BSc (Hons) Computing
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Award: BSc (Hons)
Mode of Study: Full-time
Duration: 3 years or 4 with Foundation Year
Location: University of Bolton Manchester
UCAS Points: 104 Points for 3 Year Degree, 48 points for Foundation Degree
Start Date: September, January, May
Overview
The computing sector is central to modern society, driving advancements that impact every industry and shaping the future of technology. In the UK, demand for skilled computing professionals spans fields from software engineering to cybersecurity, data science, and digital transformation. By studying for a BSc (Hons) Computing at UoBM, you’ll gain in-depth knowledge of computing principles and practices while experiencing life in the dynamic, multicultural hub of Manchester.
Our expert faculty will support you in building a solid foundation across essential computing areas, focusing on the technical, ethical, and global aspects of technology's role in society. You’ll learn how to design, manage, and secure digital systems that meet the real-world needs of businesses and communities. We’ll also dive into key areas of computing, such as programming, network security, and data management, and examine how these areas contribute to the resilience and innovation of the tech sector.
By understanding the social, political, and environmental factors surrounding technology, you’ll develop a well-rounded perspective on how digital solutions can be ethically and sustainably applied in diverse professional contexts. You’ll also explore professional standards, including cybersecurity, data protection, and responsible data usage, preparing you for critical decision-making in the field.
The degree is expertly structured to blend academic, practical, and employability skills development, equipping you to enter the professional landscape with confidence. We’ll coach you in essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and time management, all of which are critical for success in computing roles. Additionally, the programme emphasises lifelong learning, empowering you to keep pace with technological advancements and shape your professional growth.
Working in computing is both challenging and rewarding. This course is designed to help you develop the skills, adaptability, and resilience needed to succeed in this ever-evolving sector. As a graduate of our BSc (Hons) Computing, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on a career in the UK or internationally, equipped with real-world case studies and experience across various computing domains.
Throughout this degree, some of the programme aims are to:
- Prepare students for careers in computing or related fields, as well as further studies in areas like data science, software engineering, and AI
- Equip students with the technical language, practices, and problem-solving skills needed to address complex computing challenges
- Cultivate intellectual, analytical, and critical thinking abilities essential for modern computing environments
- Enable students to apply computing principles to real-world challenges, developing solutions with a strong ethical foundation
- Develop transferable skills for personal and professional growth, including communication, critical analysis, and independent learning
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of computing's impact within social, political, technological, environmental, and global contexts
Entry Requirements
Standard Entry Requirements
104 Points for a 3 Year Degree
Any subjects are acceptable at Level 3.
You should also have five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent), including English and Mathematics.
Foundation Year Entry Requirements
48 points for a Foundation Year.
English Language Requirements
All students applying with International or EU qualifications must meet the minimum English language requirements of IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands for study at the undergraduate level.
For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our English Language Requirements.
Employability
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Computing program are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of careers in the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of technology. The course is designed to provide students with both the technical skills and practical experience necessary to excel in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) industry. By integrating theoretical learning with hands-on projects and industry placements, the program ensures that students are job-ready upon graduation.
Upon completing the course, graduates can confidently enter the workforce in various sectors such as software development, IT consulting, data management, cybersecurity, and more. The demand for computing professionals continues to grow as businesses and organisations increasingly rely on technology for their operations.
Key Employability Highlights:
- Work-Ready Graduates: The University of Bolton, Manchester emphasises practical learning, including project-based assessments and optional work placements. Students gain experience by working on real-world challenges, preparing them for the demands of the job market.
- Strong Industry Connections: The program benefits from strong links with industry partners, giving students access to internships, placements, and networking opportunities that improve their chances of securing employment upon graduation.
- Career Support and Development: The University offers dedicated career services, including job search support, CV writing assistance, and interview preparation. Additionally, graduates are encouraged to participate in continuous learning through professional certifications and further study to keep up with the latest technological advancements.
- High Demand for Computing Professionals: The technology sector is one of the fastest-growing industries, and computing professionals are in high demand globally. Graduates can pursue careers in software development, network administration, IT consulting, cybersecurity, and more.
- Industry-Relevant Skills: The course covers a range of essential topics such as programming, databases, networking, web development, cybersecurity, and data analysis. This broad skill set ensures that graduates are well-rounded and prepared for a variety of computing roles.
Potential Career Paths Include:
- Software Developer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- IT Support Specialist
- Database Administrator
- Web Developer
- Data Analyst
- Cloud Computing Specialist
- IT Project Manager
- Entrepreneurship in Technology and many more
By focusing on both technical proficiency and real-world application, the BSc (Hons) Computing degree prepares graduates for an array of exciting and lucrative career opportunities in the ever-expanding field of technology.
Post-Graduation Support:
To ensure that graduates are well-prepared for their chosen career paths, our university provides:
- Career Services: We offer career counselling, interview preparation, CV writing workshops, and job placement support.
- Industry Connections: Through partnerships with technology companies and internships, students have opportunities to network and gain valuable work experience.
- Alumni Network: Our active alumni network provides mentorship, career advice, and job leads, connecting current students with professionals in their desired field.
- Continuous Learning: Graduates are encouraged to stay ahead of industry trends through optional certifications, workshops, and training programs available post-graduation.
Structure and Content
Foundation Level
- Introduction to Research and Writing
- Data Skills for Computing
- Professional Development in Computing
- Computing Skills
Year One
- Academic & Professional Skills
- Computing Principles
- Computer Programming
- Database Design & Implementation
Year Two
- Software Development
- Information Systems Security
- Networks & Communications
- Business Intelligence
Year Three
- Sustainability and IT Project Management
- Digital Technologies
- Enterprise Systems
- Major Project (Computing)
Teaching and Assessment
We understand that our students' learning needs and preferred learning styles vary, so we use a range of learning and teaching methods.
Lectures introduce the core course content, while seminars and discussion groups allow you to explore subjects in greater detail. Tutorials offer space to ask questions, ensuring you understand your study topics. We use case studies, practical scenarios and workshops to help you learn to apply academic theory to real-life practical scenarios, allowing you to gain insights into contemporary practice in working health and social care environments. We'll also expect you to undertake considerable guided independent study, for instance, library research and background reading, preparing for seminar and tutorial activities, and working on assignments.
Guest lectures and presentations by visiting speakers from relevant employment areas will allow you to develop your knowledge and understanding further.
You can expect time-constrained exams, essays, reports, presentations, portfolios, and others in terms of assessment. These contribute to your final module mark and demonstrate that you have met the learning outcomes.
We also use other assessment forms to help you learn, provide feedback, and inform your development. These do not, however, count towards your final module mark.
Learning Activities
Assessment Strategy
Assessment tasks are linked to the learning outcomes of each module and are completed before and after the end of the module. Module assessments are typically either coursework or examination or a combination of both. Other types of assessment may include in-class tests, coursework, assignments, major project, presentation or projects.
Assessment Methods
| Course Year: |
Level 3 |
HE4 |
HE5 |
HE6 |
HE7 |
| Written exams: |
n/a |
12% |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
| Coursework: |
n/a |
50% |
50% |
57% |
n/a |
| Practical Exams: |
n/a |
38% |
50% |
43% |
n/a |
More information
For an extensive list of assessment methods and learning activities and more visit the full profiles here:
Course Fees
EU nationals who meet residency requirements (have settled or pre-settled status) may be eligible for 'Home' fee status. If you do not meet these residency requirements, overseas fees will apply. Irish citizens living in the UK or Ireland will be eligible for 'Home' fee status under the Common Travel Area arrangement. Please read the student finance for EU students web page on www.gov.uk for information.
For 2024-2025 entry, the maximum government approved undergraduate tuition fee for UK students is £9,250 per year. The University is able to charge this fee subject to an approved Access and Participation Plan for 2024-2025 and its current rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework.
Fees for this Course:
| 2024/25: |
£9,250 |
| 2025/26: |
£9,535 |
| 2026/27: |
£9,535 |
| Total Fee: |
£28,320 |