Foundation Degree in Cloud Computing Technologies (Validated by The Open University)

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme.

Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.

You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements  

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND  

• 2 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements 

UCAS 

A minimum of 64 UCAS Tariff points including:  

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile CC

OR  

• [RQF] Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma with overall award profile MPP  

OR  

• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 45% overall   

OR  

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

Accreditation of Prior Learning   

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).   Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.  

International Students English Language Requirements  

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:  

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)   
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)  
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test  

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk  

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations. Each module is graded individually with an overall single final grade (Pass, Merit, or Distinction) awarded at the end of the course.

Students are assessed using a range of methods. These may include: 

• Class tests: Work will be completed exam conditions, typically during your timetabled session. 
• Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.  
• Presentations: Students will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate. 
• Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities. 

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study.    Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance. 

Students that successfully complete the Foundation Degree traditionally progress to one of the following areas:

Related Degree Programmes

Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 6 qualification, either at a university or at SERC.  SERC offer a 1 year degree top-up for this programme.

Employment

This Foundation Degree programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to thrive in the changing world of work. Roles may include, but are not limited to:

• Software Engineer: Create applications and systems using programming knowledge/code.  
  
• Cloud Architect: Design and implement cloud-based solutions, ensuring scalability, performance, and security.
• DevOps Engineer: Bridges the gap between development and operations teams, automating processes and improving collaboration..

SERC is committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need.  The course will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to:

Technical Skills:

• Programming (Language reviewed yearly to meet the needs of industry).
• Data analysis
• Database administration
• Application Design
• Design Tools and Techniques
• Development Tools

Employability Skills:

• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team Working