International Foundation Year in Engineering, Science and Computing

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at the partner University.

The Statistics with Project Skills module aims to develop students’ statistical competence in Semester 1 and to apply research, collaborative, and investigative skills in Semester 2 through a structured sustainability-focused project. The module integrates quantitative reasoning with authentic project-based inquiry to prepare students for undergraduate study.

The module is divided into two integrated phases. In Phase 1, students develop core statistical knowledge and techniques through structured disciplinary problem-solving. In Phase 2, students will engage in an investigative project, collaborating, if possible, within multidisciplinary teams to explore and resolve sustainability challenges. This phase builds directly on the subject knowledge and analytical skills developed in Semester 1.

The module is designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and core mathematics skills required for courses in Engineering, Computing, Economics & Finance and other STEM subjects. Its overall aim is to develop the academic language, subject-specific knowledge, academic study skills, and cultural awareness of international students from a wide range of countries and educational systems. This will enable them to progress confidently onto their chosen undergraduate programme with the appropriate subject background skills. The module also aims to foster an interest in mathematics and its applications, while enhancing students' self-confidence, initiative-taking, and independent working skills.

This module introduces the essential principles and concepts of computer science to students with diverse backgrounds, aiming to prepare them for further undergraduate studies in this field. By engaging with this module, students will cultivate their computational thinking abilities, which will enable them to approach real-world systems and their own creations with creative, analytical, and logical perspectives. Moreover, students will acquire foundational programming skills and will create a programme, applying the principles, techniques, and methodologies learned throughout the module in a practical context.

The chemistry module is a comprehensive course that establishes a strong foundation in chemistry principles. The module covers fundamental topics in atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, and thermodynamics. Through analysis of theoretical models, case studies, and quantitative data, students gain a deep understanding of chemistry.

This module is a cornerstone for students' future studies in chemistry, as it provides them with the analytical and problem-solving skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in both academic and professional settings. Chemists are in high demand in a variety of fields, including medicine, materials science, and environmental science. The Chemistry Module equips students with the skills they need to contribute to these and other important fields.  

The Physics module provides international students with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics. Through a combination of seminars, experiments, and discussions, students will gain a deep understanding of physics and develop the skills they need to succeed in further study and careers in science and engineering. Topics covered include waves, materials, mechanics, fluids, electrical circuits, and atomic physics. Students will learn about the fundamental laws of physics and how these can be applied to the real-world scenarios. Students also enhance their English language skills through academic writing and discussions. This module prepares international students for further studies and careers in science and engineering.