Computing and Mathematics foundation year
Why choose this course?
We recognise that there are many routes to success at degree level. Our Computing and Mathematics Foundation Year specifically caters for those who lack the traditional entry qualifications to join the first year of a science degree. You are likely to be someone with either non-computing/maths-based qualifications, someone who has tried computing/maths-based subjects but has yet to realise their potential or you are a mature student, with skills and experience from employment, who wants to return to education.
The foundation year, has the benefit of being part of the extended degree and means that it provides you access to a range of activities and staff on the degree programme you will continue your study with.
| Pathway | Attendance | UCAS code | Year of entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Games Programming | 1 year full time | G624 | 2019 2020 |
| Computer Science | 1 year full time | G403 | 2019 2020 |
| Cyber Security & Computer Forensics | 1 year full time | G4NX | 2019 2020 |
| Digital Media Technology | 1 year full time | G455 | 2019 2020 |
| Location | Penrhyn Road and Kingston College |
Reasons to choose Kingston University
- In our inKUbator, you can learn directly from the industry. Speakers have been from Sony, Splash Damage, Aardvark Swift, Interactive Selection, CryTek and Unity.
- Kingston University is an educational partner of Sony through PlayStation First. You'll have the opportunity to develop games for the PlayStation 4.
- The Computer Science BSc course is accredited by The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS).
What you will study
The foundation year is designed to provide a supportive environment in which you can build your confidence, whilst developing the academic and technical skills alongside the subject knowledge to continue on to the degree of your choice.
Modules
Throughout the year you will study a range of subjects relevant to subsequent study in Year 1 of your degree and beyond. These subjects are supported by modules where your study and mathematical skills are developed. The broad scope of subjects is intended to allow study in a range of subject areas and, in some instances, allows flexibility of choice of intended degree route. Subjects start at an elementary level, and there is a strong emphasis on the development of practical skills. In the skills module you will also undertake a project where you focus on a topic relating to your degree subject.
Core modules
Computer Programming
30 credits
This module is designed for those who continue to Level 4 of computing and mathematics-related degrees and also those who undertake technological sciences degrees.
This module aims to give a solid grounding in the basics of software development and teach students the fundamental principles of computer programming and inter-operability.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
- Describe the software development lifecycle.
- Describe approaches to requirements analysis and documentation.
- Design simple software programs.
- Use basic programming concepts to create programs and user interfaces.
- Create simple normalised databases.
- Produce professional solutions using a variety of development methods.
Optional modules
Mathematics
30 credits
This module is a core module for all students following the Mathematics pathway in the Foundation year programme. The module is designed to allow students to develop competence in a range of mathematical and statistical techniques which they can then apply within a range of contexts related to Mathematics degree pathways and their application to solving problems in the real world.
Mathematics for Computing
30 credits
This module is a core module for all students following the Computing pathway in the Foundation year programme. The module is designed to allow students to develop competence in a range of mathematical and statistical techniques which they can then apply within a range of contexts related to computing degree pathways. The module reinforces basic mathematical concepts and is accessible to students with a wide range of previous mathematical experiences. The applications used in the module are designed to support the other modules within the programme so ensuring that students have developed the necessary skills at the correct time for their application within such modules.
Computer Systems
30 credits
This module is designed for those who continue to Level 4 of computer science related degrees.
The aim of this module is to give an understanding of the basic principles of computing systems together with the ability to install and configure such systems. It will cover both computer hardware and the operating systems that runs on it.
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
- Describe hardware components and peripheral devices and the role they play in modern computer systems.
- Describe the key features of operating systems and how they co-ordinate communication between the user and the hardware.
- Describe how a range of data is encoded, stored and processed.
- Install hardware and software components in a variety of different systems.
- Use a variety of problem solving methodologies to resolve hardware and software issues.
- Write simple batch scripts.
Technical Investigation and Skills
30 credits
This is a core module in the foundation year pathway in Computing & Mathematics. The module provides a bridge between the wide range of study experiences of students at Level 3 and the demands of successful study at level 4. The module allows students to develop effective study skills, in the context of Computing & Mathematics and develops the essential technical skills necessary to allow students to progress. The module provides a coherent path through a set of learning, practical and theoretical experiences to develop skills and knowledge and is designed to complement and support the subject content of the other modules within the foundation year programme.
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list as these could change before your year of entry.
The information above reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. Updates may be made on an annual basis and revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year. The regulations governing this course are available on our website. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, this may not be offered.
Entry requirements
What our students say
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Why choose computing at Kingston
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Teaching and assessment
Teaching uses a variety of approaches including lectures, seminars and tutorials, workshops and computer practical work. Sessions are designed to be active, involving students undertaking small projects and working in groups to solve problems. The use of technology to enhance learning is an important way in which students are supported. Particular emphasis is placed on developing study skills that will help mature applicants who are returning to education and those from non-computing and mathematics backgrounds.
Assessment includes a mixture of coursework and examination. Coursework may take the form of report writing, case studies and presentations with emphasis on real world problems. Examinations take place at the end of the year, giving you the opportunity to settle back into education and into the course. The style of assessment provides a natural progression to Year 1 of your chosen degree.
Facilities
There is a wide range of facilities at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. You will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including computing laboratories - fully equipped with fold-flat LCD screens, data-projection systems and high-spec processors - as well as state-of-the-art hardware and the latest software, including:
- development software and tools - such as Linux, Microsoft.net, Dreamweaver, Flash 11, Eclipse, Java 2 Standard and Mobile Editions, tools for Motorola and Nokia phones, UML and CASE tools and NXP Processors Development Kits;
- Maple, Matlab and SAS (mathematics and statistics software packages used by corporations, governments, universities, etc. across the globe);
- Digital Signal Processors (dsPIC Digital Signal Controllers); and
- a mix of wireless LAN technologies; the learning resources centre - offering subject libraries, online database subscriptions and resource materials.
Our dedicated team of IT technicians support the labs and are always on hand to provide assistance.
Careers and recruitment advice
The Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques. Specific advice is also available for international students about the UK job market and employers' expectations and requirements.
The team runs employer events throughout the year, including job fairs, key speakers from industry and interviews on campus. These events give you the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.
Employability preparation at Kingston University
In addition to building expertise in your own discipline, our courses will also help you to develop key transferable skills that you'll need for professional life or further study once you graduate.
As well as a range of careers and employability activities at Kingston, we also offer you the chance to apply and develop your skills in live contexts as an integral part of your course. Opportunities include:
- placements;
- working or studying abroad;
- volunteering;
- peer mentoring roles; and
- internship opportunities within and outside the University.
In your final year, you'll get the opportunity to complete a major 'capstone' project where you can apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired to a range of real issues in different contexts. This is a great way to learn and is a valuable bridge to employment or further research at masters level.
Who teaches this course?
The course is taught at the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing. Faculty staff have a wide range of experience across research and industry and continue to practice and research at the cutting edge of their discipline. This ensures that our courses are current and industry informed ensuring you get the most relevant and up to date education possible.
Staff will use their experience and professional networks to hone your skills and shape you into the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates.