BSc Computer Networks and Security with a Foundation Year
Course overview
The BSc Computer Networks and Security with a Foundation Year is a four-year course. It is designed to give people a good understanding of how computer networks work and how to keep them safe. The first year, called the foundation year, helps you get ready for the rest of the course.
This course will teach you the skills and knowledge needed to create, set up, and look after secure computer networks. You will learn about different network technologies, security rules, and ways that people try to hack into systems (ethical hacking).
On this course, you will learn through a mix of classroom teaching and practical work. Your learning will be checked through different types of assignments, exams, and projects. This will show how well you understand the topics and what you can do. More information about the course can be found on the university's website.
Entry requirements
To apply, you need to write a personal statement. In this statement, explain the reasons you want to study this course and share any important information about your previous studies. You also need to get a reference letter from a teacher or someone you worked for. If you have any work experience, you can also send your CV to show this.
Grade Requirements:
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For Applicants starting in 2025, the entry requirements are 80 UCAS points. You can get these points through different qualifications, such as A Levels, BTEC Extended Diploma (at MPP grade), BTEC Diploma (at MM grade), T Levels, or the International Baccalaureate. The university also accepts other international qualifications that are equal to A Levels.
English Proficiency:
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If English is not the first language you speak, you need to get a score of 6.0 overall in the IELTS test. You must score at least 5.5 in each part of the test. The university also accepts similar scores from other English language tests like PTE or TOEFL.
Scholarships
Accelerate Scholarship
If you come from a lower income family or household, you could receive an offer that is up to four grades below our normal entry requirements – and possibly claim a £1,000 scholarship too.
Up to £1,000Bowater Financial Assistance Award
Graduate Scholarship
20% fee discount for BCU graduates undertaking Master’s or PhD study.
Up to 20% of feesInternational Postgraduate Scholarships
BCU is offering a scholarship of £3,000 to all self-funding international postgraduate students joining BCU on a full-time postgraduate taught Master’s degree in 2026.
Up to £3,000International Undergraduate Scholarships
BCU is offering a guaranteed scholarship of £5,000 to all self-funding international undergraduate students joining BCU on a full-time degree in September 2026.
Up to £5,000Sports Scholarship
Enhanced performance support funding.
The High Achievers' Scholarship
You will be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship to get your university life off to a flying start.
Up to £1,000
Career opportunities
Here are some job roles you can do after finishing this course:
- Network Administrator
- Network Security Analyst
- Network Security Architect
- Information Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst
Cost of study
For international students, the cost to study the BSc Computer Networks and Security with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University in the 2025/26 school year is £17,690 for each year.
Admission
You can apply to the BSc Computer Networks and Security with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University through UCAS, directly to the university, or by using AHZ Consultants. If you want help with your application, you can speak to our trained advisors. They can give you advice on how to make your application strong and how to make sure it fits what the course is looking for.
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