IFP in Computing

International Foundation Programme in Computing

Perfect for students who want to progress to a degree such as Computer Science after their Foundation Programme.

All students study a variety of English language modules which help prepare you for academic study in the UK. Our main focus is to teach you a range of skills so you can research and construct academic assignments in English. In addition, you will make and deliver presentations to other students, and practice note-taking skills to prepare you for university lectures.

The International Foundation Programme for Computing consists of units totalling 120 credits. All candidates take four core units which are equal to 80 credits. The core units are:

Additionally, you will also take three elective courses worth a total of 40 credits:

These modules to give you specific subject knowledge which will prepare you for your university undergraduate courses.

Candidates must pass all core and elective modules to be awarded a certificate.

Below is a summary of the content of the three elective units of the International Foundation Programme for Computing.

Introduction to Computer Science

• Understand fundamental concepts relating to computer systems.
• Understand the characteristics of secondary storage.
• Understand application and system software.
• Understand how computers store data.
• Understand the fundamental concepts of computer networks and threats to network security.

This course is assessed by examination.

Digital World

• Discuss the development of the Digital Computer and its characteristics.
• Explain the key characteristics of a range of major digital technology innovations.
• Appraise the impact on society of a range of major digital technology innovations.
• Explain security threats posed by major digital technology innovations and possible control measures.
• Understand cultural, ethical, environmental and legal issues relating to computing.

This course is assessed with one examination (30% of total grade) and an assignment (70% of total grade). An assignment requires candidates to produce a written response to a set of one or more tasks, meeting a deadline imposed by STAR Exeter.

Introduction to Programming with Python

• Describe and apply a systematic approach to the design of programs
• Write small procedural programs to perform well-defined tasks, following well-defined requirements.
• Test and document program code following the principles of software engineering.
• Describe and apply the benefits of modular software design.

This course is assessed with one examination (30% of total grade) and an assignment (70% of total grade). An assignment requires candidates to produce a written response to a set of one or more tasks, meeting a deadline imposed by STAR Exeter.