Computing (with foundation year) BSc (Hons)
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- Typical Offer: 72 UCAS tariff points
- UCAS Code(s): I101
- Start Date(s): September 2024
- Duration: Four years full-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time
- Campus: Clifton Campus
Introduction:
You'll develop the practical skills and knowledge in programming, maths and engineering that will get you off to a flying start when you move onto BSc (Hons) Computing in your second year.
We’ll give you the best of both worlds by bringing together internet-based development with computing skills vital to supporting businesses.
You’ll have the perfect combination of theory and practice as you explore Internet technologies, database systems and application development– all backed up with lots of practical experiences.
Develop your practical skills by taking part in multimedia and virtual reality projects. Our graduates are knowledgeable about the development of software and able to design and manage complex information systems.
What our students say
I was really sceptical about enrolling as I didn't know if university was really for me. NTU turned out to be one of the best choices I'd ever made.
Dan Moss
BSc (Hons) Computing
What you’ll study
This course is highly practical and provides a strong grounding in computing fundamentals. It gives you a comprehensive understanding of database systems, e-commerce, business information systems and Internet technologies. Practical skills developed will include involvement in multimedia and virtual reality projects.
You'll cover the following networking and communications technology, business and information systems and interactive / multimedia development.
Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals course
If you take the Artificial Intelligence module in your final year you will participate in the Microsoft Certified Azure AI Fundamentals program as part of your studies. The program is designed as a blended learning experience, combining instructor-led training with online materials accessed on the Microsoft Learn platform.
Microsoft will sponsor your cloud subscription, course materials and certification test fees for no cost to you. You will also get the Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals certificate when you graduate – a valuable addition to your CV.
Find out more about Azure AI Fundamentals course.
About the Computer Science Team
We have a rich mix of knowledge ranging from software development for different types of systems through to hardware aspects such as networking. This involves many uses of computing and considers all aspects including security and management. Our knowledge is built up and maintained through our:
- wealth of industrial experience
- industrial links
- research activity.
These are the ingredients for ensuring the relevance and vitality of your course.
Much of our research is internationally recognised, particularly in the areas of Games for Learning and in Security. For example; Professor David Brown leads several projects, funded by the European Union, in games and assistive technology and Professor Paul Evans' innovative developments in security are supported by USA Dept of Homeland Security.
We engage fully in our subject area and this engagement feeds directly and indirectly into our teaching. Other examples of our activity are:
- developing patents (for example, in voice signal processing
- organising conferences on Interactive Technology and Games and on Intelligent Environments
- working with local companies on funded projects e.g. enhancing the capability of the press association to search their image database
- publishing novel findings in research publications on for example financial prediction, mobile communications, and detection of human behaviour patterns.
Introductory Mathematics (20 credit points)
This module provides an introduction to important mathematical ideas, including Algebraic rearrangement, Trigonometry, Vectors, Descriptive Statistics, Integration and Differentiation. You’ll gain an understanding of ideas that form the basis of later, more specialised, developments and you’ll be able to solve simple but realistic mathematical problems.
Computational Mathematics (20 cp)
A hands-on introduction to ideas and skills which cross Mathematics, Physics and Computing. Using software such as Excel and Matlab, you’ll learn about mathematical ideas like matrices and the consideration of how physical systems can be represented mathematically.
Introduction to Programming (20 cp)
Learn how to design, code, test and debug basic Python language programs. In the first part of this module, you’ll look at the basics of Python such as text strings, loops and functions. In the second part of the module, you’ll be introduced to maths-related Python libraries such as pandas, scipy.stats and matplotlib.
Foundation Engineering (20 cp)
This module includes basic electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering. Mechanics considers the consequences of applying forces to physical bodies; the electrical and electronics part of the module focuses on the scientific principles relevant to circuit theory, analogue electronics and components. Laboratory-based sessions will allow you to gain practical knowledge and experience.
Practical and Professional Skills (40 cp)
This module aims to provide a link between the theoretical modules in the course and their practical implementation. The professional skills aspect will help you with interpreting coursework requirements, exam and revision techniques, note-taking and referencing. The practical sessions will cover a variety of topics that require you to make use of the scientific principles and mathematical techniques that you’re learning in the other modules on the course.
Foundation of Computer Technology and Programming (20 cp)
This module has several strands, including programming and technical aspects that introduce you to the fundamentals of writing computer programs, as well as numeracy and website development.
Essential Skills (20 cp)
Develop the skills required to succeed in your computing degree. You’ll learn how to confidently deal with numerical aspects of your course and practice your web publishing skills by creating and formatting basic web documentation.
Web-based Programming (20 cp)
Understand programming for web-based applications, problem analysis and the procedures for program design, as well as using scripting languages.
Internet Technology (20 cp)
Study the principles of interface design, including issues associated with phone and tablet development, accessibility, web standards and how content can be separated from layout.
System Analysis and Design (SAD) (20 cp)
Introducing you to the fundamental principles of SAD, this module will give you a working knowledge of the key systems, development methodologies, techniques and tools.
Professional Development for Industry (20 cp)
This module will enable you to learn about the professional bodies and standards relating to the computing profession and enhance your employability potential by increasing your awareness of the technological, social and economic factors driving the IT industry.
Information Systems Development (20 cp)
Study a variety of techniques and practices associated with the effective development of user-based information systems. You’ll learn how to develop, test, review and apply user-based information systems.
Information and Database Engineering (20 cp)
Understand the nature and application of database management systems and acquire skills for database administration and management.
Internet Application Development (20 cp)
Design and produce a static or dynamic website suitable for both desktop and mobile platforms and which may contain complex scripted components.
Interaction Design (20 cp)
Gain a practical understanding of human-computer interface technologies and the principles behind designing an effective and accessible interface for interactive systems.
Practical Project Management and Professional Development (20 cp)
Continued professional development and lifelong learning is important to your future career. Through this module, you’ll improve your time and project management skills, presentations and report writing.
Digital 3D (20 cp)
Design and develop 3D environments and characters for computer game systems.
Project (40 cp)
Investigate problems in computing, implement solutions, critically evaluate and reflect on your work, and develop your abilities to communicate, self-organise and manage.
Information Systems Management (20 cp)
Develop an understanding of how to manage the build and deployment of enterprise and Internet information systems within small to medium organisations.
Mobile Platform Development (20 cp)
Gain an awareness of the requirements, capabilities and constraints of a variety of mobile platform technologies and consider how they can be used to build systems which are outside the traditional desktop paradigm.
Data Visualisation and UX (20 cp)
Understand the importance of the user experience when designing data visualisation interfaces for the web, and the appropriate tools to display information efficiently.
Optional modules - choose one:
Communicating Science and Technology (20 cp)
An opportunity for you to gain valuable transferable skills working as a ‘student-tutor’ with teachers in local schools or to work on a community-based project.
Information Security (20 cp)
Apply skills learnt in this module to conduct appropriate risk analysis and generate information assurance plans for a given context.
Serious Games (20 cp)
Examine the use of computers for teaching, focusing particularly on virtual reality and multimedia systems in the development and application of games for learning.
Virtual Reality (20 cp)
You will develop your knowledge of the technology underpinning Virtual Reality and be presented with past and current research into fields such as VR training and simulation, architectural visualisation, disability access and 3D recording of ancient monuments and artefacts.
Cyber Security (20 cp)
Learn to manage the security of computer based information and systems within organisations and develop the ability to make informed choices based on business drivers.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
Video Gallery
How you’re assessed
You will be assessed on a variety of components including the following.
Coursework and practical
- Assignments
- Dissertation
- Group projects
- Oral presentations
- Reports
Written
- Exams
- Written tests
Careers and employability
Your career development
This course provides a thorough education in computing for industry meaning you graduate with advanced skills in the development of software and are able to design and manage complex information systems.
Our recent graduates have secured roles at companies including:
- Tesco
- Worldwide Clinical Trials UK Ltd
- Oakbrook Finance Ltd
- Cisco Systems
- BT
They have gone into a wide variety of job roles including:
- Web Developer
- Support Developer
- Software Tester
- Service Desk Analyst
- Systems Engineer
Many graduates also choose to undertake further study on one of our master's-level courses or MPhil and PhD research degrees.
University really helped me find my independence. The placement year was quite a challenge but ultimately very valuable, as it gave me the confidence that I could take on anything thrown my way and also proved me as a good programmer and software designer.
I made many lifelong friends at Nottingham Trent University and really value the time I spent there and would love to do it all again if I hadn't got used to having a decent income!
Gavin Harriss, Technical Director – YouGoDo.com
BSc (Hons) Computing graduate
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Campus and facilities
The School of Science and Technology is a stimulating and creative environment which equips students with the knowledge and transferable skills to put them ahead of the graduate crowd.
We provide facilities that enhance the quality of our education and push the boundaries of our research. Students have access to specialist centres including:
- games console laboratories
- networking and security laboratories
- human-interactive technology
- stereo-projection.
Students also enjoy working with the latest software. Examples include:
- nCase
- 3D StudioMax
- XNA Xbox development suite
- the Adobe Creative Suite (Flash, After Effects, Photoshop)
- the Unreal and Half-life Games Engines.
Entry requirements
- 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent.
- GCSE Maths grade B / 6 and English grade C / 4
Other qualifications and experience
We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into year 2. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.
Meeting our entry requirements
Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS tariff points attached to specific grades, including A levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to three different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
- 72 UCAS Tariff points from up to three A-levels or equivalent qualifications
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Undergraduate preparation courses (Foundation)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Foundation courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
Advanced standing (starting your undergraduate degree in year 2 or 3)
You may be able to start your undergraduate course in year 2 or 3 based on what you have studied before. This decision would be made in accordance with our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
Fees and funding
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and funding pages will answer all your questions.
What's included in the course fees?
Your course fees cover all the facilities and support you need to succeed.
- You will have access to extensive computing facilities, some available 24 hours a day and including technician support.
- You will have dedicated online storage to support the backup of work.
- You will have access to Microsoft Academic Alliance membership, which gives you free copies of all Microsoft developer software including operating systems, Visio and Project.
- As one of our students, you will be able to join the Oracle Academic Initiative as an individual member and get free database software.
- Students are able to register for a free personal copy of 3D Studio Max.
- Extensive equipment is available to loan for coursework and project work. For example, you can borrow cameras and phones.
- We offer extensive free training software including tutorials on 3D Studio Max, Flash, Photoshop, TCP/IP Packet analysis, Java, Javascript, HTML5, and Oracle.
- Most major software is available across the campus machines, including Adobe Master Collection Suite.
Additional Costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core textbooks, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential textbooks, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs of approximately £20 - £50.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service by telephone +44 (0)115 848 2494.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your undergraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government. See our fees.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
What's included in the course fees?
Your course fees cover all the facilities and support you need to succeed.
- You will have access to extensive computing facilities, some available 24 hours a day and including technician support.
- You will have dedicated online storage to support backup of work.
- You will have access to Microsoft Academic Alliance membership which gives you free copies of all Microsoft developer software including operating systems, Visio and Project.
- As one of our students, you will be able to join the Oracle Academic Initiative as an individual member and get free database software.
- Students are able to register for a free personal copy of 3D Studio Max.
- Extensive equipment is available to loan for coursework and project work. For example, you can borrow cameras and phones.
- We offer extensive free training software including tutorials on 3D Studio Max, Flash, Photoshop, TCP/IP Packet analysis, Java, Javascript, HTML5, Oracle.
- Most major software is available across the campus machines, including Adobe Master Collection Suite.
Additional Costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs approximately £20 - £50.
How to apply
Ready to join us? Then apply as soon as you can. Just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow the instructions for applying. Make sure you check the entry requirements above carefully before you do.
Writing your application and personal statement
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. So include all of your qualifications and grades, including resits or predicted grades.
Your personal statement is a really important part of your application. It’s your chance to convince us why we should offer you a place! You’ve got 4,000 characters to impress us. Make sure you use them to show how your skills and qualities are relevant to the course(s) you’re applying for. For more hints and tips, take a look at our page on how to write a good personal statement.
Keeping up-to-date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU on our Your Application page. Good luck with your application!
This course is not open to International applicants who require a Student Visa. For alternative courses please see Nottingham Trent International College.