International Foundation programme (IFP)
Do you want to graduate from Northumbria University but do not have a high enough IELTS score?
Do you also need to gain the entry qualifications to study an Undergraduate course at Northumbria University?
This programme is ideal if your qualifications and English language skills fall below the entry requirements for your chosen undergraduate programme. The course lasts for two semesters and offers you the opportunity to develop your English language and study skills, combined with the study of academic subjects. The diploma is multidisciplinary and provides progression to a wide range of degree programmes at Northumbria University, and a qualification that can be used when applying to other universities.
The programme specifically develops your awareness of intercultural issues to enable you to integrate well into student life within a UK university. It helps
you to participate fully in lectures, seminars and project work and develop your independence. Intercultural skills are also an important employment tool that will be useful for you in the future.
Students will study modules in:
- Global Studies and Grammar
- Reading and Critical Analysis
- Intercultural Communication
- Information and Communication Technology (IT)
- Applied Mathematics
- Essay and Report writing
You will have 15 hours of class contact per week, in addition to tutorials and independent study.
How will I learn? (Teaching and Learning)
Teaching and learning is carried out through seminars, lectures, tutorials and workshops. In addition, students are given time for independent study through self-directed learning. You will also use Northumbria Library’s Language Resource Centre, which offers a multimedia facility for language development. Each student will be allocated their own Guidance Tutor who will support your academic and general study needs and who will always be the first point of contact should you need them.
How do I gain admission onto my chosen degree?
When applying you will need to choose your degree course and state this on the application form. If you are accepted you will receive one offer letter for the International Foundation Programme followed by the appropriate degree programme. Once you have successfully completed the International Foundation Programme and achieved the required grades, you can gain direct admission onto your chosen degree at Northumbria.
A wide range of degree programmes can be accessed via the International Foundation Programme, in the following subject areas:
Arts and Social Sciences
Built and Natural Environment
Newcastle Business School
Computing, Engineering and Information Sciences Health, Community and Education Studies
Law
Life Sciences
What are the entry requirements?
We welcome applications from students who have obtained good grades in their upper secondary education. Depending on your chosen degree course, specific subject requirements may apply. If you will be aged under 18 at the start of the International Foundation Programme, you will need to include with your application a consent form signed by your parent or legal guardian (please contact the International Office for details).
English language entry requirements are: IELTS 5.0 / Pearson PTE Academic 39 / TOEFL IBT 65; or if you plan to study Law, the Foundation entry requirement is IELTS 5.5 / Pearson PTE Academic 46 / TOEFL IBT 72. An equivalent score in other English Language qualifications recognised by the University will be accepted.
You will need to have reached the following IELTS equivalent by the end of the International Foundation Programme to enter your chosen programme of study;
| Subject | IELTS equivalent |
| Computing | 6.0 |
| Engineering & Mathematics | 5.5 |
| Sport & Psychology | 6.0 |
| Business | 6.0 |
| Built Environment | 6.0 |
| Social Sciences | 6.0 |
| Law | 6.5 |
| Health & Social Care | 6.0 |
Start dates:
Semester one: September
Entry requirements:
IELTS score as above depending on subject
Plus relevant qualifications as deemed appropriate by the target department.
Tuition fees:
The tuition fees for 2012/2013 are £9,030 per year (September to June)
How to apply:
For information on how to apply please visit the International pages.
Student are advised to contact International Admissions with reference to subject choice.
