CE705-7-AT-CO:
Introduction to Programming in Python
2025/26
Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (School of)
Colchester Campus
Autumn Special
Postgraduate: Level 7
Current
Thursday 02 October 2025
Friday 12 December 2025
20
25 June 2024
Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
MSC N3L112 Financial Technology (Economics),
MSC N3CL12 Financial Technology (Computer Science)
This module provides an introduction to computer programming exemplified by the Python programming language. Emphasis will be on developing practical skills via worked examples.
The aim of this module is:
- To provide an introduction to computer programming for students with little or no previous experience. The emphasis is on developing the practical skills necessary to write effective programs, with worked examples taken principally from the realm of data processing and analysis.
By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the techniques and principles employed in Python programming.
- Critically evaluate Python programming constructs including control structures, lists, numerical arrays, input/output, exceptions, subprograms and modules.
- Write and analyse Python programs addressing complex real-world problems, while making sound judgements on the features such programmes should use and how they should be used.
Outline Syllabus:
- Introduction to programming
- Program development and execution
- Computation in Python
- Input and output
- Developing subroutines and modules
- Numerical and scientific modules
- Exceptions
- Graphical output
- Programming in the large
No programming knowledge will be assumed. A familiarity with Microsoft Windows will be expected.
This module will be delivered via:
- Lectures and sessions for practical exercises.
The exercises will take place in interactive sessions in software laboratories. Each such session there will be ample opportunity for discussing difficulties and receiving formative feedback.
The above list is indicative of the essential reading for the course.
The library makes provision for all reading list items, with digital provision where possible, and these resources are shared between students.
Further reading can be obtained from this module's
reading list.
Assessment items, weightings and deadlines
| Coursework / exam |
Description |
Deadline |
Coursework weighting |
| Coursework |
In lab Test 1 (In person, closed book) |
|
20% |
| Coursework |
Progress Test (in person, open book restricted) |
|
40% |
| Coursework |
In lab Test 2 (In person, closed book) |
|
20% |
| Coursework |
In lab Test 3 (In person, closed book) |
|
20% |
Exam format definitions
- Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
- In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary,
for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.
Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.
Overall assessment
Reassessment
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Dr Renato Amorim, email: r.amorim@essex.ac.uk.
Dr Renato Amorim
School Office, email: csee-schooloffice (non-Essex users should add @essex.ac.uk to create full e-mail address), Telephone 01206 872770
No
No
No
No external examiner information available for this module.
Available via Moodle
Of 2 hours, 2 (100%) hours available to students:
0 hours not recorded due to service coverage or fault;
0 hours not recorded due to opt-out by lecturer(s), module, or event type.
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