Practical Vs Theory

Course overview

Advance your knowledge of computer science and the fundamental understanding of computer systems. This course will give you the opportunity to develop an understanding of how computers work and skills in programming, managing networks, cybersecurity, designing and developing applications and websites and games development.

What Does The Programme Include

You will learn new skills through lectures, demonstrations, e‑learning, private study, practical workshops, investigative work, case studies, guest speakers and group work.

Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs at grades 4/C or above, including English, and a grade 6/B in maths, or a relevant Level 2 Diploma at Merit or above.

Need to re-sit? No problem. If you don’t achieve a Grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English, you’ll resit the exams with us and we’ll help you prepare.

Worried about your grades?

Whatever your results, we want to assure you that extenuating circumstances will be considered should you not have the grades indicated above.

We will review each application on a case-by-case basis to ensure you get a place on the course most suitable for you.

One of the ways we do this is through a very effective ‘6 weeks to success programme’ that operates from the first day you start your course. This includes support such as (but not limited to):

Allowing you to change courses if you change your mind in the first 6 weeks
Moving you between course levels if you are finding your current level too easy /too hard
Incorporating English and maths GCSE resits in to your timetable if you don’t meet the grades you need
One-to-one reviews with your academic tutor to ensure you are progressing and achieving well

Our course enquiries and admissions team are available remotely throughout this unprecedented period. They can be contacted at enquiries@stamford.ac.uk should you have any further questions.

How The Course Will Be Assessed

There are four externally set and marked assessments, two are written examinations and two are controlled assessments. The remaining assessments consist of internally set and marked assignments.

Potential Future Career

On successful completion of this course you can progress on to the HND in Computing and Information Systems at University Centre Stamford or other degrees at University. You could also enter employment as a:

Web designer
Network administrator
Help-desk analyst
Software developer
Systems analyst
Teacher

Course Content

You will study a range of units including:

Principles of Computer Science
Fundamentals of Computer Systems
Planning and Management of Computing Projects
Software Design and Development
IT Systems Security and Encryption
Business Applications of Social Media
The Impact of Computing
Human Computer Intervention
Computer Games Development
Website Development
Object-Oriented Programming
Computer Networking
Managing and Supporting Systems

Course Trips

You will have the opportunity to take part in external trips, such as Alton Towers, Bletchley Park Computer Museum and Amazon amongst others. You will meet a range of guest speakers from the industry to give you top tips for advancing your career in IT.