Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence with Foundation Year, BSc

​​The academic team are excited to introduce you to the course and Computing section during Welcome Week. You will be sharing your Foundation Year with students across Computing courses at CCCU, and this will be a great opportunity to meet one another.

​In preparation for the first semester, you will also have guidance sessions on digital resources available, including the library and the Learning Skills Hub. We’ll discuss how we do assessments as well as the expectations and policies for these.

​As part of your Welcome Week, you will meet your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT), an academic within the School who will be supporting you for the duration of your degree. They can offer support and guidance for your transition into university life, academic development and future employability. If you have any concerns or worries that may be impacting your studies or experience at CCCU, they can help you or get the support you need.

​The Students’ Union offers a wide range of clubs and societies, providing opportunities to meet others, develop new interests, and build friendships. You will also have access to academic support, wellbeing services, and regular feedback to help you succeed throughout the year.​

Your Course

​​The academic year will be split into two semesters – one running from September to January, and a second one from January to May.

​During your Foundation Year, you will study modules designed to build your confidence, academic skills, and understanding of computing.

During Semester 1 you will study:

• FY The Big Picture
• Fundamentals of Applied Mathematics and Programming

During Semester 2 you will study:

• FY Interdisciplinary Communication Skills
• Computational Thinking
• Success modules - 3 x 5 credit point modules

The Foundation Year is designed to prepare you for progression to Level 4 of your chosen computing degree. Throughout the year, you will develop essential academic, technical, and problem-solving skills needed for university-level study.

Teaching

​Teaching takes place through a combination of lectures, workshops, seminars, and practical sessions, with a focus on step-by-step learning and active participation. Sessions are delivered on campus and supported by online learning materials.

​In the first few weeks, you will be introduced to key study skills, basic computing concepts, and mathematical foundations. You will also begin developing communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that are essential for university study.

​Assessment is designed to support your development, using a mix of coursework, practical tasks, and structured activities. You will receive regular feedback to help you improve and build confidence throughout the year.

Blackboard

​Learning materials and resources are shared on Blackboard, CCCU’s Virtual Learning Environment. You will be introduced to Blackboard during Welcome Week, and can find further information here: Blackboard | My CCCU

To help you prepare

​We recommend exploring resources from the Learning Skills Hub, particularly those related to academic writing, study skills, and time management.

​We recommend you don’t buy any particular software prior to starting at CCCU, as much of any software you need will be made available for free or at a discounted rate. Laptops are available to borrow (iBorrows | CCCU), although you will find having your own computer extremely useful. We predominantly use Windows on campus and for taught sessions, so bear this in mind if purchasing a device for your studies. 

​​There is no specific reading you are required to do before arrival, but it may be helpful to keep up to date with technology news from sites such as the BBC and national newspapers such as The Guardian and The Telegraph. This will give you an idea of common areas that are being talked about in the field and their impacts on society.

You may also wish to explore introductory learning resources such as Codecademy and CodeCamp. Engaging with these resources can help build confidence and familiarity with computing before starting your studies.