Computing Foundation - 2013 entry
Foundation course
Typical A-level offer: grades DD or equivalent
Overview
This course is run by the Department of Computing and Communication Technologies
If you want to study IT and computing, but you don't have the right qualifications to enter a university degree course, then the Foundation Course in Computing might be just what you need. This broad one-year course is designed to improve your general skills in computing, mathematics and information technology. If you complete the course successfully, you can then progress onto a BSc degree course.
Our Computing Foundation course includes plenty of practical work too: laboratory and practical sessions give students hands-on experience with the latest software. Surgery sessions are held in mathematics to help you to bridge any gaps in your mathematical skills.
There is demand for graduates in all areas of computing and information technology: our foundation course is an excellent start to a career in this fast moving and expanding industry.
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching methods include lectures, practical activities, problem-solving classes and tutorial support. Most modules make use of an e-learning site where you have access to discussion forums, self-assessment quizzes and on-line material.
Assessment methods are varied but mainly focused on practical work. Most modules are assessed using a combination of examination and coursework, although some are assessed totally by coursework. Assessment can take many forms, including class tests and assessed practical work using innovative applications of information technology.
Learning outcomes
This course will provide you with:
- the mathematical skills necessary to proceed onto the first year of a computer-related degree course
- the study skills needed in higher education
- an understanding of the basic operation of a computer including programming concepts
- a range of transferable skills in self-management, learning skills, communication, problem solving, teamwork and information technology.
In detail
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Course content
The course covers core subjects in IT and computing principles, and helps develop your mathematical and presentation skills. The material is of A-level standard and prepares you for a university degree course in a broad range of subjects such as media technology and software design.
You will use laboratory and practical sessions to gain hands-on experience of the latest software and you will be introduced to programming using a computer animated virtual world. Mathematics is taught at different levels so you can choose the one most appropriate for you and you will have the opportunity to develop your study and IT skills.
This is normally a one-year course and you will need to take a total of eight modules in two semesters. The modules on offer may vary from year to year and some will be compulsory.
Module list
- Foundations of Computer Systems
- Foundations of Computer Programming
- Study Skills and Preparation for Higher Education
- Foundation Statistics
- Fundamentals and Applications of Technology (double)
- Basic Survey Methods
- Basic Data Analysis
- Basic Mathematical Methods I and II
- Essential Mathematics for University Study
- Word-Processing and Spreadsheet IT Skills
- Database IT Skills
- Academic Listening and Speaking
- Essential Academic Writing Skills for International Students
- Academic English for Science and Technology
Free language courses for students - the Open Module
Free language courses are available to all full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students who are studying any course on our Headington (including Marston Road), Harcourt Hill or Wheatley Campuses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.
Key facts
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Department
Department of Computing and Communication Technologies
Course length
Full-time: 1 year
Part-time: 2 years
Teaching location
Wheatley Campus
Start date
September 2013
UCAS code
G406 BSc/FCO
Fees / funding
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Tuition fees
The fees shown are for the academic year 2012/13. The fees for 2013/14 have yet to be set, and are likely to increase.
UK/EU students
Full-time: £9,000
Part-time: £750 per module. You can take up to five modules per academic year.
Tuition fees
The fees shown are for the academic year 2012/13. The fees for 2013/14 have yet to be set, and are likely to increase.
International students
Full-time: £11,750
Questions about fees?
Contact Student Finance on:
+44 (0)1865 483088
finance-fees@brookes.ac.uk
Funding and scholarships
For general sources of financial support, see:
Apply / Entry reqs
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Typical offers
A-level: grades DD or equivalent
IB Diploma: 24 points
Advanced Diploma: grade D
BTEC National Diploma with 3 passes
Mature students with relevant experience, including a substantial period of suitable employment, are welcome to apply.
Specific entry requirements
GCSE: Mathematics and English Language grade C minimum
You should be aged at least 18 and hold recognised qualifications to A-level standard, but with grades insufficient for entry to a degree-level course.
Please also see the university's general entry requirements.
English language requirements
Please see the university's standard English language requirements.
English language requirements for visas
If you need a student visa to enter the UK you will need to meet the UK Border Agency's minimum language requirements as well as the university's requirements. Find out more about English language requirements.
Full-time students should apply for this course through UCAS.
Part-time students should apply directly to the university.
Conditions of acceptance
When you accept our offer you agree to the conditions of acceptance. You should therefore read those conditions before accepting the offer.
Student experience
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Why Oxford is a great place to study Computing Foundation
As a student in Oxford you'll be at the heart of the UK's most successful economic region and in a centre for leading industries which will provide you with a host of work placement and other learning opportunities.
Oxford is a hub for UK-based computing and technology firms, so our research partnerships and links with industry are hard to beat. Many computing and media students take up work placements within Oxfordshire-based companies.
It is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for its large student population, from theatres and cinemas to museums, art galleries and music venues. A bustling and stunning cosmopolitan city, Oxford has excellent shopping, restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs.
Situated in the heart of rural England and home to around 150,000 people, Oxford offers students a clean and safe environment less than an hour from London and international airports.
General support services
Supporting your learning
From academic advisers and support co-ordinators to specialist subject librarians and other learning support staff, we want to ensure that you get the best out of your studies.
Personal support services
We want your time at Brookes to be as enjoyable and successful as possible. That's why we provide all the facilities you need to be relaxed, happy and healthy throughout your studies.
Accommodation
At Brookes we understand that when you live away from home it's important to be somewhere that you feel comfortable and safe.
After graduation
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Further study
Successful completion of the course enables you to progress onto one of our degree courses in Computing or Mathematics, subject to meeting the specific entry requirements of the particular course. In Semester 2 you will be asked which course you wish to join. The options include:
BA/BSc combined honours including:
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Statistics
BSc (Hons) in:
- Computer Games and Animation
- Computer Science
- Information Technology Management for Business
- Media Technology
- Multimedia Production
- Mathematical Sciences
- Mathematics
- Mobile Computing
- Network Computing
- Sound Technology and Digital Music
- Software Engineering
After the foundation year, you will be well prepared for study on an undergraduate course, having gained the necessary theoretical knowledge and experience of the teaching methods and notation used in your chosen subject.
