Mathematics and Computing with Integrated Foundation Year

Program Overview

---

Overview

Our foundation year course is designed to help you progress to a challenging and exciting career in computing or mathematics. Our carefully designed curriculum is particularly suitable for those who want to change direction, perhaps having taken A-levels in arts or humanities subjects, and for mature applicants returning to study. You will quickly find that willingness to learn and determination is more important than prior knowledge.

At Brunel we understand that you may not be ready to decide exactly which area of mathematics or computing you would like to specialise in, so this foundation year gives you the perfect opportunity to decide where your interests lie. You might opt for computer science and work with ever more sophisticated computer technology and information systems. Or you may find yourself drawn to mathematics where you’ll learn to model and solve problems from the worlds of business, finance and science. Once you have successfully completed your foundation year you can progress to any of the following degree programmes:

Business Computing BSc (with the option to specialise in Business, eBusiness, Human Computer Interaction or Social Media)

Computer Science BSc (with the option to specialise in Artificial Intelligence, Digital Media and Games, Network Computing or Software Engineering)

Financial Mathematics BSc

Mathematics BSc

Mathematics with Computer Science BSc

Mathematics for Data Science BSc

Mathematics and Statistics with Management BSc

With the grades needed for your chosen computing or mathematics degree course, you progress directly into Level 1 of that degree – there’s no need to re-apply.

We look forward to helping you develop your learning and setting you firmly on the way to your chosen career.

You can explore our campus and facilities for yourself by taking our virtual tour.

Program Outline

Course content

The foundation year covers material that would usually have been covered in A-level mathematics and ICT, so that you’ll be well equipped to begin a BSc programme in any of our mathematics or computing courses.

Computing Route

Compulsory modules

Introduction to Computing

Programming

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Study Skills

Discrete and Decision Mathematics

Optional Modules

Algebra A or Algebra B (depending on mathematical knowledge)

Mathematics Route

Compulsory modules

Calculus

Statistics

Discrete and Decision Mathematics

Study Skills

Optional Modules

Algebra A or Algebra B (depending on mathematical knowledge)

All students take either Introduction to Computing or Introduction to Finance and Accounting for Business

This course can be studied 4 years full-time or 5 years full-time with placement, starting in September.

---

Year 0

This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.

Please note that all modules are subject to change.

Read more about the structure of undergraduate degrees at Brunel.

---

Careers and your future

Career prospects for mathematics and computer science are excellent. As nearly all businesses today rely on computers, you’ll find that there are opportunities across all of the sectors in large organisations, the public or charity sector or in SMEs. Maybe you want to pursue a career that specifically uses your mathematical, statistical or computing skills or choose a more general career such as management or consultancy. Either way you’ll possess key skills that are highly sought after by business – in fact any industry that uses modelling, simulation, cryptography, forecasting, statistics, risk analysis and probability.

Our combination of work experience and up-to-date teaching means that you will be well-equipped to follow the career you want after graduation.

These are some of the areas where a maths degree is valued highly:

Finance:

banking, accountancy, actuarial, tax, underwriter, pensions, insurance

Medicine:

medical statistics, medical and epidemiological research, pharmaceutical research

Design:

engineering design, computer games

Science:

biotechnology, meteorology, oceanography, pure and applied research and development

Civil Service:

scientists (‘Fast Stream’, DSTL, DESG), GCHQ, security service, statisticians

Business:

logistics, financial analysis, marketing, market research, sales oil industry, management consultancy, operational research

IT:

Systems analysis, research

Engineering:

aerospace, building design, transport planning, telecommunications, surveying

---

Assessment and feedback

The ratio of exams to coursework is approximately 60:40. Coursework consists of mainly of short tests and project work.

Read our guide on how to avoid plagiarism in your assessments at Brunel.