Intensive Foundation Semester

Program Overview

Overview

The Intensive Foundation Semester is a 5-month program designed to prepare students for their chosen degree program by providing additional instruction in sciences and English language.

Starting Date and Duration

• Starting date: February
• Duration: 5 months

Language and Academic Requirements

• Language requirements: Basic English language proficiency
• Academic requirements: High school certificate; or 12 years of education; or British curriculum (5 O' level + 3 AS' level/2 A' level exams)

Short Description

The Intensive Foundation Semester provides students with the necessary skills to proceed to study their chosen discipline. It offers a range of courses, including intensive English language study, which bridges the gap between the students' current qualifications and background and the knowledge and skills required for honors courses.

Program Structure

• Education of basic science subjects: biology, physics, mathematics, and chemistry
• Courses in professional English and Hungarian languages
• Optional subjects: mathematics, IT skills, biology, chemistry, physics
• Laboratory exercises may be included

Admission Criteria

• Students successfully finishing the Intensive Foundation Semester program with an average of 4.0 are guaranteed admission into any engineering, IT, or business program.
• Others can take an entrance examination.

Tuition Fee and One-time Fees

• Tuition Fee: 4,800 USD
• One-time fees: application fee 150 USD, entrance procedure fee 350 USD

Study Period and Entrance Examination

• Study period: 19th February - 14th June 2024
• Entrance examination period: 24th - 28th June 2024 (for students who do not win automatic admission)

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Intensive Foundation Semester (IFS) bridges the educational gap for students pursuing engineering, IT, or business programs at the University of Debrecen.
It provides a comprehensive academic preparation for students who may need additional support to meet the program's entry requirements.
• Objective: The program's primary objective is to enhance students' scientific knowledge in subjects like biology, physics, mathematics, and chemistry, ensuring they possess a strong foundation for their chosen degree program.
Additionally, the program offers English language instruction to improve their communication skills and facilitate seamless integration into the university's academic environment.

Outline:

• Program Content: IFS involves preparatory courses in various fundamental subjects:
• Basic Science Subjects: Mathematics, physics, biology, and chemistry
• English Language: Standard and professional English language courses to bridge linguistic proficiency gaps
• Hungarian Language: Introductory Hungarian language instruction is included for foreign students.
• Course Structure: The program consists of a series of courses spread across the five-month duration, from February to June.
• Course Schedule: The schedule includes a mix of core science subjects, English language classes, and Hungarian language instruction.
Depending on students' specific needs, additional courses in computer skills, mathematics, chemistry, biology, or physics may be incorporated into the curriculum.
• Module Description:
• Mathematics: This module covers essential mathematics concepts and techniques to prepare students for the quantitative demands of their chosen degree program.
• Physics: The physics module provides foundational knowledge in kinematics, dynamics, energy, electricity, and magnetism.
• Biology: The biology module introduces the fundamentals of life sciences, including cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
• Chemistry: The chemistry module focuses on basic chemical concepts, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, and reactions.
• English Language: Standard English language courses aim to enhance general English proficiency, covering grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills.
• Professional English Language: These courses emphasize scientific and technical English, focusing on the language used in specific disciplines like engineering, business, and medicine.
• Hungarian Language: The Hungarian language module introduces basic Hungarian vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation to facilitate students' integration into Hungarian society.
• Computer Skills: This optional course provides foundational knowledge and skills in computer usage and applications.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: Student progress is evaluated through a combination of methods:
• Regular coursework assignments
• Quizzes and midterm examinations
• Final exams at the end of the semester
• Criteria: The assessment criteria vary depending on the specific module, subject, and evaluation method.
Generally, students are expected to demonstrate a strong grasp of the subject matter, critical thinking skills, and effective communication abilities.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes diversified teaching methodologies:
• Interactive lectures that present the core concepts and theories
• Small-group discussions to foster collaboration and active learning
• Practical laboratory sessions to enhance hands-on experience
• Guided study sessions to provide additional support and clarification
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty members from various departments within the university, including the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, and the Faculty of Economics and Business.
• Unique Approaches: The program offers tailored support services for international students, including academic advising and language assistance, to ensure their successful transition to the university and the Hungarian higher education system.

Careers:

• Career Paths: The Intensive Foundation Semester prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities within the fields of engineering, IT, and business.
Graduates can pursue careers as:
• Engineers in various industries, such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering
• IT professionals in software development, data analysis, or cybersecurity
• Business leaders and entrepreneurs in diverse sectors, such as finance, marketing, or management

Tuition Fee: 4,800 USD One time fees: application fee 150 USD, entrance procedure fee 350 USD