Computing with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)
Start your journey into tech with our Computing with Foundation Year. Build practical programming skills, explore computing systems and develop the confidence to progress into a computer science degree.
Key information
For:
starting September 2026
Typical offer:
32 tariff points at A level, or equivalent.
Showing content for section Overview
Overview
The Computing with Foundation Year provides a supportive introduction to university study and a strong pathway into a Computer Science or related degree.
Designed for students from a range of backgrounds, this course helps you develop both the technical knowledge and academic skills needed to succeed in computing.
You’ll begin by building core professional and study skills, including communication, teamwork and working with information. Alongside this, you’ll gain hands-on experience in programming and web development, learning how to create software solutions and interactive web applications.
You’ll also explore how computing systems work, from hardware and data processing to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the Internet of Things.
Through practical workshops and problem-based learning, you’ll develop computational thinking, logical reasoning and confidence in using technology to solve real-world problems.
By the end of the foundation year, you’ll be fully prepared to progress onto a full undergraduate degree in computing and take your next steps toward a career in tech.
Course highlights
- Learn programming fundamentals and build your own web applications.
- Develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Explore how computer systems work, from hardware to modern digital technologies.
- Gain hands-on experience through practical workshops and coding activities.
- Build confidence in using data, mathematics and logic within computing contexts.
- Understand emerging technologies such as AI, cybersecurity and IoT.
- Study in a supportive environment designed to prepare you for degree-level learning.
Is a foundation year right for you?
A foundation year is ideal if you:
- Don’t meet the entry requirements for a degree yet
- Are returning to education after a break
- Want to build confidence before starting university-level study
- Are considering different business-related degree pathways
It gives you the time, support and preparation needed to succeed at university and beyond.
After your foundation year
Once you’ve successfully completed your foundation year, the topics and modules you go on to study will depend on the degree course you choose to take.
Bachelor's degrees you could progress onto:
Your new home at UoP London
Located just a minute’s walk from Walthamstow’s tube and bus stations, our campus provides easy access to the entire city, placing you at the centre of London’s dynamic business scene.
Come along to an Open Day
Open Days at the London campus vary to those held in Portsmouth.
Contact information
London Campus Enquiries: london@port.ac.uk
Clearing is open
This course is available through Clearing.
Apply now for September 2025
If you have your results, you can apply now to start in September 2025.
Discover how Clearing works
Clearing 2025 opens on 5 July and closes on 20 October
Every year thousands of students find their ideal undergraduate course through Clearing. Clearing matches students who are looking for a different course or university from their original choice, or who are applying for the very first time after 30 June, to courses that universities still have places on.
The majority of people apply through Clearing once they receive their exam results on A level / T level results day (14 August 2025).
You can apply through Clearing if:
- You don't meet the conditions of your offer for your firm (first) or insurance (second) choice courses
- Your exam results are better than you expected and you want to change your course or university
- You don't hold any offers
- You've accepted an offer but changed your mind about the course you want to do
- You're applying for the first time after 30 June 2025
Yes, we welcome Clearing applications from international students and you can apply in exactly the same way as UK students do.
The majority of UK students apply through Clearing once they receive their A level / T level results in August, so as an international student if you already have your exam results you can apply when Clearing opens on 5 July.
Make sure that you have time to get your visa, funding, and English language certification sorted out before the beginning of term.
If you would like further information or guidance, please contact our international office for advice.
No, it's not too late and you should make your application for student finance as soon as possible. You don't have to wait for your results. You can make your application now and just amend it when you know where you're going to be.
If you've already applied for your student loan, you'll need to log into your account and update details about your new course/university. If you haven't applied for your student loan yet, don't panic. Apply today – it only takes 30 minutes.
Find out more in our Student finance for Clearing guide.
Clearing Hotline: 023 9284 8087
Entry requirements
Computing with Foundation Year entry requirements
Please note this course isn't currently open to EU or International students
Typical offers
- 32 tariff points at A level, or equivalent.
You may need to have studied specific subjects or GCSEs - see full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept.
English language requirements
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 5.5 with no component score below 5.5
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.
We look at more than just your grades
While we consider your grades when making an offer, we also carefully look at your circumstances and other factors to assess your potential. These include whether you live and work in the region and your personal and family circumstances which we assess using established data.
Careers and opportunities
This foundation year prepares you to progress onto a full degree, which will help you climb the career ladder in any sector that appeals to you and will open doors to a wide variety of careers in technology.
Previous graduates have secured various jobs such as:
- AI and Machine Learning Engineer
- Applications Developer
- Data Analyst
- Research and Development (R&D) Scientist
- Systems Analyst and Developer
- Software Developer
- Web Developer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
Our graduates have gone on to work for some of today’s best-known organisations, including:
- Aviva
- BAE Systems
- BT
- Capita
- DQ Global
- Honeywell/Trend Controls
- MASS
- NHS
- Penningtons Manches Cooper
- Servicenow
You could work in sectors including:
- Technology and software development
- Cybersecurity and data protection
- Finance and fintech
- Healthcare technology
- Gaming and digital media
- Government and public sector IT
With digital skills in high demand across every industry, this course gives you a strong foundation to build a future-proof career in computing.
Modules
What you'll study
You'll identify and reflect on their strengths, values, and learning to build their skills for success. This module explores strategies for managing your time, responsibilities, and personal effectiveness to help you manage your studies.
You'll also be supported to build their presentation and professional conversation skills to help you communicate ideas orally tailored to different audiences. Through collaborative activities, you'll develop teamwork and leadership skills, learning how to motivate others, give constructive feedback, and approach real-world challenges creatively.
It focuses on essential academic and professional skills in sourcing, analysing, and presenting information. Through practical, interactive workshops, and by exploring topics that interest you, you'll learn to identify credible sources, evaluate arguments, and consider the advantages and limitations of AI and other digital tools while upholding academic integrity.
You'll practice using numerical data and writing clear, audience-specific written communication. You'll also reflect on the insights gained through writing drafts and acting on the feedback you receive on your work.
You'll learn the core concepts of structured programming, including variables, data types, control structures, functions and arrays. Through practical programming activities, you'll develop algorithmic solutions, implement programs, and apply debugging and testing techniques.
You'll create web pages using HTML and CSS, apply basic design principles related to usability and accessibility, and incorporate multimedia elements. You'll further enhance your web applications using JavaScript to introduce interactivity and dynamic functionality.
By integrating programming and web development concepts, students gain experience building simple interactive web applications and developing small-scale software solutions that combine programming logic with user-facing web technologies.
You'll discover the historical development of computing technologies and examine how computer systems function within contemporary digital environments. Alongside this technological foundation, students develop mathematical and logical approaches used in computing.
Topics include number systems, Boolean logic, statistical techniques for data processing, and mathematical tools such as graphs, sets, matrices, and coordinate systems. Added to these, topics in physics such as electromagnetism and Optics relevant to computing are also discussed.
You'll also look into emerging technological areas such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and cybersecurity, enabling students to understand the wider technological landscape and societal impact of computing.
Through problem-based exercises, students develop computational thinking skills and learn how mathematical and physics support computing applications such as data processing, graphics, and computer vision.
The modules you study in years 2, 3 and 4 will depend on which degree you move onto at the end of year 1.
Bachelor's degrees you could progress onto:
Course Specification
Note from September 2026 the modules on this course have changed.
The course specification below is based on 2025/26 course modules, including May 2026 entry. We'll confirm the 2026 Business and Management course specification here soon.
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. Where significant module changes occur, we'll let you know as soon as possible.
How you'll spend your time
How you'll spend your time
We recommend you spend at least 35 hours a week studying for this degree. Your timetable typically allows you to work alongside your studies.
A regular week on this course reflects the University of Portsmouth London’s Active Blended Learning approach, which focuses on what you do as a learner rather than passive listening.
You can expect:
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To attend 10-12 hours of scheduled teaching activities during term time.
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To spend roughly 21 hours per week studying independently (including research, reading, coursework and project work, either individually or a group).
How I will learn at UoP London
Our teaching is designed to be personal, practical and flexible, helping you gain the knowledge, confidence and skills employers are looking for.
You’ll study in a supportive learning environment where your lecturers know you, classes are interactive, and your timetable is designed to fit around your life.
Active learning
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Learn in supportive groups where your lecturers know you and you’re encouraged to contribute, ask questions and receive personalised feedback.
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Students support one another throughout the course: Those who have completed modules share insights with new students, and as you progress, you’ll take on this role yourself- building confidence and communication skills.
Consistent timetable from day one
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Usually, your timetable stays the same each term.
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You will have two study days per week and two consecutive on-campus days, making it easier to plan work, study and personal commitments.
Blended learning
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Around 20% of learning is online, providing flexibility and access to learning resources anytime.
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80% is on-campus learning, delivered face-to-face in small, interactive groups.
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Modules are grouped into related subject areas rather than taught in isolation. This helps you see how ideas connect across your discipline, build knowledge progressively, and apply learning more confidently to complex, real-world problems.
Interdisciplinary learning
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You’ll combine face-to-face learning with online activities and often work with students from other disciplines.
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This reflects how professional teams operate and helps you develop industry-relevant skills valued by employers.
One module at a time
- Focus on one block of teaching at a time, allowing deeper learning, clearer feedback and reduced assessment overlap.
Teaching and assessment
Our approach to teaching is designed to be dynamic, practical and closely aligned with real-world practice. You’ll learn through a range of engaging, hands-on experiences that develop both your knowledge and professional skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Teaching sessions
Teaching is delivered through engaging sessions such as:
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Industry educators demonstrating true professional practice
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Interactive seminars
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Immersive simulations
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Practical and/or computer-based workshops
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Group work and collaborative projects
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Practical classes
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One-to-one and personalised tutorials
Learning is active, discussion-based and centred on real-world application.
Support and assessment
You’ll be supported by a dedicated teaching team, a personal tutor and student support staff throughout your studies. Small class sizes ensure support is personal, proactive and accessible.
Assessment is varied and designed to reflect real-world practice. We typically have no exams and instead opt for more authentic assessments, with the exception of courses that have external professional body requirements, such as accounting and finance.
Depending on your chosen course, methods may include:
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Live client projects
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Business simulations
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Practical and in-class exercises
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Written reports and essays
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Oral assessment and presentations
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Group and standalone projects
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Portfolios
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Review articles
Our teaching ethos
Our teaching is guided by a clear set of principles that shape how learning is designed and delivered:
Active
Learning focuses on what you do, encouraging participation, problem-solving and hands-on application.
Civic
Learning is connected to local and global communities, helping you understand the wider impact of your studies.
Inclusive
We are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where all students can succeed.
Inspiring
Teaching is designed to spark curiosity, confidence and a genuine passion for learning.
Innovative
We use creative and forward-thinking approaches to keep learning engaging and relevant.
Digital by design
Digital tools are embedded into learning to support collaboration, flexibility and employability.
Supporting you
Academic skills
Throughout your time at UoP London, you'll get the following support online or face-to-face from our academic skills team to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed:
- Academic writing (such as reports and projects)
- Reflective writing
- Critical thinking skills
- Understanding and using assignment feedback
- Managing your time and workload
- Using AI tools to support your learning
- Professional conversations and presentations
You'll also have access to a personal tutor to support you in your studies.
You are expected to meet English language entry requirements for your course, as outlined on the relevant course page. However, if English isn't your first language, our academic skills team can support you in working across languages. You can also do our online free In-Sessional English (ISE) module to improve your written English language skills during your degree.
You can find entry requirements for English language proficiency by visiting the relevant course page:
Careers guidance
Our dedicated team hosts drop-in sessions every week, providing expert guidance for part-time job searches, CV and cover letter editing, and interview preparation. You can also avail of this service online.
Visit our careers and employment page
Wellbeing support
We offer a range of support to help students manage their mental health, wellbeing, and any disability-related needs. Our wellbeing team is here to help you navigate challenges and access the right services.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees
- UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,790 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
Additional costs
Our accommodation section shows your accommodation options and highlights how much it costs to live in Waltham Forest. You can also visit our fees and funding page for a breakdown of living costs in London.
You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module. We endeavour to make all required books accessible online.
You can also borrow most of these online from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.
We endeavour to be a paperless and sustainable university. As such, files and content is kept electronically on e-databases where possible. Most academics will print the paperwork if required. If you choose to print, photocopy, or bind your work, you may want to budget up to £30 a year for this.
Assignment submissions and dissertations are electronic.
If your course includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
Apply
Ready to apply?
Please note this foundation year isn't currently open to EU or International students
To start this course in September 2026, apply through UCAS. You'll need:
- the UCAS course code – I109
- our institution code – P80
If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form:
You can also sign up to an Open Day to:
- Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
- Speak with lecturers and chat with our students
- Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join
If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.
To apply directly, use our online application form:
You can also sign up to an Open Day to:
- Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
- Speak with lecturers and chat with our students
- Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join
If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.
To apply directly, use our online application form:
You can also sign up to an Open Day to:
- Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
- Speak with lecturers and chat with our students
- Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join
If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.
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.