International Foundation Year in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

This module aims to provide you with a foundation in the relationship between mathematical models, science and physics. You will develop a solid understanding of mathematical notation and technical terminology; gain an understanding of mathematical models in simple real-world applications; extend your mathematical skills and techniques and develop an appreciation of applications of mathematics in science and physics.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to: describe the basic laws of physics and demonstrate knowledge of physical concepts and principles; apply mathematical models, theories, concepts and principles in science and engineering to a variety of situations; acquire the ability to draw graphs, and to read and extract information from graphs and technical text, in order to break down a problem into formulated pieces and workable solutions; translate a problem into a mathematical model, making simplifying assumptions and draw conclusions by using mathematical reasoning, interpreting and communicating solutions in the context of the original problem.

This module will build on your fundamental knowledge of Biology in order to prepare you for the first year of undergraduate studies. The course aims to enhance your understanding of living cells, biodiversity, evolution and information flow through cells; develop your understanding of animal physiology with emphasis on human physiology, energy for biological systems and metabolism, genetics and inheritance as well as the principles of human reproduction and provide you with the platform for developing practical skills as well as awareness of laboratory safety practices.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to: recognise the structural formula, characteristics and biological roles of important molecules and identify the main metabolic pathways with emphasis on carbohydrate metabolism; describe the cell theory, the significance of cell division and the concepts of DNA replication, RNA transcription and translation processes; explain the functions and properties of the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, reproductive and control systems; explain the theories of genetics, plant biology, ecology and the importance of microbiology especially in the control of infections and carry out laboratory operations with good awareness of and adherence to chemical and biological safety.

This module will build on your fundamental knowledge of Chemistry in order to prepare you for the first year of undergraduate studies. The course aims to enhance your understanding of the theories of organic and inorganic chemistry and the application of these concepts in problem solving. The module will also stimulate your understanding of the impact of chemistry on society, the economy and the environment and the relationship chemistry has with other areas of study, as well as providing you with the platform for developing practical skills and awareness of laboratory safety regulations and requirements.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to: describe the theoretical background and practical applications of different topics in chemistry; recognise the main elements of the periodic table as well as trends in their physical and chemical properties; apply knowledge of the mole concept, rate equations, chemical energy and redox reactions to analyse chemical equations; identify the impact of chemistry on society, the economy and the environment and how the understanding of these concepts can be applied in other fields of study and apply theoretical concepts through carrying out practical laboratory tasks.

This module will provide you with the foundations of computer science and the ability to develop programs to solve simple engineering problems. The course gives you the opportunity to build your knowledge and understanding of computing and apply the skills you learn to real-world applications. You will also develop an awareness of ethical issues, gain confidence in presenting your work and build teamwork skills.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to: describe technical terminology in computer science and programming including abstraction, logic, algorithms, and data; use programming skills to solve simple engineering problems; demonstrate responsibility for own learning through development of time management and project management skills; work effectively as a member of a team to communicate ideas and solutions using a range of media and extend their practical experience and knowledge to similar projects in the real world and articulate the ethical issues and risk factors involved in digital technology and programming.

This module will build on your fundamental knowledge of Physics in order to prepare you for the first year of undergraduate studies. The course aims to provide you with fundamental knowledge of matter, mechanics, heat and temperature, fields and electromagnetism, electricity and their use in everyday life. The course will enable you to apply the learned concepts for solving real life engineering problems and provide you with the platform for developing practical skills as well as their awareness of laboratory safety practices.

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to: recognize matter in their different states as well as their properties and the laws governing their behaviours; describe observed physical events using the appropriate geometrical or mathematical models; explain the fundamental mechanical behaviour of materials and their response to static, dynamic and thermal loading; apply the theoretical concepts of physics for solving practical problems in engineering and demonstrate good awareness of laboratory safety practices while carrying out different practical work in a laboratory environment.

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 university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

In this module, you will develop an understanding of the applications of mathematics in different areas and discover connections between mathematics and other modules. You will learn to comprehend mathematical arguments and effectively communicate their solutions using mathematical techniques and terminology. You will also develop an awareness of the relevance of mathematics to other fields of study and in a wider context in real-world application and extend your mathematical knowledge to develop solutions for more complex problems.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to: apply knowledge of mathematical methods and processes to solve simple problems; demonstrate problem solving skills and logical thinking; correctly select and apply a wide range of mathematical methods; analyse and evaluate theoretical problems, plan solutions and correctly use mathematical methods and techniques to execute their solutions in logical order and correctly use mathematical processes and terminology to communicate solutions.