Cloud Computing BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Undergraduate
HNC/HND courses

Cloud Computing is a model for enabling flexible on-demand access to a pool of scalable computing resources that users and businesses can provision rapidly and easily to meet needs.

Course option

Degree with foundation year

Year of entry

2024-25 2025-26 2026-27

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

UCAS codes

162I

Start date

September 2025
November 2025
January 2026
March 2026
May 2026
June 2026

How to apply

Book an Open Event

Download a prospectus

Course overview

Foundation year

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. The degree with foundation year is only available for the BSc option.

This foundation course is perfect if you are shifting academic focus, wishing to reskill in a modern and fluid environment, or perhaps just missed out on UCAS requirements for your chosen degree-level course.

The course provides a solid grounding in several areas such as:

Problem-based learning to a set of requirements.
Mathematics for STEM.
Software and databases.

Degree

Our Cloud Computing BSc (Hons) incorporates contemporary issues and approaches in computing, underpinned by fundamental skills in networking, software design, data science, coding, computer hardware and physical infrastructure.

Course content is maintained through working closely with large cloud service providers, with the aim of ensuring graduates are well placed for employability on completion in a competitive and rapidly developing field.

Why you should study this course

The course is designed to provide successful graduates with the breadth of skills to be effective in the varied digital workplace, developing self-management and self-development capabilities to keep pace with change and adapt to new technologies, software languages and cloud management systems.

Through the course programme you should develop your skills and knowledge in many areas, including:

Problem-based learning using authentic assessment methods.
Critical self-development and professional presentation in a technical field.
Techniques and technologies to leverage cloud provisions to meet business requirements.

What you'll study

In your first year of the degree course, we aim to teach you the foundations and key concepts needed to solve industry-focused problems using cloud computing concepts.

Modules

Principles of Computer Systems - 30 credits

This module seeks to provide you with an introduction to the fundamentals of software and database design, including the mathematical principles underpinning computer systems such as Boolean algebra & logic, as well as the principles of database design covering database modelling through the entity-relational model, database normalisation and SQL.

A fundamental understanding of Object Oriented Programming Principles will be explored through practical programming workshops. You will be required to document the process of design, development and testing using industry-standard techniques (UML and ER Diagrams). You'll also be introduced to on-demand cloud computing platforms to host and manage your databases.

Compulsory

Serverless Web Applications - 30 credits

This module seeks to provide you with an introduction to the fundamentals of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), web applications and Serverless Computing, covering User Experience and human factors that are fundamental to the web design process and how to apply programming techniques in the creation of web applications.

A principle understanding of Serverless Computing will be explored through practical workshops enabling you the opportunity to deploy web applications utilising industry-standard cloud platforms. You should also be able to apply programming and database coding constructs and develop a web application documenting the process of design, development and testing using UX and Agile Development techniques.

Compulsory

Networking Architecture and Design Concepts - 30 credits

This module aims to provide you with knowledge of computer networking essentials, protocols, standards, security considerations. We will explore these principles through the design and implementation of a network using a range of hardware and software, which is designed to help you develop core knowledge of Local Area Networking, Wide Area Networking and the protocols related to IP networks.

You will be introduced to the usage of various network topologies in software-defined networks (SDN) hosted within a virtual private clouds and develop skills through a practical networking project supported by workshops. After successful completion of this module, you should be able to design and install networks, and demonstrate the operation of IP data networks, router and switching technologies and basic troubleshooting. You will also be exposed to IaaS principles in linking physical systems to a virtual private cloud subnet.

Compulsory

Infrastructure Architecture and Design Concepts - 30 credits

During this module we aim to teach you the concepts, architecture, and services of Cloud Computing and you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of configuring cloud infrastructure and also explore how to integrate physical infrastructure into a hybrid solution. You will be given the opportunity to develop a core understanding of concepts surrounding cloud computing, covering deployment models and types of cloud solutions and technology underpinning the usage of cloud solutions (virtualisation and networking).

You will be required to implement a simple hybrid infrastructure to meet the needs of a business whereby the services are hosted within the cloud with physical computers linked to the cloud VPC through a VPN. Through this process, you should gain a fundamental understanding of both Linux and Windows-based server operating systems and the installation of services on these systems; which aims to further develop your networking knowledge through the application of skills that you should have gained during the programme.

Compulsory

The second year aims to build on the knowledge developed in your first year.

Modules

Software Defined Networks and Content Delivery Networks - 30 credits

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) represents an approach to computer networking that attempts to address weaknesses in current networking design and operation. SDN’s move to a highly scalable and centralised network control architecture better suited to large scale networks prevalent in today’s mega-scale data centres and infrastructures.

Content Delivery Networks (CDN’s) can improve user experience by delivering a cached copy of content from a nearby edge, allowing for more complex and responsive content driven experiences. This architecture can be utilised to enhance business offerings and usability in an extensive way at great scale. In this module you will be encouraged to critically appraise the usage of SDN in the development of a SDN linked mini-project and have the opportunity to critically determine whether traditional network designs achieve the same objectives.This will be supported by a global deployment of a CDN to serve content to massive numbers of users simultaneously with impressive performance.

Compulsory

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence - 30 credits

This module introduces the fundamentals of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) and is supported by an exploration of statistical mathematic theory. You will be exposed to machine learning algorithms and implementations, supported by the opportunity of hands-on experience using industry-leading cloud platforms.

Machine learning can enable systems to learn from data or to solve problems without being explicitly programmed, and can be used in several areas such as predictive modelling, speech recognition, object recognition, computer vision, anomaly detection, medical diagnosis and prognosis, robotic control, time series forecasting and much more.

We aim to teach core concepts in artificial intelligence from a theoretical, practical and cognitive point of view, designed to develop innovative thought processes to build intelligent systems for future needs. At this stage you are not expected to design and develop bespoke machine learning algorithms but rather understand their function and integration into intelligent systems and how cloud systems can be used to accelerate data training.

Compulsory

Securing Cloud Systems - 30 credits

This module introduces the fundamentals of security compliance and its implications within the cloud. Organisations expect their workforce to take their asset security seriously. The loss of data by an organisation can have severe consequences, including prosecution and loss of customers.

You should benefit from contemporary case studies, including examples of corporate theft, regulatory approaches to IT security and international cooperation between agencies and nation-states. As system administration and management are essential tasks in the day-to-day functioning and security of Information Systems, inadequate or improper practices can lead to loss of data, its integrity, performance reductions, security breaches or total system failure. Individual planning and provisions need to be made for the ongoing support of systems and networks, which account for a significant proportion of the IT budget.

On successfully completing the module you should be able to discuss, apply and analyse network and infrastructure security measures that can be adopted if working within cloud environments. You should also have a practical understanding of the associated protocols, cryptographic types and configuration settings of network security environments.

Compulsory

Managing Virtualised Servers and Infrastructure - 30 credits

This module is designed to allow you to propose, implement and suggest a management strategy to fulfil enterprise business requirements, and the need and purpose of systems integration to support organisational goals.

You are expected to gather and review business objectives to develop a systems specification document, with the opportunity to evaluate factors and issues affecting the successful completion of the integration, and describe and document the functional architecture and design of a system. Exploration of cloud technologies to establish an integration methodology to design and implement cloud-based solutions should be considered.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to investigate and compare different cloud service models and evaluate different deployment methods considering their effect on systems integration. An introduction to service management frameworks will be provided in preparation for final year projects.

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.

Modules

UK Work Placement - 0 credits

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

International Study/Work Placement - 0 credits

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 year will provide you with opportunities to further engage with formal business practices, international standards, and legislation to hone workplace acumen.

You should be able to formulate your strategy for cloud project development and service management that meets a business, social or ethical need. Your final project places you in an innovative real-world environment where you will propose, design, develop, test, and deliver a cloud based solution based upon your business need. Your final year project will span all four modules in which you will supplement your development by engaging with pivotal skills of a graduate practitioner.

Modules

Proposing Cloud Solutions - 30 credits

This module builds on the knowledge gained since the start of the course, focusing on designing a cloud project that includes both a cloud architecture solution and a cloud software solution to tackle real-world problems. You'll work within a widely recognised project management framework, while observing service management practices, to plan and organise your project. This experience is designed to give you a solid foundation in managing projects from start to finish, using agile methods to adapt to changes and challenges.

Compulsory

Applied Cloud Architecture Project - 30 credits

In this module, you'll conduct research related to your project's goals, presenting your findings in both written reports and presentations. You'll focus on developing your technical skills, specifically in creating a cloud architecture that meets your project's needs. Keeping your project documentation up to date and aligned with project management standards is a key part of this module. It's a chance to show your ability to handle complex technical tasks and make informed decisions.

Compulsory

Applied Cloud Software Project - 30 credits

This module challenges you to carry out in-depth research to achieve the goals set at the beginning of the project year, with the aim of presenting your findings clearly in writing and verbally. You'll be encouraged to critically assess your research process and identify lessons for future improvement. Developing a cloud software solution that supports your project's objectives is a major focus, requiring advanced technical skills. This module emphasises the importance of keeping your project documentation thorough and up-to-date.

Compulsory

Managing Cloud Solutions - 30 credits

Here, you'll learn about how services are managed, delivered, and supported, using industry best practices as a guide. The module covers various aspects of IT service management, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. Towards the end of your project, you'll apply what you've learned about service management to your cloud solutions, ensuring you have a solid plan for project closure. This module aims to give you a practical understanding of the principles and practices involved in managing IT services.

Compulsory

The course aims to provide you with a solid grounding in mathematical principles and an understanding of the core technology associated with the use and application of computer systems. Professional and academic skills are integrated across all modules, including information finding and handling, problem-solving, and the communication of outcomes.

Modules

Fundamental Pure Mathematics - 30 credits

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

Software and Databases - 30 credits

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

Networking and Communications - 30 credits

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

Information Technology in Business - 30 credits

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 course is designed to support your development of essential skills needed to get you employment-ready and into industry quicker.

Our teaching methods are varied to suit the needs of all our students. In addition to lectures, we also utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work.

Progression through the modules aims to develop knowledge and skills including communication (written and oral), study skills, research methods, project management, presentation and career development.

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits (180 credits for accelerated route) each academic year. A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours vary depending on year of study and due to module selection. During your first year you can expect 15-18 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

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

Assessment methods include:

coursework
presentations
project work
quizzes
artefact submission and demonstrations
reflective reports or business documents.

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.

Our teaching methods are varied to suit the needs of all our students. In addition to lectures, we also utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year (180 credits for accelerated route). A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours vary each semester, year of study and due to module selection. During your first year you can expect 15-18 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

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

Assessment methods may include:

coursework
presentations
project work
quizzes
artefact submission and demonstrations
reflective reports or business documents.

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 entry requirements:

40 UCAS tariff points. All Foundation courses require GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards 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.

Contextual offers and Fair Access Scheme

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme, you could automatically receive a contextual offer that may be up to 24 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme.

Fees and funding

Foundation year

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,535	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

Degree

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	2026/27 fees TBC: 2025/26 fees £11,440 (two-year accelerated study route) \| £9,535 (three-year study route) per year	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2027/28 will pay £1,500 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,800 if they are paying international fees.

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.

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 permits 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.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2027/28. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

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.

Applies to degree only

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).

Foundation year funding

In order to receive funding for degree with foundation year courses, you will need to complete a four-year degree programme which includes the integrated foundation year, otherwise you may be responsible for your foundation year fees. For further information, please refer to the 'Tuition Fee Loan' details in the 'Funding your undergraduate course' section of our 'Fees and finance' page.

*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.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

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 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

You will learn in our on-site computer laboratories that are home to industry-standard equipment so that you learn using the same equipment as many industry professionals.

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.

Careers and opportunities

On completion, you should be able to:

adapt and gain additional specific competencies
apply contemporary knowledge and practical skills in Cloud Computing
develop the combination of skills and knowledge required to undertake research and development work involving technically advanced computer applications
deploy a range of skills into a global cloud computing market
develop cognitive, practical and employability skills needed to play a critical role for societal and economic development.

Graduates could move into a variety of jobs in the computing industry such as:

Cloud Support Associate/Engineer
Cybersecurity Specialist
Data Integration Specialist
Data Scientist
DevOps Engineer
Machine Learning
Web/Software Development Engineer
Solutions Architect
Application Developer

Where our graduates work

Graduates of this course have gone on to work at BT, National Rail, AWS, McKesson UK and the NHS.

Further study

How to apply

BSc (Hons) accelerated route

Apply via UCAS

162I

BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Apply via UCAS

C85

Institution code

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time UK undergraduate students apply through UCAS. If a part-time option is available, part-time students should apply directly to CU Coventry. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

(+44) 02477 652222

cuc@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
CUCU052I

International students should apply to CU Coventry directly. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International pages or Coventry University Group's International hub.

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

(+44) 02477 652222

internationalenquiries.io@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

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

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 for information purposes however the 2025/2026 contract will apply for the 2025/2026 intake. 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.