Computer Science with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Software is everywhere, running everything from our desktop computers and mobile phones to home appliances, games consoles, cars, planes and industrial machinery. On this course, you’ll be exposed to a wide range of current issues in Computing and Mathematics.

Including a foundation year as part of your four-year study programme will give you a head start in your academic and professional life. The foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence before you advance to stage one of your honours degree. It could also be beneficial if you are planning a career change.

KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE


- WORKING WITH INDUSTRY: We’re renowned for our contacts with employers, and you’ll benefit from this by being set challenging projects and having the option to take a placement year.


- EXPERT STAFF: You’ll join a friendly community including our enthusiastic Computing Society and research-active lecturers. You’ll have the opportunity to get involved with research projects which our teaching team are working on.


- FACILITIES: Use cutting-edge software development tools in our industry-standard labs including Python, Visual Studio, Unreal Engine, Unity, Apache, PHP, MySQL, Azure Cloud Services and DirectX/OpenGL. Youll also have access to our XR (cross-reality) lab and Makerspace - a dedicated, student-led facility where you can turn your ideas into prototypes.


- FLEXIBILITY: After completing your first year, you’ll have the option to transfer to another degree in our Computing portfolio including BSc (Hons) Computer Games Programming and BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.


- NO EXAMS: We’ll assess you via other methods throughout your degree.


WHAT YOULL COVER:


• Youll study applied computer science with a strong emphasis on practical programming skills. In the first year, youll cover the fundamentals of computer science before studying a range of areas in your second and third years, including programming, network systems, software engineering, AI and operating systems. Youll also have the option to tailor your degree to your specific interests in your third year with a range of optional modules.



HOW YOU’LL LEARN:
You will learn through a mixture of lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and e-learning. Instead of exams, a variety of assessment methods are used. Some modules are assessed through coursework only, others by a combination of: 


• Coursework 



• Portfolios 



• Assignments 



• Case studies 



• Oral and graphic presentations 



• Collaborative and interdisciplinary teamwork projects 



• Computer-based testing 



YOUR CAREER:
Our Computer Science course is employment focused with industry-standard technologies that ensure you will have the skills and confidence when you graduate to secure the right role in this expanding and exciting industry. You could go on to roles such as: 


• Software Engineer 



• Project Manager 



• Technical Architect  



• Chief Technology Officer 



• Network Specialist 



• Network Administrator 



• Network Technician 



• Network Analyst 



• Network Engineer 



You will also develop wide-ranging skills, such as numerical and analytical skills, teamwork and project management. 

STUDY OPTIONS:
This course is also available without a Foundation Year option and a Placement Year option.

We're a Top 10 UK University* in the heart of England, with great transport links to London and the rest of the UK.

Ranked 2nd in the UK for employability and course quality*, the University of Derby offers expert, industry-relevant teaching, state-of-the-art study spaces, award-winning accommodation, and a welcoming, inclusive community.

(*Uni Compare 2026)