BSc COMPUTING SCIENCE WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR
BSC COMPUTING SCIENCE WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR
Learn to program the future and prepare to excel in a range of computing fields, from the information systems of banks and businesses, to the creativity of gaming and web design, to AI, robotics, cloud computing, big data and lots, lots more.
If you’re a digital native who lives and breathes computing, but you don’t yet meet the academic requirements of our degree programmes, this course is for you. On your Foundation Year, you’ll gain the knowledge, understanding and skills needed for undergraduate level study, all within a nurturing, supportive environment.
Once you’ve successfully completed your Foundation Year, you’ll be able to progress to the BSc Computing Science. Depending on your grades, you may also be able to switch to one of our other computing degrees.
About
If you’re passionate about a computing degree, but don’t have the academic qualifications to start immediately, this course is designed for you. We welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds. You might have A levels, Access, BTEC, or professional qualifications – or a variety of equivalent alternatives. Maybe you’ve got the right subjects, but didn’t get the grades – or perhaps you’ve got work experience rather than formal qualifications. It all counts.
On the BSc Computing Science with a Foundation Year, you’ll follow the same programme as Computer Science, but you’ll do a foundation year first to equip you with the computing and maths expertise you’ll need to succeed in subsequent years.
Once you’ve completed your foundation year, depending on your grades, you can progress to any of the undergraduate degree courses within UEA’s School of Computing Sciences.
Studying with us means that you’ll benefit from our research-led approach to teaching and our fantastic facilities, ensuring that you will learn in the most up-to-date environment.
During your foundation year, you will have an average of 15 hours of contact time per week with teaching staff through lectures, laboratory sessions and seminars – though this may vary depending on your module choices. Additionally, you’ll spend around 25 hours a week studying independently and working on coursework assignments and projects.
Depending on the course you choose to progress onto after your Foundation Year, the School of Computing Sciences has a number of Year in Industry study and integrated Master options.

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Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.After the Course
Once you successfully finish your Foundation Year, you’ll go straight onto one of the main degree programmes within the School of Computing Sciences.
The experience you gain from this course will be valuable for many roles with a wide range of employers – particularly in the technology, finance and creative sectors, which demand technical expertise, adaptability and broad perspectives.
As a professional in this rapidly evolving sector, the ability to learn new skills is as important as what you know already. After successfully completing your degree, you’ll have the knowledge to forge an exciting career, continually learning and extending yourself.
You could go on to work as a software engineer, web or app developer, programmer, systems analyst, data scientist, artificial intelligence developer, academic/industrial researcher, entrepreneur, teacher or even researcher.
Career destinations
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Software engineer
- Programmer
- Systems analyst
- Data scientist
- Academic/industrial researcher
- Web/App/Artificial intelligence developer

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Foundation Year Course Modules
Compulsory Modules (80 Credits)
CMP-3002A (20 Credits)
In taking this module you will learn about a wide range of topics that are fundamental to computing science. You will study areas such as history of computing, the binary system, logic circuits, fetch and execute cycles as well as components that made up of modern computer systems. Internet related technologies will also be covered. In the practical work for the module you will use a range of tools and techniques appropriate to the topic being studied.
CMP-3006B (20 Credits)
This module follows on from Foundations of Computing 1. You will learn about a further range of topics that are fundamental to computing science. You will study areas such as database design, accessing databases via dynamic websites, an introduction to machine code, machine learning and an introduction to higher level languages.
CMP-3005A (20 Credits)
Introductory Programming introduces a number of programming concepts at the start of your programming career, using a modern programming language common to many digital industries. We structure learning through lectures, delivering core materials, and tutor supported exercises to reinforce learning, and to prepare students for programming in their following studies.
CMP-3007B (20 Credits)
In taking this module you will learn how information systems are used in business. You will be introduced to the concept of the lifecycle approach to systems development and basic systems analysis and design techniques using a top down, functional decomposition approach.
Optional Modules Range A (20 Credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
MTHB3001A (20 Credits)
Taught by lectures and seminars to bring students from Maths GCSE towards A-level standard, this module covers several algebraic topics including functions, polynomials and quadratic equations. Trigonometry is approached both geometrically up to Sine and Cosine Rule and as a collection of waves and other functions. The main new topic is Differential Calculus including the Product and Chain Rules. We will also introduce Integral Calculus and apply it to areas. Students should have a strong understanding of GCSE Mathematics.
MTHB3005A (20 Credits)
This is a course in mathematics for students who have studied Maths at GCSE level gaining a grade B/C or equivalent and/or more than two years ago. The course includes some AS level material relevant to science. This module is reserved for students on the Chemistry, Biology, Pharmacy, Environmental Science or Computing Foundation Years.
Optional Modules Range B (20 Credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
MTHB3002B (20 Credits)
Following MTHB3001A (Basic Mathematics I), this module brings students up to the standard needed to begin year one of a range of degree courses. The first half covers Integral Calculus including Integration by Parts and Substitution. Trigonometric identities, polynomial expressions, partial fractions and exponential functions are explored, all with the object of integrating a wider range of functions. The second half of the module is split into two: Complex Numbers and Vectors. We will meet and use the imaginary number i (the square root of negative one), represent it on a diagram, solve equations using it and link it to trigonometry and exponential functions. Strange but true: imaginary numbers are useful in the real world. The last section is practical rather than abstract too; we will be looking at three dimensional position and movement and solving geometric problems through vector techniques.
MTHB3006B (20 Credits)
This module is ideal for you if you are studying a Science Faculty degree with a Foundation Year or Computing with a Foundation Year and have completed study of the module Introductory Mathematics for Scientists. You will build on the knowledge gained during the Mathematics for Scientists introduction module and advance your skills.
For further years' module information please check out our BSc Computing Science.
Important Notice
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.
Your foundation year will give you an important grounding in computing, programming and essential mathematics before you move on to the rest of your degree. By the end of this year, you will: 
- Understand the fundamentals of computing
- Be able to program in a high-level language
- Feel confident in mathematics for computing science
- Understand the essentials of computing for business
You can then move on to the three-year BSc in Computing Science course, where you’ll start by mastering the core material underpinning computer science.
All of our computer science courses follow an identical structure in the first two years. This means that you can easily transfer onto the year abroad, year in industry, or with education programmes.
Alternatively, you could choose to follow your Foundation Year with one of the School of Computing’s other degrees.
For the years of study beyond the Foundation Year, please see the full BSc Computing Science course.
Teaching
You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars and lab classes – where the lab and seminar classes reinforce and expand on the lecture material.
We use a variety of programming languages depending on the devices and application areas we’re focusing on. Importantly, you’ll be working with the software development tools and practices used in the industry right now, building your experience in each year. Upon graduation, you’ll have the technical ability to develop high quality software for a range of platforms.
Independent study
Alongside your formal learning, you’ll study independently to gain a deeper appreciation of specialist topics. In your final year project, you will explore a topic or work on a problem in depth, under the supervision of a member of the faculty.
We have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (closed and/or time-limited assessment). They combine theoretical understanding with practical application and are designed to test the range of skills and competencies required for the learning outcomes of each module.
You’ll be assessed by a combination of:
- Examination (approximately 30%)
- Demonstrations and Presentations (approximately 40%)
- Written assignments (approximately 30%)
Entry Requirements
A Levels
CCCT Levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a C in the core of the T Level and a Pass in the Occupational Specialism. Any subject is acceptable.BTEC
MMMScottish highers
BBCCCScottish highers advanced
DDDIrish leaving certificate
6 subjects at H4Access course
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3European Baccalaureate
60%International Baccalaureate
28 pointsGCSE offer
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.Additional entry requirements
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
We welcome applications from students with non-traditional academic backgrounds. If you have been out of study for the last three years and you do not have the entry grades for our three year degree, we will consider your educational and employment history, along with your personal statement and reference to gain a holistic view of your suitability for the course. You will still need to meet our GCSE English Language and Mathematics requirements.
Important note
Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
Students for whom english is a foreign language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.Gap year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course related costs
View our information about Additional Course Fees.
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How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:

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