Information Technology Management BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Study level: Undergraduate
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The BSc Information Technology Management course is designed to prepare students to deliver effective and competitive information technology management solutions within a diverse organisational global context.

Course option

Year of entry

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry) and
Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

UCAS codes

GNDF

Start date

September 2024
November 2024

How to apply
Book an Open Day
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Course overview

Our degree with foundation year could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your goals. The foundation year aims to prepare you for degree-level study and is a great way to build the confidence, skills and knowledge needed to succeed on your degree course.

Foundation year

This course covers a range of digital technology content including fundamental software engineering and data storage concepts, the theory behind how networks operate, devices communicate and how such networks should be designed. It also covers information technology in business and the fundamental mathematical knowledge and skills required to solve relevant problems.

Degree

Rapid technological change and the challenges of global competition have raised the demand for highly skilled professionals who can align corporate objectives with modern business systems and an effective IT infrastructure.

The course explores areas such as Programming, Data Science, Web Development, Business Intelligence, IT Infrastructure Library (ITL) and Service Management, and Project Management within a management context.

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Why you should study this course

Foundation year

  • Supports you to gain the academic skills required for degree-level study
  • Provides a grounding in key areas of digital technologies.

Degree

  • Activity-Led Learning helps you consolidate what you are taught through practical application of everything you are covering in lectures.
  • Emphasis on developing technical skills supported via dedicated use of a Programming Support Centre4.
  • Preparation for the increasingly interconnected and digital workplace through embedment of blended, collaborative and international learning opportunities2.
  • Opportunity for national or international field trips2.

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses:

  • Computer Science MSc/BSci (Hons)
  • Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence MSc/BSci (Hons)
  • Interactive Media and Web Technologies BSc (Hons)
  • Software Engineering BSc (Hons) 

In your first year, you’ll be taught the fundamental skills and concepts needed to begin your journey as a computer scientist or information technology manager. You’ll explore the mathematical and technical foundations of computing, and you’ll apply those principles in regular laboratory sessions which help solidify your understanding. You’ll also begin developing the professional skills you’ll need in your day-to-day career on graduation: working as part of a team, the ethical and legal issues around data systems, and software unit testing. 

Modules

  • Whatever software we’re developing, we need to understand the fundamentals of programming to build it – that’s as true for an interactive website as it is for a smart-phone app. In this module, you’ll be introduced to these fundamentals through an accessible and industry-favoured programming language. You’ll explore algorithms – what they are, why they’re important, and how to use them – and you’ll combine this with your programming skills to write your own programs. 

    Compulsory

  • To apply, extend or enhance information systems, any developer needs a fundamental understanding of the machine, with all of its complex, moving parts. This module introduces you to these concepts, taking them from the concept of computation to the twitching transistors which drive its implementation. 

    CPU architectures, memory hierarchies, efficiency, networking and security are all explored. Additionally, the concept of the Operating System is introduced which, combined with the other topics studied, empowers you to begin your journey as a developer. 

    Compulsory

  • Databases are fundamental to modern, digital life – whatever we’re doing, we’re either generating, using, sharing or erasing data. The technologies, ethics and laws behind these processes are a fascinating and fundamental element of software development in the 21st century. In this module, you’ll explore all of these concepts, mastering the elements of data handling, storage, and management which you’ll have to apply in later study. 

    Compulsory

  • Fundamental to all programming is the notion of mathematics. Whenever we write software, we are writing algorithms and algebra – and in order to write them correctly, we need a firm grip of the maths which underpins them. In this module, you’ll gain that understanding, exploring subjects like set theory, algorithms and complexity, and logical arithmetic. Don’t be intimidated, though! Everything is explained from first principles, and you’re supported throughout your mathematical studies by Coventry University’s maths support service. 

    Compulsory

  • This module builds upon and develops the fundamental computer programming skills you developed in Concepts and Algorithms. You will be introduced to new ideas such as object-orientation, and designing reusable code, and you’ll explore them using another industry-favoured programming language. You’ll be taught to structure your code in a way which makes it easy to follow, maintain, and extend, equipping you for the next stage of your software development studies. 

    Compulsory

  • The Integrative Project module adopts an activity-led approach to learning, where you’ll work in a team to plan and execute a project related to your course. The project provides you a vital opportunity to consolidate and apply what you’ve learned during your first year of study, as well as develop new technical and team-working skills. You’ll be given a high degree of autonomy during the project, assuming responsibility for all aspects of its conduct. Everything from organising group meetings and distributing tasks and work packets, to reflecting on your progress.

    Compulsory

In your second year, you’ll build on the skills developed in year one and explore topics such as data science for business, operational research and simulation, ITIL and further explore how these can be applied within an organisational context. 

Modules

  • This module introduces the main data science concepts: big data, data analytics, statistical models, data science tools, libraries, data visualisation, appropriate tools (including at least one of R / Python / Matlab), obtain-scrub-explore-model-interpret pipeline and its use in a business context. 

    Compulsory

  • The module introduces basic concepts in networks and networked application implementation, including security. It covers a range of key contemporary web technologies. It should enable you to deliver interactive, dynamic websites (back end and front end development, socket programming, uses of data). This module will provide a strong grounding in web implementation. 

    Compulsory

  • This module is designed to provide you with a good understanding of operational research techniques that are useful for solving a variety of decision-making problems. The techniques aim to improve the efficiency of processes and management of complex systems. You will also learn the theory of computer simulation and process modelling, how it is used, tools and techniques for logic modelling. 

    Compulsory

  • Digital Marketing is a standard business tool. This module critically evaluates digital marketing concepts and principles. You will review current technologies used and explore different digital marketing channels.  

    Compulsory

  • This module provides the basic concepts of what business is and what it entails and the relationship to technology. It will consider the supply chain, and internal and external environmental factors that affect and influence the course and nature of businesses. 

    Compulsory

  • The module takes a strategic look at IT Service management and examines the management and governance of enterprise networks. You will look at how enterprise networks consisting of different, interconnecting technologies, should be managed and improved efficiently to facilitate business requirements. 

    Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3 of £1250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time, you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement. 

Modules

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

The final stage builds on the advanced topics which were introduced in stage two, while allowing you to decide for yourself which areas you wish to specialise in as you finish your degree. In addition, this year includes your major project, where you bring everything you have learned to bear upon a specific challenge related to information technology management, and devise your own solution. 

Modules

  • In this phase of the final year project, you will start formulating research questions, select your project and start with the planning states and initial literature review of your project.  

    Compulsory

  • This module will provide you with a good understanding of key principles, concepts and theories in the field of Project Management. You will learn about key project management methodologies, practices and techniques and gain a good understanding of how they might be applied in real Information Technology and Business contexts. 

    Compulsory

  • The module provides a technology blueprint that supports an organization's overall business strategy within society. It explores management of Information technology systems and infrastructure and their impact on businesses, organisations and society. 

    Compulsory

  • Building on form the first project phase, you will start on the development and implementation of your chosen project. This will include critical evaluation, legal, ethical, social, and professional (LESPI) considerations. 

    Compulsory

  • Choose two out of four:

    Business Intelligence - 20 credits
    This module aims to provide you with an insight into the practice of big data analytics. Modern techniques will be taught which should enable you to discover patterns, relationships, and associations in big data sets and build a dashboard.  

    Security and Compliance in the Cloud - 20 credits
    The trend is for businesses to move their systems to the ‘cloud’, which raises a number of crucial issues regarding business continuity and risk management. This module practically examines and investigates this process and shows how cloud systems are designed, configured, secured and updated to effectively support modern business practices. The module assumes limited prior knowledge of both networks or operating systems. 

    Mobile Application Development - 20 credits
    This module will enable you to use development kits to build applications for mobile platforms. The practical issues of programming for such devices will be taught alongside software design for portable devices, investigation of the interface components and user interaction possibilities of smartphones. The module will also cover how mobile devices can be integrated with the data business need in order to operate.

    UX Design - 20 credits
    UX has two meanings: (1) it is about how people feel when interacting with technology, based on how it behaves / responds; and (2) it refers to interface design. This module focuses on advanced aspects of UI design (particularly implementation) to enhance the user experience. The module will allow you to focus on the creation of graphical user interfaces, from simple prototyping through to coded product. At the same time, the prototypes and GUIs will be user tested using a range of taught techniques including usability testing, observation and speak-aloud, heuristic analysis, and experimental design. 

    Optional

The foundation year offers an introduction to your chosen subject and supports you to develop the skills required for degree-level study.

Modules

  • This module aims to provide you with the fundamental mathematical knowledge and skills required to solve relevant problems while developing analytical and problem-solving skills. You should also be equipped to turn real-world problems into mathematical problems and present mathematical and logical arguments. Concepts covered include basic algebraic properties, trigonometry, computation of areas and volumes of basic shapes, an introduction to Calculus including computation of limits derivatives and integrals. Upon successful completion of the module, you will have an awareness of many of the mathematical techniques required to tackle everyday problems in related disciplines.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide you with an understanding of fundamental software engineering and data storage concepts. Upon successful completion of the module you will leave with experience of working with interconnected software systems and sufficient knowledge of databases and a programming language. During the module assessment you will be required to create an application to meet a specified brief, as a result you will develop skills in requirements elicitation, documentation, and software and database design. You will also be assessed on your ability to read and understand code and recall programming principles from their body of knowledge.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide you with an understanding of the theory behind how networks operate and devices communicate across a range of media and how such networks should be designed. Upon successful completion, you should have developed a greater understanding and appreciation of the complexities of one of the most ubiquitous systems in the modern connected world. Teaching and learning is structured around industry-standard qualifications such as CompTIA Network+ and entry-level networking certification such as those offered by Cisco Systems Inc.

    Compulsory

  • This module seeks to provide you with an introduction to business needs and how these are supported by information technologies. You will explore how businesses can embark on transformation projects to leverage supporting technologies and services to provide better value to customers and a greater return on investment. In doing so you will perform objective analysis using recognised techniques to support a proposed transformation project while respecting relevant legislation and regulation, presenting research and conclusions in a variety of academic manners.

    Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated. 

How you'll learn

The foundation year programme is focused on applied learning geared to high-intensity teaching and study throughout the programme, requiring full commitment from students. The delivery of course content is a blend of lectures, tutorials and online learning.

There are no end of year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework and phase tests, which is more reflective of our learning model. The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

Teaching contact hours

You can expect up 20 hours of learning activities per week, made up of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, online classes and independent learning.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 30 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary and may include practical class and project performance, written practical reports, project thesis, oral presentations, tutorial tasks and assessments which generally take place at the end of each six-week block.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Learning will be facilitated through a variety of methods which may include lectures, seminars, lab, workshops, online activities and group work. Students are expected to engage in both class and online activities and discussions.

If you choose to start this course in January it will be run as a condensed programme. You’ll start your course in January and finish your first year in August. Upon successful completion of Year 1, you will progress onto Year 2 in September and then continue to start subsequent years of your course in September, completing your degree at the same time as the September starters unless you opt to do a placement year.

Teaching contact hours

We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:

  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
  • Group work
  • Self-directed learning
  • Work placement opportunities2.

If you would like more information, you can request information about teaching hours.

Part of university life is undertaking self-directed learning. During a typical week you will have time that allows you to work independently to apply the skills and knowledge you have learnt in taught or facilitated sessions to your projects or assignment briefs. This self-directed learning allows you to use your research skills, consolidate your knowledge or undertake collaborative group work.

This course can be offered on a part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Therefore, the part-time teaching arrangements vary. Request further information about part-time study.

The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 15 contact hours per week in the first and second years, dropping to around 12 contact hours per week in the final year as you become a more independent learner. In addition, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods include:

  • Formal examinations
  • Phase tests
  • Essays
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Coursework
  • Exams
  • Individual assignments
  • Laboratories
  • Posters

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2024/25 entry.

72 UCAS tariff points. All foundation courses require 5 GCSEs at A-C/4-9 including Maths and English, and at least one A2 level or a BTEC equivalent qualification.

If you don’t fulfil the entry criteria your application may be considered on an individual basis, taking into account any work experience, other qualifications and/or any training you have completed. Speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Got higher grades? Have you considered direct entry to the degree without foundation year?

Fees and funding

2024/25 tuition fees.

Foundation year

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man £7,950 Not available
International/EU Not currently available*** Not available

Degree

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man £9,250 per year Not available
International/EU Not currently available*** Not available

Please note: UK (home) tuition fees for the degree course years will be charged at the current Coventry University UK (home) degree fee level. This was set at £9,250 for the 23/24 academic year.

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Our foundation years are taught at CU Coventry’s Mile Lane building, a short walk from the city centre. You’re part of the university from day one, so during your foundation year you’ll have access to the wider facilities at Coventry University. Once you successfully complete your foundation year, you'll transfer over to studying your chosen degree at Coventry University, where you'll be taught on campus in the relevant academic buildings.

Located on our Mile Lane campus, you will have access to our Library and Learning Services (LLS), fully equipped seminar rooms and IT suites4. You can also take advantage of reading rights in Coventry University’s Lanchester Library, make use of sport centre facilities and receive full membership to Your Students' Union.

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Mile Lane

The campus is home to an on-site library with bookable one-to-one academic writing service and library support sessions, fully equipped seminar rooms, open-access study areas, a café and an IT suite. Our labs contain industry-standard equipment so that you learn using the same equipment as many industry professionals.

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The Hub

At The Hub you'll find the Health and Wellbeing Centre, the Students’ Union and Square One (which provides entertainment from quiz nights to live music), the Spirituality and Faith Centre, Tank Studio, Careers Office and a fantastic food court.

External view of the Lanchester Library.

Lanchester Library

You will have full reading rights in Coventry University’s Lanchester Library. The library is open 24/7, 364 days a year and has many study spaces, including group and silent areas. It also currently offers touchdown computers and free-to-loan laptops.

You will be based in the Engineering and Computing Building, and the attached Beatrice Shilling Building. Both buildings are high-specification learning environments which benefit from extensive social learning facilities, well-appointed laboratories, lecturing facilities and classrooms, facilitating our innovative teaching methods across a diverse suite of undergraduate and postgraduate courses4.

Careers and opportunities

The effective use of information technology is crucial to every modern business. On this course, you should not only look to develop the technical skills and knowledge required to create IT applications, but you should also seek to gain a solid understanding of the business environment in which they operate.

Successful completion of this course is designed to help prepare you for careers in the design, delivery and management of IT systems within a business, although the skills learnt could be applicable in careers such as web development, data analysis, content management, business analysis and project management. 

Throughout your studies, we focus on developing your technical capabilities and ability to deliver solutions. This, together with analytical, numerical and problem solving skills, has led previous students to secure employment at IBM and Cap Gemini. Organisations such as National Grid and Severn Trent Water also employ information technology business specialists. 

How to apply

  • Study location

    The Foundation Year study route will be delivered by CU, part of the Coventry University Group, for and on behalf of Coventry University.

    If you choose to study at CU Coventry for your Foundation Year, then your learning will be based at CU Coventry. Mile Lane, Coventry. Subject to meeting requirements you will then transition to the relevant Coventry University subject faculty building for your progression degree.

    Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2024/2025 contract is available on the website. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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