BSc Cyber Security with a Foundation Year

The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security with a Foundation Year offers a comprehensive pathway into the fast-growing field of cyber security. The four-year programme begins with a foundation year designed to develop the academic and technical skills necessary for success at degree level.

The course equips students with cutting-edge technical knowledge, practical skills and management capabilities essential to meet today's complex cybersecurity challenges. Through hands-on learning and the use of industry-standard tools and technologies, you will be prepared for roles such as cyber security analyst, engineer or network security architect.

Supported by strong industry partnerships with leading organisations such as Cisco, Oracle, Microsoft, IBM and BT, the course is supported by a vibrant research environment. Students also benefit from the opportunity to earn professional accreditation from bodies including Cisco, Juniper, Huawei and the Linux Professional Institute, enhancing employability in a competitive global market.

Birmingham City University is a dynamic and diverse university located in the centre of Birmingham, United Kingdom. Renowned for its emphasis on employability and industry engagement, BCU delivers a practice-led, professionally focused education that prepares students for real-world success.

The university offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across its faculties, including the faculty of Arts, Design and Media, the faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, the faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences and the faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment. Many of its courses are accredited by professional bodies, ensuring alignment with current industry standards and expectations.BCUu takes pride in its state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced studios, laboratories, and learning spaces that reflect real working environments. With close links with industry, students benefit from guest lectures, work placements, live projects and valuable networking opportunities with employers.

Applicants are required to provide a personal statement outlining their motivation for applying and their academic background. This should be accompanied by a reference from an academic or professional source, as well as a CV highlighting any relevant work experience. 

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants should have 88 UCAS tariff points, this can be obtained through a levels or a pearson BTEC level 3 nationl extended dipploma at DMM grade.
• Equivalent international qualifications will be accepted.
• A relevant work experience will be considered on merit

English Proficiency:

• Applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds must achieve a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in each component.
• Equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL or PTE, are also accepted

For the 2025/2026 academic year, international students enrolling in the BSc Cyber Security with a Foundation Year in Birmingham City University will pay a tuition fee of £17690.

BCU offers a range of scholarships and financial support to reward academic achievement. International students are encouraged to consult the university scholarship portal for the latest opportunities relevant to their course of study.

This programme prepares graduates to step into careers including, but not limited to:

• IT Risk Analyst
• Network Security Engineer
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Information Security Consultant
• Digital Forensics Analyst
• Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst

Interested candidates can apply through UCAS or by using the university’s application form. For personalised guidance, our trained counsellors are available to assist you.