Foundation Programme

Who is this programme designed for?

The International Foundation Studies Programme is a year-long, full-time foundation programme designed to enable international students to progress onto undergraduate programmes in Ireland.

It sits on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) at Level 5 as a Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies award. It has equivalency with Level 4 on the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). This qualification is internationally recognised. This is a 120 FET credit qualification which equates to approximately 60 ECTS. All students who successfully complete the IFP are guaranteed placement on a suitable programme of undergraduate study at one of our partner universities. 

What will I study?

Business and Social Sciences Pathway Stream

This pathway is designed for students who wish to study in the areas of Business, Accounting, Humanities, Philosophy, Law, Social Sciences. You will study two core modules, one mandatory module and two of four optional modules.

Modules:

• English 60 FET credits (Core module)
• Intercultural Studies and Communication 10 FET credits (Core module)
• Mathematics Ordinary  20 FET Credits (Mandatory module)
  • Business Studies 15 FET Credits (Optional module)
  • Information Systems 15 FET Credits (Optional Module)
  • Global Politics 15 FET Credits (Optional Module)
  • Introduction to Social Science 15 FET Credits (Optional Module)

Engineering and Science Pathway Stream

This pathway is designed for students who wish to study in the areas of Biological Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Science, Pharmaceutical Science and many more. You will study two core modules, one mandatory module and two of four optional modules.

Modules:

• English 60 FET credits (Core module)
• Intercultural Studies and Communication 10 FET credits (Core module)
• Mathematics Higher 20 FET Credits (Mandatory module)
  • Biology 15 FET Credits (Optional module)
  • Chemistry 15 FET Credits (Optional Module)
  • Physics 15 FET Credits (Optional Module)
  • Computer Science 15 FET Credits (Optional Module)

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed at regular intervals throughout the programme to ensure you are making the progress required to successfully complete the programme. Full assessment of the programme will take place in the final semester. Assessment methodologies are aligned to those that will be experienced in the University environment, and include project work, essays, presentations and unseen examination. Students shall attend all assessments, including written examinations, for the modules on which they are registered and submit coursework for assessment as required. Students must successfully pass all core modules and options to successfully complete the programme. Full details are in the UniHaven Quality Assurance Manual, the UniHaven Assessment and Awards Policy and the Programme Handbook.

How long will I study for?

This programme lasts seven months, the year divided into two semesters of 12 to 13 teaching weeks and one examination week. On average, you will undertake 22 hours of classroom-based study per week. 

English Language forms up to eight hours of your timetable, is compulsory for students who are below the required level for progression, and will be integrated into the teaching of academic subjects as well as being taught separately if you need additional support. Students who are at or above the required English level for progression are likely to follow a reduced timetable.

Students will be expected to timetable self-study hours in addition to the classroom-based hours.