International Foundation Year in Health, Medical and Life Sciences

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.

The module is designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and core mathematics skills required for courses in Engineering, Computing, Economics and other STEM subjects. Its overall aim is to develop the academic language, subject-specific knowledge, academic study skills, and cultural awareness of international students from a wide range of countries and educational systems. This will enable them to progress confidently onto their chosen undergraduate programme with the appropriate subject background skills. The module also aims to foster an interest in mathematics and its applications, while enhancing students' self-confidence, initiative-taking, and independent working skills.

The chemistry module is a comprehensive course that establishes a strong foundation in chemistry principles. The module covers fundamental topics in atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, and thermodynamics. Through hands-on laboratory experiments and analytical problem-solving exercises, students gain a deep understanding of chemistry. This module is a cornerstone for students' future studies in chemistry, as it provides them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in both academic and professional settings. Chemists are in high demand in a variety of fields, including medicine, materials science, and environmental science. The Chemistry Module equips students with the skills they need to contribute to these and other important fields.

This module offers a comprehensive introduction to fundamental biological concepts. The module covers topics in cellular biology, biological molecules, and human body systems. It also develops practical skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and scientific report writing, preparing students for more advanced biological studies and fostering a deeper appreciation of the biological world.

The module is designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and core mathematics skills required for courses in Engineering, Computing, Economics and other STEM subjects. Its overall aim is to develop the academic language, subject-specific knowledge, academic study skills, and cultural awareness of international students from a wide range of countries and educational systems. This will enable them to progress confidently onto their chosen undergraduate programme with the appropriate subject background skills. The module also aims to foster an interest in mathematics and its applications, while enhancing students' self-confidence, initiative-taking, and independent working skills. 

The chemistry module is a comprehensive course that establishes a strong foundation in chemistry principles. The module covers fundamental topics in atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, and thermodynamics. Through hands-on laboratory experiments and analytical problem-solving exercises, students gain a deep understanding of chemistry. This module is a cornerstone for students' future studies in chemistry, as it provides them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in both academic and professional settings. Chemists are in high demand in a variety of fields, including medicine, materials science, and environmental science. The Chemistry Module equips students with the skills they need to contribute to these and other important fields. 

The Statistics with Project Skills in Life Sciences module is designed to help students enhance their understanding of statistics and apply this knowledge to address complex sustainability challenges (wicked problems) within the fields of Life Sciences. By incorporating sustainability into the module, students will learn how to utilise their statistical expertise and develop investigative project skills to tackle real-world problems.

This module is divided into two phases. In the first phase, students will utilise statistical methods to solve intricate (wicked) problems specific to their respective areas within Life Sciences and guided by the United Nation's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) goals. This will aid in the development of their disciplinary expertise and foster an appreciation for diverse perspectives. In the second phase, students will engage in an investigative project, collaborating, if possible, within multidisciplinary teams to explore and resolve sustainability challenges. This phase will enable them to apply statistical techniques to real-world scenarios and further enhance their analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills. 

This module offers a comprehensive introduction to fundamental biological concepts. The module covers topics in cellular biology, biological molecules, and human body systems. It also develops practical skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and scientific report writing, preparing students for more advanced biological studies and fostering a deeper appreciation of the biological world.

This module offers a comprehensive introduction to psychology’s key concepts, theories, research methods, and ethical considerations. It provides a strong foundation for understanding human mind and behaviour. The module is relevant for students who are interested in pursuing a career in psychology, or in a related field such as business, politics, or healthcare. Additionally, students will acquire transferable skills like problem-solving, communication and research. 

The Statistics with Project Skills in Life Sciences module is designed to help students enhance their understanding of statistics and apply this knowledge to address complex sustainability challenges (wicked problems) within the fields of Life Sciences. By incorporating sustainability into the module, students will learn how to utilise their statistical expertise and develop investigative project skills to tackle real-world problems.

This module is divided into two phases. In the first phase, students will utilise statistical methods to solve intricate (wicked) problems specific to their respective areas within Life Sciences and guided by the United Nation's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) goals. This will aid in the development of their disciplinary expertise and foster an appreciation for diverse perspectives. In the second phase, students will engage in an investigative project, collaborating, if possible, within multidisciplinary teams to explore and resolve sustainability challenges. This phase will enable them to apply statistical techniques to real-world scenarios and further enhance their analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills. 

This module offers a comprehensive introduction to fundamental biological concepts. The module covers topics in cellular biology, biological molecules, and human body systems. It also develops practical skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and scientific report writing, preparing students for more advanced biological studies and fostering a deeper appreciation of the biological world.

Progression from September ISC intake only:

• BDs Dental Surgery^
• BSc Medical Pharmacology^
• BSc Optometry^
• MBBCh Medicine^
• MPharm Pharmacy
  
  ^IELTS is required to confirm an offer to study for these progression degrees.

A selection process is in place for students aiming to study Dental Surgery and Medicine – find out more here. In order to progress to Optometry, Medical Pharmacology or Pharmacy degree aims, as well as meeting module grades, students will also need to undergo an interview, a DBS check and an Occupational Health check.