Keele UniversityInternational Study Centre
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Computing Foundation Diploma
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Academic structure
You will study the following modules on the Computing Foundation Diploma or Diploma*:
Term 1
Foundation English Skills 1 (FES 1)
Develop your ability to read academic texts, write essays, take notes, listen effectively and participate in classroom discussion.
Fundamentals of Computing
An overview of the core concepts of the subject. Study the main types of both hardware and software and gain an introduction to the role of programming. See how computers are used in businesses and by individuals and discover the importance of user-centred design.
Plus 2 of the following:
Core Mathematics
Contains both algebra and statistics: develop your knowledge and understanding of mathematical terms and techniques and apply these to solving problems, frequently drawn from practical and real life situations.
or
Financial Accounting
A sound foundation in the basic principles of financial accounting. Learn how to draw up and analyse financial statements and the uses to which these are put within companies. Consider the legal and regulatory framework within which accountants work and consider wider issues such as social and economic context and the need for a global regulatory system.
or
Introduction to Management
Consider the operational and strategic problems facing managers of business enterprises in the modern market economy. Discover the various approaches that managers adopt towards these problems and the range of different management styles. Accountability is discussed and the relationships of managers with owners and other stakeholders.
Term 2
Foundation English Skills 2 (FES 2)
Improve all your skills developed in FES1 to help you work with greater accuracy, speed, cohesion, organisation and presentation.
Programming 1 – Programming Fundamentals
An introduction to the basic concepts underlying computer programming and to the techniques for applying these using a contemporary, generic computer language. Develop your problem-solving skills through practical work in the context of computer programming.
Plus 2 of the following:
Microeconomics
Look at issues in Microeconomics, studying consumer behaviour, the setting of objectives and analysis of costs within companies, monopoly and oligopoly, market failure and economies of scale, specialisation and integration.
or
Management Accounting
An introduction to the role of management accounting in providing managers with the information for decision-making, planning and control.
or
Introduction to Marketing
Look at marketing and marketing management in a range of different types of firms in the business world. Topics include market research and intelligence, the marketing mix, advertising and the importance of branding. Study the ethics of marketing and the need for firms to have policies on Corporate Social Responsibility and put these into practice.
Term 3
Study Skills in the British Environment
Learn to use your study time more effectively, improve your use, and range, of information sources and prepare comprehensive essays in your own time to given deadlines.
Introduction to Information Systems
Consider how computer-based systems have developed and how they are operated and maintained. Practical work involves word processing, spreadsheets and databases. Gain an overview of the design and management of Information Systems, of the internet and of e-Business.
Programming 2 – Data Structures and Algorithms
Learn about the properties of some data structures and algorithms that are of key importance to modern computer science and IT. Practice your general purpose computer programming skills so that you are able to develop your own software solutions to straightforward problems.
Plus 1 of the following:
Introduction to Human Resource Management
Consider the theory and practice of Personnel and Human Resource Management in the modern business environment. Look at issues such as recruitment, training, motivation and appraisal of staff and consider the regulatory framework that governs employer/employee relations in the UK.
or
Macroeconomics
An introduction to the key concepts of macroeconomics. Enhance your knowledge of how goods markets, financial markets and labour markets operate, the factors that influence rates of unemployment, interest and inflation. Learn how governments make decisions about their country’s economic direction and seek to improve its performance.
or
Law for Business
An introduction to the English Legal System, the ways in which laws are made and carried into effect, and legal personnel, including elements of lay participation. Look at the different types of business organisations and consider the Law of Contract, in particular how contracts are made and put into effect and the remedies at law in the event of a breach of contract.
Term 4
Business & People skills
This module develops students’ business skills as well as the personal and interpersonal skills required in a real-world business environment. Contemporary IT management challenges and opportunities are highlighted. Students study the concept of entrepreneurship and, working in teams, role play the setting up and development of a new business venture.
Human Computer Interaction
Explore the human-computer interface and the concepts, techniques, and tools that support the analysis of, needs for, and design of, system interfaces. Focus on web interfaces, looking at issues of user-centred design, relevant guidelines, principles and standards and legal and ethical considerations. Tackle the important issue of developing creativity.
Computer Animation and Multimedia
An introduction to Computer Graphics, Animation and Multimedia, providing you with the appropriate programming and media development skills to design and develop multimedia. Consider graphics and sound, animation, digital forms, design and development issues and multimedia applications and presentation.
Plus 1 of the following:
Business Statistics
Build upon your basic knowledge of statistics acquired through your study of Core Mathematics. Develop your ability to interpret statistical information and work on your data presentation skills by extensive use of Excel spreadsheets.
or
Thinking Strategically
This module provides students with a good, but non-technical understanding of ‘Game Theory’ which aims to analyse strategic behaviour in human affairs, illustrating the incentives that underpin decision making. Students consider real-life case studies within the business and political worlds in terms of general game-theoretical principles.
or
Introduction to the Global Economy
A background to the modern movement of globalisation. Consider aspects of the global economy such as international trade, overseas investment, the movement of workers and the benefits and problems that go with such a high level of interconnectedness. Look also at the nature, attitudes and activities of the anti-globalisation movement.
or
Applied Economics
Students are introduced to the way in which basic economic concepts of economics operate in the decision-making of everyday life. They look at the role of the Internet, particularly in e-banking, e-markets & social networking & consider the environmental costs of economic activities. A case study looks in economic terms at the value of attending university.
* Note that for the Diploma, students will study the same modules as Foundation Diploma but these will be structured to fit in three terms because students are suppossed to have an advanced understanding of the subjects to qualify for this route.
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