BUCKINGHAMSHIRE NEW UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
BSc(Hons) Computer Science (Top-up)
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€18k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Top 10for Teaching Quality (Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)
- 9th in UKfor learning opportunities in Computer Science (NSS 2025)
- 6th in UKfor overall student satisfaction in Computer Science (NSS 2025)
- One Yearto gain a full Honours degree
- State-of-the-artComputing Facilities
- Industry-alignedCurriculum and Assessments
This one-year BSc (Hons) Computer Science Top-up degree is designed for students who have already completed a Foundation Degree, HND, or equivalent Level 5 qualification in a relevant computing subject. The program allows you to fast-track your studies to achieve a full Bachelor's degree, enhancing your knowledge and skills across key areas like software engineering, databases, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies. The course is career-focused and practical, preparing you for diverse roles within the modern digital and computing industries. It's ideal for those passionate about computing and seeking an industry-relevant qualification that strengthens problem-solving abilities and professional practice.
Curriculum
The program deepens your problem-solving abilities, professional practice, and skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating real systems using evidence-based methods. You will engage with advanced topics, build strong programming and systems capabilities through practical assessments, and undertake an individual final project tailored to your chosen specialization.
- Year 1 (Top-up)
- Advanced Programming
- Critical Systems
- Data Science
- Project
- Knowledge-Based Systems in Artificial Intelligence
- Cloud Computing
- Design Patterns
Careers
This Computer Science Top-up degree equips you with the skills and knowledge needed for a wide range of roles within the computing and digital economy. The program emphasizes professional practice and employability, preparing you for immediate entry into the workforce.
- Software developer / junior software engineer
- Web developer
- Network administrator / technician
- Systems analyst / IT support
- Cybersecurity support
- Database developer / junior DBA
- Cloud and infrastructure support roles
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top-up) programme?
- You need to have successfully completed a recognised Level 5 qualification, such as a Foundation Degree or HND, in a relevant computing subject. Substantial relevant industry experience may also be considered through the Accreditation of Prior Learning process.
- How long does the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top-up) programme take to complete?
- This is a one-year, full-time top-up degree designed to allow you to achieve a full Bachelor's degree.
- What are the tuition fees for international students for this programme?
- For the Academic Year 2025-2026, the tuition fees for international students are £15,910 per year. Please note that fees are subject to change and may increase in subsequent academic years.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing this degree?
- The programme prepares you for roles such as a software developer, web developer, network administrator, systems analyst, cybersecurity support, or database developer within the computing and digital economy.
- How do I apply for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top-up) programme?
- Applications should be submitted through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). The main deadline for applications for a September intake is 14 January, though late applications may be considered.
Entry requirements
Foundation Degree, HND, or equivalentSuccessful completion of a recognised Level 5 qualification (typically 240 credits) in a relevant subject area.
Applicants with substantial and relevant industry or professional experience may be considered through the University’s Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process.
Fees
Tuition (international)£15,910 per year (Academic Year 2025 - 2026)
Tuition (home)£9,790 per year (Academic Year 2025 - 2026)
Living—
Tuition fees are subject to parliamentary procedure and are expected to increase each academic year in line with government-set maximums. Distance learning and international fees for the 2027/2028 intake are subject to change. Additional costs may include specialist equipment, project materials, professional memberships, field trips, or everyday student costs like printing and stationery.
How to apply
1. Prepare your applicationStart your UCAS application in September, a year before you intend to start your course. Your school or college can assist you and provide a reference. You can apply for up to five courses.
2. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top-up) course, which includes successfully completing a Foundation Degree, HND, or other recognized Level 5 qualification in a relevant subject. Some courses also consider GCSE Maths and English results, or may require an interview or portfolio.
3. Submit through UCASSubmit your application via the UCAS website. The main deadline for applications is 14 January for courses starting the following September. Late applications may still be considered if vacancies exist; contact the university directly if applying after this date.
4. Await DecisionAfter submitting your application, UCAS will process it and forward it to Buckinghamshire New University. You will receive an offer decision, which you can then accept or decline.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top-up) programme?
+
You need to have successfully completed a recognised Level 5 qualification, such as a Foundation Degree or HND, in a relevant computing subject. Substantial relevant industry experience may also be considered through the Accreditation of Prior Learning process.
How long does the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top-up) programme take to complete?
+
This is a one-year, full-time top-up degree designed to allow you to achieve a full Bachelor's degree.
What are the tuition fees for international students for this programme?
+
For the Academic Year 2025-2026, the tuition fees for international students are £15,910 per year. Please note that fees are subject to change and may increase in subsequent academic years.
What career paths can I pursue after completing this degree?
+
The programme prepares you for roles such as a software developer, web developer, network administrator, systems analyst, cybersecurity support, or database developer within the computing and digital economy.
How do I apply for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Top-up) programme?
+
Applications should be submitted through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). The main deadline for applications for a September intake is 14 January, though late applications may be considered.