Find your spark through a technology degree with foundation year
Step into a space where creativity meets code, and new ideas take shape. Whether you’re fascinated by the possibilities of AI, driven by the data behind every digital move, or intrigued by the intricacies of cybersecurity, our technology degrees with foundation years are built to give you room to experiment and discover your direction.
You’ll jump straight into real-world challenges, from programming to data analytics, all while building a strong understanding of the digital landscape. By the end of the year, you'll be ready to start your bachelor’s degree – and know exactly where your passion lies and how to take it further.
Start dates and duration
Online learning at LIBF is available full or part-time.
Start a Foundation Year on any day you choose.
Entry requirements
3 GCSEs: grade 4(C) or above, including Maths and English.
Or 12 months professional experience.
Tuition fees and funding
UK residents may be eligible for a government student loan.
We also offer scholarships for eligible students.
Technology degrees with foundation year
Cyber security
Data science
Why study a technology degree with a foundation year at LIBF?
Imagine diving into the tools and systems that shape our everyday lives. From cracking the code behind AI to securing networks that keep data safe, our foundation year courses allow you to explore, experiment, and discover what excites you most.
Best of all, they open doors to careers in industries that are actively seeking fresh, forward-thinking talent.
Technology-related roles dominate the fastest-growing job markets, with AI and machine learning specialists leading the way (World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report, 2023).
Figure out how technology can make the world better, smarter, and more connected. Start with core skills, and gradually move toward advanced programming, data, IT systems – or whatever grabs your curiosity. With every step, you’ll move closer to a future where your ideas make an impact.
Skills you’ll develop in your one-year foundation year
Start your journey towards an exciting career in technology with our foundation year entry option. This course gives you the skills you need for a degree and prepares for specialist topics in your bachelor’s degree.
Hard skills you’ll build
Basic mathematical and statistical knowledge.
Research skills, including identifying relevant literature.
Principles of academic integrity and referencing.
Effective communication and academic writing skills.
Soft skills you'll gain
Time management and self-study strategies.
Critical thinking and problem-solving.
Collaboration techniques in group projects.
Personal career planning and applied learning strategies.
Computer science foundation year courses
Our BSc Artificial Intelligence and BSc Computer Science degrees with foundation year give you the essential skills to excel in tech. From AI-driven innovation to innovative programming, you’ll be ready to lead in the fields shaping tomorrow’s technology.
Build core skills before diving into your respective bachelor's degree, where you’ll master specialist topics like programming, algorithms, and data analytics.
What you’ll study in our computer science with foundation year courses
Depending on your interests and chosen modules, you’ll build your understanding in:
object-oriented programming with Java
data structures and algorithms
agile project management
artificial intelligence and machine learning
big data analytics
digital business models and IT ethics.
Career opportunities with a computer science foundation year course
As a graduate, you’ll be set for roles like AI specialist and and systems developer. Whether programming the next generation of software or developing AI solutions, these courses set you up for success in corporate environments and tech startups.
Cyber security foundation year courses
With our BSc Cyber Security with Foundation Year, you’ll learn how to safeguard the digital world. From understanding network security to mastering encryption and identifying threats, you’ll gain the skills needed to defend against cyberattacks and protect vulnerable systems.
What you’ll study in our cyber security with foundation year course
Depending on your interests and chosen modules, you’ll build your understanding in:
network security and cryptography
cyber forensics and ethical hacking
risk management and IT governance
cloud computing and data privacy
information security management.
Career opportunities with a cyber security degree with foundation year
By completing your bachelor’s in cyber security, you’ll be prepared for roles such as security analyst, cyber forensic expert, or IT risk consultant. Your expertise will be crucial in safeguarding businesses from digital threats, helping to prevent costly and damaging attacks in an ever-connected world.
Data science foundation year courses
Our BSc Data Science with Foundation Year builds the foundation for mastering data analysis, statistical computing, and machine learning. You’ll develop the tools to extract insights from complex data, turning raw numbers into actionable strategies that drive growth and innovation.
What you’ll study in our data science with foundation year
Depending on your interests and chosen modules, you’ll build your understanding in:
statistical computing and data visualisation
machine learning and predictive analytics
data mining and big data technologies
Python programming and SQL
cloud-based data management systems.
Career opportunities with data science with foundation year
By completing your bachelor’s in data science, you’ll be prepared to take on roles like data analyst, machine learning specialist, or business intelligence consultant. Your ability to transform data into valuable insights will help drive innovation in industries from finance to healthcare, ensuring organisations make smarter, data-driven decisions.
Technology degree with foundation year career opportunities
Studying a technology foundation year at LIBF opens the door to various high-demand roles.
Potential jobs and salary expectations* in the UK for graduates from technology courses
IT project manager: £47,242
Lead IT teams in managing and completing complex projects on schedule, within scope, and aligned with key business goals.
Cyber security analyst: £49,063
Protect digital infrastructures by identifying and neutralising cyber threats, keeping organisations secure in an increasingly connected world.
Machine learning engineer: £57,457
Design AI-driven solutions to automate processes, optimise workflows and explore the limits of technology.
Data scientist lead: £63,381
Transform complex data into meaningful insights, using machine learning and predictive analytics to shape business strategies and solve industry challenges.
*Salary information from uk.indeed.com is correct as of October 2024.
Why choose LIBF for a technology degree with foundation year?
At LIBF, our technology degrees are designed to give you the technical skills and flexibility to succeed in today’s technological world.
Start on any day that suits you.
Study at your own pace, full or part-time.
Choose from a number of funding options including government loans and interest-free instalments.
24/7 access to online learning resources and online tutorials to fit around your commitments.
Personalised support from study coaches and career advisors.
With over 140 years of educational excellence and a Silver rating for teaching (TEF, 2023), we’ll help you build a solid foundation for your future in technology.
Find your BSc with Foundation Year in techFAQs about studying a technology degree with foundation year
Contact us about our online degrees
Any questions about our online degrees or studying at LIBF? Our Study Advisors are here to help.
Our office is open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 5.30pm UK time.
You’ll find everything you need to know about studying an online degree with us in our digital prospectus. To receive your personalised prospectus, please fill out the form below with a valid email address.
Once you've submitted the form, keep an eye on your inbox for your prospectus to arrive via email.