FdSc Computer Software Solutions
About the FdSc Computer Software Solutions course
Creating computer-based solutions can be inventive, elegant and rewarding. Taking a problem from a client or business then designing and producing a solution is not only professionally satisfying but in high demand in all areas of business, locally, nationally and across the world.
Our FdSc in Computer Software Solutions includes practical skills in programming, web design, mobile app development, database design and human-computer interaction. Alongside you will learn the theories and methodologies which will allow you to adapt your skills to different systems so you are not restricted to a particular language or software. Having gained broad experience in your first year, you will then have the opportunity to apply this to a range of substantial projects in your second, giving you the scope to apply your skills and specialise in one or more area.
Entry Requirements
Standard offer
Standard entry requirement for the Foundation Degree will be 80 UCAS points, with a minimum of grade C/4 in GCSE or equivalent qualification in English and Maths.
Non-standard offer
Scarborough TEC will also encourage applications from non-traditional learners who lack formal academic qualifications. All non-traditional applicants will be assessed through an interview assessing their overall interest in the subject matter as well as current academic skills, set an appropriate piece of work (an essay to test written skills, and a practical task involving logic and numeracy and a portfolio of relevant work), a judgement is then made considering their academic potential and relevant experience and skills. For example, a person may not have a background in computing, but have excellent problem solving and logical abilities and have a desire to change careers through training. In line with a strengths-based approach to widening participation, students without direct experience will be offered extra support and will also benefit from regular tutorials with the Programme Leader so that they feel they are fully supported during their educational journey.
Learning & Teaching Methods
This course is primarily designed for face to face learning with you attending your lessons for the specified hours within the validation document. However, there may be periods of study where the government advises TEC Partnership that it is not safe to open campuses or there is limited access due to social distancing measures. If the campus is closed TEC Partnership will deliver your sessions online and offer you the necessary support and resources remotely. If there is limited access due to social distancing measures a blended model will be adopted with some lessons happening in small groups and others happening using online sessions and support. We will make decisions on the delivery hours for each programme as government advice becomes clearer. We are currently reviewing this programme and some elements of the published programmes may need to change in order for students to achieve. We will advise you of these changes once they are completed.
In your first year, you will be taught in a mix of practical workshops and seminars to underpin your academic skills. You will work on short client briefs with well-defined parameters to develop and practice your core skills and allow you to determine your own solutions. In the second year, you will take ownership of your projects and be expected to have a more proactive approach. The client briefs will have problems which are more complex and you will have more freedom to design and produce innovative solutions.
You should expect to be in class at least two days a week, with the remainder of your time spent practising your practical skills to experiment and develop your portfolio and working on your assignments.
Programme Benefits
This programme is part of the Institute of Technology based at Scarborough TEC and you will have access to cutting edge technology, industry-standard software and brand new, contemporary facilities for independent and collaborative study and social spaces dedicated for our HE students.
Our collegiate approach means you will be part of our HE family, with small group sizes, one-to-one tutor support and a culture which encourages time and space for reflection, self-development and collaboration. You will have the opportunity to take additional professional qualifications, enhance your skills, such as leadership, through our Extra programme and be involved in social action and charity projects with students in other HE disciplines across the college.
What next?
After this programme, you have the option to top-up your Foundation Degree to a BSc honours degree; if you choose this, during your second year, we will support you in choosing where you would like to study and with completing your application.
Alternatively, you will be ready to go into employment and there are opportunities locally, regionally and nationally which you could consider. You will have support from you tutors, the HE Team and the Careers Team at Scarborough TEC College who can help you develop your CV, locate opportunities and support you in the process of applying during your studies.