Computing and Information Technology Foundation Year

How will I learn on a Computing and Information Technology Foundation Year?

On this course, you will learn through a mix of formal taught sessions and guided independent research. You will experience a wide range of learning opportunities in a stimulating, challenging, and dynamic learning environment and you will be taught through a mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions.

You will be expected to play an active role in seminars and workshops as part of your learning and development and be encouraged to develop independent learning skills and techniques. You will have the opportunity to research topics independently and in small groups to deepen your learning and understanding and you will be taught the skills to communicate the findings of your research and investigations in a number of ways.

You will be assessed through a variety of different methods including exams, reports, presentations, individual, group and project work. 

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Who teaches the Computing and Information Technology Foundation Year?

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience from the Computer Science and Information Science sectors.

In a dynamic learning environment with an expert team of staff, you will be taught theoretical and practical research skills such as information literacy, as well as problem-solving skills, self-directed learning and communication skills. You will develop an understanding of important research methods and approaches which could be directly applicable to the demands of your future career.

You will be fully supported throughout the course, with up to 15 hours of contact a week and evaluation through continuous assessment. This will help you to build valuable life and learning skills alongside your IT knowledge.

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Where will I study?

The Computer Science facilities at Northumbria will provide you with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic learning environment.

During your studies, you will have the opportunity to access state of the art facilities and equipment which will encourage your individual intellectual freedom and allow your creative vision to become a reality.

Our £7m Computer and Information Sciences building was opened in 2018, especially for our computing students, and it is packed with high quality services to support your learning. Here, you will have access to dedicated computing areas which you can use during free periods and into the evenings and weekends. These areas are useful spaces for completing your coursework, stocked with the latest PC, Mac and Linux machines. Plus, our award-winning Library has lots of resources and study spaces to support your learning, with professional support services for students at all levels of study.

Eco-friendly building

We are proud to say that the Computer and Information Science building at Northumbria University is a sustainable ‘Smart Building’, which is able to run itself efficiently and sustainably. This ‘Living Lab’ supports student learning and provides useful links between sustainability and technology.

Institute of Coding Partnership

Northumbria also contributes to the Institute of Coding - a £40m collaboration between 25 UK universities – delivering education to people of all ages, helping them gain the skills they need to become the next generation of digital talent.

How is research brought into teaching throughout the foundation year?

We are living in a digital age where all of our lives are impacted by digital technologies and information systems. You will be immersed in a research-rich environment with new and exciting insights by our rapidly expanding Computer Science and Information Science Research Groups.

Our courses are at the forefront of current knowledge and practise and are shaped by world-leading internationally excellent research, contributing significantly to both the industry, and quality of teaching here at Northumbria.

You will be taught by staff with a strong academic background in areas such as Software Design & Development, Web Programming, Artificial Intelligence and User Centred Design. With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria.

How does a Computing and Information Technology Foundation Year prepare me for my future career?

We place a real emphasis on developing the transferable skills that will open doors to a range of careers. These include communication, analytical and problem solving skills, technical skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Upon completion of this course, you will be prepared to progress onto a full degree course.