Stage 1: University Foundation

Modules

Click below for more information on each module

• Interactive Learning Skills and Communication

  Throughout this module you will learn about:

  • Time management
  • Public speaking techniques
  • Listening skills
  • Appropriate language styles
  • Clear writing techniques (plain English, factual and persuasive writing)
  • The importance of writing style
  • How to create appropriate and effective document layouts
  • Professional communication and presentation
  • Examination techniques and skills
  • How to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences
  • How to work effectively as a team member and as an individual
  • How to apply basic research and referencing techniques to formulate reasoned academic opinion so as to avoid plagiarism

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • A research project – referencing a topic and using a variety of techniques and resources
  • An individual presentation
  • Two group presentations
  • A listening assessment
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Numerical Techniques 1

  This module will introduce you to basic mathematics and mathematical applications – including equations, algebraic problems and trigonometry.

  You will be assessed via two closed book exams: one 90-minute in class, and one 2-hour.

• Numerical Techniques 2

  This module covers a variety of numerical techniques associated with basic number theory, including:

  • Cartesian coordinates
  • Indices
  • Logarithms
  • Polynomial, quadratic and simultaneous equations
  • Sequences
  • Geometric progressions
  • Differentiation
  • Integration

  You will be assessed via two closed book exams: one 90-minute in class, and one 2-hour.

• Physics 1

  This module defines the basic laws of physics. You will learn how to describe the fundamentals of mechanics and thermofluid mechanics.

  You will be assessed via two closed book exams: one 90-minute in class, and one 2-hour.

• ICT Skills

  This module will introduce you to the concepts of ICT skills in the context of technology, engineering and the environment – including applications and reporting mechanisms.

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • Four 20-minute multiple choice tests in class
  • An assignment on key Microsoft Word and Excel skills
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Design Concepts

  This module will introduce you to design, the importance of design and the fundamentals of technical drawing.

  You will be assessed via three methods:

  • A designated civil design project in the form of a written report (1,000 words), including sketches and annotated drawings
  • Class presentation based on the project and concept, supported with a poster
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Programming Techniques

  This module covers the fundamentals of programing, how it is used and how it contributes to the engineering process and solves engineering problems. You will also learn about the purpose and processes of object-orientated programing, as well as gaining an introductory understanding of JAVA.

  • Three 20-minute multiple choice tests in class
  • A written assignment based on testing problems and developing code to solve them
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Business Studies

  You will learn to define what a business is and its functions in relation to the different types of business costs. You will also be introduced to marketing, the marketing mix and product life cycle.

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • A written business plan, and group presentation of the business plan
  • A 1-hour test in class
  • A written marketing research report, and group presentation of the report
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

Stage 2: First Year Degree

You will study alongside Birmingham City University students on your chosen degree course. For information on the modules you will be studying, click on your chosen degree in the list below and the ‘Find out more’ link, then select the ‘Course in Depth’ tab.

In addition to your BCU modules, you will also study an additional support module with BCUIC called Interactive Learning Skills and Communication.

Stage 3: Second Year Degree

Stage 4: Final Year Degree

Birmingham City University Degree Pathways

Click below for more information on each pathway

• BSc (Hons) Digital Film Production

  • The course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
  • The course is based in a purpose-built Media Centre, which is equipped with over 1,200 sq m of dedicated facilities including two film/television studios, four multi-track recording studios, post-production suites, a MILO motion control rig and several editing and grading stations.
  • Birmingham City University’s media and film studies courses are ranked in the UK top 30 (Guardian 2017).
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Visual Effects

  • You will work within the University’s Centre for Digital Media Technology, using cutting-edge equipment including a dedicated green screen studio and several editing stations.
  • The course encourages you to engage with industry: several modules are based around work experience and you will have opportunities to work on commercial productions within the University.
  • Previous graduates have secured employment in roles such as CFX/Tech Animator, Junior Animator and Compositing Artist.
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Sound Engineering and Production

  • The course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
  • You will learn in a purpose-built Media Centre with TV and film studios, plus broadcast-standard edit and dubbing suites.
  • Previous graduates have secured employment in roles such as Technical Assistant and Projects Engineer.
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Music Technology

  • The course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
  • Former students are now working in roles such as Assistant Studio Engineer, DSP Engineer, Music Technician, Junior Audio Designer and Audio Dubbing Engineer.
  • Benefit from access to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, which includes seven industry-standard recording studios and a 500-seat concert hall.
    Find out more

Special entry requirements

• Students must have a Mathematics qualification at GCSE-level or equivalent with a Grade C/4.
• BSc (Hons) Music Technology: students must have GCSE Music at grade 4 (C) or above, Music Theory grade 5, or proficiency of performance on one instrument equivalent to ABRSM or RockSchool Grade 5.