Computer Science (with a Foundation Year)

You’ll gain far more than just a Computer Science degree with us. We equip students with the skills and practical experience to become highly employable. From the industry-standard facilities you’ll use, through to opportunities to gain Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Cisco certifications, we know what makes the difference.

And as most of our Computer Science students opt for a paid placement year, you’ll have the chance to work in industry before you graduate. These exciting placements can be with companies locally, nationally or as far afield as the US and Singapore.

It’s just one element of the amazing industry links you’ll encounter. We also have guest lectures and academics who are AWS-certified educators. GradEX, our Final Year Graduate Show, is also where students ‘sell’ their projects to a panel of industry judges.

The course will give you a solid foundation in all major aspects of computing. It includes digital technologies, network concepts, cyber security, programming, software development and cloud computing. From web design and user experience through to mastering programming languages, such as JavaScript and Python, you’ll see how everything knits together.
You can then tailor the degree to your interests in your second and final years. We offer several specialist pathways or a broader route that allows you to choose modules from different areas

You’ll do everything from a real-world perspective, with opportunities to complete live briefs and set up your own simulated companies. It means you’ll become agile and flexible – qualities valued by graduate recruiters.
Our facilities also include the latest equipment you’ll find in industry. Use our learner labs to experiment and create networks. Or explore the cloud environment with your own AWS account. And in our Collision Space, we have a video wall and group project desks to give you the feel of a real workplace.

This hands-on experience is one of the reasons why we’re ranked in the Top 25 for student satisfaction in Computer Science (2023 Guardian League Tables).
What’s more, we’re also accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT. This shows we meet rigorous national standards for quality.

Course Modules

Foundation Year: Computer and Networking Fundamentals; Introduction to Programming and AI; Study Skills and Foundational Maths; Team Project

Year One: Cloud And Network Technologies; Computing Project; Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence; Programming Concepts

Year Two Core: Computing Teamwork, Professional Practice and Business Analysis; Data Structure and Algorithms; Full Stack Development

Year Two Optional: AI Algorithms and Machine Learning; Digital Forensics Fundamentals; Ethical Hacking; Networking Architecture; Software Testing and Assurance

Year Three: Advanced AI - Data Systems & Distributed Applications; Advanced Computer Science: Emerging Technologies and Contemporary Practice; Final Year Project

This course has a rich diet of assessment methods, of which each is chosen to map to the teaching and expected learning. On this course you will undertake assessments of the following: Class tests (up to 1 hour, Examinations (up to 2 hours), Practical assignment work (individual or group-based), Portfolio of work, Report (individual or group-based, and Presentations (individual or group-based)