Computer Science with Cyber Security with Foundation Year

University of Salford

United Kingdom, Salford

University RankQS Ranking

945

Apply Now!

Go to Official Website

Home/United Kingdom/Salford /University of Salford/Computer Science with Cyber Security with Foundation Year

University of Salford

United Kingdom , Salford

Key Facts

Program Level

Bachelor

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Course Code

Course ID G4G5

Campuses

Main Site

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesSeptember-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 4 year(s)

Next Intake September-2026

Computer Science with Cyber Security with Foundation Year

About

Introduction

In a nutshell

Cyber criminals are using sophisticated techniques to infiltrate I.T systems and steal valuable data. Help businesses and organisations to fight back by building cyber security knowledge and skills. This foundation year pathway is designed to help you build a strong foundation in computer systems and programming so you are ready to progress to study the full BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Cyber Security degree.

This pathway is designed for students who want to study the full honours degree, but don’t meet the direct entry requirements. On successful completion of the foundation year, you'll progress to the full BSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree course, which is accredited by the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT.

During your studies, you will complete specially-designed projects, as you develop the ability to think conceptually, and cultivate independent technical judgement. We’ll also help you to build a professional approach, by making you aware of laws, regulations and competences needed to work with other IT professionals.

Start your study journey

Register for our next Open Day to learn more about studying computer science with cyber security, explore our facilities and meet the course team

You will:

Build the technical skills and confidence ready to progress to the computer science with cyber security undergraduate degree
Learn forensics so you can diagnose attacks and determine the extent of damage.
Develop an understanding of cryptography to address security concerns
Learn about evidence preservation so you can work within an ethical framework
Learn risk management so you to actively manage threats rather than just solve problems

Placement

options available

Team hacks are a core part of your studies

Study computing in a supportive environment

Student working at a computer

Group work will build your networks and friendships

This is for you if...

You want to study cyber security but don't have the requirements for direct entry onto the full Honours degree

You're interested in how things work rather than just wanting to use them

You've got a keen attention to detail, enjoy problem-solving and like to use your initiative

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Requirements

What you need to know

Applicant profile

We're looking for applicants with a strong interest in computing and software. The Foundation Year is recommended for applicants who:

feel that their background makes them more 'keen users of computers' rather than 'curious about low-level details', but who want to increase their depth of knowledge
feel that their mathematics would benefit from some improvement before embarking on a degree course
have not studied a computing or numerate subject at school/college, but want to pursue a computing career
wish to return to education after a long time in employment

International students

This course isnât suitable for international students. If you are an international student and interested in studying a foundation year, please visit our International Foundation Year course page.

English language requirements

All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, and we also accept a range of equivalent qualifications.

Read more about our English language requirements, including information about pathways that can help you gain entry on to our degree courses.

Standard entry requirements

GCSE

English and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.

UCAS tariff points

64 UCAS points where qualifications include either Mathematics or Computing to A-Level or equivalent standard.

72 UCAS points from any subject combination without Mathematics or Computing.

A-Level

64 UCAS points where qualifications include either mathematics or computing.

72 UCAS points from any subject combination without mathematics or computing.

BTEC National Diploma

MPP from computing or a numerate subject.

MMP from other subjects.

T level

This programme accepts the following T level: Digital Production Design and Development.

Access to HE

Pass from a QAA-approved computer-related subject.

Scottish Highers

64 UCAS points where qualifications include either mathematics or computing.

72 UCAS points from any subject combination without mathematics or computing.

Irish Leaving Certificate

64 UCAS points where qualifications include either mathematics or computing.

72 UCAS points from any subject combination without mathematics or computing.

European Baccalaureate

Please contact Admissions for further information: [email protected]

International Baccalaureate

Please contact Admissions for further information: [email protected]

Alternative entry requirements

Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.

There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test. To be considered for the scheme, you must have already achieved or be working towards GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4 (or equivalent).

Learn more about the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme.

English Program Requirements

Equivalent qualifications

English language requirements are shown on individual course pages. Generally, this is shown as an IELTS grade, however we accept a range of equivalent qualifications.

As a general guide:

For undergraduate courses we require IELTS 6.0 (with a minimum 5.5 in each component) or equivalent

For postgraduate courses, we require IELTS 6.0 (with a minimum 5.5 in each component) or equivalent

For the International Foundation Year, we require IELTS 4.5 (with a minimum 4.0 in each component) in UKVI IELTS for UKVI (Academic)

The approved equivalent qualifications list includes the following:

Secure English Language Tests (SELTs)

University of Salford English language courses

Regional-based qualifications

Majority English Speaking Countries as deemed by UKVI

Medium of English Institutions

Applicants who require a Student Route visa to study in the UK may require evidence of a Secure English Language test rather than an examination or qualification due to visa requirements, as deemed by the UK Government Home Office, Visa and Immigration (UKVI).

Career

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

Employment

Once you complete the full honours degree, you'll graduate with exciting and rewarding careers opportunities ahead of you. With demonstrable programming skills, supported by a large portfolio of practical work, you'll have an excellent set of computer science skills and a specialism in cyber security.

Designed to fill an emerging global skills gap, our fast-growing course will take your interest in computer science, and enhance it with a specialist cyber focus. There is currently a shortage of cyber security specialists, with a rise in demand for security analysts, penetration testers, security auditors and information security managers.

Our computer science alumni have found employment with leading national companies across a range of industries, including Sainsburys, Cisco, Microsoft, SIS, Autotrader, HMRC, Ferranti and Civica, plus local firms emerging in the fast-growing North West tech community.

Further study

You might find you want to learn more about computing. Building on our expertise, we offer postgraduate courses that can take your interests and career opportunities further. Salford graduates and alumni receive a significant fees discount.