# Software Engineering with a Foundation YearBEng
**Source**: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2026/software-engineering-foundation-year-beng
**Parent**: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2026
2026-27 entry
[View 2027-28 entry](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/software-engineering-foundation-year-beng)
# Software Engineering with a Foundation Year BEng
School of Computer Science
If you want to study software engineering but don't meet our standard entry requirements, our foundation year could be for you. You'll learn the fundamentals of maths, physics and engineering in a variety of innovative ways to prepare you for your degree.
- A Levels
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BBB; BBC
- UCAS code
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G659
- Duration
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4 years
- Start date
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September
- Attendance
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Full-time
- [Accredited](#accreds "Accredited")
- [Course fee](#fees "Fees")
- Funding available
- FY Foundation year
[Send enquiry](https://sheffield.ac.uk/contact/prospective-students/enquiry-form)
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[Apply for this course](#apply)
[Send enquiry](https://sheffield.ac.uk/contact/prospective-students/enquiry-form)
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### Explore this course:
This course is no longer taking applications for 2026-27 entry.
View [2027-28](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/software-engineering-foundation-year-beng) entry or [find another undergraduate course](https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses "Find another undergraduate course").
## Course description
### Why study this course?
#### Focus on practical application
We emphasise the importance of practical skills development, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in designing, building, and testing software systems. This includes opportunities for real-world projects, such as the module Software Hut. This allows you to be immersed in the processes of engineering a real software system for a real client in a competitive environment.
#### Specialist teaching and facilities
Our lecturers are renowned computer scientists and internationally recognised researchers whose research shapes our cutting-edge teaching. You'll have access to the latest software and equipment, including high-spec computers with graphics processing units, as well as a robotics arena in our dedicated labs.
#### Professional skills and group work
Professional, communication and presentation skills help to create more employable computer scientists and software engineers. These are extremely valuable to companies, making you a well-rounded and highly prized candidate.
#### Flexible study options
Transferring between our courses is possible. This provides an opportunity to understand which areas of computer science spark your interest and add flexibility to your education.
#### Support throughout your degree
Our dedicated student welfare advisor is available to provide support, for example, if you are feeling down, overwhelmed or struggling to adjust to student life.
If you don't have the usual scientific or mathematical background for an engineering degree, [a foundation year](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/sefy "Science and Engineering Foundation Year (SEFY)") is for you. After successfully completing the foundation year, you can start your main degree.
**Ignite your interest by learning the art of engineering complex software systems, and how to apply that knowledge to this ever-expanding industry.**
Our Computer Science (Software Engineering) programmes are a great choice for students who are passionate about software engineering and want to develop the skills to design, build, and test software systems.
You will gain a solid foundation in the fundamentals of software engineering, as well the opportunity to explore different areas of computer science. These include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and robotics.
Our course has a strong focus on professional skills to ensure you are well equipped for a career after graduating. You will develop your communication skills and be able to think critically, whilst analysing the impact of your work in a real-world context. These are essential for a career in industry or research, and demonstrate the well-rounded education our programme will provide you.
Core modules in years one and two will provide you with the foundations of computer science, while in the final year a range of optional modules will allow you to tailor your studies to your own interests.
On top of these specialised modules, the focus of your final year is a dissertation project, where you will have scope for creative and intellectual exploration through a year long individual project guided by one of lecturers.
### Accreditation
The BEng course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). It fully meets the requirements for Chartered Information Technology Professional (CITP) and partially meets the requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng).
The MEng course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). It fully meets the requirements for Chartered Information Technology Professional (CITP) and Chartered Engineer (CEng).
[British Computer Society (BCS)](https://www.bcs.org)
## Modules
After successfully completing the foundation year modules, you can start your main degree.
We're revising the curriculum of the course for this year of entry and are in the process of confirming the modules. The information here gives you an idea of the areas we expect the course to cover. There may be changes before you begin your studies. As you progress through your course, we’ll confirm additional details of the core and optional modules available to you.
**Title:** Software Engineering with a Foundation Year BEng course structure 2026\
**UCAS code:** G659\
**Years:**
2026
Foundation year
Year 1 onwards
Foundation year
#### Core modules:
Introduction to Engineering
: This module will introduce the application of engineering principles to foundation year students and give the student an appreciation of the breadth of engineering activities across the faculty and identify to students what knowledge areas and skills are needed in order to contribute to their development and be successful. It will also help create links with departments and draw on the other modules that students will take in the foundation year especially maths and physics.
**40 credits**
Foundations of Physics with Computing
: This module will introduce essential concepts in mechanics and electronics in the context of computer science, to develop an understanding of real world interactions with electro-mechanical devices and producing simplified programming code.\
**30 credits**
Further Foundation Mathematics
: The syllabus for MAS004 covers important material which appears on the A level maths and further mathematics A Level curriculum. The module is for students who are taking MAS003 and need a deeper background in mathematics for their degree course. The module covers advanced principles of algebra, geometry and calculus. Following the introduction of new material, students have the opportunity of extensive problem solving, both in the problem classes with tutors and in their own time.
**10 credits**
#### Optional Modules. You can choose one of the following.
Core Foundation Mathematics
: The syllabus for MPS002 covers the common core A Level curriculum. The unit is tailored for students who have been away from mathematics for a period of time, but who will have gained some A-Level or similar qualifications. The unit covers the basic principles of algebra, geometry and calculus. Following the introduction of new material in the lectures, students have the opportunity of extensive problem solving, both in the tutorial sessions with the lecturers and in their own time.
**40 credits**
Foundation Core and Enhanced Mathematics
: This module builds on the common core curriculum from A level maths (which is a prerequisite). This unit covers enhanced comprehension of topics in pure maths, statistics, probability, and numerical methods. These topics are chosen to further prepare students for their undergraduate studies in the science and engineering faculties.
**40 credits**
Year 1 onwards
After successfully completing the foundation year, you can start [your BEng degree](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2026/computer-science-software-engineering-beng "Computer Science (Software Engineering)").
####
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
## Learning and assessment
### Learning
Learning will be delivered through a combination of lectures, practical sessions, tutorials and seminars. You will also learn important group work skills and will have the opportunity to work with clients to solve real-world problems. As well as formal teaching you will be expected to undertake independent study.
We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.
Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over one million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include [study skills training](https://sheffield.ac.uk/academic-skills/home "301 Academic Skills") to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.
[Learning support facilities](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/facilities "Facilities") and [library opening hours](https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/library/libsites/sites)
### Assessment
You will be assessed by a combination of exams and tests, coursework and practical work. The proportions for each will vary depending on the modules you choose.
## Entry requirements
Standard offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\
BBB; BBC
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BBB (any A Level); BBC including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology
**International Baccalaureate** : 32; 31, with Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology at Higher Level 5 or Standard Level 7 **BTEC Extended Diploma** : DDD in Engineering or Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams) + GCSE Science grade 6/B and Maths grade 7/A **BTEC Diploma** : DD in Engineering, Computing or IT + A at A Level (no STEM at A Level) + GCSE Science grade 6/B and Maths grade 7/A; DD in Engineering or IT + B in an A Level science subject (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology) + GCSE Maths grade 7/A; DD in Engineering or IT + C in A Level Maths + GCSE Science grade 6/B **T Level** : Distinction in the Digital Production, Design and Development T Level, including grade B in the core component + GCSE Science grade 6/B and Maths grade 7/A **Scottish Highers** : AABBB (any subjects); ABBBB, including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology **Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels** : B + BB (any A Level subjects); B + BC in Maths and either Physics, Chemistry or Biology **Access to HE Diploma** : Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 at Distinction (to include 12 Maths units) and 21 at Merit + GCSE Maths grade 7/A
**Other requirements**
- If you are studying both Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology at A Level (or equivalent), there are no additional GCSE requirements. If studying any other subject combination, we require GCSE Science grade 6/B (or 65 in GCSE Double Award Science) and Maths grade 7/A
**English language requirements** |
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
[Equivalent English language qualifications](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/english-language "English language requirements for undergraduates")
[Visa and immigration requirements](https://sheffield.ac.uk/student-visas-immigration/home "Student visas and immigration")
**Other qualifications** | [UK](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/uk-qualifications "Other UK qualifications") and [EU/international](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/international-qualifications "International qualifications")
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please [contact the school](#contactus).
## Graduate careers
### School of Computer Science
Computer science programmes at the University of Sheffield will empower you to navigate the ever-changing field of computer science. You will develop the skills necessary to push the boundaries of current knowledge and shape the future digital landscape. Your future career is in safe hands with one of our degrees – Sheffield is among the best in the UK for computer science.\
\
Our graduates are highly sought-after across a diverse range of industries: software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, web or mobile development, IT and Digital consultancy and emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence and cloud computing. Roles our alumni have gone on to include software developer, data analyst, full stack software engineer, game programmer, QA developer and technical lead.\
\
Many of our recent graduates are at major companies, including Google, Amazon, IBM, Oracle, Huawei, Cisco Systems, Office for National Statistics, BBC, Barclays and Morgan Stanley. Some decide to undertake further study and others run their own successful business.
We asked one of our graduate employers, IBM, why they value our computer science graduates and the skills they develop:
> A computer science degree gives you a deep understanding of systems architecture, how systems integrate with one another, and how code works at a fundamental level. That deep understanding is crucial for working on the enterprise systems that underpin our cities, businesses and financial institutions. Working on these systems requires more than just a surface level understanding of coding.
>
> **John McNamara**
>
> IBM Master Inventor and IBM UK University Programs Lead
## School of Computer Science
#### Number 1 in the Russell Group for teaching on my course, assessment and feedback, and organisation and management
National Student Survey (NSS) 2024
#### 7th for computer science
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
#### Rated 8th nationally for the quality of our research environment
Research Excellence Framework 2021
Here in Sheffield our world-class research is advancing our understanding of computer science, and leading to practical applications that are enhancing people’s lives. From cutting-edge artificial intelligence that could transform dementia treatment, to text engineering methods that fight the spread of disinformation online, our research is delivering tremendous impact.
Many of our lecturers are also leading research computer scientists with international reputations, and their research shapes and inspires what you will be taught. This means that what we teach you at Sheffield is right up to date. Also, through a research-led education we hope to inspire a sense of creativity and curiosity that will set you on a life-long path of learning and discovery.
As well as our first-class teaching, the hands-on practical skills and industry experience you’ll gain in Sheffield will pave the way for an exciting career. Every year our students go on to work for some of the biggest and most innovative companies in the world.
We teach using industry-standard tools, so that you can hit the ground running, and we also help you to develop the problem solving and communication skills that employers really value. We also prepare you for making decisions that will affect others: it’s crucial that as a computer science professional you understand the ethical implications of your work and are mindful of its environmental impact.
Our school is a vibrant, diverse and supportive community of like-minded people. If you decide to join us at Sheffield, you’ll be welcomed as part of that community and presented with a multitude of opportunities for extracurricular activities. That is why studying in our school is an excellent investment in your future, whatever path you choose.
Your lectures, practical classes, tutorials and seminars are usually held on the University campus. The Diamond is a world-class building, home to all engineering undergraduates and where most of your practical sessions will take place. Our investment of £81m in the building and £20m for lab equipment is helping us to develop innovative teaching and learning experiences.
Dedicated teaching staff will support you and assist your development into a computer scientist of the future. We regularly host guest lectures from industry, with recent guests including Microsoft, Google, GitHub, IBM and ARM.
### Facilities
We have facilities and equipment exclusively for software development on mobile devices including phones and tablets.
As a computer science student within the Faculty of Engineering, you will have access to specialist facilities in our state-of-the-art hub, The Diamond. Here you will have access to the latest hardware, software and operating systems in our dedicated computer labs. Virtual Reality facilities, high-spec graphics PCs, a robot arena, media editing suites and video and podcast recording studios are all available.
[Science and Engineering Foundation Year](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/sefy)
## University rankings
**A world top-100 university**\
QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd)
**Number one in the Russell Group (based on aggregate responses)**\
National Student Survey 2025
**92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent**\
Research Excellence Framework 2021
**University of the Year for Student Experience**\
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
**Number one Students' Union in the UK**\
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
**Number one for Students' Union**\
StudentCrowd 2025 University Awards
**20th in the UK targeted by the largest number of Top 100 Employers in 2025-26**\
High Fliers 2026
## Student profiles
Anannya shares why she chose this course and what she enjoys most about studying it.
[Team work and a sense of collaboration were the best things about studying in the department
Saleh Maitala
Program Manager, IBM Africa Skills Initiative ,
\
BEng Software Engineering](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cs/undergraduate/profiles/saleh)
[Try stepping out of your comfort zone and meet people who aren't from your country/culture. It might be hard in the beginning, trust me it's worth it
Sangamithra Bala Amuthan
Undergraduate student,
\
BEng Software Engineering](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cs/undergraduate/profiles/sangamithra)
## Fees and funding
### Fees
[Tuition fees](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/fees-funding "Undergraduate fees and funding")
[Fee status help](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/fee-status "Fee status")
#### Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
[Examples of what’s included and excluded](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/fees-costs "Tuition fees and additional costs")
### Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a [bursary, scholarship or loan](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/fees-funding "Undergraduate fees and funding") to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our [Student Funding Calculator](https://sheffield.ac.uk/funding/calculator "Student Funding Calculator") to work out what you’re eligible for.
### £2,500 per year scholarships for international students
We're offering [automatic scholarships worth up to £10,000](https://sheffield.ac.uk/international/fees-and-funding/scholarships/undergraduate/international-undergraduate-scholarship "International Undergraduate Scholarship 2026") to overseas fee-paying students starting their studies in September 2026 - no additional application required.
## Visit
### University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
[Open days: book your place](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/visit/open-days "Open days")
### Online events
Join our weekly Sheffield Live online sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.
[Sheffield Live online events](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/online-events "Sheffield Live online events")
### Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
[Upcoming taster sessions](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/visit/subject-tasters "Subject tasters")
### Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong school focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
### Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
[Campus tour: book your place](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/visit/campus-tours "Campus tours")
## Apply for this course
This course is no longer taking applications for **2026-2027** entry. View [2027-2028](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/software-engineering-foundation-year-beng) entry or [find another undergraduate course](https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses "Find another undergraduate course").
## Contact us
Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.
[Contacts for prospective students](https://sheffield.ac.uk/contact/study "Contact us: course, application and study enquiries ")
[Science and Engineering Foundation Year](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/sefy)
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read [information from the UK government](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/providing-services-to-any-country-in-the-eu-iceland-liechtenstein-norway-or-switzerland-after-eu-exit#recognition-of-professional-qualifications) and the [EU Regulated Professions Database](https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/work/professional-qualifications/regulated-professions/index_en.htm).
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.
[Our student protection plan](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/policies/student-protection-plan "Student protection plan")
[Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/policies/terms "Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer")
2026-2027
[Science and Engineering Foundation Year](https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe/undergraduate/sefy)
If you want to study software engineering but don't meet our standard entry requirements, our foundation year could be for you. You'll learn the fundamentals of maths, physics and engineering in a variety of innovative ways to prepare you for your degree.
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[Course description](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1171)
[Modules](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1176)
[Learning and assessment](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1181)
[Entry requirements](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1186)
[Graduate careers](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1191)
[Department](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1196)
[University rankings](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1201)
[Student profiles](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1206)
[Fees and funding](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1211)
[Placements and study abroad](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1216)
[Extra info box](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1221)