FdSc Computing
| UCAS course code | G400 |
| Institution code | S32 |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Course type | Full-time |
| Study location | South Devon College (Paignton) |
University Centre South Devon (UCSD) is part of South Devon College. The University Centre is Gold award-winning overall for the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and was rated as Gold for both Student Experience and Student Outcomes, the highest level of achievement possible. We work within a strong employability framework and offer a wide range of opportunities for progression into new employment or to further your existing career, through employer engagement, placements, and industry visits. We maintain the very highest academic standards while also nurturing your personal development. During your time with us we'll provide you with all the necessary guidance and advice to continue onto further study or the world of work with all the skills and experience needed for a successful future.
Course details
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Year 1
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Core modules
SOUD1565
Architecture and SystemsThis module introduces the fundamentals of computer systems infrastructure, including core architecture, logic, and the causes and consequences of IT infrastructure failures. Students explore IT systems architecture including hardware, operating systems, and emerging uses of computer systems. It also covers the use of CLI and GUI across operating systems and techniques for monitoring and optimising system performance.
SOUD1566
Cyber Security PrinciplesThis module introduces the main security issues that relate specifically to both computer and networked systems. The module introduces key underlying concepts of security and common threats to systems and how they arise and progresses to identify specific security issues and how professionals can address such issues in the design of computer and networked systems.
SOUD1567
Front-end Web DevelopmentThis module provides an insight into the fundamentals behind developing dynamic, responsive, and user-friendly websites. This module explores the latest web technologies, design principles, optimisation techniques and guidelines to design, build, test, and evaluate websites that meet current industry standards and user expectations.
SOUD1568
Introduction to NetworkingModern computer systems rarely operate in a standalone manner and rely upon networks to provide additional functionality. This module introduces students to network standards, protocols, devices, media and security that allow networked systems to communicate. The module has a mix of both theory and practical, with the theoretical principles matched by scenarios to design, implement/configure, and troubleshoot networks.
SOUD1569
Programming FundamentalsThis module is intended to introduce students to programming concepts across different programming paradigms, whilst looking to embed good industry software engineering practice in the design, implementation and testing of moderately complex software applications.
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Final year
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Core modules
SOUD2525
Advanced ProgrammingThis module aims to enhance students' programming competence by using a range of advanced programming techniques. It focuses on selecting and applying appropriate data structures and algorithms to solve complex problems, improving software development skills, and providing a practical introduction to advanced programming paradigms
SOUD2526
Applied Cyber SecurityThis module is designed to apply basic cyber security principles to configure, deploy and use computer and network systems in a secure way. The module engages students in both analysing and detecting vulnerabilities within systems, and to implement appropriate security controls within computers and networks to harden technological deployments.
SOUD2527
Computing ProjectThis module enables students to obtain a real business problem to solve. Students will draw upon learnt subject experiences and skills gained from the programme to date, to enable them to effectively plan, design, implement, test, evaluate, document and present a project of complexity.
SOUD2528
Full-Stack DevelopmentThis module aims to develop students' competence in full-stack development by using modern technologies and frameworks. It focuses on front-end and back-end development, database management, and API integration. Students will learn to critically evaluate application performance and security and effectively communicate design ideas and solutions.
SOUD2529
Wider Networking TechnologiesNetworks are an essential part of our lives. The Internet, for example, is viewed as one of life's necessities like water, food and accommodation. This module introduces the learner to the wider uses of computer networks and the support mechanisms needed to maintain them. It also allows for the exploration of various tools and techniques used to configure, administrate and maintain network technologies.
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.
Fees, costs and funding
As this course is delivered by one of our partner colleges, please contact the college directly for information on fees and funding.
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about fees and costs of studying.
How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Our partnership with South Devon College
The University of Plymouth has developed partnerships with institutions around the world with the sole purpose of making higher education more accessible to those people who need something just a little different.
Our Academic Partnerships enable students to enrol for a degree at a partnership institution closer to home, or engage in distance learning – even when they’re in the middle of the ocean. They are there for those people looking to return to education, or enhance their professional development. Full- or part-time; foundation degree to masters-level – we cater for a huge variety of needs and aspirations.
Many of our partners offer specialist degrees, unique facilities, and smaller class sizes at a competitive price. And as a student of two institutions, you get the best of both worlds; a supportive learning environment as part of a close-knit community, and a university-level qualification awarded by the University of Plymouth. You’ll enjoy not only the facilities and services your partnership institution provides, but also all of the additional support and resources you need from us, and you’ll automatically become a member of our Students’ Union, too.
We are continuing to grow the number of partner institutions and expand our academic community to new locations around the UK and overseas. Why not visit the Academic Partnerships page on our website for a full list of partners and for more details on studying with us?
One of our partners delivers this particular course – so please visit their website for full course details, entry requirements, tuition fees and information on what student life is like there.
Studying with South Devon College
At the heart of the sunny English Riviera, we’re an award-winning Beacon status college. Add to that our ‘outstanding’ rating by Ofsted (in 2009), modern facilities and our larger-than-life Students’ Union, and you’re left with the perfect environment.
