Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Computer Science with Foundation Year

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning computer science through an additional foundation year, gaining hands-on skills across a range of topics.

Our typical offer

32 UCAS points

Secure your place this September

Already applied or yet to apply? Get guidance on the next steps you need to take to start a course in 2025.

Comprehensive foundation year

The initial year introduces you to the fundamentals of computing and electronic systems, including programming and software development, ensuring you're well-prepared for advanced study.

Access to cutting-edge facilities

Benefit from specialist equipment and innovative laboratories in our engineering and design facility, providing hands-on experience with various hardware and software configurations.

Seamless progression to specialised degrees

Upon successful completion of the foundation year, progress directly into one of several computing degrees, such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cyber Security, or Games Development, tailoring your education to your career goals.
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year
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About

Technology continues to revolutionise the way we live, build, work, shop, learn and even access medical care. At Plymouth, you will gain hands-on skills across a range of topics including coding, algorithms, database and software development, cyber security, networks and social, legal and ethical aspects of IT. Through studying with our experts and applying your knowledge, you too will advance new technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, virtual reality and smart devices.


Dr Amir Aly
Dr Amir Aly
Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
Student Chloe Thorne with her herb identification app called 'Herby'.
 
 

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.

This course is for you if...

you're interested in computing but need to build foundational knowledge before pursuing a full degree
Four individuals around a globe, depicting computer network
you enjoy problem-solving and have a keen interest in technology
Jigsaw
you're eager to gain hands-on experience with various hardware and software configurations
Finger pressing button
you aspire to work in roles such as software developer, systems analyst, or IT consultant
Globe with arrow

Details

Progression routes
This foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree and you will benefit from experienced university lecturers.
Whilst successful completion of the foundation year (Year 0) will not lead to a separate award or qualification in its own right, you will be able to confidently progress onto Year 1 of:
 
 

Foundation year

During this foundation year, we'll introduce you to how computers and electronic systems operate. You will write computer programmes and develop an understanding of software development. An individual project is designed to help you progress to the computing degree you want to study. Provided you achieve a pass level of 50 per cent or above, you can progress to the first year of any of our computing degrees.
Computing student Craig Banyard

Core modules

COMP060
Principles of Computing and AI

This module introduces computer literacy, programming, software design, and cutting-edge computing applications in STEM for academia and industry. It teaches principles, applications and skills to leverage advances in computing and AI for problem solving in science. Students will learn to programme in Python-like languages used in concurrent and later modules and be exposed to industrial applications via guest lectures.

FYM007
Becoming a Successful Global Scientist: Sustainability, Mathematics and Computing

This module introduces learners to some of the major global challenges facing society and how science and technology have a role in tackling them. It will enable learners to adapt to the HE Learning Environment by developing their independent, reflective and self-managed approach to study, learning, academic writing and time management. It will provide mathematics and computing skills for successful scientific study.

SFPT001
Global Scientific Challenges: Projects and Labs

Student will work in a group to explore a global scientific challenge facing society and connected to their pathway. Through lab experiments and data analysis they will understand the science behind addressing this challenge and its impact on everyday life. Parallel lectures in statistics and data analysis will be used to support project work and interpret findings, with students reflecting on the group work process.

SOFT060
Software Development and Data Science Project

This module enhances programming skills and provides a grounding in software development paradigms for computing applications in STEM for academia and industry. It teaches advanced aspects of programming alongside project management and systems analysis. In groups, students will plan, develop, document and deliver a software solution to a pathway-specific problem in academia or industry and demonstrate their solution.

 
 
 

Optional pathways

We offer a suite of computer science courses allowing you to choose your specialist field. Build on your knowledge by studying a full range of computer science topics, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. Work on individual and group projects and graduate with a large portfolio of evidence for potential employers.
Complete the foundation year and progress to one of our computing degrees.

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Develop your computational theory and practice

Gather requirements

Understand the problem. Learn how to conceptualise and design solutions to real-world problems. Be more than a coder.

Collaborate within a team

Work on projects from week one. Develop workflows, processes and understanding that allows your team to innovate.

Manage the pressure of deadlines

Make something tangible. Ensure it works. Optimise and iterate. Be agile and ready to overcome challenges.
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
Our dedicated Computer Science hub will be ready to welcome students in September 2025, providing a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.
We also have dedicated artificial intelligence, games development, cyber security and software engineering labs to support our suite of specialist degrees.
Computer science student standing in a laboratory
 
 
 

I don’t think there’s been a single week where I haven’t used the computing lab at least five out of seven days. Having free, full access to specialised software like MATLAB, VirtualBox, Azure and Eclipse has been a significant boost to my education.

Samuel Fakolujo
BSc (Hons) Computer Science student

Samuel Fakolujo
 
 
 

Research-informed teaching

Learn from research active professionals working on practical and theoretical industry focused solutions.
Benefit from our industry expertise and study a course that is influenced by our innovative research. Study theoretical and practical modules, which cover a range of topics including machine learning, computational theory, artificial intelligence, computer vision and parallel computing.
We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
Dr Lauren Ansell Lecturer in Data Science


Lecturer in Data Science

Dr Colin Christopher Associate Professor in Mathematics


Associate Professor in Mathematics

Mr Martin Read Associate Lecturer


Associate Lecturer

Show all
 
 
 

Passionate about all things computing?

Explore, innovate, and connect with CompSoc; the University of Plymouth Computing Society. We offer a platform to:
  • participate and learn together in collaborative coding sessions. Perfect for both improving your skills and helping others with their coding challenges
  • gain insights from industry professionals through our guest speaker events, providing valuable industry connections and real-world perspectives on what it's like working in tech.
  • build your professional network at our events. Meet peers, alumni, and professionals from the tech industry, opening doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations.
Join CompSoc
Computing students huddled around a laptop
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

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Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
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Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

The professional skills I learned at Plymouth, coupled with the technical expertise in certain areas, allowed me to move directly into a Software Developer role

Jake Evans
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Software Developer at PenCarrie Ltd

Jake Evans, BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Software Developer at PenCarrie Ltd
According to CompTIA's State of the Tech Workforce UK report, the tech sector employed just under two million workers in 2021, accounting for 6.3% of the total UK workforce (source: Prospects 2023). The future is very promising for computing graduates.
Your job may involve creating applications or systems, solving problems with technology or supporting those who use it. You could choose to work in the 'Tech' sector for the big names however you will find your skills are in high demand across diverse range of sectors from central and local government to retail, finance, manufacturing as well as education and health. Opportunities exist with the large, well-known employers as well as with smaller, exciting start-ups and consultancies.
  • ]

    94% of graduates are in work or further study

  • >

    93% of graduates say their degree was a formal requirement for their job or gave them an advantage*

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects. The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.

We regularly have students securing placements and jobs at FTSE 100 companies. There is a perception that only students from red brick universities go to these places. It simply is not the case – our students are massively competitive and win these placements as well.

Nathan ClarkeProfessor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

The placement year taught me how to interact with different people throughout the company at differing levels and how to approach conversations to get the maximum amount of information out of them.

Richard Imms
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Senior Machine Learning Engineer at Just Eat.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Data is for BSc (Hons) Computer Science.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.

Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship

The Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship is a national programme aimed at supporting women A level and BTEC/OCR (or Scottish equivalent) students from low-income households who wish to study computer science or related engineering courses at UK universities.
Applications are open
Deadline: 13 May 2025, 4pm

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Careers Hub

Apply

Secure your place this September

Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Check what you need to do
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Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above..

A levels
32 points from minimum of 2 A levels in any subject

International Baccalaureate
24 overall – English and mathematics must be included.

BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information, we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses
Pass Access course (any subject) including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above or equivalent.

T level
Pass. Any subjects related to science, engineering, IT or Health.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
I101
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
    Our typical offer
    32 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    I101
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth
     
     
     

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    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.