Computer Science FdSc

For HM Forces

Study options Award

Duration

3 Years

Location

Stoke-on-Trent campus

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Our Computer Science FdSc course is designed specifically for MOD personnel.

Our course is developed to complement your work as a technician and offers a top up route from FD to BSc (Hons) in ICT or Intelligence and Cyber Security after completion.

What’s more, the course is designed to enhance post service employability, with negotiated modules that provide bespoke learning opportunities, work-based around your role and flexible study using our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

The Foundation is designed to complement your work within the MOD by extending your knowledge and skills with technical modules and enhance your general abilities to contribute to your organisation. It also allows you to develop professional level competence in Computer Networks and IT Systems.

To make an initial enquiry about this programme please contact the HM Forces team.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: FdSc Computer Science

Course content

Staffordshire University has recognised the highly skilled training which all members of the MOD within the IT area complete as part of basic training. Additionally, other elements of training completed can also provide some accreditation and help towards gaining a Foundation Degree. Personnel from the MOD including Civil Servants and reservists may also be eligible for entry onto the courses and should contact the HM Forces Team for further information and advice.

Successful completion of the FdSc gives automatic entry to the BSc (Hons) in ICT or Intelligence and Cyber Security Top Up degree programmes with the option for further progression to a MSc in Cyber Security in due course.

Fees

The maximum total course fee is £3750 and the course is listed on the ELCAS website.

Entry requirements

You will need to provide evidence of training within one of the IT trades and more information can be provided by the HM Forces Team or on the Course Briefing Day.

Compulsory Course Briefing Day Attendance

Prior to submitting your online application, you are required to participate in a compulsory Course Briefing Day (CBD). The purpose of the day is to provide an in-depth overview of how the course is structured, the commitment required to study and how to claim

accreditation for previous qualifications or experience gained throughout your career. You will also be given guidance on completing the application process.

We offer two types of CBD:

Attendance – An opportunity for students to physically attend a CBD event at the university. 

Online – An opportunity for students to participate in an online CBD which is delivered in real time but via the internet, thus negating the requirement to travel to the university.

If you would like to participate in a CBD, please contact the HM Forces team.

How to apply

The application process will be explained during the CBD following which you will be sent the application links and documentation required to submit your online application.  Please do not submit an application until you have participated in a CBD.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

As a distance learning student, you'll be an active learner interacting with content, your fellow students and your module tutors. Support is available when you need it. You can contact your module tutor, your personal tutor, Information Service staff and subject specialist librarian by phone, email or in person.

Our teaching is supported through our Virtual Learning Environment called Blackboard. This means you can access a range of materials to support your studies wherever you are via your PC, tablet or phone. This includes accessing video, audio and discussion forums where you can debate subjects with your tutors and fellow students.

Assessment

All modules are individually assessed via one or more methods dependent upon the requirement of that module. The method of assessment is chosen to ensure that we can verify that you have met the learning outcomes of the module. These methods may include individual coursework assignments, written reports, discussion contributions and practical exercises.

Typically, assignment submission and feedback will be via Blackboard Learning Portal. All learning will be completed online as this is a fully distance learning course. Module results will also be made available electronically.

Learning support

A personal tutor will be appointed who is a subject matter expert. Support for any modules will be conducted via email, VLE or telephone.

Additional support

Our AccessAbility Services support students with additional needs such as sensory impairment or learning difficulties such as dyslexia.

Feedback

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally (through formative feedback) before you complete the formal assessments. Each module normally includes practice or 'formative' assessments for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark but are essential for you to develop academically as a student. There is a formal or 'summative' assessment at the end of each module and the grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark. You will normally receive feedback on coursework assessments within 20 working days following the date of submission. The feedback you receive will help to focus you to achieve better grades on the next set of modules you study.

Fees

The total course fee is £3525 and the course is listed on the ELCAS website.

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Rules and regulations

If you are offered a place at University of Staffordshire, your offer will be subject to our rules, regulations and enrolment conditions, which may vary from time to time.

Students of University of Staffordshire enter into a contract with us and are bound by these rules and regulations, which are subject to change. For more information, please see: University Policies and Regulations.