International Year 1 Computer Science
Course Overview
Our degree preparation programmes are designed to help students to develop the English language, academic study skills, and subject-specific knowledge required for degree-level study.
The International Year One in Computer Science is designed to provide a broad foundation in the fundamentals of computer science and provides students with the opportunity to develop the mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills required to succeed in the challenging and exciting modern computing industry. Students undertake modules in programming, and mathematics and operating systems, supported by further studies in English language.
Degree Programme Progression
After successfully completing the International Year One programme and obtaining the required grades, students will have the option to progress onto the second year of the BSc (Hons) Computer Science programme at the University of Lincoln.
How You Study
Teaching on the programme may take many forms, including lectures, seminars, and workshops.
Modules
Module Overview
The module aims to introduce the concepts of Algorithms and Complexity, providing an understanding of the range of applications where algorithmic solutions are required.
Students will have the opportunity to be introduced to the analysis of time and space efficiency of algorithms; to the key issues in algorithm design; to the range of techniques used in the design of various types of algorithms. Students can also be introduced to relevant theoretical concepts around algorithms and complexity in the lectures, together with a practical experience of implementing a range of algorithms in the workshops.
Module Overview
This module aims to introduce the fundamentals of computer hardware underpinning the key aspects of Computer Science. This knowledge is not only essential for deeper understanding of the governing processes behind computing but also for realising how hardware interacts with software.
By studying Computer Architecture, students can gain greater confidence in their study subject and future benefits when improving their programming skills. The module will study the individual components of a computer system, their function, main characteristics, performance and their mutual interaction.
Module Overview
This module is designed to introduce international students to UK Higher Education and the University of Lincoln. It supports students with academic English and study skills needed for university studies and helps them build confidence in expressing themselves in formal English in a variety of contexts, both in speaking and in writing.
Module Overview
This module aims to equip students with mathematical knowledge and skills required to design and develop computer systems and software. Representative topics include sets, relations and functions, logic, algebra, basic statistics, and probability theory. The critical role of mathematics in Computer Science and Games Computing and will be demonstrated with applied examples.
Module Overview
This module extends the concepts and practice of simple computer programming, with attention paid to the essentials that constitute an object-oriented computer program including layout, structure, and functionality. The module aims to extend students' knowledge of computer programming and introduces them to the object-oriented paradigm and related concepts applied to algorithm and software development. There is also emphasis upon the use of version control and its role in archiving and facilitating software development.
Module Overview
In this module students will have the opportunity to study both the theoretical design concepts which underpin all operating systems and, through case studies, the practical implementation techniques of current operating systems. Special attention will be given to shell programming languages and examples, to practically implement concepts and techniques at the basis of the various operating systems.
Module Overview
This module introduces students to software constructs and the development of simple programs using a high-level programming language. Simple design concepts and standard programming practices are presented, and attention is paid to the fundamentals that constitute a complete computer program including layout, structure, and functionality. Additionally, the fundamental computing data structures allowing the representation of data in computer programs are explored and implemented.
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
What You Need to Know
We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, and contact hours.
Entry Requirements 2025-26
Entry Requirements
This programme is available to International students aged 17+ and will require good high school graduation grades or equivalent academic study.
For full entry requirements including English language requirements and country-specific requirements, please visit:
https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/internationalcollege/entryrequirements
Pre-sessional English Language Preparation
Our Pre-sessional English Language Preparation (PELP) course is a great way for students who do not meet our English language entry requirements to raise their overall English proficiency. These programmes are designed for students who want to progress to an International Year One programme. They will increase understanding of academic study, whilst helping to develop a wide range of essential English language skills.
Fees and Scholarships
Students on this course may be eligible for a range of scholarships and bursaries once they successfully progress on to their chosen full degree programme.