Computer Science (Foundation)

Program Overview

This four-year program provides a pathway for students with varying academic backgrounds to pursue a Computer Science BSc (Hons) degree. During the foundation year at Carmel College, students gain a strong foundation in mathematics and related subjects. Upon completion, they progress to the chosen computer science-related degree program at the University of Liverpool. The program emphasizes problem-solving, analytical skills development, and practical experience through a combination of lectures, tutorials, and project work.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This program provides a four-year route into the Computer Science BSc (Hons) degrees for students who do not meet academic requirements for the three-year program.

Objectives:

• Develop a deep understanding of the technology that underpins much of modern life and society.
• Develop problem-solving and analytical skills.

Description:

• Students spend their first year at Carmel College in St Helens, about nine miles from the main University campus.
• The college offers small class sizes and high standards of academic achievement.
• The foundation year focuses on mathematics and a choice of modules from physics, chemistry, biology, geography, and IT.
• Upon completion of the foundation year, students progress onto their chosen degree program in a computer science-related course at the University of Liverpool.

Assessment:

• Assessment is mainly by examination and coursework.
• Depending on the modules taken, students may encounter project work, presentations (individual or group), and specific tests or tasks focused on solidifying learning outcomes.
• Students are expected to score an overall mark of 50% to progress to the second year of the course.

Teaching:

• Teaching is by a mix of formal lectures, small group tutorials, and supervised laboratory-based practical sessions.
• Students also undertake individual and group projects.
• Key problem-solving skills and employability skills, like presentation and teamwork skills, are developed throughout the program.

Careers:

• 87% of computer science students from the University of Liverpool find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
(Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19)

Other:

• The University of Liverpool's research output in Computer Science was ranked 5th in the UK in the most recent Research Excellence Framework.
• The program is continually updated to reflect new technologies and trends.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art PC and Mac laboratories running a variety of different operating systems, as well as iOS and Android tablets.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland) Full-time place, per year £9,250 Foundation year fee £7,500 Year in industry fee £1,850 Year abroad fee £1,385 International fees This course is not available to international students who require a visa to study in the UK. However, if you're a 'home' student and you've lived outside of the UK, you'll need to complete a fee status questionnaire as part of your application. We'll then assess your fee status and in some cases, home students who've lived outside of the UK may be required to pay the international fee rate. Following the foundation years, standard course fees apply. Fees shown are for the academic year 2024/25. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.