International Year One in Computer Science

What is it? Why choose it? What will I study? How will I be assessed? Why study Computer Science? University progression Degree options Programme Overview Entry requirements Find your nearest Study Centre

What is the International Year One in Computer Science?

The NCUK International Year One in Computer Science is a first-year undergraduate-level programme tailored for international students who want to study Computer Science abroad.

Delivered in English at NCUK Study Centres worldwide, it blends practical technical skills with personalised academic support to prepare you for direct progression into the second year of a Computer Science degree at one of NCUK’s leading university partners.

Why choose the International Year One in Computer Science?

Progress to Year 2 of a Computer Science degree at an NCUK University Partner – upon successful completion of the programme.
Study closer to home at one of our approved NCUK Study Centres worldwide. Benefit from smaller class sizes, local support, and reduced living and tuition costs before moving abroad.
More flexibility, more choice – begin your university journey while keeping your options open. Decide on your preferred university or degree specialism during the year.
Gain practical experience in coding, software development, artificial intelligence, and more – all taught in English and designed to meet international university standards.
Personalised support every step of the way – from academic development to expert guidance on university applications, with progression offers based on your academic performance.

What will I study?

You’ll complete six core Computer Science modules (three per semester), designed to give you a balanced mix of practical coding experience, theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

Introduction to Programming (20 credits)

Build your programming skills using high-level languages and learn how to write, debug, and improve your code.

Computer Architecture & Systems (20 credits)

Understand how computers work at the hardware level and gain insight into low-level programming and simulations.

Foundations of Theoretical Computer Science (20 credits)

Explore the mathematical and logical principles behind algorithms, computation, and software problem-solving.

Introduction to Software Engineering (20 credits)

Learn the full software development lifecycle, including design, testing, version control, and ethical considerations.

Practical Data Structures & Algorithms (20 credits)

Develop and evaluate data structures and algorithms with a strong focus on optimisation and coding efficiency.

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (20 credits)

Discover the fundamentals of AI, including machine learning, data preparation, and ethical implications.

How will I be assessed?

The assessment breakdown is generally 40% coursework and 60% exam.

Each semester will include formative tasks that will prepare you for the later summative assessments. You will also complete homework assignments, engage with past examination questions and other activities. For the summative assessments, you will be evaluated separately in each module.

Why study Computer Science Management?

Studying Computer Science gives you the tools to solve real-world problems, drive innovation, and shape the digital future. It’s one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand career fields globally.

Careers in Computer Science include Software Developer; AI Specialist; Cybersecurity Analyst; Data Scientist; IT Consultant; Technical Writer to name a few.

University Progression

Students who successfully complete the International Year One in Computer Science and meet the entry requirements of their chosen university can progress directly to the second year of a relevant Computer Science degree at an NCUK University Partner.

University of Huddersfield

University of Kent

University of Liverpool

Manchester Metropolitan University*

Robert Gordon University*

University of the West of England – UWE Bristol

Degree options

Click the toggles below to see the list of degree progression options available for NCUK students following completion of the NCUK International Year One in Computer Science:

*University degree courses for these universities will be confirmed shortly.

University of Huddersfield

BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Cyber Security
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Games Programming
BSc (Hons) Computing
BSc (Hons) Information Technology
BSc (Hons) Software Engineering

University of Kent

BSc (Hons) Business Information Technology
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security)
BSc (Hons) Software Engineering

University of Liverpool

BSc (Hons) Computer Science
MEng (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Year in Industry
MEng (Hons) Computer Science with Year in Industry
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Software Development with a year in industry
MEng (Hons) Computer Science with Software Development

University of the West of England - UWE Bristol

BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Business Computing

Programme Overview

The following document will provide you with an overview of what to expect from the International Year One in Computer Science. This includes information on the aims of the programme, modules offered, course structures, assessment methods and more.

Click the button below to view this document:

Programme Overview

Entry requirements

To apply for the International Year One in Computer Science, you must meet the following criteria:

Completion of the NCUK International Foundation Year, or equivalent
English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 (with no component below 5.5)
Grade B at A-level mathematics, or equivalent
Basic digital literacy skills such as familiarity with navigating a file system, using office productivity software and interacting with computer hardware

Start your journey today

NCUK works with a wide range of Study Centres worldwide that deliver this programme. Check back for more details about Study Centres that you could study this programme at coming soon!