UOIFPCTM - International Foundation Programme Computing, Technology and Mathematics

The International Foundation Programme (IFP) functions as a preparatory year for undergraduate degree entry. IFP subject pathway routes:

• Architecture and Interior Design;
• Art, Media and Design;
• Business;
• Computing, Technology and Mathematics;
• Humanities & Social Science;
• Law;
• Sciences;

Through these routes, IFP students study a mix of: modules covering academic English language, study skills, researching and presenting, and subject or discipline focused modules.

As a level 3 course, the IFP introduces students to the fundamentals of their chosen discipline, as well as improving their English language within an academic context and introducing them to key academic study and critical thinking skills they will need at level 4 when they start their degrees. It familiarises them with teaching and learning styles in Higher Education in the UK. The year also aims to develop their independent learning, supporting them to become confident and proactive students, able to operate effectively within a large university in London.

Students will gain a solid introduction to their subject and related areas. They will also become familiar with the different ways of studying their discipline at HE level through lectures, classroom discussion, peer-led sessions, 1-1 tutorials, practical sessions/workshops, library research, web-based learning and class visits. The University’s VLE is used to disseminate information and to support and, in some pathways, to assess student learning. Students can post material on the VLE and conduct on-line discussions for group seminar preparation and tutor-led sessions. They will also have access to e-packs and other language support tutorials and resources through VLE links.

The IFP Offices are situated in the Learning Centre on the North campus and, except for Art, Media and Design students, this is the main library they will use. It has recently been refurbished, providing allocated group study areas as well as access to a comprehensive and regularly reviewed range of textbooks, journals and online learning resources. In addition, there are newly fitted ‘all access’ areas with comfortable seating and IT facilities in the Tower building and the Learning Centre as well as the ‘Green Lounge’ in Benwell Road.

The IFP aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills in their pathway subject areas as well as the academic study and critical thinking skills and the ability to communicate their ideas effectively orally and in writing, using appropriate academic English that will allow them to progress to undergraduate degree. It also aims to develop their understanding of different learning and teaching styles in HE in the UK and to build their confidence through their experience.

By the end of the course the student is expected to be able to:

• produce the English language (general academic and pathway specific) needed to be ready for undergraduate study
• understand what is expected of a student in a UK Higher Education Institution and be able to use the independent learning and studying skills needed to make the transition to the next year of study
• understand some of the fundamental concepts/key issues in the pathway subject and its application to the student’s intended course of study
• access and evaluate information independently, making effective use of paper-based, visual and electronic sources and acknowledging their sources correctly in written and oral work
• communicate ideas about their subject and other related disciplines orally, visually and in writing at a level appropriate for undergraduate study
• demonstrate technical skills in the pathways that involve workshops and laboratory practice (including awareness of relevant health and safety issues)

Students are assessed through a variety of methods including project work, portfolios, journals, problem solving exercises, in-class tests, practical datasheets, individual and group-led oral presentations, group-led seminars, essays and examinations.

Formative feedback is provided through regular short in-class and on-line tests, ‘crits’, peer assessment and discussions and tutor oral and written responses.

The course conforms to both the University’s Undergraduate Curriculum Framework and the University Academic Regulations.

Progression to level 4 is subject to a completion and pass (40%) of four x 30 credit or three x 30 credit and two x 15 credit modules or one x 30 credit and six x 15 credit modules (or other variation leading to a total 120 credits). Progression to a particular level 4 course is dependent on passing the appropriate modules from the appropriate pathway. Students are advised of the appropriate route during the admission process and at induction and programme planning.

The cores for the Preparatory Year are listed in section 27. For intermediate awards, any combination of the modules from the course specification would be appropriate, such that for a Preparatory Certificate, 60 credits have been awarded, and for a Preparatory Diploma 120 credits have been awarded.

Throughout the programme students will be required to reflect on their learning, identify areas of strength and weakness and develop action plans in response to these reflections. This will occur informally through tutor and peer feedback and also formally through reflective writing as part of the assessments and the written and oral response from tutors to this. We expect that through this experience of reflective learning, students will start to understand the value of being proactive, independent learners, ready for their first year of undergraduate study.

In their meetings with module leaders and IFP staff, students will discuss degree courses available to them and careers which successful graduates can embark upon. They also have access to the career resources of Student Services.

Students who pass the IFP, and have achieved the required module results, are automatically offered a place in their subject area on one of our three-year bachelors degrees.

The International Foundation Programme runs from September to June and from January to July, and students can then join their chosen Bachelors degree in the following September.

To join this course, you will usually need good results in 12 years of education, and to have completed High School or similar in your own country.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Applicants who require a Tier 4 student visa may need to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements.

You can apply before you have your results.

For more information about life here as an international student please see the International section of our website.