Overview
The Foundation Year in Computing and Engineering is offered as an entry route to a computing or design engineering degree for students who don't yet meet the entry requirements for degree-level study. You enrol on a four-year course, which includes the one-year foundation course.
Why study the Foundation Year in Computing and Engineering* at Middlesex University?
During the foundation year you will learn how computers are used by a broad range of people and organisations as well as acquiring fundamental software development skills and knowledge of hardware. You also gain relevant mathematical and statistical skills and develop useful communication skills.
If you complete this year successfully you progress directly onto any one of our three-year degree courses. The number of students who progress to degree study are very high and in fact have gone on to become some of our most successful graduates.
The foundation year is for you if:
- you do not have the right qualifications for a full degree
- you feel you are not yet ready for degree-level study
- you are returning to study and feel you need some help to get up to speed with the demands of learning before embarking on a degree.
*Please note this course is subject to review.
How to apply
If you are interested in studying the computing foundation year you must apply to one of the four-year degree courses. Please have a look at the How to Apply tab for further information. Successful completion of the foundation year guarantees entry onto your chosen computing degree. We offer:
- BSc Business Information Systems
- BSc Computer Networks
- BSc Computer Science
- BEng Computer Systems Engineering
- BSc Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
- BEng Design Engineering
- BEng Electronic Engineering
- BSc Information Technology
- BEng Mechatronics
- BEng Robotics
Course highlights
- Successful completion guarantees entry onto one of our suite of career-focused computing or design engineering degrees
- You will have access to our excellent computer labs at our Hendon campus and will be taught by the same lecturing staff who teach on our degree courses
- You will develop transferable skills in information technology, communication and problem-solving
- As a student of this course you'll receive a free electronic textbook for every module.
*Please note this foundation year is subject to review.
Course content
What will you study on the Foundation Year in Computing and Engineering?
You will study all four modules simultaneously over the year which means you have the chance to examine topics in-depth.
Modules
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Core modules
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Computing and Digital Technology (30 credits) - Compulsory
This module provides an introduction to some of the fundamental concepts in computing, engineering and networks. You will learn about the latest developments within computing, both software and hardware, and gain basic understanding of the characteristics and operational behaviour of computer systems and computer communications. The module will assist you in making you degree choice for future careers.
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SMART (Students Mastering Academic writing, Research and Technology) (30 credits) - Compulsory
This module provides the fundamental written and oral communication skills required to continue studying at degree level. You will develop analytical skills through a problem solving approach, build your confidence working individually and as a member of a team, and gain appreciation of research techniques by using libraries and a range of e-learning resources.
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Foundation Mathematics (30 credits) - Compulsory
This module introduces some fundamental mathematical topics and concepts that are required in a range of subjects studied at degree level. In a structured and supportive environment, you will begin to develop an appreciation of the importance of mathematics as an aid to understand and describe abstract ideas.
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Foundation Project (30 credits) - Compulsory
This module will give you the relevant experience in a range of related subject-related projects that reinforce understanding of topics taught, and provide opportunities to apply the knowledge gained in other modules.
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More information about this course
See the course specification for more information:
Optional modules are usually available at levels 5 and 6, although optional modules are not offered on every course. Where optional modules are available, you will be asked to make your choice during the previous academic year. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, or there are staffing changes which affect the teaching, it may not be offered. If an optional module will not run, we will advise you after the module selection period when numbers are confirmed, or at the earliest time that the programme team make the decision not to run the module, and help you choose an alternative module.