCN21H Wireless Networks 10 H 1
CSCI02H Modelling and Simulation 10 H 1
CSCI03H Entrepreneurship and Innovation 10 H 1
CSCI13H Graduation Project 30 H 1 & 2
Option – 1 10 H 1
Option – 2 10 H 1
CSCN25H Local/Wide Area Networks 10 H 2
CSCI34H Computer Systems Security 10 H 2
Option – 3 10 H 2
Option – 4 10 H 2
Optional Modules

Compulsory modules for any specialisation are available as optional modules for other specialisations, where each module has its own prerequisite that should be satisfied, the following optional modules will be offered subject to availability and sufficient student numbers.

Code Title Credit Level Semester
CSCI20H Advanced Human Computer Interaction 10 H 1 or 2
cSCI22H Expert Systems 10 H 1 or 2
CSCI24H Industrial Training 10 H Summer
CSCI25H Software Agents Concepts and Design 10 H 1 or 2
CSCI28H Computer Games Software Development 10 H 1 or 2
CSCI32H Advanced Operating Systems 10 H 1 or 2
CSCI36H Bioinformatics 10 H 1 or 2
CSSE20H Secure Computer System Design 10 H 1 or 2
CSSE21H Quantitative Methods in Software Engineering. 10 H 1 or 2
CSSE22H Software Engineering for Web Applications 10 H 1 or 2
CSSE23H Requirements Engineering 10 H 1 or 2
CSIS01H Data Mining and Warehousing 10 H 1 or 2
CSIS21H Geographic Information Systems (GIS) 10 H 1 or 2
CSIS22H Advanced Database Systems 10 H 1 or 2
CSCN20H Network Management and Operation 10 H 1 or 2
CSCN03H Principles of Network Design 10 H 1 or 2
CSCN24H Mobile Computing 10 H 1 or 2

We have deliberately made explicit the connection between the learning objectives of this programme and those of the EC-UK , the BCS, IET, ACM and IEEE Computer Society.

The curriculum and regulations of this programme are required to satisfy the Egyptian Supreme Council for Higher Education’s regulations for Computer Science degrees. In addition, they adhere to the precepts stipulated by the UK Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) in its Academic Qualifications Framework for Higher Education (AQF). Unlike UK programmes, the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education requires that study for a computing degree will occupy a minimum of four years. At BUE this is split into two parts – a preparatory year common across all faculty programme specialisations followed by a three year programme leading to the award of a degree. This document describes the content of the four-year programme.

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