Academy Review: Coventry University

We at Cybernews Academy, wanted to showcase Coventry University's amazing campuses, facilities, and computing courses. Coventry University is a dynamic institution that provides high-quality education to its students. Its roots trace back to 1843, when it was known as Coventry College of Design before gaining university status in 1992. Over the years, it has worked tirelessly to become a global enterprise, establishing numerous campuses and initiatives worldwide.
It is a global-facing, research-driven university with more than 38,000 students and 700 courses, and strong international partnerships with over 70 academic institutions worldwide. Coventry University was shortlisted for University of the Year in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021.
The Degrees Coventry University award are ranked in the top 30 for international students (QS World University Rankings 2023). Coventry University Wrocław, located in Poland, is part of the Global Coventry University network providing internationally recognized education and diplomas for global citizens.
The first Coventry University research establishment outside the UK is in Wrocław, Poland. It is aimed at supporting research and innovation collaborations beyond borders. It aims to become a knowledge and expertise hub in Europe, initially focused on:
• Cyber security
• Digital transformation
• Clean growth and energy solutions
• Future of transport
Coventry University collaborates with well-known companies such as Jaguar, Land Rover, IBM, and Microsoft. This allows for unique opportunities and enables students to work on meaningful projects.
Location
Coventry, United Kingdom
Coventry University's location is close to the second largest city in the UK– Birmingham. Just jump on a quick 30 minute train, and you’ll be in the heart of Birmingham. If you want to head down south, Coventry is about one hour to an hour and a half away from London. Fancy seeing a show or live music, or want to experience the lifestyle of the big city? These beautiful locations are only a few stops away. If you want to head down south, Coventry is about one hour to an hour and a half away from London. Fancy seeing a show or live music, or want to experience the lifestyle of the big city? These beautiful locations are only a few stops away.
Coventry also has so much to offer if you want to stay local. The city is commonly known as the “student city” as it has a vibrant student community, the university tends to attract students from across the globe.
Wrocław, Poland
The Wrocław campus opened in 2020 to bring prestigious UK degrees to the continent while keeping to competitive European tuition fees post-Brexit.
Located in the southwest of Poland, Wrocław is a multicultural city famous for its openness and hospitality. It is a lively city that offers a combination of both historical and modern architecture. Wrocław, similar to Coventry, is known as the city of students, with over 100,000 students at around 30 universities and higher education institutions.
Accommodation
Coventry, United Kingdom
Coventry University’s halls of residence are located only 10 minutes away from the university! This is great if you’re looking to stay closer to campus, intend on doing some late-night studying, or just don’t want to wake up too early for lectures.
Why should you choose halls of residence?
- Hassle-free living– you don’t have to worry about paying the bills, internet, etc., because everything will be included in the monthly costs.
- It’s an excellent opportunity to get to know everyone– especially if you’re in your first year or an international student. It’s a perfect opportunity to get to know people on your course and network with other students.
You can find more information here: https://www.coventry.ac.uk/life-on-campus/accommodation/
Wrocław, Poland
Coventry University, Wrocław, doesn’t own halls of residence. However, you can also look at the local private accommodation. It can offer competitive prices, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom flat in the city center being £480 per month.
Things to do
Coventry, United Kingdom
Coventry University Students' Union (CUSU) offers a wide range of student societies and clubs including:
- Sports clubs
- Performing arts clubs
- Academic societies
- Professional societies
- Cultural societies
They also provide specific interest clubs
- LGBTQ societies
- Gaming clubs
- Film clubs
- Anime clubs
Coventry is also well-known for its diverse Music and Art scene. The city hosts some popular events throughout the year and has a range of theatres and creative hubs to visit:
- Fargo Village
- Godiva Festival
- Coventry Jazz Festival
- Coventry Pride
- Belgrade Theatre
Here you will experience Coventry’s energy, meet new people, and experience the full spectrum of what the city offers.
Wrocław, Poland
Wrocław city hosts over 100’000 students from all over the world in various educational institutions, which makes up 15% of the overall population of Wrocław.
Cybernews Academy have suggested some excellent places to visit in Wrocław:
- Market Square: The city's Market Square (Rynek) is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe and is surrounded by colorful and elegant buildings.
- Odra River Cruises: Take a boat tour along the Odra River to enjoy city views from the water.
- Zoological Garden: Spend a day at Wrocław's Zoo, known for its extensive array of animals.
- Visit some traditional Polish restaurants: Try traditional Polish dishes, like Pierogi, at Wrocław’s local restaurants.
Study programs
Now you’ve gotten to know the locations, the latest events, and the best places to hang out in the city; it is time to look at the diverse range of courses at Coventry University.
Below are all the IT courses available at Coventry University.
- Computer Science (Coventry, United Kingdom & Wrocław, Poland)
- Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence (Coventry, United Kingdom only)
- Information Technology Management (Coventry, United Kingdom only)
- Software Engineering (Coventry, United Kingdom only)
- Computer Systems Engineering (Coventry, United Kingdom only)
- Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security (Coventry, United Kingdom only)
- Data Science (Coventry, United Kingdom only)
- Cyber Security (available at the Coventry University Wrocław only)
- Cloud Computing (available at the Coventry University Wrocław only)
Coventry, United Kingdom
Alongside the unique nature of Coventry as a city, the university’s Computer Science course is well known for its Specializations and Flexible Pathways. Specializations may include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, and web development.
There are so many fantastic options available. How will you choose? Below we at Cybernews Academy have detailed information on what your first year of Computer Science may look like.
First-year BSc Computer Science is a standard entry for the following courses:
- Computer Science
- Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence
- Information Technology Management
- Software Engineering
In your first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on to the second and third years.
From there, you will complete specialist modules in your chosen field. This is beneficial, particularly to students still deciding which specialty to choose. You can switch your degree to any other program in your standard entry during the first year.
However, other computing programs will also share similar modules as Computer Science. This will help you gain overall knowledge before moving on to your specialization.
For example, the Computing Science program and the Data Science program will have the same following modules in your first year:
- Programming: Professional Practice
- Working with Data
- Programming: Concepts and Algorithms
Computer Science, Ethical Hacking, and Cyber Security programs also share a similar module in your first year: Introduction to Programming.
Make sure you compare modules and specializations to decide which pathway is right for you.
Wrocław, Poland
Coventry University Wrocław offers three Undergraduate degrees in Computing studies.
Coventry University Wrocław teaches through module learning– courses consist of four 6-week academic blocks per year to help students progress smoothly from one stage of their academic success to the next.
Studying one module at a time allows students to focus entirely on the single topic.
Another important thing to mention is that the timetable is designed with busy adults in mind, and classes run from Monday - Friday, 9 am - 1 pm, to facilitate more time for the student's personal or professional commitments. There are also end-of-year exams to eliminate unnecessary additional testing and stress. Your placement year is a chance to gain valuable industry experience while studying and preparing for a professional career.
Computing Science
This program has both an academic and a practical perspective. There are four modules to explore (First, Second, and Fourth years), but you will also have a functional aspect in your modules.
Your first and second-year modules will include networking, operating systems, human-computer interaction and web development, web development, algorithms and data structures.
You will have an optional placement year in your third year, so you will learn as you work at a company or organization related to your field of study.
Finally, in your fourth year, you will study modules such as big data, the Internet of Things, and contemporary computing issues, and complete an independent project.
Cyber Security
This course examines the principles and threats surrounding computer systems, networks, and software development. It incorporates theoretical and practical elements that work to strengthen your understanding of the subject matter.
Your first-year modules will include networking, operating systems, information security, problem-solving, and programming.
You will cover cryptography, computer forensics, algorithms and data structures, and communications in your second year.
You will have an optional placement year in your third year, so you will work by learning company or organization related to your field of study.
In your fourth year, you will complete modules on secure programming, the Internet of Things, and contemporary issues in computing and participate in a project.
Cloud Computing
This program incorporates both theoretical and practical approaches to learning. You will learn the critical concepts needed to solve industry problems in your first year. Throughout your course, you will gain transferable skills required for employment.
In your first year, you will cover the principles of computer systems, serverless web applications, networking architecture and design concepts, infrastructure architecture, and design concepts.
In your second year, you will develop your understanding of software-defined networks and content delivery networks, machine learning and artificial intelligence, securing cloud systems, and managing virtualized servers and infrastructure.
In your third year, you will complete the following modules: proposing cloud solutions, managing cloud solutions, and two independent projects surrounding applied cloud software and applied cloud architecture.
Wrocław campus uniqueness
We at Cybernews Academy have outlined why you should choose one of the Computer Science courses at Coventry University Wrocław:
1. Cybersecurity/Computing Science: Students receive practical knowledge early in their learning process. Being able to perform tasks in PowerShell as Bash and basic penetration testing skills as early as your first year of studies opens excellent job opportunities exceedingly early.
2. Academic experts and experienced professionals from the industry teach the university's computing programs. Students require flexibility, particularly when entering the job market and studying. The University’s personalized approach and block-structured teaching allow ambitious students to become young IT professionals without sacrificing their education.
3. The campus in Wrocław offers the same programs but at a significantly lower cost – the fees are 27,500 PLN per year for Polish//EU students and 46,000 PLN per year for international students. Students from EU countries do not need a visa to study in Poland.
Career prospects
Where do Coventry University graduates work after graduation?
Computer Science
A computer science degree is designed to help you gain knowledge and develop technical and professional skills for an IT and computer science career. You will gain skills like programming, computational thinking, and problem-solving. Successful graduates have worked for companies like IBM, Motorola, National Grid, and Red Hat as Technical Writers, Technical Analysts, Tech Grads, and Application Support Engineers.
Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security
Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security should enhance your understanding of threats to computer systems while being able to categorize and study these threats in detail. Once completing this course, you should be able to identify issues and apply investigations and reporting procedures to cyber threats. Due to their vast cybersecurity knowledge, Coventry University graduates have worked for companies like the BBC, the UK Government, and Barclays Bank.
Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence
This course should equip you with computational skills that enable you to work effectively in the industry. You have adopted programming skills, computational thinking, software development, and problem-solving skills. Graduates could work as engineers in different facets of the IT sector, whether in Artificial Intelligence, robotics, software engineering, or machine learning engineering.
Data Science
A data science course at Coventry University, should enhance your understanding of the theoretical foundations of data science. You should be able to design and evaluate computer systems for various purposes (storage, organization, management, etc.) and apply research skills where appropriate. Previous graduates have worked as Financial Analysts at IBM, Gaming Financial Analysts for Warner Bros, Power Analysts at E.ON, and Finance Assistants at Scottish Power.
Computing Science
A computing science course will prepare you for a professional environment using a critical and reflective approach to computer science. This course will allow you to use practical skills to solve complex problems and gain skills to help you assess issues and find sustainable solutions. Possible career paths include Mobile and Software Application Development, Video Game Design, and Web Development.
Software Engineering
With a degree in software engineering, you should be able to create working solutions to computational and real-world problems using programming languages, learn to think computationally, and develop software from its first stage to the final product. Successful graduates have worked with various companies, from start-ups to big-name brands.
Cloud Computing
This program is challenged to produce graduates with various skills and a vast understanding of the latest cloud-based platforms and technologies. Graduates could obtain Cloud Support Associate/Engineer, Cyber Security Specialist, Web/Software Development Engineer, or Applications Developer positions.
Cyber Security
Once completing this course, you should be critically aware of legal frameworks and the ethical and professional issues surrounding cyber security. You should understand operating systems, network security, programming language, penetration testing, and ethical hacking. Graduates often enter the cyber security industry in roles like penetration tester, SOC security analyst, or digital forensic investigator. David Ngei Omwura, a Cybersecurity student from Coventry University Wrocław, secured a position at QIAGEN on the Cybersecurity Operations Team. If you want to find out more, read David Omurwa’s Story.
Entry requirements and acceptance rates
Coventry, United Kingdom
Now, let’s discuss what you require to be accepted to this university. Entry requirements refer to specific qualifications and criteria to be accepted into your chosen program.
Acceptance Rate (2023) is 32%.
Entry requirements for you will depend on what qualifications you currently hold. If you are graduating from a school or college in the UK, you can use some examples below.
However, as an international student, you should check the country's entry requirements before applying to your university of choice.
Here are some general requirements:
BSc (Hons) in Computer Science, BSc (Hons) in Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security, and BSc (Hons) in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics all have similar entry requirements.
UCAS Points: 120
A-level Requirements: BBB to include one from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, Computing, or Design Technology. Excludes General Studies.
GCSE 5 GCSEs at grade 4 / C or above to include English and Mathematics.
BTEC BSc (Hons): DDM in IT or a technical subject.
If you want to look at any other program or require more specific entry requirements (including International Entry Requirements), please check the Entry Requirement page for each course): https://www.coventry.ac.uk/
Wrocław, Poland
The requirements for Coventry University Wrocław can be found on the website.
You can use the Chat with Us button on each program page if you need more specific information on any country.
Here you will find the entry requirements for the EU countries:
Entry requirements for EU | Coventry University Wrocław
All the rest of the world:
Entry requirements | Coventry University Wrocław
Coventry University Wrocław offers Full-Time study mode, making the degrees accessible to many. It recognizes a breadth of qualifications. Select your region to find country-specific entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
The university does require an IELTS certificate (level 6.0, including no component below 5.5) to join the courses. However, for students with the relevant IELTS or equivalent but below the minimum requirement, the university can arrange an online interview to assess their English language skills.
Required documents and admissions calendar
Generally, the admission process is flexible if you don’t require a visa, as Coventry University offers rolling admissions throughout the year.
When applying to the UK campus, the UCAS system is where most applications are submitted. However, you may need to use direct applications when applying for specific degrees, such as a Master’s program.
We suggest researching your course and preparing the necessary documents in Autumn for September/October of the following academic year.
If you feel the need, you can attend courses that help support you through your application process.
Here are some things that you will need to prepare when applying for a Bachelor's program:
- ID
- Contact information
- Migration information (only applicable to international students)
- Grade transcript (or diploma if you have graduated from secondary school)
- Personal statement
- A reference.
- Consider any relevant experience (courses/ training) supporting your application.
For Post-graduate courses such as Master of Business Administration , you may need additional documents like a CV and two references (from an academic and professional).
If you are an international student, there are more things you need to do. If English isn’t your first language, you must assess your English level by taking an exam, for example, the IELTS.
If you feel the knowledge of your specification needs improvement, you can start a Foundation Year at CU (Coventry University Group) and gain the understanding you need to take on your bachelor's.
If you are a non-native English speaker and are concerned about your language skills, you can always do a preparation course offered at CU.
Take a look at the calendar we at Cybernews Academy have provided:
October: UCAS opens.
January: UCAS application deadline.
May: decisions usually come back from universities by January. Once you receive an offer, you should reply to it as soon as possible.
July: you should send your final diploma results. If accepted, you will receive a CAS letter (Confirmation of Studies) from the university, and you can now apply for a visa. Do not put this process on hold. If you receive your diploma earlier than this, we suggest you send it straight away. Only applicable to international students.
Wrocław, Poland
Coventry University, Wrocław, has six intakes throughout the year, so you do not have to worry about missing any deadlines. You can submit a direct application by downloading the application form here: https://www.coventry.ac.uk/wroclaw/study/how-to-apply/
Full-time degrees can be started in September, November, January, March, May, or July, so there is plenty of flexibility. Please check the website for more specific information on the deadlines: www.coventry.ac.uk/wroclaw/study.