Course dates and lengths
There are two start dates:
- early September for 35 weeks where minimum entry level is IELTS 5.0
- late October for 28 weeks where minimum entry level is IELTS 5.5
Course content
Both courses follow a combination of English Language and academic subjects:
| From early September to late October |
| English for IELTS |
| Duration: 7 weeks |
Lessons: 21 per week |
| From late October to December |
English for Academic
Purposes (EAP) |
Academic Subjects |
| Duration: 7 weeks |
Duration: 7 weeks |
| Lessons: 10 per week |
Lessons: 9-11 per week |
| From January to mid-June |
English for Academic
Purposes (EAP) |
Academic Subjects |
| Duration: 21 weeks |
Duration: 21 weeks |
| Lessons: 10 per week |
Lessons: 12-14 per week |
One lesson = 55 minutes
English for IELTS
From September to October the primary focus is on improving your score at IELTS (the International English Language Testing System).
This examination is recognised worldwide by more than 4,500 institutions in 120 countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. It is the single most important requirement for non-native speakers who wish to enter a university in the UK or other English-speaking country.
Our teachers have many years’ experience in preparing students for IELTS and success rates are extremely high.
English for Academic Purposes
Your lessons explore contemporary, cross-course themes through the medium of English and develop high level English Language and study skills.
You concentrate on more advanced English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and the study skills required at university including:
- researching, evaluating source material, note-taking, referencing, avoiding plagiarism
- analysing essay questions, paragraphing, developing arguments
- developing reading strategies, building academic vocabulary, presentation skills and strategies
There are a number of formal assessments during the course:
- formal and informal writing activities
- an extended essay based on your own research and
- academic oral presentations
Academic subjects for UFC
The academic element of the University Foundation Course takes place over 28 weeks. You must select one of the following academic streams:
| Business Stream Subjects |
| Business Studies |
+ |
Mathematics for business |
+ |
Economics |
| International Affairs Stream Subjects |
| Philosophy |
+ |
Politics |
+ |
20th Century History |
These academic subjects are taught at pre-university level by specialists who bring the benefits of the latest research in their own areas of expertise.
Each subject requires background reading and research and is assessed through:
- coursework
- extended essay
- final examination, which is externally-moderated
You receive comprehensive advice and support with your applications to university from our Careers and Higher Education adviser.
Read about our students and their recent university success.