COMP3004
15 credits
By studying this module, you will be introduced to the essential academic skills and strategies you will need in Higher Education. It will enable you to...
Foundation Year Computing Foundation
Build the academic knowledge, study skills and confidence to prepare for the next stage of your studies.
Key facts
- Duration
- Full time: 1 year
- Part time: 2 years
- Starts
- September 2027
- Level
- Undergraduate
- UCAS code
- G111
- Location
- Headington
- School
- School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics
About this course
Do you want to pursue a degree in computing but lack the necessary qualifications? If so, our Computing Foundation course is for you.
You will gain the knowledge and skills to progress to an undergraduate degree in computing including hands-on experience with the latest software. Our course covers:
- computing
- information technology
- mathematics
- programming
- networking
- robotics
You will gain skills in:
- self-management
- communication
- problem solving
- teamwork
We teach mathematics at different levels and surgery sessions are available to help you to bridge any gaps.
After having successfully completed the course you will be offered admission to a computing related degree according to your needs and qualifications.
There is a high demand for graduates in all areas of computing and a degree in computing is a great start to careers in:
- software development
- network security
- computer applications
- managing information
- scientific research.
New State-of-the-art facilities
All Computing courses are based in new, custom designed buildings at our main Headington site. You'll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and equipment including a VR cave, digital, computing and robotics labs, as well as social learning spaces, teaching rooms and a cafe.
Qualify for a UK degree
Gain the knowledge and skills to progress to an undergraduate degree in computing, including hands-on experience with the latest software
Study abroad
You may be able to go on a European or international study exchange while you are at Brookes. Most exchanges take place in the second year. Although we will help as much as we can with your plans, ultimately you are responsible for organising and funding this study abroad.
Language courses
Our university-wide language programme is available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
| Qualification | Typical offer |
|---|---|
| UCAS tariff points | 56 |
| A-level | CD |
| BTEC Extended Diploma | MP or PPP |
| International Baccalaureate | 24 |
| GCSE Maths | Grade 4 (C) or above |
We welcome applications from candidates with alternative qualifications, and from mature students.
Fees and funding
Fees
| Fee types | 2026/27 | 2027/28 |
|---|---|---|
| Home full-time | £9,790 | £10,050 |
| Home part-time | £1,220 per single module | £1,255 per single module |
| International full-time | £18,250 | £19,300 |
Please note, tuition fees for Home students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Oxford Brookes University intends to maintain its fees for new and returning Home students at the maximum permitted level.
For further information please see our tuition fees FAQs.
Tuition fees for International students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students.
The following factors will be taken into account by the University when it is setting the annual fees: inflationary measures such as the retail price indices, projected increases in University costs, changes in the level of funding received from Government sources, admissions statistics and access considerations including the availability of student support.
How and when to pay
Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.
- For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
- For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy page.
Questions about fees?
Learning and assessment
We encourage a critical and independent approach to learning. Our course material is A-level standard, and covers core subjects in computing principles.
You will develop your mathematical and study skills. As well as prepare for a degree in subjects such as:
- technology
- networking
- IT
- software design.
Brand new facilities
All Computing courses are moving from Wheatley Campus to brand new, custom designed buildings at our main Headington site. These buildings will open in the 2024/25 academic year. You'll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and equipment including a VR cave, digital, computing and robotics labs, as well as social learning spaces, teaching rooms and cafe space.
Our teaching methods include:
- lectures
- practical activities
- problem-solving classes
- tutorial support.
We offer an e-learning site with most of our modules where you’ll have access to:
- discussion forums
- self-assessment quizzes
- online material
| Contact hours | Total workload | Timetabled |
|---|---|---|
| about 9 hrs a week | 1,200 hrs a year | Mon–Fri, 09:00–18:00 |
Assessment
We use a combination of examination and coursework to assess your modules, but some modules are solely based on coursework. We will assess you mostly through practical work.
We use a variety of assessment methods, including:
- class tests
- practical work using applications of information technology.
Year 1
Compulsory modules
COMP4011
15 credits
This module introduces you to databases. Studying this module enables you to apply an understanding of the fundamentals of relational database design and...
INFO3005
15 credits
In this module you will explore business studies, including some of the core areas and concepts associated with the study of business. You’ll look at people’s...
100% coursework
INFO3013
15 credits
At the heart of this module on Global Issues is a deep concern for the future of people and the planet. You'll explore current global issues and will consider...
100% coursework
COMP3008
15 credits
This module aims to provide you with an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge gained from other modules through a structured small scale computing...
COMP3006
15 credits
This module is designed to introduce you to the principles, technologies, and practices involved in developing modern web applications. The module aims to equip...
COMP3001
15 credits
This module is for those who wish to progress to a degree in the Department of Computer Science. This module will give you an introduction to the design and...
Optional modules
STAT4002
15 credits
This module introduces you to statistics with the emphasis on fundamental and basic techniques of statistical data analysis. You will, in addition, build your...
LOCAL-G43835
In this module you will develop and practice core mathematical skills for undergraduate studies in computing subjects. You will look at subjects such as algebra...
Careers
Successful completion of the course enables you to progress onto one of the Oxford Brookes computing-related degree courses subject to meeting the specific entry requirements.
How to apply
Our courses are reviewed regularly as part of our quality assurance framework, so module availability and course structures may vary from what is listed here. On rare occasions, we may also need to make updates to our course programmes after publication; for full details, please visit our changes to programmes page (opens in a new tab)