Top-up BSc (Honours) Computing and IT Practice

Key features of the course

• Build on the study you’ve already done and finish in only two years.
• Choose modules to meet your needs and interests.
• Gain practical experience of independent learning and reflective practice.
• Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT – see Careers.

Entry requirements

You must have passed one of the following OU qualifications:

• Foundation Degree in Computing and IT Practice (X15)
• Diploma of Higher Education in Computing and IT Practice (W15)

If you have, email the Partnerships Team on [email protected] to register.

Alternatively, you must have a similar qualification from somewhere else, for example:

• a foundation degree in a relevant subject
• a DipHE in a relevant subject
• an HND in a relevant subject plus work experience

Download, complete and return the Top-up BSc (Hons) Computing and IT Practice application form with evidence of your previous study. Applications to start in October 2023 must be received by 10 August 2023. Applications received after this date will not be processed in time for an October 2023 start.

Some of the modules within this qualification also require you to have completed other OU modules (read the Entry requirements on the module descriptions).

Skills for career development

This degree is relevant if you work, or would like to work with computing and IT systems – in hardware-based, software-based or systems-based contexts – and are looking for a qualification that shows you have a sound grasp of the principles of these technologies; you can apply these principles; and you’re aware of the surrounding issues. The individual project you’ll study at the end of this degree course will demonstrate your ability to undertake a substantial piece of work. It will also be a valuable showcase for your abilities and professional skills, and provide a solid preparation for postgraduate study.

On graduation, you’ll be in a position to pursue a career in information technology, computing, communication technology and related fields – although you may need to undertake further training or study in order to enter a new career area.

Career relevance

Computing and IT is a rapidly growing sector of employment, and the UK is recognised as a world leader in producing talented graduates. You could develop your skills and knowledge in the key employment areas in need of skilled candidates. Employers highly regard Open University computing and IT graduates for their ambition, time management and organisational skills.

Computing and IT graduates are in demand by providers (such as software houses) and user organisations alike. The extensive range of organisations employing computing and IT graduates includes retail, financial services, telecommunications, broadcast media, digital media, manufacturing, transport, tourism, the public sector and healthcare.

Growth areas and areas of high demand include cyber security, mobile development, cloud computing and the management of Big Data.

Accreditation

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional. BCS accreditation provides assurance that programmes of study meet high standards set by the profession.

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that a degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC).

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, for the award of Euro-Inf Bachelor Quality Label on behalf of EQANIE (European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education e.V.) as satisfying the outcomes of First Cycle Programmes specified by the Euro-Inf Framework Standards and Accreditation Criteria for Informatics Degree Programmes.

Other careers

Beyond pure technology roles, some graduates also enter management consultancy firms or corporate roles, while others go into technical writing roles or work freelance.

Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.

Exploring your options

Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point (note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree):

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