What will I learn on this module?
This module focuses on core data concepts, and the design, implementation and use of database systems. It introduces database systems, the tools for manipulating data in databases, and design principles that ensure data security and integrity. Topics include database management systems architecture, data modelling and database design, query languages, data preparation and cleansing techniques and security, legal and ethical issues concerning the use of databases in society. You will consider issues such as the sustainability of data, and the ethics of responsible data capture and use.
You will work with database systems and data services used in industry. The module follows some of the same topics as the MS Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900) certification course, therefore students may wish to pursue this certification during their programme.
During ‘Data Fundamentals’ you will work through a series of exercises, making use of Northumbria’s state-of-the-art computer labs. You will also engage with research outputs as part of your research-rich learning. One assessment component (50%) will be a written report that demonstrates your understanding of ethical, legal and security related issues concerning data and databases, based on current research. The other assessment component (50%) will be a practical assessment that assesses your knowledge and skills relating to key data concepts, analysis, and techniques.
‘Data Fundamentals’ will prepare you for later modules such as ‘Data Mining’, as well as for a placement in your third year. Employers are looking for skilled graduates who have technology-based certifications such as MS Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900) that validate their skills in analysing data and applying effective solutions to computing problems.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through lectures, workshops, and independent learning. The lectures will cover theories and concepts that will enable you to tackle a series of guided exercises. You will work on these during workshops in Northumbria’s CIS building computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software. The workshop tasks are designed to map onto and to help prepare you for the module assessments. The solutions to the tasks will be reviewed in-class and you will be given feedback on your work.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported by lecturers during the timetabled sessions when you will receive feedback on your work. The University’s eLearning Portal offers remote access to all lecture and seminar materials to reinforce your learning. In addition, the university library offers support for all students through providing electronic resources.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 - Understand the characteristics, strengths and limitations of current database systems
ML02 - Demonstrate knowledge of information security issues and an awareness of tools and techniques used in implementing information security
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML03 - Specify, design, implement and evaluate database solutions using appropriate tools
ML04 - Analyse and solve problems via data manipulation and information retrieval operations
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML05 – Describe the ethical, legal and security related issues concerning the implementation and administration of databases and their management systems
How will I be assessed?
The first element of summative assessment (50%) will be a written report that demonstrates your understanding of ethical, legal and security related issues concerning data and databases. The word limit will be 2000 words. This assessment addresses module learning outcomes MLO2 and MLO5.
The second element of summative assessment (50%) will be a practical assessment that demonstrates your knowledge and skills relating to key data concepts, analysis, and techniques. This assessment addresses module learning outcomes MLO1, MLO3 and MLO4.
You will receive both informative and confirmatory feedback on your assessments.
On an on-going basis you will also receive formative feedback on workshop exercises you are required to complete.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module focuses on core data concepts, and the design and use of database systems. Topics include database systems architecture, data modelling and design, query languages, data preparation and cleansing, and security, legal and ethical issues concerning the use of databases in society.
You will work through practical exercises, making use of Northumbria’s state-of-the-art computer labs. You will also engage with research outputs supporting research-rich learning. One assessment will be a written report demonstrating your understanding of ethical, legal and security related issues concerning data and databases, based on current research. The other assessment component will be a practical assessment that demonstrates your knowledge and skills relating to key data concepts, analysis, and techniques
Employers are looking for graduates with technical certifications that validate their skills in analysing data and applying effective solutions to problems. This module can prepare you for the MS Azure Data Fundamentals certification and follow-on MS Azure certifications which are sought-after by employers.
Course info
UCAS Code G407
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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