Program Overview

University Foundation in Computer Science Stage1 at Hertfordshire International College (HIC) is designed to prepare you for entry to university-level program. During Stage 1 you will complete a range of modules relevant to your chosen degree, as well as modules concentrating on the skills that are vital for University level education such as Critical Thinking.

A Foundation pathway is available for students who:

• Don’t meet the entry requirements to enter university level study directly (but hold GCSE level qualifications)
• Feel that additional support at the start of university studies will help them stand a better chance of success
• Have been away from studies for a period of time
• Come from a different academic environment to that of the UK
• Require additional English language training

If you fall into any of the above categories, choosing an undergraduate pathway at Hertfordshire International College (HIC) is the right decision. Depending on your academic needs here at Hertfordshire International College (HIC)

Stage 1 will be the first stage in the 4 stage process. Meaning that on successful completion of stage 1 you will seamlessly progress to stage 2, which is the first year of a bachelor’s degree. There is no need to reapply, you will simply just progress between each stage until you reach the final stage and graduate with a degree from Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

Why choose this course?
Data is one of the most important currencies at this current time and it underpins our modern world, from the flow of data across international banking networks, to the spread of memes across social networks, to the complex models of weather forecasting. The constant generation of data from our digital society feeds into our everyday lives, affecting how we receive healthcare to influencing our shopping habits. Demand for competent Data Scientists is growing across an extraordinarily diverse range of sectors, from finance to health to retail. However, there is a skills gap that urgently needs addressing, and this requires dedicated, specialised professionals who will fill Data Science and related roles, now and in the future.

What's the course about?
The programme is distinctive in its combination of fundamental mathematical/statistical skills, an emphasis on holistic industry-relevant skills and inclusion of cutting-edge topics in Data Science (drawing on the University of Hertfordshire’s world-leading research, such as neuromorphic computing and the detection of exoplanets). This programme caters to students who are looking to gain important specialised skills before entering the workplace but also have a solid foundation in the underlying theoretical principles. There is a very strong emphasis on hands-on learning, with students engaging with learning material through practical laboratories (Data Science Laboratory 1 & 2). This is designed not just to help embed classroom-based learning, but also to instil confidence and independence in students’ technical capabilities, which will mature to a professional standard and encompass an increasing range of skills as the course develops. We also aim to ensure students develop independence in their analytical and critical thinking, bringing their own initiative and creativity to solve problems.

BSc Data Science students will also be offered the opportunity to attend the wide range of research-focused seminars and colloquia running during the teaching term. For example, the Centre for Astrophysics Research weekly astrophysics seminar, the Computer Science colloquium, or the Maths-Physics seminar. Current MSc and PhD students attend, and benefit, from these seminars, and – although not mandatory – BSc students will be encouraged to attend talks of interest and be made welcome. This is aimed to promote an atmosphere of excitement and intellectual curiosity, adding to the richness of the programme, as well as a feeling of inclusion for the student body.