Applied Computing (Distance Learning) (Top-Up)
Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
2026-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
Applied Computing (Distance Learning) (Top-Up) BSc (Hons)
Overview
This part-time, distance learning course allows you to top up a HND or Foundation degree to a full Bachelor's degree in Applied Computing. You'll develop skills to enhance your performance in your current role or be ready to take on a senior role in system design, analysis, software engineering, or online course development.
Key Information
UCAS Code
I201
Typical Offer
Relevant HE study leading to a Level 5 qualification
Study Mode and Duration
- 1 year full-time by distance learning (top-up)
- 2 years part-time by distance learning (top-up)
Start Date
- September 2025
- January 2026
Course Information
Course Highlights
- Develop your expertise in advanced database concepts, management of information systems and e-commerce, project management, and web management and development
- Design and develop your own piece of software, hardware, or network system as part of your final year project
Benefits of Distance Learning
- Work from anywhere, at your own pace, in your own time
- Access to over 600,000 ebooks, 55,000 online journals, digital newspapers, and a postal loan service from our University Library
- Invitations to online forums where you can discuss your studies with other students and your lecturers
- Access to all student support services via email, phone, online chat, or video call
Entry Requirements
BSc (Hons) Applied Computing (Distance Learning) (Top-Up) Degree Entry Requirements
- Typical offer (September 2025 / January 2026 start)
- Relevant HE study leading to a Level 5 qualification, for example, an appropriate HND, foundation degree, or Advanced Diploma, or 240 credits from year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate degree (BA/BSc), in a relevant subject
- English language requirements
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5
Careers and Opportunities
- You could use this top-up course to pursue a more senior role with your current employer
- Experienced information systems managers can earn an average salary upwards of £40,000, as can experienced systems analysts
- Other graduates have continued their studies at postgraduate level in areas such as health informatics, forensic IT, and networking, or set up successful businesses with help and support from the University
What Jobs Can You Do with an Applied Computing Degree?
- Roles they've taken on include:
- Business continuity analyst
- Software engineer
- Web developer
- Systems analyst
- Computer programmer
- Online course developer
Modules
What You'll Study
- Project - 40 credits
- You'll produce an individual piece of work using the skills and techniques you've acquired throughout your course
- AI and Data Analytics - 20 credits
- You'll use Python programming to analyse data, look at machine learning, and get introduced to AI as a real-world solution
- Project Management - 20 credits
- In this module, you'll apply industry best practices in IT project management and systems development
- Security Management - 20 credits
- You'll explore security threats and their impact on a business or organisation
- Web Development and Databases - 20 credits
- In this module, you'll explore the web development cycle; from concept to deployment and maintenance
Teaching
- Teaching methods on this course include:
- Independent study
- Online discussion with lecturers
- Most of the course is delivered via our interactive virtual learning environment
How You're Assessed
- You'll be assessed through:
- Multiple choice tests
- Essays
- Mini projects
- Presentations
- Review articles
How You'll Spend Your Time
- Each academic year is divided into 2 teaching blocks and 2 assessment periods
- Most teaching takes place during the day, Monday to Friday
- Online chats are usually scheduled for evenings to accommodate the fact that most of our distance learning students are at work
Supporting You
- As a distance learner, you can get support via video and phone from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed
- You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:
- Personal tutor
- Learning development tutors
- Academic skills support
- Wellbeing and mental health support
- Disability advice and additional support
- Library support
- Maths and stats support
- Support with English
Course Costs and Funding
Tuition Fees
- September 2025 / January 2026 start
- Full-time
- UK, International, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man students: £6,356
- EU students (including Transition Scholarship): £6,356
- Part-time
- UK, International, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man students: £4,240 (Year 1), £2,120 (Year 2)
- EU students (including Transition Scholarship): £4,240 (Year 1), £2,120 (Year 2)
- Full-time
Funding Your Studies
- Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get
- You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover
Additional Course Costs
- These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees
- Recommended reading: You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module
- General costs: We recommend that you budget £75 a year for photocopying and memory sticks
- Final year project: If your final year includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities
University of Portsmouth
Overview:
University of Portsmouth is a public research university located in Portsmouth, Hampshire, England. It is known for its focus on practical learning and its commitment to providing students with a supportive and engaging campus experience.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
A variety of accommodation options are available, including halls of residence and private apartments.Careers and Employment:
Dedicated support services help students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.Guidance and Support:
Students have access to academic advisors, mental health services, and other support resources.Student Life:
A vibrant student community with numerous clubs, societies, and events to participate in.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at University of Portsmouth can expect a lively and supportive campus environment. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, meet new people, and develop their skills. The city of Portsmouth itself provides a diverse and exciting backdrop for student life, with its historic waterfront, vibrant nightlife, and numerous cultural attractions.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Connected Degrees:
The university offers a unique program called Connected Degrees, which allows students to combine a three-year degree with a fourth-year placement, providing them with valuable work experience and career readiness.Practical Learning:
The university emphasizes practical learning, with many courses incorporating real-world projects and industry partnerships.Supportive Environment:
The university provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students, with dedicated staff and resources available to help them succeed.Location:
Portsmouth is a vibrant and affordable city with easy access to London and other major cities.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including: