About this course
Introduction
At the University of the West of England we are committed to widening participation and being able to offer alternative means of access to those who do not meet the standard entry criteria for Higher Education. In keeping with this commitment, UWE's Department of Computer Science and Creative Technologies offers a foundation year, which provides a route to the wide range of honours degrees offered in Computing, Digital Media and Audio and Music Technology.
This one year extension to the degree programme is designed for those who lack the subject specific qualifications normally needed for entry, and is suitable for a range of entrants. Those currently on the course include students with arts-based qualifications who wish to transfer into these science-based subjects, some students from Access courses, and those whose A2-level or BTEC results were disappointing. The one thing all students have in common is the motivation to prepare for a degree course. We particularly encourage students who have minimum qualifications but significant experience to contact Department's Admissions Office for advice.
The Computing Foundation year is offered at City of Bristol College and is taught at their Ashley Down HE Centre. You will be a UWE student and as such will be entitled to use all the facilities at Frenchay Campus and to live in UWE accommodation. You will find that term dates will differ slightly from those at the main university. You will start earlier in the year and will still get half term holidays. On completion of the foundation year, all students continue on their chosen degree course at UWE Bristol.
Structure
Content
You will spend the year at City of Bristol College, where studies focus on Programming, Mathematics, Computer Architecture, Internet Systems and Professional and Communication skills. You will also do a programming project.
The foundation year provides specific preparation for our honours degrees in:
- Audio and Music Technology
- Computer Science
- Computer Security
- Computer Systems Integration
- Forensic Computing
- Games Technology
- IT Management for Business
- Multimedia Computing
- Robotics
- Web Design
Teaching and learning
Much of your learning will be through lectures, tutorials, laboratory work and projects. The module of Professional Skills is designed to enhance your approach to learning.
Assessment
Your work is normally assessed through a mixture of assignments, group work, continuous assessment and examinations, depending on the nature of the subject.
Careers/further study
On successful completion of the foundation year, you will progress onto one of the honours degrees offered within the Faculty of Environment and Technology. Your tutor will help you make the right choice for you.
Entry
Typical offers
- Tariff points: 180
- GCSE: Maths and English Language at grade C or above required.
- A-level subjects: Not specified but at least one A2 (or equivalent) required
- Relevant subjects: Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Science
- Access: Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma; achievement of level 2 credits in Maths and English Language.
Advice on typical offers
In addition to the 'typical offer' given here, please read the general information about entry requirements.
Entry requirements
Students who do not meet the normal entry requirements for their chosen degree are welcome to apply. All applicants must have achieved at least a Grade C or above in Maths and English at GCSE level, as well as at least one A2-level subject, or equivalent.
How to apply
Please see the general information about applications.
For further information
Page last updated 14 December 2011