BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Cyber Security with Foundation Year
Undergraduate
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Discover how computing expertise and cyber security skills combine to protect digital systems and data. The BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Cyber Security at Birmingham Newman University is a full-time, three-year undergraduate degree designed for students who want to build strong computing foundations while developing specialist knowledge in cyber security. You will begin on the BSc (Hons) Computer Science programme and choose the Cyber Security pathway towards the end of your first year. On successful completion, you will graduate with a degree that demonstrates your ability to design, implement and evaluate secure computing systems. Whether you are interested in secure software development, digital forensics or cyber threat analysis, this course prepares you to respond to real-world challenges with confidence, creativity and technical skill.
Foundation Year at Birmingham Newman University
The Foundation Year is the first year of a four-year undergraduate degree at Birmingham Newman University. It offers a flexible route into higher education for students who may not meet standard entry requirements or who are returning to study after time away. Whether you are exploring a new direction or looking to strengthen your academic foundations, this additional year of study provides the structure, support and space to help you succeed.
You’ll apply through UCAS for your chosen degree with Foundation Year. Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression criteria, you’ll move into Year 1 of your undergraduate course.
Who is the Foundation Year for?
• This route is designed for students who:
• Are returning to education after a break
• Do not currently hold the qualifications for direct entry onto a three-year degree
• Want to build confidence and academic skills before starting undergraduate study
• Are seeking a structured and supportive introduction to university life
You’ll be part of a learning community that recognises your potential and supports your development from the very beginning. The Foundation Year is not just a pathway into university. It is a purposeful and personalised start to your academic journey.
What Will I Study?
The Foundation Year focuses on helping you become a confident, reflective and independent learner. You’ll begin by exploring how you learn and identifying strategies that work for you. You’ll also engage with wider themes such as identity, inequality and the human experience in a digital world. These topics encourage critical thinking and personal insight, while connecting across subject areas.
You’ll develop core academic skills including writing, research, digital literacy and communication. These are taught through seminars, workshops, online activities and one-to-one support. The aim is not only to prepare you for your chosen subject, but to help you feel connected to your learning and to the university community.
‘For someone returning to education after a hiatus, this foundation (year) was essential in helping me regain my academic footing and feel prepared for the challenges ahead.’ – Alix Wyatt, Birmingham Newman University Alumna
What Happens After the Foundation Year?
Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression requirements, you’ll begin Year 1 of your undergraduate degree. You’ll already be familiar with the university environment, your subject area and the expectations of academic study, giving you a strong foundation to build on.
Studying the BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Cyber Security at Birmingham Newman University offers a professionally relevant and future-focused route into one of the most in-demand areas of the digital economy. Whether defending networks, developing secure software or investigating digital threats, you will gain the knowledge and skills to work with integrity and precision. The course prepares you to understand and respond to complex technical challenges, empowering organisations and communities through ethical and informed practice. With a strong focus on applied learning and reflective development, you will graduate ready to make a real impact.
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Entry requirements
We welcome students from all backgrounds and accept a wide range of qualifications. If yours aren’t listed, don’t worry – our Admissions Team can help you explore your options. See full entry requirements.
Entry requirements, for UK home students: 48 UCAS points
Those with significant work and life experience of a complexity that demonstrates an aptitude to study at degree level, but with no formal qualifications, will also be favourably considered.
Different degree pathway options available at the end of the foundation year may have different additional entry requirements.
If you require any further information or clarification of entry requirements please contact our friendly, helpful Admissions department, who will be happy to help.
Please contact Admissions if you have any questions.
Course fees
The tuition fee for academic year 2025/26 is: £0
Fees for the 2026/27 academic year are subject to change and will be published here on 9 February 2026.
Additional costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
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Graduates of this degree are well-prepared for roles in cyber analysis, software development, security consultancy or digital investigations across public, private or voluntary sectors. You may choose to work in areas such as penetration testing, secure systems design or threat intelligence. The course also supports progression into postgraduate study or professional certification. You will be equipped to contribute confidently to digital security teams and help protect systems, data and networks. Support from Birmingham Newman University’s Careers and Employability Service includes mentoring, networking opportunities and guidance on further study or employment.
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