International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering

Academic English Skills (30 credits) 

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide. 

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

Prepare for Medicine (15 credits) 

This module is designed specifically for aspiring medical students looking to secure a place at Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS). It is aimed at equipping you with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to meet the demands of medical education. From grasping the intricacies of the National Health System in England and ethical considerations in healthcare to fostering critical thinking, effective communication and reflective practices, this module ensures you confidently navigate the highly competitive medical school entry process and ensures you are fully prepared to confidently take on the challenges of being a medical student.

Pure Maths 1 (15 credits) 

This module aims to provide a solid foundation in mathematics applicable across several disciplines including computing, engineering, life sciences and psychology. The module will develop your confidence in some of the basics such as algebra and calculus, which will prepare you for further study.

Biochemistry and Cell Biology (15 credits) 

You will start your journey of exploration of the science of life in this module, where you will be studying the mysteries of life's fundamental components, such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids while delving into the intricacies of cellular processes such as cellular respiration, DNA replication, gene expression, and cell division. You will gain practical expertise through engaging laboratory sessions and hone critical skills in academic writing, data analysis, and making observations.

Genetics, Ecology and Physiology (15 credits)

Building upon the foundation laid in the previous module, "Biochemistry and Cell Biology," you will continue your scientific exploration in to study of life by delving into topics such as genetics, speciation, gene technology, ecology and human physiology in this module. Engaging in learning activities, you will develop essential skills in literature search, data handling, and academic writing, empowering you to excel in your studies at the University of Sussex and beyond.

Organic Chemistry and Structural Theory (15 credits)

This module aims to provide you with a good background knowledge in organic chemistry that will complement the study of the Biochemistry and Cell Biology module. It will develop your experience in essential techniques in the laboratory that will underpin your future studies. The module aims to develop critical thinking, promote independent study and research. 

Physical and Quantitative Chemistry (15 credits)

This module aims to provide you with a good understanding of fundamental concepts in physical chemistry and to develop experience of essential techniques in the laboratory that will underpin your future studies. The module aims to develop critical thinking, promote independent study and research. 

The International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering – Medicine pathway offers the progression degree option to study Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery (BM BS) at Brighton and Sussex Medical School. This is a highly selective programme and students are expected to meet the minimum grades required on all modules as well as other progression criteria including an interview with Brighton and Sussex Medical School. For full information, see progression information below. 

The BM BS is a five-year medical degree course that has been designed to help students become a highly competent, strongly motivated doctor, committed to the highest standards of clinical practice, professionalism and patient care. 

Progression information 

You will be offered a guaranteed interview during the second semester of your studies at the University of Sussex International Study Centre. The ISC will prepare you for your guaranteed interview ensuring that you have the best opportunity possible in which to secure progression to Brighton and Sussex Medical School on a medical degree course.

• Interviews are Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) around core themes e.g., NHS values, communication, empathy and motivation. 

As well as a successful interview, you will also have to meet other progression criteria to progress: 

• 75% in all academic subject modules 
• 70% in English and 70% in each English skill (IELTS 7.0 equivalent)  
• Students who fail one module will be allowed one resit only. Students who fail more than one module will not progress. 
• Successful BMAT (The ISC will prepare students to take this test during the first semester) 

Students who are not successful at the interview will be eligible to progress to BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science or BSc (Hons) Medical Neuroscience at the University of Sussex, providing progression requirements are met, and may be given further interviews to study medicine after Year 1 and Year 3 of these courses, based on their performance.

Academic English Skills (30 credits)

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

Foundations of Science^ OR Prepare for Medicine (15 credits)

Foundations of Science

This module aims to introduce you to the fundamental skills that underpin the practice of science within all STEM subjects, introducing core concepts and practical techniques. This module will also provide you with basic study skills and an understanding of good academic practice to facilitate effective engagement with all other modules within your programme of study.

Prepare for Medicine

This module is designed specifically for aspiring medical students looking to secure a place at Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS). It is aimed at equipping you with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to meet the demands of medical education. From grasping the intricacies of the National Health System in England and ethical considerations in healthcare to fostering critical thinking, effective communication and reflective practices, this module ensures you confidently navigate the highly competitive medical school entry process and ensures you are fully prepared to confidently take on the challenges of being a medical student.

Biochemistry and Cell Biology (15 credits)

You will start your journey of exploration of the science of life in this module, where you will be studying the mysteries of life's fundamental components, such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids while delving into the intricacies of cellular processes such as cellular respiration, DNA replication, gene expression, and cell division. You will gain practical expertise through engaging laboratory sessions and hone critical skills in academic writing, data analysis, and making observations.

Genetics, Ecology and Physiology (15 credits)

Building upon the foundation laid in the previous module, "Biochemistry and Cell Biology," you will continue your scientific exploration in to study of life by delving into topics such as genetics, speciation, gene technology, ecology and human physiology in this module. Engaging in learning activities, you will develop essential skills in literature search, data handling, and academic writing, empowering you to excel in your studies at the University of Sussex and beyond.

Organic Chemistry and Structural Theory (15 credits)

This module aims to provide you with a good background knowledge in organic chemistry that will complement the study of the Biochemistry and Cell Biology module. It will develop your experience in essential techniques in the laboratory that will underpin your future studies. The module aims to develop critical thinking, promote independent study and research.

Physical and Quantitative Chemistry (15 credits)

This module aims to provide you with a good understanding of fundamental concepts in physical chemistry and to develop experience of essential techniques in the laboratory that will underpin your future studies. The module aims to develop critical thinking, promote independent study and research.

Pure Maths 1^ (15 credits) OR Applications of Maths (15 credits)

Pure Maths 1

This module aims to provide a solid foundation in mathematics applicable across several disciplines including computing, engineering, life sciences and psychology. The module will develop your confidence in some of the basics such as algebra and calculus, which will prepare you for further study.

Applications of Maths

The aim of this module is to provide you with opportunities to develop, practice and demonstrate core mathematical skills relevant to a range of undergraduate degree courses at the University of Sussex. Through seminars and independent study, the module will enable you to apply these concepts and skills, including the use of spreadsheets, to real-life situations.

^{^Preferred Module – students on this route are most likely to study this module. You may choose the alternative module given instead.}

Academic English Skills (30 credits) 

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide. 

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context. 

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning. 

Foundations of Science (15 credits) 

This module aims to introduce you to the fundamental skills that underpin the practice of science within all STEM subjects, introducing core concepts and practical techniques. This module will also provide you with basic study skills and an understanding of good academic practice to facilitate effective engagement with all other modules within your programme of study.   

Pure Maths 1 (15 credits) 

This module aims to provide a solid foundation in mathematics applicable across several disciplines including computing, engineering, life sciences and psychology. The module will develop your confidence in some of the basics such as algebra and calculus, which will prepare you for further study. 

Pure Maths 2 (15 credits) 

Building upon the foundations laid in Pure Mathematics 1, Pure Mathematics 2 aims to deepen and broaden your grasp of diverse mathematical concepts. From trigonometry and algebra to calculus and series expansions, you will be given the opportunity to dive into the captivating world of advanced mathematical topics and explore new dimensions of mathematical thinking. The module is designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to excel in a transformative mathematical expedition.  

Physics Fundamentals 1 (15 credits) 

The aim of this module is to develop interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with engineering where detailed knowledge of physics is required. The module will introduce concepts and develop your ability to solve scenario-based real-life problems associated with materials, heat and temperature, gases, quantum physics, radioactivity, and nuclear energy. 

Physics Fundamentals 2 (15 credits) 

The aim of this module is to introduce the concepts related to the basics of electric circuit analysis, magnetism, and wave motion. The module will develop your ability to solve problems associated with electric circuits, wave motion and investigate these topics through laboratory experiments. 

Mechanics (15 credits) 

This is a comprehensive module, which offers a deeper insight into fundamental concepts such as statics, kinematics, and dynamics, specifically tailored to align with core subjects at the University of Sussex. Whether you're an aspiring engineer or simply eager to delve into the world of mechanics, this module will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to unravel the complexities of mechanics and apply them to real-world engineering challenges.

Academic English Skills (30 credits) 

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide. 

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

Foundations of Science (15 credits) 

This module aims to introduce you to the fundamental skills that underpin the practice of science within all STEM subjects, introducing core concepts and practical techniques. This module will also provide you with basic study skills and an understanding of good academic practice to facilitate effective engagement with all other modules within your programme of study.  

Applications of Maths^ OR Pure Maths 1 (15 credits) 

Applications of Maths 

The aim of this module is to provide you with opportunities to develop, practice and demonstrate core mathematical skills relevant to a range of undergraduate degree courses at the University of Sussex. Through seminars and independent study, the module will enable you to apply these concepts and skills, including the use of spreadsheets, to real-life situations. 

Pure Maths 1 

This module aims to provide a solid foundation in mathematics applicable across several disciplines including computing, engineering, life sciences and psychology. The module will develop your confidence in some of the basics such as algebra and calculus, which will prepare you for further study.  

Research Methods in Psychology (15 credits) 

This module introduces you to psychological research design and statistical data analysis. You will develop understanding of how quantitative psychological research is conducted, analysed, interpreted and evaluated. You will also contextualise the basic statistical analyses learned in Mathematics for Psychology within psychological research. This module will provide an opportunity to apply your knowledge and research skills during a standard psychology research replication project. 

Principles of Psychology (15 credits) 

This module will facilitate your understanding of key principles underlying psychology as a science and provide an appreciation of the diversity of psychological approaches. You will understand key themes in the development of psychology as a discipline and consider important ethical considerations of research. The module will develop your study skills appropriate to studying psychology, including scientific literacy and writing, and critical thinking.  

^{^Preferred Module – students on this route are most likely to study this module. You may choose the alternative module given instead.}

Biological and Cognitive Psychology (15 credits) 

This module will provide a greater depth of understanding into key themes of psychology from the biological and cognitive perspectives, such as behaviourism, motivation and psychopathology.  The module will develop your knowledge of theory and research, developing a range of academic skills in preparation for further study. 

Social and Developmental Psychology (15 credits) 

This module will provide a greater depth of understanding into key themes of psychology from the social and developmental perspectives, such as development psychology, social relations and conformity.  The module will facilitate your appreciation of significant developments within research through engagement with key literature and enable you to further develop your critical thinking through evaluation of research findings.

Academic English Skills (30 credits) 

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning. 

Foundations of Science (15 credits) 

This module aims to introduce you to the fundamental skills that underpin the practice of science within all STEM subjects, introducing core concepts and practical techniques. This module will also provide you with basic study skills and an understanding of good academic practice to facilitate effective engagement with all other modules within your programme of study.   

Applications of Maths^ OR Pure Maths 1 (15 credits) 

Applications of Maths 

The aim of this module is to provide you with opportunities to develop, practice and demonstrate core mathematical skills relevant to a range of undergraduate degree courses at the University of Sussex. Through seminars and independent study, the module will enable you to apply these concepts and skills, including the use of spreadsheets, to real-life situations. 

Pure Maths 1 

This module aims to provide a solid foundation in mathematics applicable across several disciplines including computing, engineering, life sciences and psychology. The module will develop your confidence in some of the basics such as algebra and calculus, which will prepare you for further study. 

Object Oriented Programming (15 credits) 

This module will provide you with an understanding of how to design algorithms to solve a range of real-world problems in the Java programming language. The module will teach you all of the core concepts required within a programming language from an object-oriented perspective. Throughout the module you will learn to analyse the requirements of a problem and design and develop solutions to solve the problem using Java. 

Algorithms and Data Structures (15 credits) 

This module will enable you to gain a thorough understanding of the essential algorithms and data structures in computer science. Algorithms are the fundamental building blocks of computer science and an effective knowledge of how to derive original algorithms in addition to an awareness of classic algorithms is an essential skill for all computer scientists. Through engaging activities and practical exercises, you will sharpen your computational thinking abilities, enabling you to effectively analyse and tackle real-world problems in the realm of computer science.  

^{^Preferred Module – students on this route are most likely to study this module. You may choose the alternative module given instead.} 

Databases and Internet Computing (15 credits) 

This module introduces you to the main concepts behind databases and their use in a variety of applications. You will develop an understanding of relational databases and the use of SQL (structured query language) which is used to extract and manipulate data. The use of databases and cloud computing is also examined in this module.  

Computer Systems (15 credits) 

This module introduces you to the techniques to implement the three fundamental abstractions of a computing system: memory, processors and communication links. The methods to implement memory include both the design of hardware memory devices such as RAM chips and that of higher-level memory systems such as file systems. The basic building blocks for the processor such as logic circuits will be introduced along with the Von-Neumann computer model and the assembly language instruction sets that are used to implement the processor abstraction. Implementations of communication abstraction that will be studied include internal communication in operating systems and external communication through network layers and protocols of the Internet. 

Academic English Skills (30 credits) 

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide. 

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context. 

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.  

Media, Communication and Society (15 credits) 

This module develops your understanding of the role that media plays in shaping today’s social, cultural, business and political world. Throughout the module you will explore a range of contexts where media is used, whilst developing core transferable skills, which are useful in other modules, future study, career and beyond. In the final weeks of the module you will apply your knowledge and practise these skills for a final group assessment.  

Materials and 3D Modelling (15 credits) 

This module introduces you to the atomic structure and properties of engineering materials, and how this knowledge helps with the design of various engineering components. This information will be used to design and analyse components using a 3D parametric Computer-Aided Design (CAD) modelling system. 

Creative Media Technologies: Digital Video (15 credits) 

This module will equip you with a basic understanding and awareness of visual media and how to convey meaning through the moving image. You’ll be introduced to many of the technical skills required in filmmaking practices. You will develop your team-working and independent working skills across different types of tasks. You will regularly be expected to present and critically review your work in front of the class. You will also learn how to provide constructive criticism to others and apply it to yourself.

Creative Media Technologies: Photography (15 credits) 

This module will introduce you to the basic theory and concepts of photography as a medium and develop your appreciation of the possible meanings generated by the still image when placed within different contexts and modes of practice. You will produce a portfolio of photographic work, and experience the creative potential of photography, and some of the historical and critical aspects of photographic practice. 

Media Representation (15 credits) 

In this module you will develop your understanding of representations of social groups, issues, events and places in a wide range of media texts including advertising, film, cartoons and news media, through case studies and regular activities designed to practice and improve analytical and evaluative skills. In doing so, you will deepen your awareness of how media products reflect and shape the social, cultural, historical and political contexts in which they are produced. 

Databases and Internet Computing (15 credits) 

This module introduces you to the main concepts behind databases and their use in a variety of applications. You will develop an understanding of relational databases and the use of SQL (structured query language) which is used to extract and manipulate data. The use of databases and cloud computing is also examined in this module. 

Applications of Maths (15 credits) 

The aim of this module is to provide you with opportunities to develop, practice and demonstrate core mathematical skills relevant to a range of undergraduate degree courses at the University of Sussex. Through seminars and independent study, the module will enable you to apply these concepts and skills, including the use of spreadsheets, to real-life situations. 

Places are limited on the International Foundation Year with progression to Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery (BM BS). Students will be offered a guaranteed interview during the second semester of their studies at the University of Sussex International Study Centre. As well as a successful interview, students will also have to meet other progression criteria to progress.

Mathematics GCSE grade 4 OR pass in Core Mathematics module required for progression to the following degrees:

• Geography BSc (Hons)

Mathematics GCSE grade 5/C or equivalent OR pass in Core Mathematics module required for progression to the following degrees:

• Biochemistry BSc (Hons)
• Biochemistry MSci  (Hons)
• Biochemistry (with an industrial placement year) BSc (Hons)
• Biology MSci (Hons)
• Biology BSc (Hons)
• Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
• Biomedical Science MSci
• Ecology and Conservation BSc (Hons)
• Ecology and Conservation MSci (Hons)
• Genetics BSc (Hons)
• Genetics MSci (Hons)
• Medical Neuroscience BSc (Hons)
• Medical Neuroscience MSci
• Neuroscience MSci
• Neuroscience BSc
• Zoology BSc (Hons)
• Zoology MSci

Mathematics GCSE grade 6/C or equivalent OR pass in Core Mathematics module required for progression to the following degrees:

• Chemistry MChem
• Chemistry BSc (Hons)
• Chemistry (with an industrial placement year) MChem
• Computer Science BSc (Hons)
• Computer Science (4 year course) MComp
• Computer Science (with an industrial placement year) BSc (Hons)
• Computer Science (with an industrial placement) (5 year course) MComp
• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence BSc (Hons)
• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (with an industrial placement year) BSc (Hons)
• Computing for Business and Management BSc (Hons)
• Computing for Business and Management (with an industrial placement year) BSc (Hons)
• Computing for Digital Media and Games BSc (Hons)
• Computing for Digital Media and Games (with an industrial placement year) BSc (Hons)
• Psychology BSc (Hons)
• Psychology (with professional placement year) BSc (Hons)
• Psychology with Business and Management BSc (Hons)
• Psychology with Clinical Approaches BSc (Hons)
• Psychology with Criminology BSc (Hons)
• Psychology with Neuroscience BSc (Hons)