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Computer Science (Including Foundation Year)

  • BSc (Hons)
  • 4 Years
  • Full-time
  • October 2026
  • Undergraduate
Colchester Campus
More about University of Essex

Course options

2026-20272027-2028
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Course summary

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (including Foundation Year) is a four-year degree.

You’ll build a strong foundation in core computer science theory and explore its cutting-edge real-world applications, preparing you to create the technologies of tomorrow.

If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for the three-year version, starting the course with a Foundation Year gives you a supported step up to university study.

WHY THIS COURSE

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (including Foundation Year) gives you the theory and practical knowledge to understand – and create – computing technologies that make a real impact on the world.

You’ll spend Year Zero on the Computer Science, Electronic Engineering and Mathematics Pathway, gaining an introduction to statistical analysis and modelling as well as computer programming. You'll then choose whether to progress to the BSc (Hons) Computer Science, BSc (Hons) Computer Games, BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering or BSc (Hons) Mathematics.

From Year One of BSc (Hons) Computer Science, you’ll study a broad curriculum shaped by industry partners, gaining the most up-to-date understanding of computer science. Discover which areas you’re interested in exploring further, then specialise in assistive technologies, computer games, artificial intelligence, evolutionary computation, Big Data or robotics.

By graduation, you’ll have the confidence and ability to dig deeper into how technology influences people’s lives. You’ll be ready for careers in software and systems analysis, engineering and programming.

Modules

Many of our courses offer a choice of optional modules to tailor your learning experience. More information about these can be found on the University of Essex website.

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Colchester Campus

Study options

  • BSc (Hons) • Full-time • 4 Years

Start dates

  • October 2026

Apply by
14 January

This is the equal consideration deadline. You can still apply after this date, but your application may not receive guaranteed consideration.

Application codes

Course code:
G403
Institution code:
E70
Campus name:
Colchester Campus
Campus Code:
-
Points of Entry:
Foundation

University of Essex has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

Apply by
14 January

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

Course code:
G403
Institution code:
E70
Campus name:
Colchester Campus
Campus Code:
-

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Foundation

International applicants

Please note that this course is not open to international applicants.

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Entry requirements

UCAS Tariff
72 points

GCSE Maths C/4 is also required.

Offers will be made from a minimum of the equivalent of 2 full A-levels.

We accept A Levels, BTECs, Access to HE Diploma, International Baccalaureate, T Levels, AAQs and most other qualifications within the UCAS Tariff.

Whilst International A-levels and BTECs aren't on the tariff calculator, we assign them the same tariff points as their UK counterparts.

Find out more about qualification requirements for this course.

Contextual admissions

Universities and colleges consider more than grades when assessing applications and may make offers based on a range of criteria. Learn more about contextual offers.

For our Essex Pathways courses we will consider your whole application before making a decision, regardless of your educational background and grades. If you need any advice please contact our Admissions team.

Learn more on the University of Essex website

Historical entry grades data

This section shows the range of grades that students who received offers were previously accepted on to this course with (learn more).

It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place.

Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Not enough data available

We are unable to show previous accepted grades for this course. This could be because the course is new, it's a postgraduate course, there isn't enough historical data, or the provider has opted out of sharing their entry grades data for this course - learn more.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Per year tuition fees

LocationFeeYear

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

Fees displayed are for the 2026-27 academic year. Fees may increase for each academic intake and each academic year of study.

Related courses

At University of Essex

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