Foundation Year in Computing and Engineering
Get ready for a full-time computing or engineering degree with our foundation year. Learn from our experienced team and develop your skills in local placements
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Viewing course details for 2025 year of entry
- Attendance
- Full-time
- Start
- September 2025
- Fees
- £9,250 (UK) | £16,600 (INT)
- Duration
- 1 year full-time
- Course Leader
- Dr Serengul Smith and Dr Quoc-Tuan Vien
- Study mode
- On campus
- Location
- Hendon campus
- Entry Requirements
- 56-64 UCAS points
- Placement year
- No
- School / Department
- Computer science, engineering and maths
The Foundation Year in Computing and Engineering is offered as an entry route to a computing or design engineering degree for students who don't yet meet the entry requirements for degree-level study. You enrol on a four-year course, which includes the one-year foundation course.
Why choose a Foundation Year in Computing and Engineering at Middlesex?
This one-year course is a stepping-stone onto one of our three-year courses in computing or engineering.
A foundation year might be a good choice for you if you don't have the right qualifications yet or feel ready for degree-level study. Or perhaps you are returning to study and want to get up to speed before starting a degree.
You will need to enrol on a four-year course, which includes the one-year foundation course. When you complete this year successfully you will progress directly onto one of our three-year degree courses.
We offer:
- BSc Business Computing and Data Analytics
- BSc Computer Science
- BEng Computer Systems Engineering
- BSc Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
- BEng Design Engineering
- BEng Electronic Engineering
- BSc Information Technology
- BEng Mechatronics and Robotics
What will you gain?
You will discover which aspects of computing and engineering most resonate with your interests and career ambitions. You can use that knowledge to choose the best three-year degree option for yourself for further study at Middlesex.
With a local placement, you will apply the skills you have learned in a real-world situation, developing your confidence and valuable skills for your CV. You'll have access to high-quality specialist digital and wireless laboratories, equipped with industry-standard software, hardware and tools.
3 great reasons to pick this course
About your course
You will study all four modules simultaneously over the year which means you have the chance to examine topics in-depth.
This module provides an introduction to essential principles and competencies essential for pursuing computing and engineering at a university level. Beyond theoretical knowledge, the module enhances hands-on learning through interactive workshop sessions, aiming to cultivate practical skills in web development, computer systems and Python programming. By establishing a strong foundation, the module prepares students for a comprehensive education in the fields of computing and engineering.
This module provides students with fundamental written and oral communication skills as well as demonstrate empathy and inclusivity when engaging with others. Students will develop analytical skills through a problem-solving approach; build their confidence working individually and as a member of a team, and gain appreciation of research techniques by using libraries and a range of e-learning resources, which will contribute to the development of their curiosity and learning. Students will actively take part in the research and writing processes throughout the seminars and receive tutor and peer feedback.
This module introduces fundamental mathematical and statistical topics and concepts that are required in a range of subjects studied at the degree level. Students will begin to develop an appreciation of the importance of mathematics as an aid to understand and describe abstract ideas and apply these ideas to solving real-world problems.
The module covers introductory areas of mathematics including numbers, algebra, data collection and statistics in a structured and supportive environment. Software will be used to demonstrate and elucidate material and to motivate its use in real world situations, and also to develop practical skills in the use of technology.
This module aims to solidify students' comprehension of network theory, security, business information systems, data analytics and computer science through engagement in various electronic and computational projects.
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Teaching
You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience. You will learn by attending lectures, seminars and practical workshops. You will gain knowledge, understanding and skills through interactive lectures, supervised laboratories and workshops, online activities and tests, guided research, individual and group projects and reflection. Seminars and workshops are a great opportunity to discuss what you have learnt in lectures and through independent study with your peers and tutors. For one-to-one support, you will meet with either your personal tutor or module leader. Your learning will be assessed regularly and is made up of 100% coursework.
Whether you are studying full or part-time – your course timetable will balance your study commitments on campus with time for work, life commitments and independent study.
We aim to make timetables available to students at least 2 weeks before the start of term. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on-campus sessions.
Our excellent teaching and support teams will help you develop the skills relevant to your degree from research and practical skills to critical thinking. And we offer free 24-hour laptop loans with full desktop software, free printing and Wi-Fi to use on or off campus, even over the weekend.
We'll test your understanding and progress with informal and formal tests.
The informal tests usually take place at least once per module, from which you’ll receive feedback from your tutor. The grades from these tests don’t count towards your final marks.
There are formal assessments for each module, usually at the end, which will count towards your module and your final marks.
Assessments are reviewed annually and may be updated based on student feedback or feedback from an external examiner.
To help you achieve the best results, we will provide regular feedback.
Work is divided into credits of approximately 10 hours of study time. You will need to complete 120 credits per year, which are broken down into modules of typically 30 credits.
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North London campus
Our north London campus is 23 minutes away by underground train, travelling from London Kings Cross.
Learn moreFacilities and support
Our Sheppard Library provides a wide range of resources and support to help you to succeed in your studies.
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Over 1,000 study spaces including rooms for group study and over 500 computers available.
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We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place.
Our facilitiesStudent support
We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.
Additional needs
We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team.
Wellness
Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.
Work while you study
Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.
Financial support
You can apply for scholarships and bursaries and our MDX Student Starter Kit to help with up to £1,000 of goods, including a new laptop or iPad.
We have also reduced the costs of studying with free laptop loans, free learning resources and discounts to save money on everyday things. Check out our guide to student life on a budget.
Careers
How can the Foundation Year in Computing or Design Engineering support your career?
A computing degree prepares you for a wide range of varied careers. As a graduate you will have excellent career prospects and the range of potential employers will be vast across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. There is also the potential to work as a self-employed director of your own business.
Graduate job roles
Our careers service offers you a range of support both while you're studying with us – and after you've graduated. Below are just a few career opportunities that would be open to you as a graduate:
IT project manager
An IT project manager specialises in information technology but also in sectors unrelated to IT that rely on IT systems. Their role is to manage the development and implementation of plans to meet business needs and the change control procedures to ensure a smooth transition during the implementation period.
Network engineer
A network engineer is responsible for installing, maintaining and supporting computer communication networks within an organisation or between organisations. Their goal is to ensure the smooth operation of communication networks in order to provide maximum performance and availability for their users (staff, clients, customers, suppliers, etc).
Systems designer
A systems designer develops and implements information systems in sectors as diverse as finance, communications and retail. The role can involve working on all elements of the system including hardware, software, installation and maintenance. There is a range of opportunities in this increasingly varied industry.
Forensic computer analyst/scientist
A forensic computer analyst investigates computer-based crime, such as hacking, online scams and fraud, terrorist communications or theft of sensitive company information. They gather evidence and use it to build a case against suspected individuals or criminal networks. Forensic Computer analysts often work with the police or are police officers with specialist training.
MDXworks
Our employability service, MDXworks will launch you into the world of work from the beginning of your course, with placements, projects and networking opportunities through our 1000+ links with industry and big-name employers in London and globally.
Our dedicated lifetime career support, like our business start-up support programme and funding for entrepreneurs, has been recognised with the following awards:
- The top 20 UK universities for business leaders and entrepreneurs – Business Money, 2023
- A top 10 university for producing CEOs – Novuana, 2023
Global network
You’ll study with students from 122 countries who’ll hopefully become part of your global network. And after you graduate, we'll still support you through our alumni network to help you progress in your chosen career.
Entry Requirements
At Middlesex, we're proud of how we recognise the potential of future students like you. We make fair and aspirational offers because we want you to aim high, and we’ll support you all the way. We’ll always be as flexible as possible and take into consideration any barriers you may have faced in your learning. If you don’t quite get the grades you hoped for, we’ll also look at more than your qualifications. Things like your work experience, other achievements and your personal statement.
Qualifications
- 56-64 UCAS points
- empty col
- A-Level
- DEE/CD - DDE/CC
- BTEC
- MPP
- Access requirements
- UCAS Tariff points from Access to HE Diplomas are accepted. Must include 45 credits at level 3
- Combinations
- A combination of A-Level, BTEC and other accepted qualifications that total 56-64 UCAS Tariff points including 16 points from a science or numerate subject
Our general entry requirements page outlines how we make offers where we have given a range (e.g. BBB – BBC in A levels), and how we’ll make you an offer if you are studying a combination of qualifications (e.g. BTEC and A level). In both cases, we’ll base this on the information you provide on your application.
We'll accept T Levels for entry onto our undergraduate degree courses (including our extended courses with a foundation year) with standard application of science requirements and GCSEs in line with UCAS tariff calculation.
Mature students (over 21)
We welcome applications from mature candidates, including those without formal qualifications, provided you can demonstrate relevant experience and ability.
Academic credit
If you have a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex University course in year two or three. Find out how you can transfer courses.
If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, we may be able to count this towards your entry requirements. Find out more about prior learning accreditation.
Interviews
We don’t require interviews for this course.
We welcome students from the UK and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:
- Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
- Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
- Work placements and networking with top London employers
- Award-winning career support to get you where you want to go after university.
Qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the accepted qualifications on your country's support page. If you are unsure of the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest international office.
English language
You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.
Visas
To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa. Please check to see if this applies to you.
You must apply to one of the four-year degree courses listed here. Please apply for these courses through UCAS (opens in a new tab).
- BSc Computer Science with Foundation Year - I10Z
- BSc Business Computing & Data Analytics with Foundation Year - I20Z
- BSc Information Technology with Foundation Year - I2ZZ
- BSc Cyber Security and Digital Forensics with Foundation Year - I123
Computer Communication and Engineering courses
- BSc Computer Networks with Foundation Year - I1ZZ
- BEng Computer Systems Engineering with Foundation Year - I1ZA
Design Engineering courses
- BEng Design Engineering with Foundation Year - H7ZB
- BEng Electronic Engineering with Foundation Year - H7Z1
- BEng Mechatronics and Robotics with Foundation Year - H712
Fees and funding
The fees below refer to the 2025/26 academic year unless otherwise stated.
UK students1
Full-time: £9,250
Part-time: £77 per taught credit
International students2
Full-time students: £16,600
Part-time students: £138 per taught credit
Additional costs included
The following course-related costs are included in the fees:
- Free access to the resources, learning materials and software you need to succeed on your course
- Free laptop loans for up to 24 hours
- Free printing for academic paperwork
- Free online training with LinkedIn Learning
Fees disclaimers
1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase undergraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.
Student testimonials
"I thought it was a good idea to step back and study computing from the basics. I intend to go for a degree in computer networks next. I really appreciate the resources we have at the University, such as all kinds of top-end software"
Adhiraj Sajay Khajuria
"Even though I felt confident with ICT before I started studying here, this course certainly developed my greater love for computers. One day, I would like to start my own IT business and maybe I will expand it into something like Branson's Virgin!"
Thuli Mabelane
Speak directly with one of our Unibuddy student ambassadors
We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.
Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.
Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.
At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.