BSc Computer Science with an Integrated Foundation Year

Year of entry: 2024

Overview

Degree awarded
Bachelor of Science(Hons)
Duration
1 (as part of 4 yr integrated degree programme)
Typical A-level offer

Grades ABB where a student has 3 relevant subjects

Grades AAB where a student has 2 relevant subjects

Grades AAA where a student has 1 relevant subject 

The subjects considered to be relevant are Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Electronics and Statistics. If you have a qualification query, we encourage you to contact us before applying.

Typical contextual A-level offer

If you meet the criteria and your predicted grades are within two grades of our minimum entry criteria you may be made a reduced offer. 

This will typically be at 1 grade below the standard offer.

Find out more about contextual admissions.
Typical International Baccalaureate offer

35 points overall with 6,6,5 in Higher Level subjects, including Mathematics (either ‘Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Applications and Interpretation’ are acceptable) or Physics.

If Mathematics is not studied at Higher Level, then we would require Standard Level Mathematics (either ‘Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Applications and Interpretation’ are acceptable) with Grade 6 or higher.

Applicants studying the International Baccalaureate Career Related Programme (IBCP) should contact the academic School prior to applying so that their academic profile can be considered.

Full entry requirements

How to apply
Apply through UCAS .
Sustainable Development Goals

Find out how this course aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including learning which relates to:

  • Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
  • Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
  • Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities
  • Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production
Apply through UCAS
UCAS course code
H114
UCAS institution code
M20

Course overview

On the Computer Science with an Integrated Foundation Year you are an undergraduate at The University of Manchester. The course is taught at The University, by academics from The University. Provided you achieve the specific progression criteria for your chosen degree, completion of the Integrated Foundation Year guarantees you a place on first year of your chosen degree.

Fees

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2024 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £24,000 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

Scholarships/sponsorships

Details of country-specific funding available to international students can be found within our  International country profiles .

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability, therefore, we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.

For information about scholarships please visit our  undergraduate student finance pages  and the Department funding pages that you intend to progress to after successfully completing the Foundation Year.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our courses address.

  • Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy

    Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

  • Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

    Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

  • Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities

    Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

  • Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production

    Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

Contact details

School/Faculty
School of Computer Science
Telephone
+44 (0)161 543 4017
Email
Website
http://www.cs.manchester.ac.uk/
School/Faculty overview

Courses in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.

Compare this course

Entry requirements

A-level

Students are accepted from a wide range of educational backgrounds and all applications are considered on their individual merits. Decisions are based on the application as a whole - including the qualifications, the personal statement, and the referee's comments. The following must therefore be viewed only as general guide.

Our entry requirements vary depending on the subjects being taken at A level. Typically, we would be looking for:

  • Grades ABB where a student has 3 relevant subjects 
  • Grades AAB where a student has 2 relevant subjects 
  • Grades AAA where a student has 1 relevant subject 

The subjects considered to be relevant are Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Electronics and Statistics. If you are unsure whether you would be considered with your qualifications/predictions, we would encourage you to contact us before making an application.

In all cases we only offer places to applicants if we are convinced that they have the academic potential and the high level of motivation that is needed to be successful on the Integrated Foundation Year and on their chosen degree programme. To help us make our decision, applicants may be asked to attend an Academic Assessment.

Contextual offer

If you meet the criteria and your predicted grades are within two grades of our minimum entry criteria you may be made a reduced offer. 

This will typically be at 1 grade below the standard offer. 

Find out more about contextual admissions .

Duration of A-level study

Your application will be considered against the standard selection process of your chosen course if you either: 

a) sat your examinations early; 

or 

b) followed an accelerated curriculum and spent three years studying A-levels where the examinations were taken over two years.  

If you are studying an advanced curriculum where the examinations are spread over three years, consideration for an offer will be at the discretion of the admissions tutor for that subject. 

AS-level

AS-level results are not considered as part of the standard admissions process at The University of Manchester.

AS-level qualifications are acceptable only in combination with other qualifications.

Unit grade information

The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available.  Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application.  Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.

GCSE

We require Grade B/6 in GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics (if not studied at A-level) and B/6 from one of Physics, Chemistry or Combined Science (if not studied at A-level) 

We require at least Grade C/4 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language. GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.

International Baccalaureate

35 points overall with 6,6,5 in Higher Level subjects, including Mathematics (either ‘Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Applications and Interpretation’ are acceptable) or Physics.

If Mathematics is not studied at Higher Level, then we would require Standard Level Mathematics (either ‘Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Applications and Interpretation’ are acceptable) with Grade 6 or higher.

Applicants studying the International Baccalaureate Career Related Programme (IBCP) should contact the academic School prior to applying so that their academic profile can be considered.

Other international entry requirements

We accept a range of qualifications from different countries. For these and general requirements including English language see:  International requirements

Scottish requirements

Students are accepted form a wide range of education backgrounds and all qualifications are considered on their individual merits.  

Entry and the type of offer made will be dependent on the level and amount of Mathematics and Science taken.  

Decisions are based on the application, including your qualifications, your personal statement and your academic reference. 

In all cases we only offer places to applicants if we are convinced that they have the academic potential and the high level of motivation that is needed to be successful on the integrated Foundation Year and on their chosen degree programme to be undertaken after successfully completing the foundation year. 

Please contact the academic Department for further information on your suitability to study on our Integrated Foundation Year.

Welsh Baccalaureate

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and requires two A Levels including Maths and one Science subject to be included within this.

The minimum grade required will normally be the same as the lowest grade listed in the A Level entry requirements. 

European Baccalaureate

Students are accepted form a wide range of education backgrounds and all qualifications are considered on their individual merits.  

Entry and the type of offer made will be dependent on the level and amount of Mathematics and Science taken.  

Decisions are based on the application, including your qualifications, your personal statement and your academic reference. 

In all cases we only offer places to applicants if we are convinced that they have the academic potential and the high level of motivation that is needed to be successful on the integrated Foundation Year and on their chosen degree programme to be undertaken after successfully completing the foundation year. 

Please contact the academic Department for further information on your suitability to study on our Integrated Foundation Year. 

AQA Baccalaureate

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.

In making offers, the University will focus on the three A Levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Please refer to our A-level requirements.

The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement. 

Pearson BTEC qualifications

Students are accepted form a wide range of education backgrounds and all qualifications are considered on their individual merits. Entry and the type of offer made will be dependent on the level and amount of Mathematics and Science taken. Decisions are based on the application, including your qualifications, your personal statement, and your academic reference.

In all cases we only offer places to applicants if we are convinced that they have the academic potential and the high level of motivation that is needed to be successful on the integrated Foundation Year and on their chosen degree programme to be undertaken after successfully completing the foundation year.

Please contact the academic Department for further information on your suitability to study on our Integrated Foundation Year. 

OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications

Students are accepted form a wide range of education backgrounds and all qualifications are considered on their individual merits. Entry and the type of offer made will be dependent on the level and amount of Mathematics and Science taken. Decisions are based on the application, including your qualifications, your personal statement and your academic reference. 

In all cases we only offer places to applicants if we are convinced that they have the academic potential and the high level of motivation that is needed to be successful on the integrated Foundation Year and on their chosen degree programme to be undertaken after successfully completing the foundation year. 

Please contact the academic Department for further information on your suitability to study on our Integrated Foundation Year. 

Access to HE Diploma

Each application is considered individually. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances. 

We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall with at least 45 at Level 3, 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit). We typically require specific subjects relevant to the course, and these will be included in an offer, at specific grades. 

Cambridge Pre-U

Students are accepted form a wide range of education backgrounds and all qualifications are considered on their individual merits.  

Entry and the type of offer made will be dependent on the level and amount of Mathematics and Science taken.  

Decisions are based on the application, including your qualifications, your personal statement and your academic reference. 

In all cases we only offer places to applicants if we are convinced that they have the academic potential and the high level of motivation that is needed to be successful on the integrated Foundation Year and on their chosen degree programme to be undertaken after successfully completing the foundation year. 

Please contact the academic Department for further information on your suitability to study on our Integrated Foundation Year.

T Level

We do not accept T Levels as entry onto this programme. The University does accept T Level qualifications on a number of courses. Please review our T Level information page for a full list.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. Although the Extended Project will not be included in the conditions of your offer, we strongly encourage you to provide information about the EPQ in your personal statement and at interview. A number of our academic Departments may also chose to take your performance in the EPQ into account should places be available in August for applicants who narrowly miss the entry grades for their chosen course.

Core Maths

The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (e.g. AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies).  

Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.

We advise students to contact the academic Department, who will clarify whether their specific portfolio of qualifications is acceptable for entry on to their chosen course.

Home-schooled applicants

If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course. We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. Please refer to UCAS for further information: UCAS reference guidelines. If you are a home schooled student and would like further information or advice please contact the academic School for your chosen course who will be able to help you.

Non-standard educational routes

Mature applicants who are returning to studies after a break from formal education will be considered on a case-by-case basis.  

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the Department of Computer Science directly. Further information for mature students can be found on our website. 

English language

All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency.  

Home students are required to achieve a GCSE in English Language at grade C/4, or an acceptable equivalent qualification .

Overseas students are required to evidence an IELTS for UKVI with an overall score of 6.0, with no less than 5.5 in each component.  

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa (Student Route visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the 'B2 level'.

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Application and selection

How to apply

Apply through UCAS .

Advice to applicants

Factors contributing to a successful application include: 

  • past academic performance; 

  • predicted academic performance; 

  • enthusiasm for, and realistic grasp of, chosen degree programme; 

  • evidence of interpersonal skills and non-academic interests/achievements. 

Further guidance on how to apply can be found on our How to Apply webpage .

Where you have mitigating circumstances these should be reported to your education provider and relevant exam board, we cannot make further allowances.

How your application is considered

Applications are considered on the basis of the UCAS form. Candidates may be required to complete an academic assessment. Strong examination results and academic assessments are the main factor in admitting students to our courses. We consider other information to ensure we admit students with the most outstanding potential. This is assessed within a structured framework and includes prior and predicted grades. Your referee should give realistic grade predictions for all qualifications that you are currently studying at the top of their reference. If you attend a non-UK school or college that does not provide predicted grades your referee should explain this policy within their reference.

All applicants should be aware that information provided in the personal statement may be used as the basis for further discussion during your interview with an academic member of staff.

Further information and advice on writing your personal statement and the UCAS application process can be found on the UCAS website .

Interview requirements

Academic assessment  

Applicants studying BTEC Extended Diplomas, Access to HE Diplomas, or applicants who have not studied mathematics or sciences at A-level (or equivalent) may be asked to complete an academic assessment as part of the application process. The assessment takes the form of an online, invigilated, multiple-choice test.

We do not suggest that applicants prepare specially for the assessment, and it's important to note that it is not an entrance exam. The assessment is designed to test an applicant's aptitude and give us a picture of their current level of understanding and knowledge in key areas of mathematics and physics.

If you are invited to complete an academic assessment, we will send you all the instructions you will need via email.

Deferrals

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation.

Deferred entry is granted on the discretion of admissions staff, and is normally granted for one year only and two years at the maximum in exceptional circumstances. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications

If you have re-sat individual modules to improve your grades, we will consider your application according to the standard selection process. If you are planning to re-sit the final Year 13 examinations, or have already done so, the University will consider your application, but we may require further information in order to make an informed judgment on your application.

Re-applications

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry.  In your new application you should demonstrate how your application has improved.  We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course.If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through clearing you are required to meet the clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing the places will be subject to availability.

Course details

Course description

Computer Science with an Integrated Foundation Year is a one year programme designed to improve your mathematical and scientific understanding and skills to a level where you will be able to start a degree in the  Department of Computer Science  in one of the following subject areas:

On the Foundation Year you will study mathematics, physics and (where appropriate) chemistry. In addition, you will take modules in Academic Skills and ICT (Information and Communications Technology). You will also complete a group project, related to your intended degree programme and supervised by an academic from your future Department.

Special features

  • Students accepted from a wide range of educational and cultural backgrounds.
  • High levels of academic and pastoral support.
  • Successful completion guarantees a place on first year of your chosen degree in the Department of Computer Science.
  • Teaching by highly experienced University academics, with a proven track record.
  • Integrated Foundation Year students have full access to all University facilities.

Teaching and learning

The programme embraces a variety of approaches to teaching and learning, including lectures, small group tutorials, seminars and project work. Particular strengths are the high level of staff contact and individual learning support, individual pastoral support, project work in engineering-based Departments and associated disciplines within the Faculty.

Your focus is the Foundation Studies Office, where staff provide day to day support. The dedicated Common Room offers you a place to study, prepare coursework, carry out work using the computers, or simply socialise. There is a strong sense of community within the student body and excellent tutorial support. Computer Science with an Integrated Foundation Year is delivered on the University campus by University staff.

With strong links with the Department of Computer Science, the environment for study is essentially the same as for undergraduate study on degree programmes in engineering and associated disciplines. You will find that this assists greatly in easing your move into first year of your chosen degree programme on successful completion of the foundation year.

Coursework and assessment

Assessment is based primarily on formal examinations at the end of each semester (in January and June). A smaller proportion of the overall assessment is based on coursework carried out throughout the academic year.

Course unit details

Students take a total of 12 units (120 credits) from the list below. Students will take either Mathematics 0B1 and 0B2 or Mathematics 0C1 and 0C2, according to the outcome of a diagnostic assessment at the start of the course. Students choose two units from Matter and Energy (Phys 1), World of the Electron (Phys 2) or Chemistry 1.

Course units for foundation year

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Foundation in Computer Science-Computational Thinking COMP11012 10 Mandatory
Chemistry 1 FOUN10001 10 Mandatory
Information and Communications Technology FOUN10011 10 Mandatory
Foundation Year Project FOUN10022 10 Mandatory
Academic Skills FOUN10031 10 Mandatory
Chemistry 2 FOUN10042 10 Mandatory
Matter and Energy Phys 1 FOUN10061 10 Mandatory
Waves and Particles Phys 3 FOUN10072 10 Mandatory
World of the Electron Phys 2 FOUN10111 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0B1 MATH19801 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0B2 MATH19812 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0C1 MATH19821 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0C2 MATH19832 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0F2 MATH19842 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0J2 MATH19852 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0N1 MATH19861 10 Mandatory
Mathematics 0D2 MATH19872 10 Mandatory
Chemistry 1 FOUN10001 10 Optional
Matter and Energy Phys 1 FOUN10061 10 Optional
World of the Electron Phys 2 FOUN10111 10 Optional
Mathematics 0B1 MATH19801 10 Optional
Mathematics 0B2 MATH19812 10 Optional
Mathematics 0C1 MATH19821 10 Optional
Mathematics 0C2 MATH19832 10 Optional
Displaying 10 of 24 course units for foundation year

Scholarships and bursaries

Details of country-specific funding available to international students can be found within our  International country profiles .

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability, therefore, we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.

For information about scholarships please visit our  undergraduate student finance pages  and the Department funding pages that you intend to progress to after successfully completing the Foundation Year.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk

Careers

Career opportunities

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Science alumni panel

The University of Manchester is one of the most targeted universities in the UK for top graduate employers. Graduate with a degree from us and you'll be in high demand, according to The Graduate Market in 2021 - High Fliers Research .

Our popular integrated foundation route has produced outstanding graduates across all of our science and engineering courses. Employers will recognise your determination to succeed, adaptability, analytical skills and independent thought. Computer Science with an Integrated Foundation Year gives you the preparation you need to proceed to degree level programmes in the subject area of Computer Science in the Department of Computer Science.

Careers Service

We are committed to helping you get the best start after graduation, that's why The University of Manchester's award-winning Careers Service will continue to support you two years after graduation.