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Computing and ICT

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Virtually everything we do involves computers and ICTs – from booking tickets online and emailing friends, to paying by credit card and using household appliances.

At the heart of ICTs are computers – ranging from the small embedded processor in your mobile phone, to the personal computer you use at home or work, and the large servers that support ecommerce and the world-wide web. Most of us simply take these technologies for granted, yet understanding how they work is fascinating.

Whether you simply have an enquiring mind, or want to learn more about this fast growing field in order to change career direction or improve your prospects, the OU offers a wide choice of part-time computer courses to meet your needs. These include short courses, certificates, diplomas and foundation degrees in computing, as well as honours degree programmes accredited by the British Computer Society. And the great advantage of OU study is you don’t need to take a career break or sacrifice earning a living while you qualify.

Where to start in Computing and ICT

If you're fairly confident about studying, then start with Level 1 courses. You'll learn how to study at university level, get a thorough grounding in your chosen area of study and, in addition, you'll become a confident distance learner.

Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.

Degrees

  • Computing
    This degree will give you the broad range of skills and expertise needed to work as a professional in the software industry.
  • Computing and Design
    Studying both the design of products and computing will give you the skills to work designing interactive products like mobile phones, MP3 players and PDAs.
  • Computing and Mathematical Sciences
    This degree considers the different branches of mathematics along with types of software systems that are now being constructed and used.
  • Computing and Statistics
    Much modern statistical work is carried out with the help of computers. You’ll gain a good knowledge of statistics and probability alongside good computing skills.
  • Computing and Systems Practice
    Systems thinking is all about analysing organisations, institutions and information systems holistically to improve their efficiency, decision making and professional practice.
  • Computing with Business
    This degree will familiarise you with the business world and give you an understanding of the key concepts of computing.
  • Computing with Psychological Studies
    This degree combines two popular and important disciplines, and equips you for a very wide range of careers.
  • Information and Communication Technologies
    This degree will be of interest to anyone seeking to be a confident user and manager of information and communication technologies (ICT), and to those who wish to grasp the career opportunities that such technologies offer.
  • Information Technology and Computing
    A wide-ranging degree, which will enable you to integrate topics in information, computer and communications technologies, and give you an understanding of the context in which they’re used.
  • Shortened BSc (Honours) Computing and its Practice
    If you’ve already completed the Foundation Degree in Computing and its Practice (or its equivalent), this top-up will give you a full honours degree.
  • Open degree
    The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.

Foundation Degrees

  • Business Information Technology
    Develop the professional knowledge you need about business, information and processes for a modern IT-rich business environment. Some work-based learning (paid or voluntary) – ideal for CPD or to kick start a career in IT.
  • Computing and its Practice
    If you already work with computers, this degree will develop skills directly relevant to your work, and give you the academic knowledge valued by employers.
  • Information and Communication Technologies
    Covering the knowledge and skills that you need to work effectively with ICT; planning and managing personal and professional development; and change and project management using real work-based activities.

Courses in Computing and ICT

See the list of all our individual courses in Computing and ICT.

Postgraduate options

If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Computing and ICT.

Spotlight on Computing and ICT

M150 – a window into the world of Wii

The Wii Remote – a wireless, motion-sensitive remote control crucial to the hugely successful Nintendo Wii–– works simply by the player moving and pointing. How does it work? Our course Data, computing and information (M150) provides an introduction to computing and human-computer interaction, including gesture interfaces such as the Wii Remote. More advanced courses offers an in-depth study of the techniques and theories used in the design of these interactive technologies.

Flexibility and support – I needn’t have worried

It’s been 15 years since I did my university degree and I was a little concerned about jumping back into the world of study, especially on a part-time basis with the pressures of full-time work. I needn’t have worried. Studying through the OU has given me the flexibility to study when I want and how I want. It’s been time and money well spent and I’m now well on my way to completing my third course towards a BSc in Information Technology and Computing (B13).

 

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