Program Overview

BSc (Hons) Computing with Foundation Year

Overview

The BSc (Hons) Computing with Foundation Year is designed to provide a strong grounding in the use of computing and IT to solve real-world problems. The programme is based around three themes: Technology, Software, and Data. These themes are embedded in modules each year and built upon in subsequent years, providing a comprehensive understanding of database systems, internet technologies, data, cyber security, networking, and business information systems - all essential features for all computing and IT job roles.

Intakes

• October
• February
• June

Awarding Institution

• Bath Spa University

Awarded Degree

• BSc (Hons) Computing with Integrated Foundation Year

Duration

• 4 years

Location

• Birmingham
• Manchester
• Leeds
• London

Delivery

• Weekdays
• Evenings
• Weekends

Fees

• £9,535 per year

Course Overview

On your Foundation Year, you will have the opportunity to develop academic and employability skills essential for higher education study while being introduced to key concepts in computing.

The following year of study will teach you to interpret and evaluate data relevant to computing and IT. You will learn and apply fundamental theories and concepts of this discipline to make informed decisions and assess problem-solving approaches within the themes of Technology, Software, and Data.

As you advance to Level 5, your knowledge and skills of computer science principles will extend by focusing on applying concepts and various techniques within the broader contexts of Technology, Software, and Data to solve problems in business and industry. Your learning will culminate in an industry-related project, allowing you to demonstrate the knowledge and skills learned. Additionally, you will enhance your communication abilities by presenting your findings to a diverse audience, a crucial skill for all tech roles.

In your last year, you will have the opportunity to further investigate the three core themes: Technology, Software, and Data. This further study will focus on applying computer science principles and techniques across various sectors such as business, industry, and commerce to solve problems. Your skills and knowledge will be showcased through a comprehensive project module, which will be aligned with one of the core themes. This project will challenge you to apply your learning to real-world problems, demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical ability.

Curriculum

Year 0 (Foundation)

• Academic Integrity and Assessment (20 credits)
• Digital Foundations (20 credits)
• Fundamentals of Computing (20 credits)
• Job Search Techniques and Professional Behaviour (20 credits)
• Personal Development and Career Exploration (20 credits)
• Study Strategies and Academic Development (20 credits)

Year 1

• Computer Systems and Internet Technologies (20 credits)
• Group Project (20 credits)
• Introduction to Databases (20 credits)
• Introduction to Programming (20 credits)
• User-Centric Design (20 credits)
• Web Development (20 credits)

Year 2

• Application Development (20 credits)
• Cloud Technologies (20 credits)
• Data Science (20 credits)
• Industry Related Project (20 credits)
• Information Systems Development (20 credits)
• Networking Technologies (20 credits)

Year 3

• Cyber Security (20 credits)
• Machine Learning (20 credits)
• Project Management (20 credits)
• Requirements Management (20 credits)
• Project (40 credits)

Assessment

Assessment on the course is designed to provide suitable opportunities for all students to demonstrate a full range of knowledge, skills, and competences that are key in computing management. Assessment methods include essays, reports, real-life simulations, presentations, projects, and group debate.

You will be required to work in your own time to complete research, homework tasks, or group work. Self-study is vital to your success on this course, and lecturers will give you guidance on how best to approach this throughout the study period.

Assessment methods at GBS are reviewed annually and may be updated based on student feedback, in line with developments in the subject area, or based upon feedback from an External Examiner. An External Examiner is an independent academic expert from a Higher Education Institution that acts as a safeguard to academic standards.

Entry Requirements

Applicants Must be Aged 18+ and:

• Have a Level 3 qualification (equivalent to either 60 credits or 80 UCAS tariff points).
• Have the following English qualification: GCSE grade 4/C or CEFR B1. If you do not have this qualification, you can carry out an English test provided at a GBS campus.

Applicants Aged 21+:

We welcome applications from students 21+ who do not match the standard entry requirements but who can demonstrate willingness and commitment to studying this subject, and who can evidence academic, professional, or vocational experience in a related field. Have the following English qualification: GCSE grade 4/C or CEFR B1. If you do not have this qualification, you can carry out an English test provided at a GBS campus.

Fees & Funding

Fees

Following the Government’s announcement that Undergraduate tuition fees for UK Undergraduate students will change for students enrolling or re-enrolling after 1 August 2025, GBS has updated the Fees information, as shown above.

Tuition fees for Home students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students in line with an inflationary amount determined by the government.

Funding Your Study

You may be able to borrow money from the UK Government to help pay your tuition fees and to help with your living costs while studying.

This could take the form of a Tuition Fee Loan to cover the cost of your tuition fees, and/or a Maintenance Loan to support you with living costs whilst studying.

Please visit our Fees & Funding page for more information.