Course specification and structure
Undergraduate Course Structures Postgraduate Course Structures

UOIFPSCI - International Foundation Programme Sciences

Course Specification


Validation status Validated
Highest award Preparatory Diploma Level
Possible interim awards Preparatory Certificate
Total credits for course 120
Awarding institution London Metropolitan University
Teaching institutions London Metropolitan University
School School of Social Professions
Subject Area Education
Attendance options
Option Minimum duration Maximum duration
Full-time    
Course leader  

About the course and its strategy towards teaching and learning and towards blended learning/e-learning

The International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a one-year programme designed to prepare EU and overseas students for undergraduate courses at UK universities. Students can choose from a wide range of pathways:
• Architecture & Interior Design;
• Art, Media & Design;
• Business;
• General Admission;
• Humanities & Social Sciences (including Media & Film);
• Law; and
• Sciences (including Biology, Chemistry & Psychology).
The course recruits hundreds of students from up to 70 different countries. This mix of students makes for an exciting and stimulating study environment.
The course will introduce students to key concepts in their subject areas while providing an orientation to higher education in the UK and the study skills and English language skills needed. Assessments are varied and teaching will involve lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, practical sessions and supported blended learning, all with the aim of familiarising the students with the variety of teaching, learning and assessment styles in higher education. Students will be supported through the programme to develop the independent study skills and the confidence they will need to study at undergraduate level.
Through this preparatory year, students will also gain the knowledge and experience of the different degree choices within their subject area to allow them to make an informed choice for progression to the appropriate programme of study at undergraduate level.
As the course is part of London Metropolitan University, students will be taught by university staff. As full time students, they have full access to all university libraries and a wide range of other university facilities.

Course aims

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.

Course learning outcomes

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).

Principle QAA benchmark statements

N/A

Assessment strategy

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.

Organised work experience, work based learning, sandwich year or year abroad

N/A

Course specific regulations

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

Modules required for interim awards

N/A

Career opportunities

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 January to July, and students can then join their chosen Bachelors degree in the following September.

Entry requirements

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 londonmet.ac.uk/international

Official use and codes

Approved to run from 2013/14 Specification version 1 Specification status Validated
Original validation date 03 Sep 2013 Last validation date 03 Sep 2013  
Sources of funding FUNDED ENTIRELY BY STUDENT TUITION FEES
JACS codes F100 (Chemistry): 100%
Route code IFPSCI

Course Structure

Stage 1 Level 03 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
IF3101 Foundation English Core 30        
PR3001 Scientific Studies Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR FRI AM
PR3002 Biology Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR TUE AM
PR3003 Chemistry Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR TUE PM
PC3001 Being a Psychologist: Scientist and Practitioner Option 30 NORTH AUT+SPR TUE PM
PR3006 Nutrition and Sports Science Option 30        
PR3007 Biochemistry Option 30        

Stage 1 Level 03 January start Not currently offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
IF3101 Foundation English Core 30        
PR3001 Scientific Studies Core 30        
PR3002 Biology Core 30        
PR3003 Chemistry Core 30        
PC3001 Being a Psychologist: Scientist and Practitioner Option 30        
PR3006 Nutrition and Sports Science Option 30        
PR3007 Biochemistry Option 30