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Business Computing BSc (Hons)
Key Facts
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UCAS Code
BSc: G503
BSc with Foundation: G504 -
Duration
Full Time: 3 years
Full Time Foundation: 4 years
Part Time: 4 - 6 years
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BBC at A-Level or,
DMM at BTEC -
Full Time: £9,535
Part Time: £1,585 (per 20 credits)
Integrated Foundation Year: £9,535
Updated 03/12/2025
Updated 03/12/2025
Get in touch
UK STUDENTS ENQUIRIES
study@northampton.ac.uk
0300 303 2772
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ENQUIRIES
The University of Northampton’s Business Computing BSc approaches computing from a professional perspective and is designed to tackle the application of technology in a commercial context. It explores the design, implementation, and application of technical solutions to industry’s challenges.
In a climate increasingly reliant on computing solutions, companies require individuals who can craft robust, reliable and user-friendly systems that drive organisational solutions. The Business Computing degree develops the practical skills and knowledge you need to be part of this dynamic industry.
This hands-on computing course provides you with development skills, such as SQL, PHP and Java to improve employability, whilst promoting the aptitude and problem-solving approaches to harness those skills to achieve strategic goals and develop business insight. Business Computing facilitates careers in data analysis, web design and development, databases, programming, systems analysis, IT management, as well as fostering entrepreneurs.
For Career after 15 months for Computer Science and Information Systems
Based on overall student positivity out of all universities in England
Guardian Data from the 2026 Computer Science and Information Systems subject table. NSS Calculations are based on Office for Students (OfS) data from the average positivity score.
Highlights
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- Emphasis on hands-on practice
- Employability and computing industry focused.
- Strategic application of technology.
- Optional industry placement available on the Business Computing BSc degree.
- Guaranteed paid internship with the Northampton Employment Promise.
- HP laptop and software included with this course for eligible students* (*see Eligibility criteria and Terms and Conditions)
Entry Requirements
A typical offer for a Business Computing BSc course would be:
- BBC at A-Level or,
- DMM at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or,
- Merit at T Level
No prior computing experience is required.
In addition to the standard University of Northampton entry requirements, applicants will be expected to have achieved GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or above. Access (with 12 credits at L2 or 6 at L3 in Maths) and BTEC qualification in Computing at Level 3 are accepted in lieu of Mathematics GCSE.
We welcome applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.
For information on how to apply to study with us, please see our How to Apply page.
Admission to this foundation course is normally:
- DEE at A Level or,
- MPP at BTEC or,
- Pass (D or E) at T Level
However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.
All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:
- IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
for study at undergraduate level
For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.
What You'll Learn
The Business Computing BSc course shares a common first year with other Computing pathways, with flexible progression into the second year. On Business Computing you will have the option to tailor your second and third years to specialise to suit your career aspirations and curiosities.
In the final year, you will study Security, Business Intelligence and Project Management at greater depth as you develop your strategic skills alongside the practical ones. You will have the option to choose to develop a practical build for your dissertation or research and evaluate emerging technologies. With the skills, knowledge and experience you have gained from the computing BSc Hons course, you will be well equipped to enter the workplace or continue with further study to best fulfil your personal ambitions and potential.
Compulsory Modules
This purpose of this module is to: introduce students to the skills, principles and concepts necessary to solve problems in computing; to develop essential skills to enable the solution of these problems with the construction of appropriate algorithms and a computer program; introduce principles underlying the design of a high level programming language (HLPL); gain experience and confidence in the use of a HLPL to implement algorithms; implement HLPL programs using an appropriate programming language e.gJava; introduce an object-oriented language initially as a non-object language.
The purpose of this module is to understand and apply and the principles of data integrity and protection to take responsibility for managing and capitalising on your online presenceDigital footprint is a self-managed, online module that considers the data trail and shadow left by interactions in digital environmentsThe module develops a broad understanding of the impact of individual and organisational online presence in the context of digital marketing, data protection, ethical issues and good practice to optimise employability and prospects.
This module provides knowledge of the hardware and software components that make up a computer system and overview the important concepts in preparation for future study of computer science.
This purpose of this module is to give students an understanding of client side web technologiesThis module provides students with: the essential knowledge and practical skills to design, develop and implement a Web site to contemporary web standard
The purpose of this module is to develop student’s experience with the multiple stages of software engineering life-cycles from initial need and requirements identification through to the design and implementation of code in order to develop confidence in the use of terminology and techniques for each of the stages.
The purpose of this module is to apply the principles of database integrity in the design and development of database structuresThis is a practical module that applies data modelling techniques to establish, modify and maintain database integrity, structures and associated components such as entities, relationships and attribute definitions.
Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 25/26. The modules relating to the academic year 26/27 will be available from June 2026.
At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.
If you join this full time Business Computing Course at the University of Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.
Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.
To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.
*UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).
The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree in Business Computing, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.
If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.
Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.
How many hours per week of teaching/ personal tutoring?
You will spend 12 hours per week in class. Including self-directed study time you will spend 200 hours in total on each 20 credit module.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed on practice and theory through practical implementations, reports, essays, demonstrations and examinations. Most modules are designed to develop problem solving techniques and interpersonal skills and many provide the opportunity for group work.
What is the difference between computer science and a business computing degree?
IT systems are relevant in a business context and their success relies on more than technical competencies. Business Computing embeds commercial purpose within the critical technical skills. You will learn the practical skills of a computing degree, but their application will be strategic rather than conceptual.
Is Business Computing a good degree?
Yes. Technology recruiters are looking for commercial awareness combined with technical skills. Business Computing provides you with skills that set you apart from those who only demonstrate technical proficiency. It provides you with the opportunity to study and develop a rounded skillset to achieve success. Business Computing has been designed with advancing your career in mind, providing engaging material and assessments to challenge and develop your graduate life. Our students create IT systems as well as coordinate and manage teams and processes to provide viable solutions.
Why choose Business Computing?
What do Bezos, Zuckerberg and Gates have in common? Among other things, their ability to see and deliver the commercial context that would support their creations. Technical competency will only take your so far. A Business Computing course provides corporate perspective and the opportunity to expand yourself and your prospects. Ever heard of Julie and Steve Pankhurst? Probably not…
Fees and Funding
2025/26 Tuition Fees
- UK – Full Time: £9,535
- UK – Part Time: £1,585 per 20 credit module
- UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,535
- International – Full Time: £15,700
- International – Integrated Foundation Year: £15,700
Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 2025/26 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years. UON will adjust UK fees annually in line with Government Policy.
For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.
For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.
There are no additional costs for this course for students beginning their studies in September 2025. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.
Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.
- UK – Full Time: £9,250
- UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
- UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
- International – Full Time: £15,200
- International – Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200
Careers and Employability
The skills that you will learn in this degree in Business Computing will enable you to embark on a range of careers, with examples of roles including:
- Systems Analyst
- Programmer
- Database Developer
- Database Manager
- Test Engineer
- IT Support or management of web based systems, new developments and projects.
Master’s Opportunities
Our master’s courses are a great way to enhance the skills you have already learnt. Benefit from our 20% alumni discount on master’s fees to give you a CV that will catch the eye of employers.
Facilities and Special Features
Special features on this Business Computing course include:
- emphasis on hands-on practice
- flexible programme and study route
- employability and industry focused, with an optional placement year available
The Computing Society, with activities and talks all year round, has a long history of supporting Computing students. Whether you are seeking a graduate placement, a part-time job whilst you study, or just want to get your name out there for later, the Computing Society is a great place to start.
The course is industry and employability focused. Staff are professionally trained and actively engaged with ITIL, itSMF, Prince2®, SFIA, APM and BCS.
