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International Foundation Year in Business, Economics, Accounting and Finance

The International Foundation Year prepares you for university with English language and study skills practice, as well as subject-specific teaching. When you complete the programme, you will progress to the first year of your undergraduate degree. This pathway allows you to progress to degrees in subjects including accounting, business management, financial mathematics and many more. You choose a route depending on which undergraduate degree you plan to study. There are three routes: Accounting and Finance, Business and Economics. Which route you choose impacts the modules you will study.

Key facts

*This intake is not available for progression to Optometry, Dental Surgery, Medicine, Medical Pharmacology or Pharmacy

  • Length: Two semesters
  • Study mode: On campus

Entry requirements

Check our academic and English language entry requirements

Fees

Visit the Fees page for full details.

The best preparation for your career in business

Cardiff University International Study Centre puts you on the path to an exciting future in business. Our International Foundation Year develops your subject knowledge and English language skills, ready for your undergraduate degree. All undergraduate degrees have the option of a professional placement year, giving you the chance to apply your knowledge in a practical setting.

What will I study?

As a student on the this pathway of the International Foundation Year, you will study all of the 'core' modules as well as additional modules depending on which subject route you choose.

Core modules

The Academic English Skills course teaches students the specific academic language skills they need to develop for success at Cardiff University. The course focuses on receptive (listening and reading) and productive (speaking and writing) skills through practice in semi and authentic task-based activities which build a strong foundation in preparation for each student's future studies. This critical module places particular emphasis on developing academic reading and research skills; research-based writing along with presentation and seminar speaking skills.

This module is designed as in introductory course to the fundamental principles of mathematics and statistics, providing students with the necessary skills in statistical analysis essential for students' undergraduate studies in Economics, Finance, and Business disciplines. It offers students valuable opportunity to develop practical skills, equipping students to effectively apply quantitative analysis in real-world contexts. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are thoroughly prepared to navigate the multifaced terrain of Economics, Finance, and Business, where a deep understanding of quantitative aspects is vital for informed decision-making and problem-solving.

Accounting and Finance modules

This module is carefully structured to elevate students’ comprehension of business management concepts while applying this knowledge to address intricate sustainability challenges, often referred to as “wicked problems,” within in the realms of Economics, Business Management and Finance. By infusing sustainability into the curriculum, students are poised to apply business management concepts and cultivate investigative project skills, empowering them to tackle real-world issues as guided by the United Nation's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) goals.

This module provides essential knowledge and applications of the principles, and techniques in accounting and financial management.  It aims to cultivate problem-solving abilities grounded in logical thinking, methodical data analysis, effective communication, and informed decision-making. Attaining a solid grasp of accounting topics within this module equips students with a robust foundation, laying the groundwork for their undergraduate studies at Cardiff University.

Business Management modules

This module is carefully structured to elevate students’ comprehension of accounting while applying this knowledge to address intricate sustainability challenges, often referred to as “wicked problems,” within in the realms of Economics, Business and Finance. By infusing sustainability into the curriculum, students are poised to apply accounting knowledge and cultivate investigative project skills, empowering them to tackle real-world issues as guided by the United Nation's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) goals.

This module has been designed to provide students with a deep and comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted world of business. As students continue their academic journey, it becomes ever more essential for them to build a strong foundation of knowledge. This foundation will equip students with the confidence and expertise needed to successfully navigate the intricate world of contemporary business. Students will be prepared to tackle complex business challenges, make strategic decisions, and contribute effectively to the success of organisations in diverse industries. This module serves as a crucial stepping stone toward students' future careers in business and management.

Economics modules

This module is carefully structured to elevate students’ comprehension of business management concepts while applying this knowledge to address intricate sustainability challenges, often referred to as “wicked problems,” within in the realms of Economics, Business Management and Finance. By infusing sustainability into the curriculum, students are poised to apply business management concepts and cultivate investigative project skills, empowering them to tackle real-world issues as guided by the United Nation's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) goals. 

This module provides a thorough grounding in both Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, with a particular focus on nurturing an economist’s mindset. It empowers students with the analytical capabilities required to evaluate business and economic data, including government policies and interventions. Establishing a strong grasp of economic concepts through this module serves as a sturdy foundation for students as they embark on their undergraduate journey at Cardiff University.

Financial Mathematics modules

This module is carefully structured to elevate students’ comprehension of business management concepts while applying this knowledge to address intricate sustainability challenges, often referred to as “wicked problems,” within in the realms of Economics, Business Management and Finance. By infusing sustainability into the curriculum, students are poised to apply business management concepts and cultivate investigative project skills, empowering them to tackle real-world issues as guided by the United Nation's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) goals.

This module provides essential knowledge and applications of the principles, and techniques in accounting and financial management.  It aims to cultivate problem-solving abilities grounded in logical thinking, methodical data analysis, effective communication, and informed decision-making. Attaining a solid grasp of accounting topics within this module equips students with a robust foundation, laying the groundwork for their undergraduate studies at Cardiff University.

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Professionally accredited

AACSB accredited business school

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Top 100

in the world for Marketing.

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

Progress to your degree

After completing your International Foundation Year and achieving the necessary grades, you can transition to your chosen undergraduate degree.

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Join us today

We're here to support you throughout the application process. Use our online application form and our student enrolment advisors will be available to answer your questions.