A new undergraduate computing degree is among the first developments in a significant extension to the computing curriculum now underway at the Open University.

The BSc (Hons) in Computing is at the heart of an overhauled suite of computing courses that will completely renew core courses and introduce seven new courses over the next three years.

The introduction of the new courses will be a timely one. As the importance of continuing professional development strengthens across the sector, students are increasingly realising the benefits of studying to enhance their skills and boost their career prospects.

Specialist options, for example, will offer students the opportunity to focus on application areas such as internet computing, artificial intelligence and databases.

Successful students of the OU computing degree will also develop valuable analytical skills, expertise in programming and the skills needed for the design and management of software systems – all essential facets in the business world.

And with the opportunity that the Open University offers to earn while learning, students can apply the knowledge they gain in their work environments immediately. Seven in every ten OU students take courses while continuing to work.
The new BSc (Hons) in Computing will also give its students experience in teamwork and collaboration – vital skills, too, in an increasingly competitive workplace. Individual project work undertaken during the degree will prove to be a valuable showcase for student’s abilities and professional skills.
For people new to Open University study, the new entry-level computing course Data, Computing and Information, which will be available from February 2004, is among recommended starting points. It will focus on the transformation of data into information and on its communication and security; registration for the course is now available by calling 01908 653231 or by logging on at

www3.open.ac.uk/courses and clicking on the Computing section.

Dr David Bowers, undergraduate computing programme director, said: “For anyone seeking a career in computing, first-rate training and up-to-date knowledge are both essential – this degree will provide both and will offer an excellent foundation for a career in computing. For those who are eager to build on their existing skills, the university’s courses offer an unrivalled opportunity to update knowledge and develop vital workplace attributes.”
In the computing field, the university will be offering degrees in:
 BSc (Hons) Computing;
 BSc (Hons) Information Technology and Computing;
 BA/BSc (Hons) Computing and Mathematical Sciences.
These degrees form part of a suite of awards at undergraduate level – including a certificate in IT and computing, a diploma in computing and several joint honours degrees – and at postgraduate level, including Computing for Commerce and Industry and software development diplomas and taught masters programmes. For more information about the Open University’s range of computing courses and about the computing degree programme, potential students are also invited to call 01908 653231 or to log on at www3.open.ac.uk/courses and to click on the Computing section.

EDITOR’S NOTES
The Open University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Computing teaches almost 30,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students. Journalists looking for case studies of Open University students and graduates whose computing studies have led to a career change or career success are asked to call Neil Coaten in the university’s media relations team on 01908 652580.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Neil Coaten Open University Media Relations 01908 652580
Rhona Mackay Faculty of Mathematics and Computing 01908 659948