BSc (Hons) Computing with integrated Foundation (3-year degree)
The BSc Computing with foundation year programme is designed if wish to study an undergraduate computing degree but have non-standard qualifications.
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Course overview
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18 January 2025
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Discover the core aspects and unique opportunities that Buckingham's Computing degrees offer.
11 January 2025
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View All Course Modules
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Jan 2025 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Evolution of Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Fundamentals of Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Computing | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Web Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Mathematical Methods | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Mathematics for Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Computer Systems | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Operating Systems | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Statistics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Mathematics for Computing | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Problem Solving and Programming 1 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Problem Solving and Programming 2 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Design, Implementation and Analysis of Algorithms | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Mobile Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Object Oriented Programming | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Principles of Computer Networks | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Principles of Database Systems | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Skills and Professional Development | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Software Engineering | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| User Experience (UX) Design | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Cyber Security and Cryptography | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Advanced Web Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cloud Computing | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Grand Challenge Project | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Project | Core | 45.00 | 6 |
| Software Project Management | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Software Quality Assurance | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Web Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
Sep 2025 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Evolution of Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Fundamentals of Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Computing | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Web Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Mathematical Methods | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Mathematics for Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Computer Systems | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Operating Systems | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Statistics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Mathematics for Computing | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Problem Solving and Programming 1 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Problem Solving and Programming 2 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Design, Implementation and Analysis of Algorithms | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Mobile Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Object Oriented Programming | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Principles of Computer Networks | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Principles of Database Systems | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Skills and Professional Development | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Software Engineering | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| User Experience (UX) Design | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Cyber Security and Cryptography | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Advanced Web Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cloud Computing | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Grand Challenge Project | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Project | Core | 45.00 | 6 |
| Software Project Management | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Software Quality Assurance | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Web Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
Jan 2026 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Evolution of Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Fundamentals of Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Computing | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Web Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Mathematical Methods | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Mathematics for Computing | Core | 20.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Computer Systems | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Operating Systems | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Statistics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Mathematics for Computing | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Problem Solving and Programming 1 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Problem Solving and Programming 2 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Design, Implementation and Analysis of Algorithms | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Mobile Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Object Oriented Programming | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Principles of Computer Networks | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Principles of Database Systems | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Skills and Professional Development | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Software Engineering | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| User Experience (UX) Design | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Fundamentals of Cyber Security and Cryptography | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Advanced Web Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cloud Computing | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Grand Challenge Project | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Project | Core | 45.00 | 6 |
| Software Project Management | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Software Quality Assurance | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Web Applications Development | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
The BSc Computing with foundation year programme will benefit those individuals who wish to study an undergraduate degree but have non-standard academic qualifications.
Year one of BSc Computing with Foundation will follow the Foundation Pathway programme with the addition of the Access to Computing programme introducing students to key concepts and study skills. This is followed by a pre-university access programme specially designed for Applied Computing. The overall aim is to equip students who have not achieved the minimum entry requirements for BSc (Hons) Computing with the fundamental knowledge and essential skills required for the intensive study of the undergraduate degree programme at Buckingham.
These preparatory modules include mathematics, fundamentals of computing as well as web computing. Students must pass all modules before being allowed on to the BSc Computing degree portion of the programme.
In years two and three students will build on these skills and enhance their knowledge, understanding and practice in core subjects following the BSc Computing programme structure. Throughout the three years, a student will be equipped with the skills to reach their potential in academic studies.
Computing and communications technologies lie at the heart of modern society. They include hardware, software, networks, tools, telecommunications equipment and required standards that provide the technological framework on which the delivery of information services is based. The IT industry is reporting a widening gap in software skills while hard technology is developing and diversifying fast.
The overall aim of this programme is to enable all students to develop their potential so that they can apply what they have learnt to deal with computational problems and develop solutions in a real-world environment. Through studying this programme, students learn how to specify, design, develop and operate efficient and innovative computer-based systems and gain up-to-date knowledge of the relevant computing technologies at an advanced level within a shorter space of time.
Subject Specialisms
In the second year of your BSc Computing degree (third year of study) you will choose to specialise in one of the following:
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
- Cyber Security
- Computer Games and Immersive Applications Development
Each specialism pathway contains modules designed to ensure you develop the skills necessary to progress into employment in these areas of the Computing sector.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9, including English and Maths, or their international equivalents. In addition, applicants must have one of the following qualifications or their international equivalents:
- A Levels with minimum grades of DD
- BTEC National Diploma with minimum grades of MPP
- Other Level 3 qualifications equivalent to at least 48 UCAS points
International Applicants: We welcome equivalent qualifications from around the world. However, you must also demonstrate your English language proficiency by achieving an IELTS score of 6 with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component, or another approved language test.
UCAS applications
You may apply either through the national UCAS university admissions system or at any time directly to the University using our own online application form. Our UCAS code is B90.
Mature students
The age range of our student body varies from those who have recently completed A-levels (or equivalent) to more mature students. Age is no barrier to learning and we welcome all applications from suitably qualified students.
International students
We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country.
The University is a UKVI Student Sponsor.
Selection process
Wherever possible, you will be invited to the University to meet the Admissions Tutor for an informal interview and to have a tour of our campus. If you are an international applicant, it may not be possible for you to visit in person, so if the Admissions Tutor has any queries about your application you may be contacted by Microsoft Teams, email or phone.
Our Admissions Team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Call us on +44 (0)1280 820227 or get in touch via our contact form.
Student Contract for prospective students
When you are offered a place at the University you will be notified of the student contract between the University and students on our courses of study. When you accept an offer of a place on the course at the University a legal contract is formed between you and the University on the basis of the student contract in your offer letter. Your offer letter and the student contract contain important information which you should read carefully before accepting an offer. Read the Student Contract.
Teaching & Assessment
Quality teaching
We offer high quality, traditional Oxbridge-style teaching, which leads to our degrees being recognised around the world. The standards of degrees and awards are safeguarded by distinguished external examiners – senior academic staff from other universities in the UK – who approve and moderate assessed work.
High calibre staff
Most of our academic staff teach for three terms out of four, with the remaining term used for research. Because of this, we have no difficulty in attracting high calibre, highly respected lecturers, many of whom also have a background in business or industry and can offer networking opportunities for students.
Teaching methods
Teaching is carried out through a combination of lectures supported by seminars, workshops and tutorials. It is enhanced by virtual learning environments, online / stand-alone computer-based teaching, learning packages and software tools.
A key feature of the Buckingham teaching method is the use of small tutorial groups which provide the most effective means of ensuring that the students benefit from the academic expertise at their disposal. It is also the philosophy of the University’s faculty to be available to students outside the scheduled tutorial times and to encourage good working relationships between staff and students.
Many of our Information Systems and Computing courses have supervised practical classes in the computer laboratories in which you can apply and practise the techniques you have learnt in the lectures. These practical sessions are usually two or three hours long. You will also be expected to study on your own, using the library for reading research and the computer laboratories to improve your practical skills.
Assessment methods
The assessment of individual modules within each course varies according to the subject. Assessment is usually by examination, assessed coursework, or a combination of the two. Please check module information for more details.
Preparation for work
All our degree courses combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. Many of our more vocationally-focused degrees offer the opportunity of work placements and experience in industry.
After Your Course
Graduate employment
Our graduates have gone on to further study at most of the world’s leading universities, including Harvard, London, Oxford and Cambridge and secured jobs in senior positions around the world. Among our alumni, we have a graduate who became the head of his country’s civil service and one who became a leading Formula One motor-racing driver. Another secured a position as the Minister of Sabah and one female law graduate became the first British lawyer to become a French Advocate.
What our students say
I have been interested in computing and technology from a young age. It always has, and continues to fascinate me how things work. I studied computing at GCSE and Sixth Form level here in the UK, not only learning basic programming but also how vital a role technology plays in business today. So, it was only natural to want to pursue this at a higher education level.
I loved that the course covered all aspects and areas of computing in great detail – from basic programming, to web development, cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence with interesting and challenging projects, both in groups and individual. My final year project was to build an image-processing application that automatically detects cracks on solar panels. During my time, I also joined the Gaming Society, where I met new people and even went on a trip to London Comic Con.
Mihir Raniga – BSC Computing, 2022
I joined the September 2019 cohort and was surprised by how different the course was compared to my previous university programme. The tight-knit classes allowed me to ask many questions and engage with the lectures more easily; the timetables gave the flexibility to organize my spare time, especially allowing me to apply in practice what I had learned in blockchain and crypto; and having my personal tutor alongside me meant I was encouraged and motivated when I most needed it.
During my time at Buckingham, I was able to form a competitive group called ‘Team Bucklers’ at the Keyloop Dealer Tech Competition and win the regional team prize worth £3000. I was twice nominated to the Student Union body as Equity and Inclusion Officer as well as Ethical and Environmental Officer, where I was able to introduce free-cycling schemes and fundraise against deforestation. I also co-founded a student-led start-up for connecting students on campus via a mobile application with the assistance of the Buckingham Enterprise & Innovation Unit (BEIU).
In the end, I was able to graduate with First Class Honours and with three academic awards for best performance in exam diets and for the most outstanding undergraduate project regarding conversational AI chatbots.
Thomas Humphreys, BSc Computing, 2022
The University stood out to me because they provided me with a huge amount of flexibility and support when transferring. It also seemed a clear choice because of the small class sizes and the emphasis on providing quality teaching. These factors, amongst others, did in fact combine to make an unmatched learning experience.
The curriculum is kept up to date with industry standards and modules were regularly reviewed and evolved to match the ever – changing requirements of Computing. In particular, the practical elements of modules were a highlight. Teaching focussed on giving students relevant experience to be prepared for work. The benefit of the smaller class sizes was clear here, as you can go further in depth on any topic with the guidance of lecturers and teaching assistants.
Asha Krishnan, BSc Computing, 2021
Fees & Scholarships
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | First Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan 2025 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £12,320 | £40,070 |
| INT | £19,712 | £64,112 | |
Sep 2025 Full-time (3 years and 3 months) | UK | £12,320 | £40,070 |
| INT | £19,712 | £64,112 | |
Jan 2026 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £12,320 | £40,070 |
| INT | £19,712 | £64,112 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Scholarships & Bursaries
Details can be found on our main Bursaries and Scholarships page.
Accommodation
On-campus accommodation
We guarantee on-campus accommodation to all new students for their first four terms of study, as long as it is booked and paid for in good time, so you’re assured of a safe and secure home from home when you arrive at the University. Most new students choose this option.
Living on campus enables you to become involved in University activities, make friends, and integrate with the University community. For some of you this will be your first time in the UK; for others it will be the first time living away from home – and independence brings its challenges as well as its excitements. Whatever your circumstances, we know how important it is for you to feel comfortable in your accommodation.
What’s included?
All our study bedrooms are fully furnished, centrally heated, and connected to the internet. With few exceptions they have a wash basin and small refrigerator. We have a large number of ensuite rooms, and are upgrading more rooms each year. There are shared kitchens for when you wish to cook for yourself.
Find out more
If you’d like to find out more, visit our Accommodation pages or get in touch with our Accommodation Team.
We recommend that all prospective students visit our campus if they are able to, at one of our open days or a Campus Tour, campus tours include a typical student room.
How To Apply
We welcome applications in two different ways – directly via our online application form or through UCAS.
Apply directly
Apply online via our course pages:
- Most flexible option
- Apply until shortly before the course starts
- No application fees
- You can apply to us as an extra option alongside your UCAS choices
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘apply’ button at the bottom of the course page.
Apply via UCAS
You can easily make Buckingham one of your UCAS choices:
- You can apply to up to 5 choices
- The application and decision deadlines are set by UCAS
- There is an application fee to UCAS
Our UCAS code is B90.
If you’re interested in transferring to Buckingham from another university then please get in touch to talk through your options.