Computer Science with Foundation Year

The undergraduate BSc (Hons) programme is aimed at students interested in the computing subject area with an emphasis on the fundamentals of computing and its application in industry and the wider economy. It is designed to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills in computing to enter either the IT/Tech industry or pursue postgraduate studies in this area.

Year 1 will focus on computing fundamental modules (e.g. programming, databases networks and operating systems). In the second year, modules such as Advanced Programming and User Interface Design are studied. The final year consists of a final year major project module, accompanied by a Database Management and Administration module. Students can then choose from a range of optional modules such as AI and Robotics, Cyber Security, or Games and Interactive Systems so they can tailor their degree to their interests.

The graduates from this course will have hands-on knowledge of computer science and experience of building software solutions, data management solutions and networks (including security) from the ground up. They will have the ability to design and develop software solutions for business problems. They will learn to analyse, design, code and test different software solutions for different platforms including web-based systems, mobile solutions, cloud solutions, etc. They will also be able to design and build data management, or deploy third-party data management solutions as well as being able to liaise with stakeholders to draw up requirements to ensure that solutions meet their needs.

On completion of the programme graduates will be able to start out as cyber security professionals, AI/Data science engineers, analysts, testers, programmers, junior IT consultants, web/mobile developers, technical architects, or helpdesk engineers. They will also have the knowledge and experience to start their own business.

During their time at the University students will become part of our Cisco Networking Academy, providing them access to courses and certifications (e.g. Cisco Certified Network Associate) that will allow them to develop the knowledge and hands-on skills required by industry.

They will also have to opportunity to engage with our Amazon Web Services (AWS) Academy and complete the Cloud Foundations course, which will prepare them for the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification – a key certification recognised in the IT industry.

In addition to the standard 3-year route we also offer a 4-year foundation route. The foundation year is designed for those who do not meet the standard entry requirements, or are returning to education after a period of time. It is ideal for those looking to upskill and get prepared for an industry career, and the foundation year builds the necessary foundations required for the remaining three years of the degree.

Foundation Year:

Term 1:
• Communication Skills
• Digital and Research Skills
• Sustainability and Society

Term 2:
• Foundation Year Project
• Core Concepts of Computer Science
• One option from the following: Core Concepts of Business; Core Concepts of Criminology and Policing; Core Concepts of Law; Core Concepts of Psychology.

Year One:

Semester 1:
Introduction to Programming
Data Structures, Data Modelling and Computer Systems
Information System and Organisations

Semester 2:
Software Engineering Principles
Databases
OOP Programming

Year Two

Semester 1:
Software Engineering in Practice
Advanced Programming
Networks and Operating System

Semester 2:
Research and Project Management for Computing and Information Technology
User Interface Design (UX)
Application Development and Management

Year Three

Dissertation (Final Project) (40 credits, 2 semesters)

Semester 1:
Database Management and Administration

Optional modules (choose 3, 20 credits each):
AI and Robotics
Machine Learning and Data Science
Evolutionary Algorithms
Information and Content Management Systems
Mobile Development
Human-Computer Interaction
Computer Security
Cyber security
Cyber forensics
Computer Graphics
Computer Animation and Visual Effects
Games and Interactive Systems

Assessments are designed to meet the programme and module learning outcomes and are both formative and summative. The formative assessments include the preparation and feedback from teaching sessions (e.g. lectures, seminars, workshops and presentations). Summative assessment that contributes to the grade, may include portfolios, artefacts, group work/studies, presentations (vide, oral, poster) and reflective assignments.