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Overview
Set yourself up for a career in the computing industries with this foundation degree. You'll pick up the foundations of web development, network and database design, and programming for apps. You'll then dig into the advanced skills and knowledge in subjects that interest you, such as cyber security, business connectivity or social media.
You'll turn your curiosity about computers into the skills employers in the IT sector are looking for, and learn how to apply your skills to meeting society's needs through technological solutions.
When you finish the course, you'll be two thirds of the way to a full Honours degree, and you'll have the opportunity to do some further study with us and convert your degree into our BSc (Hons) Computing.
You can study this course full-time at our partner college, City of Portsmouth College
While studying at our partner colleges, you can access our student support services and community including study support, the Students' Union and our library's online resources.
Entry requirements
FdSc Computing degree entry requirements
Typical offers
- UCAS points – 48-56 points to include 1 A level, or equivalent (calculate your UCAS points). Other qualifications such as vocational A levels (AVCE) and Access courses will also be considered
- A levels – DEE–EEE
- T-levels – Pass (D or E in the core) - Merit
- BTECs (Extended Diplomas) – MPP–PPP
Selection process
All shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview in support of their application.
You may need to have studied specific subjects – find full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept at UCAS.
English language requirements
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 5.5 with no component score below 5.0.
See alternative English language qualifications
We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
What you'll experience
On this foundation degree course, you'll:
- Learn programming skills in programming languages including Python, Javascript and C#
- Develop your understanding of networks, databases and IT security
- Have the flexibility of studying at City of Portsmouth College with full access to University of Portsmouth facilities and support
- Follow a practical programme of study featuring work-based learning and and access to industry networks
Careers and opportunities
This course is shaped around current information technology practice, meaning it can improve your computing career prospects. You'll also have the option to top up to a Bachelor's degree after you graduate.
You'll undertake work-related learning as part of your study, and learn the theory and practice used in web and mobile development, system design and analysis, or commercial system development.
What can you do with a Computing FdSc?
You'll develop the skills and knowledge for a role such as:
- Web or mobile developer
- Computer programmer
- Software engineer
- Network engineer
- System analyst
- Service desk engineer
- Solutions architect
After you finish the course, you can get help, advice and support for up to 5 years from our Careers and Employability service as you advance in your career.
Ongoing career support – up to 5 years after you graduate
Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.
Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy to help you find your perfect role.
What you'll study on this FdSc Computing
Modules currently being studied include:
Core modules in this year include:
- Computer Hardware and Software Concepts – 20 credits
- Problem Solving through Programming Concepts – 20 credits
- Database Design and Management – 20 credits
- Networking Fundamentals – 20 credits
- Web Design and Development – 20 credits
- Network and Cyber Security – 20 credits
There are no optional modules in this year.
Core modules in this year include:
- Client/Server Based Operating Systems – 20 credits
- Software Design and Development – 20 credits
- Work Experience – 20 credits
- Server and Web Based Infrastructure Configuration – 20 credits
- Web Based Applications – 20 credits
- Managing Research Project – 20 credits
There are no optional modules in this year.
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Personal tutor
Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.
As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.
Laboratory support
All our labs and practical spaces are staffed by qualified laboratory support staff. They’ll support you in scheduled lab sessions and can give you one-to-one help when you do practical research projects.
Teaching
Teaching methods on this course include:
- lectures
- seminars
- tutorials
- workshops
- work-based learning
How you're assessed
You’ll be assessed through:
- coursework
- examination
- practical skills assessments
- oral presentation
You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.
You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees (2024 start)
- UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £6,165 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- EU students – £6,165 a year (including Transition Scholarship – may be subject to annual increase)
- International (non-EU) students – £20,200 per year (subject to annual increase)
Funding your studies
Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.
Additional course costs
These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees. So you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending.
You’ll study up to 6 modules a year. You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module.
You can borrow most of these from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.
We recommend that you budget £100 a year for photocopying, memory sticks, DVDs and CDs, printing charges, binding and specialist printing.
Apply
How to apply
Apply for this full-time course using our online application form:
Our courses fill up quickly, so submit your application as soon as you decide which course you want to study.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.