School of Design, Engineering and
Computing
Defence School of Communications
and Information Systems
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
CS Engineer Class 1 Course
October 2013
v2
CONTENTS
Basic Programme Data
1. Academic and Professional Contexts, and Aims of the Programme
1.1
Introduction
1.2
Aims of the Programme
1.3
Skills Required of a CS Engineer
1.4
Course Structure
3
5
5
6
6
7
2. Computing Benchmarks
3. Programme outcomes
3.1
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering (Level C)
3.2
Units Mapped to Learning Outcomes
3.3
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering (Level I)
3.4
Units Mapped to Learning Outcomes
8
9
9
13
14
17
4. Programme Structure
4.1
Overview
4.2
Programme Diagram
4.3
Progression to Honours Degree
4.4
Entry, Exit and Transfer
18
18
19
20
23
5
6.
7
8
24
25
29
30
Admission Regulations
Assessment Regulations
Points of Reference for Programme Design
Programme Profile
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
ii
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
BASIC PROGRAMME DATA
Originating institution
Awards and programme title
DSCIS / Bournemouth University
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
Place of delivery
DSCIS
Mode of delivery
Full-Time/Part-Time
Credit structure
All units are at 20 credits (10ECTS), either at
level C or level I, except for the project which is a
40 credit (20 ECTS) unit.
44 Weeks duration – “Roll-On”/”Roll-Off”
Each scheduled week consists of 40 hours
scheduled teaching time. In total this gives a total
of 1760 hours. In addition, students are
expected to devote 3 hours per night for self
study, and 4 hours on the weekend, which gives
a total of 704 hours. This amounts to 2410 hours
in total.
Duration of programme
Date of original approval
May 2010
Date of first intake
September 2013 and every month thereafter.
Initial target intake
14 students per programme on a ”roll-on”/”roll-off”
basis, totalling some 160 in the first year. Rising
to 180-200+ thereafter. The programme is to be
run many times during the year, thus there could
be as many as 8 overlapping cohorts.
Placements
N/A
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
3
Professional, statutory and/or
statutory body links
BCS – British Computer Society
IET – Institution of Engineering and
Technology
IEEE - Institute of Electrical and Electronic
Engineers
Students are encouraged to become members of
these societies, and the IET and BCS sponsor a
number of student prizes on other BU
programmes offered by the RSS
RSS is currently in discussion with IET to give
students completing degree level qualifications in
Engineering and Technology full exemption to
their society.
Partner Institution
Partial exemption is available for BCS
membership.
DSCIS
Version number of this document: v2 October 2013
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
4
1.
ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL CONTEXTS, AND AIMS
OF THE PROGRAMME
1.1
Introduction
This is a unique course developed specifically to meet the demands of the Royal
Corps of Signals. It takes mature and committed students and gives them a
thorough understanding and the ability to analyse and apply the theories to
practice. Graduates are then qualified to be posted to key roles in either IS or
Technician posts which require these advanced skills.
The course adopts a systematic and rigorously applied theoretical foundation to
ensure students develop a well established knowledge base that they can apply
to a wide range of applications. Consequently, the most important intellectual
skill developed on the course is the flexibility to apply to a wide range of
situations. Because of the highly vocational nature of the course and the
requirement to provide solutions to unpredictable problems in unfamiliar
situations, graduates must demonstrate a sound practical skill level throughout
the course.
The course offers a wide range of delivery modes to develop student theoretical
knowledge, analytical, problem solving, practical and managerial skills in the field
of information systems.
The academic units, covered early in the course, serve as a foundation to both
trades for what is to follow. On completion of the course, students can decide
which trade to follow in the armed forces, either Technician or IS Technician.
The course covers a range of Microsoft™ Server courses and CISCO™ CCNA™
networking courses. Together these streams lead the student to MCSE™ and
CCNA™ qualifications. These are industry standard and compliant courses that
any IS professional would be expected to have working in the field.
The courseware provided enables the student to develop an understanding of
information systems and to appreciate what impact these have on system
performance and design. The schedule includes a good deal of practical activity.
In addition, the theoretical concepts will be fully supported with demonstrations
and simulations. A blended learning approach is adopted, using Microsoft™ and
CISCO™ courseware, web based materials, webinars, online testing and
assessment, and not least traditional teaching sessions.
This is a vocational course, and these concepts are particularly important for
Royal Signals CS Engineer personnel. Throughout the course, students will be
encouraged to question rather than accept material presented to them. As
experienced CIS Engineers, this mode of behaviour should be relatively easy to
adopt.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
5
Students will be mature, well motivated and already have considerable work
experience in the Field Army, both at home and overseas. The Information
Systems units that they will be taught will have a strong practical element with
assignments and projects designed to simulate unpredictable problems the
students could meet in their future employment.
The course culminates in a project that will investigate or resolve a problem
concerning military / civil information systems. The students will be expected to
use original thought to devise and evaluate alternative options and justify a
preferred solution. Students will be required to undertake a real CIS oriented
project that has been submitted by a MOD agency or their troop commanders. It
will require a practical solution to a real engineering problem. Although students
will normally be working in syndicates, their individual contributions will be clearly
identifiable. The project brings together the subject material taught on the course
and allows the students to demonstrate that they are able to apply a range of the
theoretical and practical skills gained on the course. The learning objectives of
the project will be achieved largely as a result of analytical judgement, practical
experience and the guidance of project supervisors.
Blandford Camp is the home of a number of CIS agencies (listed in para 4 of the
Briefing & Resources Document) and is consequently a rich source of realistic
CIS projects, consultants, project supervisors and specialist equipment.
However, many of the project proposals are submitted from a wide cross-section
of the field Army.
1.2
Aims of the Programme
The aim of the Class 1 Programme is to produce versatile systems engineers
who can set-up, maintain and repair a wide range of Information and
Communication Technology (ICT) equipment either under supervision, as part of
a team or on their own. Then, having qualified and after serving as a sergeant
for some time they can apply for the Foreman (IS) or Foreman of Signals Degree
programmes run in the School. The programme could also be suitable for
similarly qualified and experienced CS Engineers from foreign defence forces.
From an educational perspective the programme is designed to develop the skills
of an individual so that they can operate effectively in highly pressurised conflict
situations, in setting up and maintaining vital Military Communications and
Information Systems.
1.3
Skills Required of a CS Engineer
Details of some of the job requirements for a CS Engineer are given under the
following headings:


The deployment and maintenance of the Army's Communications and
Information Systems.
Assist in solving non-routine, unpredictable Military CIS problems and
devise innovative solutions and system improvements.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
6







Analyse problems and Advise on solutions.
Analyse information and present findings.
Evaluate information systems and promote the effective passage of
Information.
Run IS Systems and Networks
Identify potential security threats, in specific environments, in order to
devise preventative measures to protect vulnerable IS systems.
Assist in the Management of Projects
Manage Personnel
The selected individual attending the course is already a very experienced SNCO
CIS Engineer. Consequently not all aspects of the job requirements are covered
fully on this course.
1.4
Course Structure
The duration of the programme is 44 Weeks. Each scheduled week comprises
40 teaching periods, which amounts to 40 hours/week. In total this gives a total
of 1760 hours. In addition, students are expected to devote 3 hours per night for
self study, and 4 hours on the weekend, which gives a total of 704 hours. This
amounts to 2410 hours in total.
The course structure comprises 6 level C units, and 5 Level I units, as shown in
the table. The units consist of 200 hours of programmed study and may include
lectures, tutorials, practical work, projects and exercises. Many of the exercises
are based on real scenarios and the projects are predominantly based on
practical issues being faced in military operations.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
7
2.
COMPUTING BENCHMARKS
The following is a mapping of knowledge areas given in Annex B of the QAA
Computing Benchmark 2007 document to the units in the programme that cover
the same knowledge area. This Benchmark is defined for an Honours Degree,
therefore, recommended subjects to be studied at H level have not been
included. However, for the Project, the relationships depend on students' foci
and involve integrating activities that vary from year to year. Therefore, the table
shows only those things that will always be there and the unit is shown shaded.
Programme Specification
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Project
X
X
X
X
X
Project Development
X
Network Systems Management
and OS Server
Database, Web Server and Unix
X
OS Server Environment and
I(infrastructure
OS Active Directory
Network Engineering 3
Architecture
Computer-based systems
Computer communications
Computer networks
Databases
Data structures and algorithms
Distributed computer systems
Information retrieval
Information systems
Management issues
Middleware
Multimedia
Operating systems
Professionalism
Security and privacy
Simulation and modelling
Systems analysis & design
Web-based computing
Network Engineering 2
Communications Management
and E2E Connectivity
Mobile and Fixed
Communications
Network Engineering 1
TABLE 1. The Relationship between Units and QAA Computing Benchmark
2007
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
8
3.
PROGRAMME OUTCOMES
3.1
Level C (Cert HE) Communications System Engineering
This programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate
their knowledge and understanding, and various skills as follows:
A - Subject Knowledge & Understanding
A1
Introduction to Information Security
A2
Project & Services Management Techniques Foundation
A3
Networks & Data Communications
A4
Network Management, Security & Performance Techniques
A5
Operating Systems Environments and Infrastructure
A6
Active Directory
A7
Operational Deployment of Military Information Systems.
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Acquisition of A1 is through
a combination of lectures and workshops using actual and simulated military
security systems. It will also compare security features of commercial systems
and indicate how these need to be enhanced / modified to achieve full military
accreditation. Acquisition of A1 will be reinforced in many of the units throughout
the programme. Acquisition of A2 is through a combination of lectures,
demonstrations, laboratory sessions, operation and analysis of deployable
systems.
Acquisition of A3 & A4 is through a blended learning approach, making use of
lectures, demonstrations, practical experiments, VLE exercises and webinars.
Computer concepts are firmly established, broadened and enhanced before
confirming and studying further the essential link between data communications
protocols and the underlying networks. This is reinforced through the use of
manufacturer based learning materials, using multi-media technology to aid
understanding and learning, leading to the construction of networks using
proprietary hubs, switches, routers and PCs.
Acquisition of A5-A7 is through blended learning making good use of
manufacturer courseware available in multi-media formats that the students can
use to aid their learning. These are reinforced with traditional lectures, tutorials,
workshops and practical exercises. All these lead the student to learning how
the network operation system (the current in service operating system), can be
deployed in an operational deployment of mobile military equipment.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
9
Throughout, learners are encouraged to undertake independent study to
consolidate and supplement their knowledge and to broaden their understanding
of the course material covered.
Assessment: Assessment of knowledge and understanding is through
assessed coursework in the form of laboratory and coursework reports, and
project reports & presentations.
B - Intellectual Skills
B1
Apply basic analysis, design and development of concepts.
B2
Introductory evaluation of the operational effectiveness of Information
Systems.
B3
Design a fixed communications network and assess its management and
security features.
B4
Foundation in analysis and interpreting of results.
B5
Identify and solve basic Information Systems related problems.
B6
Apply professional judgement to effective operational deployment of
military Information Systems.
B7
Plan and control a network operating system in current service with the
military.
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Intellectual skills are
developed through the learning and teaching approach outlined in A above. All
units involve groups of 12 (max class size).
Development of Intellectual skills B1-B7 will occur during the learning of most of
the units in the programme. This is enhanced through the supervision of small
group teaching, where all students attend all sessions, throughout the course.
As the student progresses through the course, there will be a progressive shifting
of responsibility for learning to the student, as the student is expected to devote
more time to individual study and develop projects.
Assessment: Skills B1-B5, particularly the analysis, problem solving and
evaluation skills, are assessed through unseen written examinations, coursework
assignments, laboratory reports, project reports and project presentations. Skill
B6 and B7 are assessed by expert practitioners during simulated deployment
exercises whilst undertaking the military information security and the deployment
and management of trunk communications systems and networks.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
10
C - Practical Skills
C1
Plan and implement a network operating system, based upon the current
in-service operating system used by the military.
C2
Plan and execute deployment of military Network & Information Systems
assets
C3
Configure network and server protocols to enable basic communication
compatibility between equipments,
C4
Set-up and configure a Microsoft data network,
C5
Manage an Operational Deployment of Military Network & Information
Systems.
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Skill C1-C5 is developed in
a number of the units, combining to form a coherent mix of server OS and
network (CISCO™), network communications. All these skills are developed
throughout the course, from design and implementation of cabling systems, in
Unit 2, through network data communications, protocols, components and
connectivity in Units 3-5.
Assessment: Skills C1-C5 are assessed throughout the course programme
during practical exercises in most of the units.
D - Transferable Skills
D1
Manage groups of military personnel on exercise, operationally or in
barrack situation.
D2
Give situation briefings to senior managers/operational commanders.
D3
Structure and use ideas to communicate effectively in writing and orally.
D4
Plan, conduct and report on a programme of work within set deadlines.
D5
Work effectively individually and in small groups to deadlines.
D6
Learn independently, with a critical viewpoint, in familiar and unfamiliar
situations.
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Transferable skill D1 is
developed through adapting existing management experience in an exercise
scenario whilst undertaking the management exercises in the military trunk
communications systems and the management of military communications
systems & networks. Skill D2 is developed during the specific military oriented
units when deployed on simulated field exercises. Skill D3 is developed through
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
11
feedback on written reports, critiques on project presentations and also any
practise that develops skill D2.
Assessment: Skill D1 is assessed by expert practitioners whilst observing
students managing a communications or information systems deployment. Skill
D2 is assessed by experienced practitioners during situation briefing whilst
performing simulated operational deployment exercises. Skill D3 is assessed
through laboratory & project reports and project presentations. The other skills
are not directly and formally assessed.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
12
Units Mapped to Level C Learning Outcomes
A1 Introduction to Information Security
X
A2 Project & Services Management Techniques Foundation
X
A3 Networks & Data Communications
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
A7 Operational Deployment of Military Information Systems
X
X
X
X
B1 Apply basic analysis, design and development concepts
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
A6 Active Directory
X
Introductory evaluation of the operational effectiveness of
B2
Information Systems.
Design a fixed communications network and assess its
B3
management and security features
B4 Foundation in analysis and interpreting of results
X
X
Plan and implement a network operating system, based upon
the current in service operating system used by the military.
Plan and execute deployment of military Network &
C2
Information Systems assets
Configure network and server protocols to enable basic
C3
communication compatibility between equipments
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
C4 Set-up and configure a MS data network
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
D5 Work effectively individually and in small groups to deadlines
X
X
Learn independently, with a critical viewpoint, in familiar and
unfamiliar situations
X
X
Manage groups of military personnel on exercise,
operationally or in barrack situation
Give situation briefings to senior managers/operational
D2
commanders
Structure and use ideas to communicate effectively in writing
D3
and orally
Plan, conduct and report on a programme of work within set
D4
deadlines
D1
D6
Programme Specification
X
X
X
C1
Manage an Operational Deployment of Military Network &
C5
Information Systems
X
X
B5 Identify and solve basic Information Systems related problems
Apply professional judgement to effective operational
B6
deployment of military Information Systems
Plan and Control a network operating system in current
B7
service with the military
Network Systems Management
and OS Server
X
A4 Network Management, Security & Performance Techniques
A5 Operating Systems Environments and Infrastructure
OS Active Directory
Mobile and Fixed
Communications
Communications Management
and E2E Connectivity
Common outcomes mapped to core units:
OS Server Environment and
Infrastructure
Core at Level C
Core Skills Matrix for CS Engineering Courses
Network Engineering 1
3.2
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
X
X
X
X
13
3.3
Level I (FdSc) Communications System Engineering
This programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate
their knowledge and understanding, and various skills as follows:
A - Subject Knowledge & Understanding
A1
Information Security
A2
Project & Services Management Techniques
A3
Computer Systems & Networks
A4
Network Management, Security & Performance Techniques
A5
Advanced Operating Systems
A6
Database and Web Technologies
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Level I A1 is the
enhancement from Level C and is delivered in a similar way and reinforced in the
Project. Acquisition of A2 is also the development from Level C through the
independent learning associated with the project.
Acquisition of A3 & A4 is through a blended learning approach, making use of
lectures, demonstrations, practicals, VLE exercises, and webinars. Computer
concepts are further reinforced to an advanced level through the use of
manufacturer based learning materials, using multi-media technology to aid
understanding and learning, leading to the construction of networks using
proprietary hubs, switches, routers and PCs. In addition to architectures,
configurations and protocols the essential aspects of network management,
security and performance are explored in detail. This includes a significant
practical element which is heavily biased toward military requirements and
implementations.
Acquisition of A5-A6 is through traditional lectures, tutorials, workshops and
practical exercises. All these lead the student to learning how an alternative
operation system (UNIX) can be used and how web technologies can be used to
handle and present information.
Throughout, learners are encouraged to undertake independent study to
consolidate and supplement their knowledge and to broaden their understanding
of the course material covered.
Assessment: Assessment of knowledge and understanding is through
assessed coursework in the form of laboratory and coursework reports, and
project reports & presentations.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
14
B - Intellectual Skills
B1
Apply analysis design and development of concepts.
B2
Evaluate the operational effectiveness of Information Systems.
B3
Analyse and interpret results.
B4
Identify and solve Information Systems related problems.
B5
Analyse and design a database to solve a given operational problem. Plan
and implement a network operating system, using the current in-service
operating system, for use on a LAN/WAN.
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Intellectual skills are
developed beyond the basics through the learning and teaching approach
outlined in A above. All units involve groups of 12(max class size).
Enhancement of Intellectual skills B1-B5 will occur during the learning of most of
the units at this level. This is reinforced through the supervision of small group
teaching, where all students attend all sessions. There is a shift of responsibility
for learning onto the students as they devote more time to individual study and
develop projects.
Assessment: Skills B1-B5, particularly the analysis, problem solving and
evaluation skills, are assessed through unseen written examinations, coursework
assignments, laboratory reports, project reports and project presentations.
C - Practical Skills
C1
Plan and execute deployment of Network & Information Systems assets to
ensure secure and survivable information transfers,
C2
Configure network and server protocols to enable communication
compatibility between equipment,
C3
Set-up and configure a generic data network,
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Skills C1-C3 are developed
in a number of the units, combining to form a coherent mix of server OS and
network (CISCO™), network communications. All these skills are enhanced at
this level culminating in practical knowledge of network based operating systems
in Units 7-9.
Assessment: Skills C1-C3 are assessed throughout the level during practical
exercises in most of the units.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
15
D - Transferable Skills
D1
Give technical briefings to senior managers/operational commanders.
D2
Structure and use ideas to communicate effectively in writing and orally.
D3
Plan, conduct and report on a programme of work within set deadlines.
D4
Work effectively individually and in groups to deadlines.
D5
Learn independently, with a critical viewpoint, in familiar and unfamiliar
situations.
Learning and Teaching Methods and Strategies: Skills D1 & 2 are developed
through feedback on written reports, critiques on project presentations. Skills
D3-D5 are developed primarily as a result of undertaking the Project unit.
Assessment: Skill D1 is assessed through laboratory & project reports and
project presentations. The other skills are not directly and formally assessed.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
16
Units Mapped to Level I Learning Outcomes
A1 Information Security
X
Project
Project Development
Network Engineering 2
Common outcomes mapped to core units:
Database, Web Server and Unix
Core at Level I
Core Skills Matrix for CS Engineering Courses
Network Engineering 3
3.4
X
A2 Project & Services Management Techniques
X
A3 Computer Systems & Networks
X
X
A4 Network Management, Security & Performance Techniques
X
X
A5 Advanced Operating Systems
X
A6 Database and Web Technologies
X
B1 Apply analysis, design and development concepts
X
X
X
B2 Evaluate the operational effectiveness of Information Systems
X
X
X
B3 Analyse and interpret results
X
X
X
X
X
B4 Identify and solve Information Systems related problems
X
X
X
X
X
Analyse and design a database to solve a given operational
B5
problem
Plan and execute deployment of Network & Information
Systems assets
Configure network and server protocols to enable
C2
communication compatibility between equipment
C1
X
X
X
X
X
C3 Set-up and configure a generic data network
Give technical briefings to senior managers/operational
commanders
Structure and use ideas to communicate effectively in writing
D2
and orally
Plan, conduct and report on a programme of work within set
D3
deadlines
X
D1
X
D4 Work effectively individually and in groups to deadlines
Learn independently, with a critical viewpoint, in familiar and
D5
unfamiliar situations
Programme Specification
X
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
17
4.
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
4.1
Overview
The programme is offered in full-time study mode only.
All units are compulsory. There are no pathway options.
Only specially selected, experienced NCO Engineers are allowed entry to the
course.
In Part 1 there are six units at Level C with a total credit value of 120. Part 2
consisting of four units at level I, and a double unit (the project), again at level I.
These units give a total credit value of 120. This is evaluated on the basis that 1
credit is equivalent to10 hours of study. Therefore, the total credit value for the
whole course is 240 credits. Each unit represents between 5 and 6 weeks of
study.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
18
4.2
Programme Diagram
Model programme diagram
PROGRAMME DIAGRAM
FdSc in Communications Systems Engineering
Part 2 / Level I
Core units (Compulsory)
Option units
Progression requirements
Network Engineering 2 (20)
Network Engineering 3 (20)
Database, Web Servers and
Unix
(20)
Project Development
(20)
Project
(40)
There are no option units
Requires 120 credits at Level
I
Exit qualification:
FdSc in CS Engineering
Requires 120 Level I credits
and 120 Level C credits
Part 1 / Level C
Core units (Compulsory)
Comm Mangmt, End 2 End Conn (20)
Mobile and Fixed Comms
(20)
OS Server Env and Infrastructure (20)
OS Active Directory
(20)
Net Sys Mangmt and OS Server (20)
Network Engineering 1
(20)
Programme Specification
Option units
Progression requirements
None
Requires 120 credits at Level
C
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
Exit qualification: Cert HE
in CS Engineering
Requires 120 Level C credits
19
4.3
Progression to Honours Degree
Progression will be through one of two possible routes:
o BSc (Hons) Management of Information Systems, or the
o BEng (Hons) Telecommunications Systems Engineering
These are follow-up career courses for those completing the Class 1 CS
Engineer course; notably the Foreman of Signals (IS) (FofS(IS)) and Foreman of
Signals (FofS) respectively. The rationale for these options is as follows:
1. BSc (Hons) Management of Information Systems (MIS). The FdSc
CSE maps directly to this course because the MIS, accredited by BU, was
deliberately designed to be a top-up for the CSE and direct academic
progression would be possible. However, because these awards are
based on military career courses, in practice progression would only be
after a period of military work experience, the satisfactory completion of a
Distance Learning programme and a formal military selection process.
2. BEng (Hons) Telecommunications Systems Engineering (TSE).
Progression to the TSE, also accredited by BU, follows the same selection
procedure as for the FofS (IS) above but for selection to be a FofS.
Although the students would have 240 credits at Level I and theoretically
eligible to progress to the H level units on an Hons programme as above,
in practice they lack some of the Level I underpinning necessary for some
of the higher units in the BEng(Hons) TSE, specifically in the areas of
engineering mathematics and electronics. Therefore, students will be
required to complete additional Level I credits which are already delivered
as part of the BEng programme. The additional TSE Level I units are:
BEng (Hons) TSE Level I Unit
Remarks
Digital Electronics & Computer
Hardware
Builds on Level C OS Server
Infrastructure and Environment
Analogue Electronics in
Communication Systems
Builds on Level C Mobile & Fixed
Communications
Information Technology Service
Lifecycle
Builds on Level C Communications
Service Management
Engineering Science
Builds on Level C Mobile & Fixed
Communications
Data Communications (CCNA)
This 40-credit unit is included in the
TSE course to allow non-CSE
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
20
graduates to enrol (see TSE
documents for rationale). In time (2-4
yrs), all registrants will be CSE / CCNA
qualified and will be exempted this unit
through APCL.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
21
Progression to Honours
Part 3 / Level H
Path 1 – BSc (Hons) MIS
Core Units of 20 Credits (Compulsory)
Software Engineering and Applications
Management
Data Communications
Applied Network Engineering and Systems
Management
Information Security
Project
BSc Management Information Systems
Requires 120 credits at Level H
(20)
(20)
(20)
(20)
(40)
Path 2 – BEng (Hons) TSE
Year 2 / Level H
Core units (Compulsory)
Exit qualification:
Radio Communication Systems
Network Security / CCNA Security
Network Management
Key Skills for Engineering Managers
CIS Engineering Project
(20)
(20)
(20)
(20)
(40)
BEng (Hons) Telecommunications
Systems Engineering
Requires 120 Level H credits and 120
Level I credits
Year 1 / Level I
Core units (Compulsory)
Progression requirements
Digital Electronics / Computer Hardware
Analogue Electronics in Communication
Systems
Information Technology Service Lifecycle
Engineering Science
Data Communications
(20)
Requires 120 credits at Level I
(20)
(20)
(20)
(40)
Exit qualification:
Dip HE Telecommunications Systems
Engineering
Requires 120 Level I credits
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
22
4.4
Entry, Exit and Transfer
The entry requirements to the Foundation Degree course are defined in para 5
(Admission Regulations). Direct entry to the course at any point other than the
start of the course is not permitted. If a student's performance is not up to the
required standard, as defined by Royal Signals, he / she can be withdrawn from
the course.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
23
5
ADMISSION REGULATIONS
This programme operates under standard Bournemouth University admission
regulations.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
24
6.
ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS
The regulations for this programme are the University’s standard
assessment regulations for Foundation degrees with the following approved
exceptions to align the programme with the Army’s own assessment criteria:
Pass mark
For each unit a pass will be awarded where the overall unit mark is at least 60%
and the mark in each separate formal element of the unit assessment is not less
than 60%.
Compensation
Compensation does not apply to any units.
Classification
For a Certificate of Higher Education classification will be based on the credit
weighted aggregate mark as follows:
Distinction 80% or more
Merit 70-79%
Pass 60-69%
For a Foundation Degree classification will be based on whichever of the
following is more advantageous to the student and will be based on Level I units
only:

Credit weighted aggregate mark as follows:
Distinction 80% or more
Merit 70-79%
Pass 60-69%

Mark profile. Where a student achieves an aggregate mark which is not
more than 3 marks below a classification boundary (70, or 80) and has at
least 80 credits at Level I in a higher classification than the aggregate
mark, the Assessment Board will recommend that the higher classification
be awarded.
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
25
Provision for failed candidates
Failure and reassessment
A student who fails at the first attempt in unit(s) carrying a total of no more than
60 credits at Level C or 40 credits at Level I is normally permitted to be
reassessed, on two occasions only.


Where a first reassessment (‘second attempt’) has taken place, the formal
element mark will not exceed 60%.
Where a second reassessment (‘third attempt’) has taken place, the unit
mark will not exceed 60%.
Repetition of units
Repetition of units is not allowed. Where a student fails more than 60 credits
at Level C or 40 credits at Level I, or fails the maximum number of
reassessments, the Assessment Board will withdraw the student from the
programme.
ICT FACULTY OPERATING STATEMENT
University Title
Communications
Systems Engineering
Degree
Award
FdSc CSE
DSCIS Title
Class 1 - Communications
Systems Engineer
DSCIS
Code
CEUR
1. Introduction. Management of all the DSCIS courses is governed by the
Management Policies (MP) within the DSCIS Management System. For the
courses that are accredited by Bournemouth University, the Academic
Regulations, Policies and Procedures (ARPP) of the University are applied.
However, if there is any conflict between them then the DSCIS policies are
followed although there is scope for agreed variation on a case by case basis.
The following statement clarifies those areas where such differences occur and
courses of action have been agreed, specifically reassessments and Assessment
Boards.
2. Reassessments. The military policies for reassessment (MPs 2.7.07 –
11(RSS) Sig Regt Phase 3 Failure Policy and 2.7.09 – 11(RSS) Sig Regt
Supervisor Failure Policy) require students to be reassessed during the course.
Because the courses do not follow the traditional academic year, it is infeasible to
wait to have a formal Assessment Board to approve a reassessment. Therefore,
any potential failures are reviewed by the Link Tutor and the Programme Leader.
Students who are eligible for reassessment (i.e. are within the maximum limits for
reassessment) may be offered a reassessment prior to the formal Assessment
Board, provided that the External Examiner is informed and agrees to this course
of action. When the reassessment actually takes place is agreed following
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
26
discussion with the academic and military staffs and the student. All
assessments (including all fails and any reassessments) will be subject to the
normal processes of moderation by the External Examiner who reports to the
Assessment Board where the marks are ratified.
3. Assessment Boards. Due to the fast-track nature of the courses, the FdSc
CSE programme has been exceptionally approved to undertake in-level
reassessments prior to the formal meeting of an Assessment Board where it is
not always practical to hold a Board at the end of each level of study to approve
progression. Therefore, where this is not possible, more than one level of
assessment will be considered by the Assessment Board and progression will be
considered automatic unless reassessments are involved. In such cases
progression will be through Chair's Action by the Programme Leader, Link Tutor
and External Examiner. The operational exceptions to determine reassessments
are detailed below (see ‘Assessment Boards and provision for failed
candidates’).
4. Mitigating Circumstances. Mitigating circumstances arrangements are
articulated in 6K - Assessment Boards: Policy and Procedure and 6J – Mitigating
Circumstances including Extensions: Policy and Procedure. In situations where
mitigating circumstances need consideration, and a second/third assessment is
required, students will not know at the time of the second/third sitting whether the
request for consideration of their circumstances has been approved. They will
therefore undertake the second/third sitting not knowing if the work will be
marked as if for the first time or as a reassessment where the mark would be
capped. The outcome would be relayed to the student at the same time as the
results are published following the Assessment board. The students should be
made aware of this situation at the start of their studies and reminded of this if
the situation arises within the course of their studies.
Assessment Boards and provision for failed candidates
Assessment Boards
For the CSE programme, Preparatory Boards and Assessment Boards are
normally held in July and September. Additional Boards may be scheduled midyear. Prior to these, separate Circumstance Boards are held, normally at the
University.
Provision for failed candidates
Where students take reassessments, these should be scheduled as soon as is
reasonably possible in order to prevent any accumulation of higher level credits
before Level C has been successfully completed. The marks are sent to the
Programme Administrator in DEC, along with the original 'sit' marks, and are
calculated and shown on the spreadsheet, so it is evident which is the original
mark and which is the resit mark.
Any potential failures must be reviewed by the Link Tutor and students who are
eligible for in-level reassessment (i.e. are within the maximum limits for
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
27
reassessment) may be offered a reassessment prior to the Assessment Board
provided that the External examiner is informed and agrees to this course of
action. All assessments (including all fails and any reassessments) will be
subject to the normal processes of moderation by the External Examiner who
reports to the Assessment Board. Marks of first and second attempts are
therefore not ratified until the Assessment Board who will also consider any
recommendations in relation to mitigation.
NB Marking, independent marking and moderation take place in line with
Bournemouth University’s 6D - Marking, Independent Marking and Moderation:
Policy and Procedure, including reassessments (2nd and 3rd attempts).
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
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7
POINTS OF REFERENCE FOR PROGRAMME DESIGN
The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education - Computing 2007.
QAA National Qualifications Framework.
QAA Foundation Degree Benchmark.
(http://www.qaa.ac.uk/reviews/foundationdegree/benchmark/foundation_stateme
nt.pdf)
Bournemouth University School of Design, Engineering and Computing Software
Systems Framework approved September 2008
Programme Specification
FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
The Royal School of Signals
29
8.
PROGRAMME PROFILE
ORIGINATING
INSTITUTION(S):
Place(s) of Delivery:
Framework Title (in full):
Mode(s) of study 1: F/T
Blandford
Programme Award and Title: FdSc Communications Systems Engineering
Expected Length of study 2:
2 yrs
School: DEC
Interim Award and Titles & required credits:
CertHE Communications Systems Engineering (120 Level C credits)
Partner institution:
DSCIS (Blandford)
Cost Centre(s) 4
Unit Details
BU Credit Structure & ECTS
3: 120 Level C, 120 Level I
(60/60 ECTS)
Assessment Regs 7:
Unit identification
Unit version
no.
HESA
JACS
Subject
Code
CC
1
%
I120
121
I120
I112
EEE1090C-1
EEE1116I-1
Communications Service Management
and End to End Connectivity
Mobile and Fixed Communications
OS Server Environment and
Infrastructure
OS Server Active Directory Services
Network Systems Management and
OS Server Security
Network Engineering 1
Network Engineering 2
No of
Level
credits 6
100
1
C
20
C
100%
121
121
100
100
1
1
C
C
20
20
C
C
100%
100%
I112
I120
121
121
100
100
1
1
C
C
20
20
C
C
100%
100%
I120
I120
121
121
100
100
1
2
C
C
20
20
C
I
100%
100%
EEE1118I-1
Network Engineering 3
I120
121
100
2
C
20
I
100%
CSE1142I-1
Database, Web Server and Unix
I112
121
100
2
C
20
I
100%
CSE1143I-1
Project Development
I100
121
100
2
C
20
I
100%
CSE1144I-2
Project
I100
121
100
2
C
40
I
100%
CSE1125C-1
CSE1126C-1
CSE1127C-1
EEE1089C-1
HESA
JACS
Subject
Code
CC2 %
Assessment 8
Element Weightings 9
Exam C/Work C/Work
1
1
2
Prog Prog C/O
year 5 year 5
FT
PT
CSE1124C-1
Unit name
Effective from 10
Prog Year / Month / Year
Yr. 1
Oct
2013
Contact in School:
Michael Jones
(mwjones@bournemouth.ac.uk)
Yr. 2
Name of Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body (if appropriate)
14:
Oct
2013
Yr. 3
Yr.4 Programme Specification 2.0
Date approved 11:
7.10.13
FdSc Communications Systems Engineer
The Royal School of Signals
Programme Specification
version no. 12: v2
Placement 13:
Diploma Supplement Statement regarding PRSB accreditation
15:
30