FdSc / HNC Computing

We consider a variety of qualifications and relevant experience, and each application is assessed on its own merit.

To enrol on this course, you will usually be required to have a minimum of 48 UCAS points, from at least one of the following: A Levels, BTEC Nationals, Access to Higher Education Diploma, NVQ Level 3 or equivalent qualifications. Basic IT skills would also be beneficial.

If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 7.0 with a minimum score of 6.5 in each component (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking or an equivalent English Language qualification).

Each module is worth a specified number of credits and enable you to cover key subject knowledge while developing your own interests. For full time students a total of 120 credits will be studied in each academic year. In the majority of cases this will consist of 6 modules. For part time students it will depend on the intensity of your studies.

Year 1 Modules

• Introduction to Computer Security – 20 credits
• Programming Concepts – 20 credits
• Client-Side Web Development – 20 credits
• Database: Analysis, Design and Development – 20 credits
• Computer Systems infrastructure – 20 credits
• Fundamentals of Computer Networks – 20 credits

Year 2 Modules

• Employability and Professional Development – 20 credits
• Secure Application Development – 20 credits
• Enterprise Networks – 20 credits
• Advanced Project – 20 credits
• Object Oriented Programming (OOP) – 20 credits
• Application Development for Embedded Operating Systems – 20 credits

Timetables are normally available one month before the commencement of your studies. As a guide, last year the first year of this programme was timetabled on: Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday.

When studied part-time, the duration of the course depends on the speed at which you wish to progress through it. This is called the ‘intensity of study’. For example, studying half-time would be equivalent to 50 per cent intensity of study and would typically double the length of the course from three to six years. Please note that this does not necessarily mean that the modules you take in Year 1 will equate to 2.5 full days’ attendance. As part-time study will mean attendance of some modules that are on the full-time timetable, it may mean that you will be required to attend modules timetabled over five days of the week. You may be able to change the intensity of study during your course. Please note that the four-year version of the course is not currently available on a part-time basis. Not all intensities of study are available for all programmes.

This programme will provide you with the opportunity to undertake a work placement during the second year. The placement will be supported by your academic team and is a requirement to achieve module credit. UCSD can support you if required in locating you a work placement. Associated costs relating to travel to your placement is your responsibility and can be supported by your first year bursary.

There are two formal or summative assessed pieces of work for each module. Assessment methods can include written examinations and a range of coursework assessments such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations and projects. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark. In addition to formal assessments throughout modules of study there will be developmental (formative) assessments to support you with developing greater understanding of your progress.

The approximate percentage of the course assessed by coursework, test and practical is as follows:

Year 1 – 50% Coursework, 30% Test, 20% Practical
Year 2 – 55% Coursework, 20% Test, 20% Practical

We recognise feedback as an essential component of your learning and progression. We adopt a feed-forward approach whereby feedback is given in a developmental manner to support your continued progression. You will receive feedback on all assessments within 20 working days.

Consisting of theory and practical elements, every module will be taught by subject specialists in a dedicated lab environment which closely reflects industry standards. The enthusiasm of staff for the subject and the dedication to maintain currency in an ever-moving curriculum will enable you to develop skills relevant to modern industry and employment. The modules are designed to be fun, informative and promote the study and understanding of complex computer science themes and technological advancements. Student led seminars, research and practical evidenced formative assessments and problem solving activities will cultivate independent and critical thinkers.

You will be taught by a teaching team with a wealth of industry and academic experience whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. Postgraduate students undertaking teacher training may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader. Our teaching is informed by research, professional practice and industry experience to provide you with the most up to date and relevant learning opportunities.

When not attending lectures, seminars or practicals you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve spending a considerable amount of time programming and advancing your software development skills, reading books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations where applicable. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities, including the library, the UCSD Research Centre, and our course specific environments that include, but not limited to, modern computer and network systems.

Your overall workload at Level 4 consists of class contact hours, of approximately 15 hours’ per week, plus independent learning, and assessment activity. Together, this equates to approximately 36 hours per week. While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.

Level 4: 43% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity. 57% is spent on independent learning and assessment related activity.
Level 5: 43% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity. 57% is spent on independent learning and assessment related activity.

A key feature of our university level programmes is the exceptional support we provide for students. We are passionate about providing dedicated and bespoke support services to help you make the most of your time here and to maximise your potential. We have an experienced team who offer a range of services, and regular 1:1 contact time with your personal tutor guarantees your professional and personal development. We can provide help with study skills, written English, academic writing, research skills, critical thinking, and revision. We hold the principles of equality and opportunity for all in the highest regard. That’s why our degrees are designed to be accessible for anyone, regardless of your personal circumstances. We endeavour to make reasonable adjustments and remove any barriers to your learning. We also offer more flexible timetables than other institutions to minimise the impact studying has on your personal life and responsibilities.

Upon successful completion of this foundation degree you may progress to a range of relevant programmes of study, including the final year of the BSc (Hons) Computing degree at the University of Plymouth.

Please note that there is a deadline for progression applications and places may be subject to availability.

Alternatively, you could consider employment in a number of fields. A degree in computing offers a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as; network engineering, systems analysis, software engineering, database development, cybersecurity, web technologies and software engineering for mobile and entertainment systems.

Web developer, Software Engineer, Network Engineer, Security Analyst, Data Analyst, IT Infrastructure support

Funding is available to help you with living costs during your studies via Student Finance England. We are committed to supporting our students with a number of bursary packages, which you will receive if you meet particular criteria, and does not need to be repaid. Bursaries are awarded in addition to any funding received from Student Finance England.

Equipment to support practical sessions related to your programme of learning
Compulsory visits related to your programme of learning
Annual £10 printing allowance
Access to e-books and e-journals relating to your programme of study

Additional printing over the initial allowance
Optional overseas and UK based field trips
The cost of books you may wish to purchase
An annual parking fee or bus pass for travel to UCSD