Birmingham City University

BSc Computer Science with a Foundation Year

Birmingham City University

Course overview

This BSc (Hons) Computer Science with a Foundation Year is a four-year course. It is for students who do not yet have the grades to start the regular three-year BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree. The first year, called the foundation year, will give students a good basic knowledge of computers, maths, and science, which will help them get ready for the rest of the degree. In this course, students will learn important basic skills in programming, learn how computer systems work, and how to solve problems, and this will build a strong base for more advanced topics in the years ahead.

After you successfully finish the foundation year, you will automatically move on to the regular three-year BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree. This degree will teach you what you need to work as a computer programmer, software builder, website creator, or in other jobs related to computers. You will learn through lectures, small group discussions, hands-on work in computer labs, and studying on your own, and you will be assessed through assignments, presentations, practical tasks, and exams.

Entry requirements

To apply for this course, you need to write a personal statement. In this statement, please explain your reasons for wanting to study BSc Computer Science with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University. Also, include any important details about your previous education. You will also need to provide a reference letter from a teacher or an employer. 

Grade Requirements:

  • The usual entry requirement for the 2025/2026 school year is 80 UCAS points. You can get these points through different qualifications, such as A Levels, a BTEC Extended Diploma (at MPP grade), a BTEC Diploma (at MM grade), T Levels, or the International Baccalaureate. The university also considers other qualifications from around the world that are seen as equal to A Levels.

English Proficiency:

  • If English is not the first language you speak, you will need to show that you have a good understanding of English. Usually, this means getting an overall score of 6.0 in the IELTS test, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each section of the test. The university also accepts similar scores from other English language tests, such as 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 £1,000

  • Bowater Financial Assistance Award

  • Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee discount for BCU graduates undertaking Master’s or PhD study.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International 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 £3,000

  • International 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 £5,000

  • Sports 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

After you successfully finish the BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree (after the foundation year), you can work in many different jobs, including:

  • Computer Programmer
  • Software Developer
  • Web Developer
  • IT Support Analyst
  • Database Administrator
  • Systems Analyst

Cost of study

For students coming from outside the UK, the yearly cost to study the BSc Computer Science with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University for the 2025/26 school year is £17,690.

Admission

You can apply for the BSc Computer Science with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University through UCAS or directly to the university.. If you would like help with your application, you can talk to our trained advisors.

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