Natural Sciences with a Foundation Year

Program Overview

The Foundation Studies program at Loughborough University is designed to prepare students for degree-level study in science and technology. The program provides a strong foundation in core subjects like mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer science, alongside essential academic and research skills development. Students can choose from a range of pathways, each leading to a specific undergraduate degree program. The program is taught by highly qualified and experienced academics who are committed to providing a supportive and stimulating learning environment.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Foundation Studies programme is designed to help a range of students realise their academic aspirations. The program follows a streamed approach, allowing students to progress onto one of multiple courses within their chosen stream, further helping them decide which course is the right fit for them.

Objectives:

• To prepare students for degree-level study in a supportive learning environment.
• Provide students with a solid foundation on which to build a successful academic career.

Program Description:

• The Foundation Studies course is integrated into students' chosen degrees, providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills needed for successful university study.
• Modules are taught by university staff who are highly experienced in teaching Higher or Further Education, and also participate in research on innovations in e-learning and help shape the National Foundation Year Network policies.
• These are taught in the same high-tech university spaces as those studying undergraduate degrees.
Modules are reviewed annually and may be subject to future changes. Revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

Outline:

• The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in core scientific subjects like mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer science, alongside essential academic and research skills development.

Program structure:

• The Foundation program is typically a one-year full-time program, delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, independent study, group work, workshops, laboratory work, and practical sessions.
• The program is split into two semesters, with each semester containing a range of modules designed to prepare students for their chosen undergraduate program.
• Students can expect to take around 30 credits per semester, with each credit representing approximately 10 hours of study time.
• The program culminates in a series of assessments that test students' understanding of the core concepts covered throughout the year.

Course content:

• The specific modules offered within the Foundation Program will vary depending on the chosen pathway and subsequent undergraduate degree program.
However, some common modules include:
• Compulsory:
• Mathematics
• Engineering
• Physics
• Computer Science
• Creative problem-solving
• Academic & research skills
• Optional modules (pathway specific):
• Mathematics with a foundation year
• Physics with a foundation year
• Engineering with a foundation year
• Chemistry with a foundation year
• Computer Science with a foundation year
• Foundation courses in the Life Sciences stream:
• Biological sciences with a Foundation Year
• Chemistry with a Foundation Year
• Geography with a Foundation Year
• Human Biology with a Foundation Year
• Foundation courses in the Engineering, Maths and Physical Sciences Stream:
• Aeronautical Engineering with a Foundation Year
• Automotive Engineering with a Foundation Year
• Bioengineering with a Foundation Year
• Chemical Engineering with a Foundation Year
• Civil and Architectural Engineering with a Foundation Year
• Computer Science with a Foundation Year
• Electronic and Electrical Engineering with a Foundation Year
• Materials with a Foundation Year
• Mathematics with a Foundation Year
• Mechanical Engineering with a Foundation Year
• Natural Science with a Foundation Year (maths or physics major)
• Physics with a Foundation Year
• Product Design and Technology with a Foundation Year
• Sport Technology with a Foundation Year

Assessment:

• Some modules are assessed continuously throughout the year.
Typical coursework assignments include:
• Laboratory reports
• Essays
• Presentations
• Assessed tutorials
• Workshops
• Peer review (reviewing fellow students’ performance)
• It is expected that for every hour spent in class, students dedicate two hours of independent learning time to research, writing, revision, or completing set questions.

Teaching:

• They actively engage students in their learning through a variety of teaching methods such as:
• Interactive lectures
• Small-group seminars
• Individual tutorials
• Collaborative group projects
• Problem-solving workshops
• They are committed to providing a supportive and stimulating learning environment, fostering student success both in the program and their subsequent undergraduate studies.

Careers:

• Graduates can pursue further studies at the university level or enter various professional fields.
• The program prepares students with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to succeed in various industries, including:
• Engineering
• Physics
• Mathematics
• Computer science
• Biological sciences
• Chemistry
• This program combines academic studies with intensive sports training, allowing athletes to pursue their sporting aspirations while obtaining a high-quality education.
• Students wishing to join the Elite Athlete Programme should contact performancesport@lboro.ac.uk before applying.

UK fees: £9,250 per annum International fees: See ONCAMPUS Loughborough University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Additional costs While the cost of your tuition covers lots of things, it doesn’t cover everything. For instance, this course doesn’t cover the cost of any stationery, printing, books or re-assessments which you might need.