International Foundation Programme - Computing

Program Overview

---

International Foundation Programme - Computing

Overview

The International Foundation Programme in Computing is ideal if you are looking to study a computing-related undergraduate degree.

Key Facts

• Learn the skills you need to succeed in your undergraduate science degree
• Develop your awareness of academic culture in the UK as you integrate into student life within a UK university
• Upon successfully completing your International Foundation Programme you will be guaranteed a place on a computing-based undergraduate degree at Northumbria University
• Progress onto courses in Computer Science, Networks and Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence and Business Computing

What Will I Study?

The International Foundation Programme supports your integration to UK study by providing you with an opportunity to explore the style and strengths of the British approach to teaching and learning.

The modules are designed to develop your English language, academic listening and reading capabilities, your ability to interpret your findings and present to your peers and tutor – specific to the requirements of undergraduate degrees in Computing.

Study Plan

IELTS	Oct-Dec	Jan-Mar	Mar-Jun	July-Aug	Sept
4.5	International Foundation Programme – Computing (12 month)	Start your undergraduate degree at Northumbria University
5.0	International Foundation Programme – Computing (9 month)	Summer break
5.5			International Foundation Programme – Computing (6 month)

Teaching and Assessment

• 16-18 hours per week in seminars, lectures, workshops, labs and tutorials
• 20 – 22 hours independent study – total of a max of 40 hours per week overall study time
• Assessment: Portfolio tasks, written coursework, examinations

Progression Courses

Upon successful completion and subject to specific entry requirements, you can go on to study a range of business undergraduate degrees at Northumbria University.

• Artificial Intelligence BSc (Hons)
• Business Computing BSc (Hons)
• Computer Science BSc (Hons)
• Data Science BSc (Hons)
• Games Computing BSc (Hons)
• Networks and Cyber Security BSc (Hons)

Entry Requirements

Academic Requirements

• GCSE/iGCSE – 5 passes at A-C

We welcome applications from students who have obtained good grades in their upper secondary education.

We also now accept the following:

• China – Successful completion of Senior Middle School 2 with a minimum average of 70% or higher, or successful completion of Senior Middle School 3 with a minimum average of 60% or higher
• India – Standard 11 with 55%, Standard 12 with 50%.
• Malaysia – SPM Malaysia School Certificate, Forecast results accepted – UEC pass grades also accepted.
• Senegal – Baccalaureate/Baccalaureat Technique 10/20

Depending on your chosen degree course, specific subject requirements may apply. Our team will be able to help confirm the details for you.

English Language Requirements

There are multiple entry levels to the International Foundation Programme depending on your IELTS level:

• 4.5 with no single sub score below 4.0, or equivalent, from a UKVI Approved centre will study the 12-month programme
• 5.0 with no single sub score below 4.0, or equivalent, from a UKVI Approved centre will study the 9-month programme
• 5.5 with no single sub score below 5.5, or equivalent, from a UKVI Approved centre will study the 6-month programme

Modules

All modules are core and worth 20 credits unless specified.

12 and 9 month IFP students only

• English for University Studies (0 credits)

Term of study will depend on entry point. Students on the 12 month IFP will have 2 periods of this module. 9 month IPF students will have 1 period.

Learn about UK Higher Education culture, and develop the skills to help you thrive at university.

• Learnt through a number of ways including onsite communicative and task-based learning
• Develop English language skills to study at university more proactively and independently
• Explore subject specialisms and the International Foundation Programme as a whole

All students will study the following modules:

• English for Foundation - Optional (based on IELTS Score)
• Gain the skills you need to become an independent language learner. Take responsibility for your own language learning, and gain the habits of continuous learning which you will need on your undergraduate program.
• Develop communicative abilities in English
• Gain language ability across the main skills of English (speaking, listening, reading and writing)
• Grammatical knowledge and accuracy in English
• Vocabulary and fluency in English
• Professional Development Planning
• Explore the skills that are necessary for preparing you for studying at university and starting your journey into employment.
• Learn through targeted activities that will help you maximise your presence within both a university context and the wider workplace
• Develop project management skills include working with others, delegation, participation and reflecting on approaches taken
• Academic Practice
• Explore broad range of essential study skills such as research and working with sources and use of digital tools.
• Acquire the academic literacy and language skills you need to succeed at university
• Learn writing and presentation skills, and reflection and action planning
• Information Systems Design and Performance
• Study the basics of web technologies and how they support the needs of modern organisations.
• Explore the security related problems that information systems can create for organisations
• Engage in analysing case studies to enhance your understanding of the benefits and problems of information systems for organisations
• Understand the basics of web design and web evaluation and the implementation of information systems within an organisation
• Implement a web evaluation technique on ecommerce websites
• Digital Design Skills and Practice
• Digital Design Skills and Practice offers an introduction to digital arts combined with web development using a variety of state-of-the art software and online tools applied within the fast pace and evolving digital world.
• You will explore new technological concepts, create bespoke designs, and connect digitally while attempting to reach prospects such as individuals, organisations, and businesses.
• You will enrich and deepen your digital skills as you engage in diverse tasks including building a personal e-commerce website and blog.
• By progressing through the module, you will gain skills including project management and collaboration from working on a major project that showcases website design
• Introduction to Computing and Coding
• This module will equip you with vital knowledge of computing that will enable you to succeed in your studies at Northumbria University.
• Explore some of the latest technologies underlying the Internet of things
• Find your own solutions to some of the classic problems of computing and develop your key problem-solving skills
• Using some of the latest educational tools you wrangle your own code
• Project - Optional (based on IELTS Score)
• Carry out a project in your subject-specific area and will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to complete your project successfully.
• Develop the skills such as time management and research skills
• Explore the essential steps in the project life cycle and have the opportunity to evaluate and reflect on your (and your fellow students’) progress throughout the project work
• Gain academic research skills and develop your ability to critically appraise and organise material

Fees and Finance

Tuition Fee 2025/26

• IELTS 4.5 will study the 12-month programme: £21,250
• IELTS 5.0 will study the 9-month programme: £17,250
• IELTS 5.5 will study the 6-month programme: £11,750

Access to a laptop/PC with a microphone, speakers, webcam and a reliable internet connect is required for accessing your live online sessions.

Included in your Tuition Fees

• Academic Support, including the Academic Community of Excellence (ACE) Team
• Careers and Employment Service
• Class hours (lectures, seminars and tutorials)
• Facilities (computers, on-campus wi-fi, printers, vending machines)
• Library resources, including a large online catalogue of books, journals and other more
• Online resources
• Social spaces (quiet study spaces, multi-faith rooms and spaces to socialise)
• Student Support (Welfare Team, Finance Team and more)

Tuition fees do not include the cost of course books you may choose to purchase, stationery, printing, photocopying, accommodation, living expenses, travel or any other extracurricular activities.

We recommend you allow an additional £300 per annum to buy some of the course texts.

Scholarships and Bursaries for International Students

Depending on the country you are from, you may be eligible for a country bursary and/or scholarship when studying this programme.

All of our scholarships and bursaries are automatically applied when we process your application and one of our team will be able to confirm your eligibility.

How to Apply

When you are ready you can apply online to study the International Foundation Programme – Computing. Applying online allows you to upload all of your supporting documents and you will automatically receive your student application number.

Please note: For 2025 applications you will be redirected to the Northumbria website to select which intake you would like to apply for.

Course Information

• Level of study: Foundation - NQF Level 3
• Fee: International Fee: (25/26): £21,250 (12 months) £17,250 (9 months) £11,750 (6 months)
• Leads to: Undergraduate degrees in Computing
• Entry requirements: 5 GCSE/iGCSE passes at grade A-C, or equivalent
• IELTS requirements: From IELTS 4.5 with no single element below 4.0, or equivalent, from a UKVI Approved centre
• Duration: 12, 9 or 6 months
• Class hours per week: 16-18
• Average class size: 18
• Assessment methods: Coursework - portfolios, presentations, essays and in-class tests
• Scholarship or bursaries: Available
• Payment plan: Not available
• Starts: January, March, October

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

---

Program Name:

International Foundation Programme in Computing

---

Program Description:

This intensive one-year program prepares international students for undergraduate studies in computing-related fields. The program focuses on developing key skills and knowledge in computing, alongside enhancing English language, study skills, critical thinking, and research capabilities. Upon successful completion, students are guaranteed a place on a computing-based undergraduate degree at Northumbria University.

---

Program Objectives:

• Equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required for success in an undergraduate computing degree.
• Enhance English language proficiency to meet academic demands.
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills vital for university study.
• Provide a strong foundation in core computing concepts and technologies.
• Ensure a smooth transition into undergraduate studies in computing at Northumbria University.

---

Outline:

---

Program Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Programming and coding fundamentals
• Computer hardware and architecture
• Network fundamentals
• Digital design and technologies
• Web development
• Data analysis and algorithms
• Project management and critical thinking

---

Structure:

The program consists of four modules, each lasting for one term (10 weeks). Students have the option to choose modules based on their IELTS score and learning needs.

---

Module Descriptions:

• English for University Studies:
• Develops study skills and UK higher education culture.
• Enhances research and writing skills.
• Explores subject-specific areas in computing.
• Builds independent language learning skills.
• Fosters self-directed learning and improves academic vocabulary.
• Enhances communication and presentation skills.
• Professional Development Planning:
• Explores essential skills for university and workplace success.
• Develops project management, teamwork, and self-reflection skills.
• Addresses essential professional skills including communication, networking, and decision-making.
• Academic Practice:
• Enhances research and academic writing skills.
• Explores effective communication and presentation techniques.
• Information Systems Design and Performance:
• Introduces web technologies and their role in modern organizations.
• Explores security challenges associated with information systems.
• Analyzes case studies to understand benefits and challenges of information systems.
• Digital Design Skills and Practice:
• Provides exposure to industry-standard software and digital tools.
• Introduces new technologies and concepts for effective communication and outreach.
• Develops creativity, innovation, and digital literacy skills.
• Introduction to Computing and Coding:
• Provides essential knowledge in computing for further academic success.
• Explores latest technologies involved in the Internet of Things.
• Develops problem-solving skills and introduces key computing concepts.
• Project (Optional):
• Enables students to conduct a project in their chosen subject area.
• Develops research and time management skills.
• Provides opportunity to reflect on individual and group progress throughout the project.

---

Assessment:

---

Assessment Methods:

• Continuous assessment
• Portfolio tasks
• Written coursework
• Projects
• Presentations
• Examinations

---

Assessment Criteria:

• Depth of understanding and knowledge
• Application of skills and knowledge
• Ability to analyze and solve problems
• Critical thinking and reasoning
• Communication skills
• Effective teamwork

---

Teaching:

---

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Tutorials
• Group discussions
• Online learning resources
• Guest lectures and industry expert talks

---

Faculty:

• Highly qualified and experienced academics with expertise in different areas of computing.
• Committed to providing quality teaching and personalized attention to students.
• Utilize active learning methods and diverse teaching resources.

---

Unique Teaching Approaches:

• Focus on student-centered learning and active participation.
• Utilize project-based learning and case studies to enhance practical understanding.
• Employ digital technologies to enhance the learning experience.

---

Careers:

---

Potential Career Paths:

• Software Developer
• Web Developer
• Database Administrator
• Network Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Security Analyst
• Systems Analyst
• Programmer
• Mobile App Developer
• Research Scientist
• IT Consultant

---

Career Support:

• The University's Careers and Employment Service provides guidance and support for career planning and job applications.
• Access to career fairs, employer events, and career workshops.
• Personalized advice and mentoring from career advisors.

---

Other:

---

Course Start Dates:

January, March, October

---

Module Duration:

10 weeks per module

---

Average Class Size:

18 students

---

Program Fees:

• IELTS 4.5 (12 months): £20,750
• IELTS 5.0 (9 months): £16,750
• IELTS 5.5 (6 months): £11,250

---

Scholarships and Bursaries:

Available for international students depending on their country of origin.

---

Entry Requirements:

• 5 GCSE/iGCSE passes at grade A-C, or equivalent
• IELTS requirements vary depending on program length and selected modules

---

Tuition fee 2024/25 IELTS 4.5 will study the 12-month programme: £20,750 IELTS 5.0 will study the 9-month programme: £16,750 IELTS 5.5 will study the 6-month programme: £11,250