International Foundation Certificate

The International Foundation Programme at the University of Derby is designed to provide a recognised English language qualification, enabling progression onto a chosen undergraduate degree. It prepares students for a range of subjects, including Business, Events Management and Tourism, Law, Engineering, Design, Technology, and Art and Design.

The programme develops essential academic skills, including writing, reading, listening, and speaking. Drawing on extensive resources from the University library, scientific journals, and current news and media, students learn contemporary research practices and explore academic studies with an evaluative and professional approach. The course introduces key skills such as referencing and paraphrasing, critical reading and writing, academic writing style, professional presentations and public speaking, effective note-taking, seminar and lecture skills, improving cohesion and coherence, and general English language development to support academic study.

Designed to support international students transitioning to UK study, the programme provides guidance and support from tutors and university services to help students settle into life in the UK and adapt to university-level study. It is specifically tailored for students whose first language is not English, with extensive support for improving English language skills.

The programme is delivered full-time, with 15 or more hours of class per week complemented by self-study, across two semesters. It enables international students who do not yet meet the qualifications or English language requirements for direct degree entry to gain a recognised qualification, preparing them to progress directly onto an undergraduate programme. Students study alongside other international peers in a supportive environment, with expert tutors guiding skill development. During specialist modules, students may be taught by lecturers who also deliver their undergraduate courses.

The International Foundation Programme spans a full academic year from September to June and requires students to achieve 120 credits to pass. All students undertake two core modules. The Academic English module (60 credits) aims to raise English proficiency to a minimum equivalent of IELTS 6.0 across listening, speaking, reading, and writing, which is required to pass the programme and to meet UKBA visa requirements for non-EEA nationals. The Academic Skills module (20 credits) teaches essential skills for undergraduate study, including academic research, project writing, and presentation delivery, with a focus on areas where international students may encounter differences in academic culture.