Course Overview
About the International Foundation Programme
Key entry requirements
Tuition fees
Apply online
Course overview
Studied at High School level overseas and ready to take the next step towards your STEM career?
Solent University’s International Foundation Programme in STEM aims to support students who have completed their High School education abroad transition into level 4 study in the UK. Emphasis is placed upon building your confidence and independence so you are able to learn effectively within the UK’s academic culture.
The STEM pathway has been designed to contain real-life scenarios and practical applications. The aim is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence when problem-solving in scientific and engineering contexts by applying the correct scientific and mathematical theory.
What will I study?
The STEM pathway enables students who are seeking to join a Solent Undergraduate degree in the disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) an opportunity to develop fundamental knowledge contextualised to their chosen area of study.
This programme is designed with real-life scenarios and practical applications in mind and equips students with the knowledge and confidence to apply scientific and mathematical theory for the purpose of problem-solving in a variety of contexts. Drawing on examples from science, computing, construction, mechanical and electrical engineering, the Pathway demonstrates the relevance of mathematical principles and helps to prepare learners to deepen their study in their chosen degree course.
This Pathway teaches the fundamentals of mathematical reasoning and, through the application of this knowledge to increasingly complex problems, develops the learners’ skills in independent problem-solving skills. The aim of the academic pathway-specific modules is to not only develop competencies in mathematics and problem solving but to expose learners to the knowledge and skills that apply to their chosen area of study related to STEM subjects.
Course progression
You will be advised at the point of offer if there are any further progression requirements for your chosen undergraduate programme.
- BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security Management
- BSc (Hons) Digital Design and Web Development
- BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Health, Nutrition & Exercise Science
- BEng (Hons) Marine Engineering
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Psychology (Counselling & Mental Health)
- BSc (Hons) Psychology and Sociology
- BSc (Hons) Criminal Investigation with Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling and Mental Health
- BSc (Hons) Criminology and Psychology
- BEng (Hons) Renewable Energy Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Software Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
- BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Psychology
- BEng (Hons) Yacht and Powercraft Design
- BEng (Hons) Yacht Design and Production
What is an international foundation programme?
An International Foundation Programme is a subject-specific course which prepares you for university study in the UK by developing your academic skills and your ability to use English in an academic context, together with helping to develop your subject knowledge.
Who’s the programme for?
If you are a recent high school graduate, who would like to study for an undergraduate degree in the UK, but you do not fully meet the entry criteria (academic and/or linguistic), this programme is for you.
It is specifically designed to support your transition from high school to the UK higher education system if you are an international student who:
- Needs to improve your English language and academic skills in the context of the UK higher education system
- Prefers to adapt to the British culture in an academic context before starting an undergraduate degree.
Where will this programme lead you?
Once you successfully complete the International Foundation Programme you will be able to meet the entry requirements and be well equipped to progress to undergraduate study at Solent University.
What benefit will you get from the programme?
Specifically, the International Foundation Programme has a number of objectives:
- Equip you with appropriate learning and study skills to support your study experience, academically and personally, at an undergraduate level and above
- Develop and ensure you have the required level of English ability to engage successfully with undergraduate study at a UK University
- Enhance your ability to work with academic subjects at undergraduate level
- Develop your confidence and independence and your ability to learn effectively within the UK’s academic culture.
- Introduce you to the learning, teaching and assessment regimes adopted at undergraduate level and above at UK universities
- Learn specific knowledge relevant to your chosen degree and future career
Teaching and assessment
All of our pathway programmes are fully embedded so you will be studying your course on-campus in Southampton, with access to all of the university facilities that you can expect for your undergraduate studies at Solent.
Throughout your studies, you will be taught by experienced lecturers and academics who use their experience to develop your English and academic skills in preparation for progression onto your chosen undergraduate course.
Course contact time: 16-20 hours/week
Additional study time: 15-20 hours/week for self-study and individual learning
You will be taught through a mix of teaching methods which may include: lectures, seminars, and workshops.
Assessment for this programme is through a mix of Coursework, portfolios, and in-class tests.
These programmes are delivered as part of a partnership between Solent University and QA Higher Education. The programmes are validated by the University and delivered by QA Higher Education staff.
Course modules
If you are studying the 2 Term programme, you will study Terms One and Two.
Terms one and two
All units are 20 credits, unless otherwise stated.
The module has been designed to help you develop the type of language skills used in an academic context and help you engage effectively with the teaching environments you will experience at undergraduate level. You will develop your academic English reading, writing, listening & speaking skills and explore the types of materials and sources you will be expected to use on your degree course.
During the module, you will listen to lectures and practice note-taking, learn how to read critically, develop your writing skills through the production of a variety of writing genres, and participate in different types of speaking tasks. You will also enrich and improve your academic vocabulary and grammatical accuracy.
In this module, you will explore and develop the academic skills and language which are specifically related to your area of study at degree level.
The aim of the module is to prepare you for the linguistic challenges of your chosen area of study at undergraduate level. Therefore, the resources you will be exposed to during the module will be related to some of the topics covered in your pathway subject modules.
You will develop your teamwork skills in this module as the assessment is based on collaborative tasks. You will also be encouraged to research your future progression degree further and connect with relevant University departments.
This module is designed to help you develop your English language skills to the level required to begin the International Foundation Programme. As such, the course focusses on the development of the core linguistic skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening, the development of vocabulary, grammatical accuracy and oral fluency.
This module has been designed to support you in your preparation for undergraduate level study by developing your independent study skills.
The module covers a diverse range of academic skills and takes a practical approach to learning. You will be required to participate in interactive classroom sessions and complete independent study tasks. Combined, these will help you improve your skills in the following areas:
- Digital literacy (including basic IT skills and effective email communication)
- Referencing
- Seminar discussions & debates
- Study skills (such as time management and planning assignments)
On completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate your readiness for study at undergraduate level by developing the key academic skills that will enhance your success on the degree course
In this module, you will learn how to write an academic essay using a structure and style which is appropriate for undergraduate level study.
You will have the opportunity to select a topic related to your progression degree course which particularly interests you and then explores this further through the development of your essay. You will be guided through the process of essay writing, from the development of your title to the planning and research stages and the correct structure and style.
Part of your assessment for this module involves the delivery of an academic presentation, based on your chosen essay topic. The module gives you, therefore, an opportunity to practise your academic communication skills in both a written and verbal format.
The aim of this module is to provide you with a basic introduction to the fundamental mathematical concepts that have far-reaching applications in STEM subjects.
Several concepts from discrete mathematics and algebra will be introduced and you will acquire a practical understanding through solving mathematical problems that relate to STEM subjects.
Content includes the following areas of study, among others: fractions and percentages; equations; ratio and proportion; shape & trigonometry; differentiation; mathematical modelling.
This module provides an opportunity for you to investigate problems and to define and implement appropriate logical and creative solutions. The module will introduce and develop methods of data analysis, using key concepts from statistics. This will foster the development of practical skills as scenarios will be presented from a range of STEM contexts. This will enable you to develop a deeper understanding of problem-solving tools and data analysis techniques.
Areas of study in this module can include: critical thinking; analysing arguments and evidence; problem-solving techniques & decision-making; linear programming; probability; hypothesis testing.
The course information displayed on this page is correct for the academic year 2024/25. We aim to run the course as advertised however, changes may be necessary due to updates to the curriculum (due to academic or industry developments), student demand or UK compliance reasons.
To study the International Foundation Programme – STEM Pathway you will need to meet the following entry requirements.
Academic requirements
- 12 or 13 years of schooling dependent on the education system in your country.
Country specific entry requirements
To find out more information on the specific entry requirements for your country please click below
View country-specific entry requirements hereEnglish language requirements
- 2 term programme: IELTS 5.0 overall (with no single element below 4.5) from a UKVI Approved Centre.
- 3 term programme: IELTS 4.5 overall (with no single element below 4.0) from a UKVI Approved Centre.
Students with IELTS 5.5 (with no single element below 5.5) can benefit from an integrated CAS to study this IFP, meaning you only make one visa application for the duration of your studies.
Please note that if your qualifications are not in English, we might need certified translations in order to proceed with your application.
Age requirements
Minimum age: 17 years old – you must turn 18 within the first 6 months of your undergraduate programme
Tuition fees 2024/25
- 3 term programme: £15,000
- 2 term programme: £12,500
Tuition fees 2025/26
- 3 term programme: £16,000
- 2 term programme: £13,500
Your course fees cover registration costs, teaching for the course and access to the learning resources at the University and Student Support Services. They do not include the cost of course books, stationery and photocopying/printing costs, accommodation, living costs, travel, hobbies, sports or other leisure activities.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
You will need a laptop or PC (with the Microsoft Office package installed) to prepare your assignments.
You should be prepared to buy any stationery (pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, etc.) you need for your classes as well as specialist materials you may need for your pathway projects. This figure is very dependent on the type of project you decide to complete.
There may occasionally be trips organised, which may form part of your course requirements.
We would suggest allowing an additional £250 to cover these costs.
You can now apply for this course online
Click the buttons below for your preferred start date below which will take you to our online application form.
Apply for January 2025
You will be directed to a QA Higher Education portal to set up an account and complete your application.
| 2-Term |
|---|
| Apply for January |
Apply for October 2025
You will be directed to a QA Higher Education portal to set up an account and complete your application.
| 2-Term | 3-Term |
|---|---|
| Apply for October | Apply for October |
Want to ask a question?
If you have any questions regarding the International Foundation Programme – STEM Pathway, entry requirements, or studying in the UK at Solent, contact us using the form below or visit our Enquire Now page.
Key Information
Level
Foundation - NQF Level 3
Entry Requirements
12 or 13 years of schooling dependent on the education system in your country
Tuition Fees
2024/25: 2 term: £12,500. 3 term: £15,000.
Contact Hours
16-20
Duration
2 or 3 term
Assessment Methods
Coursework, portfolios, and in-class tests
Scholarships or Bursaries
Available
Payment Plans
Available
Minimum Age
17 years old - you must turn 18 within the first 6 months of your undergraduate programme
Maximum Class Size
18
Start Date
October and January
Next Application Deadline
TBC
Location
Southampton
Course Overview
- Course Overview
- About the International Foundation Programme
- Key entry requirements
- Tuition fees
- Apply online
Course overview
Studied at High School level overseas and ready to take the next step towards your STEM career?
Solent University’s International Foundation Programme in STEM aims to support students who have completed their High School education abroad transition into level 4 study in the UK. Emphasis is placed upon building your confidence and independence so you are able to learn effectively within the UK’s academic culture.
The STEM pathway has been designed to contain real-life scenarios and practical applications. The aim is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence when problem-solving in scientific and engineering contexts by applying the correct scientific and mathematical theory.
What will I study?
The STEM pathway enables students who are seeking to join a Solent Undergraduate degree in the disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) an opportunity to develop fundamental knowledge contextualised to their chosen area of study.
This programme is designed with real-life scenarios and practical applications in mind and equips students with the knowledge and confidence to apply scientific and mathematical theory for the purpose of problem-solving in a variety of contexts. Drawing on examples from science, computing, construction, mechanical and electrical engineering, the Pathway demonstrates the relevance of mathematical principles and helps to prepare learners to deepen their study in their chosen degree course.
This Pathway teaches the fundamentals of mathematical reasoning and, through the application of this knowledge to increasingly complex problems, develops the learners’ skills in independent problem-solving skills. The aim of the academic pathway-specific modules is to not only develop competencies in mathematics and problem solving but to expose learners to the knowledge and skills that apply to their chosen area of study related to STEM subjects.
Course progression
You will be advised at the point of offer if there are any further progression requirements for your chosen undergraduate programme.
- BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security Management
- BSc (Hons) Digital Design and Web Development
- BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Health, Nutrition & Exercise Science
- BEng (Hons) Marine Engineering
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Psychology (Counselling & Mental Health)
- BSc (Hons) Psychology and Sociology
- BSc (Hons) Criminal Investigation with Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling and Mental Health
- BSc (Hons) Criminology and Psychology
- BEng (Hons) Renewable Energy Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Software Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
- BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Psychology
- BEng (Hons) Yacht and Powercraft Design
- BEng (Hons) Yacht Design and Production
Key information
Level
Foundation - NQF Level 3
Entry Requirements
12 or 13 years of schooling dependent on the education system in your country
Tuition Fees
2024/25: 2 term: £12,500. 3 term: £15,000.
Contact Hours
16-20
Duration
2 or 3 term
Assessment Methods
Coursework, portfolios, and in-class tests
Scholarships or Bursaries
Available
Payment Plans
Available
Minimum Age
17 years old - you must turn 18 within the first 6 months of your undergraduate programme
Maximum Class Size
18
Start Date
October and January
Next Application Deadline
TBC
Location
Southampton
What is an international foundation programme?
An International Foundation Programme is a subject-specific course which prepares you for university study in the UK by developing your academic skills and your ability to use English in an academic context, together with helping to develop your subject knowledge.
Who’s the programme for?
If you are a recent high school graduate, who would like to study for an undergraduate degree in the UK, but you do not fully meet the entry criteria (academic and/or linguistic), this programme is for you.
It is specifically designed to support your transition from high school to the UK higher education system if you are an international student who:
- Needs to improve your English language and academic skills in the context of the UK higher education system
- Prefers to adapt to the British culture in an academic context before starting an undergraduate degree.
Where will this programme lead you?
Once you successfully complete the International Foundation Programme you will be able to meet the entry requirements and be well equipped to progress to undergraduate study at Solent University.
What benefit will you get from the programme?
Specifically, the International Foundation Programme has a number of objectives:
- Equip you with appropriate learning and study skills to support your study experience, academically and personally, at an undergraduate level and above
- Develop and ensure you have the required level of English ability to engage successfully with undergraduate study at a UK University
- Enhance your ability to work with academic subjects at undergraduate level
- Develop your confidence and independence and your ability to learn effectively within the UK’s academic culture.
- Introduce you to the learning, teaching and assessment regimes adopted at undergraduate level and above at UK universities
- Learn specific knowledge relevant to your chosen degree and future career
Teaching and assessment
All of our pathway programmes are fully embedded so you will be studying your course on-campus in Southampton, with access to all of the university facilities that you can expect for your undergraduate studies at Solent.
Throughout your studies, you will be taught by experienced lecturers and academics who use their experience to develop your English and academic skills in preparation for progression onto your chosen undergraduate course.
Course contact time: 16-20 hours/week
Additional study time: 15-20 hours/week for self-study and individual learning
You will be taught through a mix of teaching methods which may include: lectures, seminars, and workshops.
Assessment for this programme is through a mix of Coursework, portfolios, and in-class tests.
These programmes are delivered as part of a partnership between Solent University and QA Higher Education. The programmes are validated by the University and delivered by QA Higher Education staff.
Course modules
If you are studying the 2 Term programme, you will study Terms One and Two.
Terms one and two
All units are 20 credits, unless otherwise stated.
The module has been designed to help you develop the type of language skills used in an academic context and help you engage effectively with the teaching environments you will experience at undergraduate level. You will develop your academic English reading, writing, listening & speaking skills and explore the types of materials and sources you will be expected to use on your degree course.
During the module, you will listen to lectures and practice note-taking, learn how to read critically, develop your writing skills through the production of a variety of writing genres, and participate in different types of speaking tasks. You will also enrich and improve your academic vocabulary and grammatical accuracy.
In this module, you will explore and develop the academic skills and language which are specifically related to your area of study at degree level.
The aim of the module is to prepare you for the linguistic challenges of your chosen area of study at undergraduate level. Therefore, the resources you will be exposed to during the module will be related to some of the topics covered in your pathway subject modules.
You will develop your teamwork skills in this module as the assessment is based on collaborative tasks. You will also be encouraged to research your future progression degree further and connect with relevant University departments.
This module is designed to help you develop your English language skills to the level required to begin the International Foundation Programme. As such, the course focusses on the development of the core linguistic skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening, the development of vocabulary, grammatical accuracy and oral fluency.
This module has been designed to support you in your preparation for undergraduate level study by developing your independent study skills.
The module covers a diverse range of academic skills and takes a practical approach to learning. You will be required to participate in interactive classroom sessions and complete independent study tasks. Combined, these will help you improve your skills in the following areas:
- Digital literacy (including basic IT skills and effective email communication)
- Referencing
- Seminar discussions & debates
- Study skills (such as time management and planning assignments)
On completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate your readiness for study at undergraduate level by developing the key academic skills that will enhance your success on the degree course
In this module, you will learn how to write an academic essay using a structure and style which is appropriate for undergraduate level study.
You will have the opportunity to select a topic related to your progression degree course which particularly interests you and then explores this further through the development of your essay. You will be guided through the process of essay writing, from the development of your title to the planning and research stages and the correct structure and style.
Part of your assessment for this module involves the delivery of an academic presentation, based on your chosen essay topic. The module gives you, therefore, an opportunity to practise your academic communication skills in both a written and verbal format.
The aim of this module is to provide you with a basic introduction to the fundamental mathematical concepts that have far-reaching applications in STEM subjects.
Several concepts from discrete mathematics and algebra will be introduced and you will acquire a practical understanding through solving mathematical problems that relate to STEM subjects.
Content includes the following areas of study, among others: fractions and percentages; equations; ratio and proportion; shape & trigonometry; differentiation; mathematical modelling.
This module provides an opportunity for you to investigate problems and to define and implement appropriate logical and creative solutions. The module will introduce and develop methods of data analysis, using key concepts from statistics. This will foster the development of practical skills as scenarios will be presented from a range of STEM contexts. This will enable you to develop a deeper understanding of problem-solving tools and data analysis techniques.
Areas of study in this module can include: critical thinking; analysing arguments and evidence; problem-solving techniques & decision-making; linear programming; probability; hypothesis testing.
The course information displayed on this page is correct for the academic year 2024/25. We aim to run the course as advertised however, changes may be necessary due to updates to the curriculum (due to academic or industry developments), student demand or UK compliance reasons.
To study the International Foundation Programme – STEM Pathway you will need to meet the following entry requirements.
Academic requirements
- 12 or 13 years of schooling dependent on the education system in your country.
Country specific entry requirements
To find out more information on the specific entry requirements for your country please click below
View country-specific entry requirements hereEnglish language requirements
- 2 term programme: IELTS 5.0 overall (with no single element below 4.5) from a UKVI Approved Centre.
- 3 term programme: IELTS 4.5 overall (with no single element below 4.0) from a UKVI Approved Centre.
Students with IELTS 5.5 (with no single element below 5.5) can benefit from an integrated CAS to study this IFP, meaning you only make one visa application for the duration of your studies.
Please note that if your qualifications are not in English, we might need certified translations in order to proceed with your application.
Age requirements
Minimum age: 17 years old – you must turn 18 within the first 6 months of your undergraduate programme
Tuition fees 2024/25
- 3 term programme: £15,000
- 2 term programme: £12,500
Tuition fees 2025/26
- 3 term programme: £16,000
- 2 term programme: £13,500
Your course fees cover registration costs, teaching for the course and access to the learning resources at the University and Student Support Services. They do not include the cost of course books, stationery and photocopying/printing costs, accommodation, living costs, travel, hobbies, sports or other leisure activities.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
You will need a laptop or PC (with the Microsoft Office package installed) to prepare your assignments.
You should be prepared to buy any stationery (pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, etc.) you need for your classes as well as specialist materials you may need for your pathway projects. This figure is very dependent on the type of project you decide to complete.
There may occasionally be trips organised, which may form part of your course requirements.
We would suggest allowing an additional £250 to cover these costs.
You can now apply for this course online
Click the buttons below for your preferred start date below which will take you to our online application form.
Apply for January 2025
You will be directed to a QA Higher Education portal to set up an account and complete your application.
| 2-Term |
|---|
| Apply for January |
Apply for October 2025
You will be directed to a QA Higher Education portal to set up an account and complete your application.
| 2-Term | 3-Term |
|---|---|
| Apply for October | Apply for October |
Want to ask a question?
If you have any questions regarding the International Foundation Programme – STEM Pathway, entry requirements, or studying in the UK at Solent, contact us using the form below or visit our Enquire Now page.