International Foundation Programme (IFP)
Business Studies
This pre-university programme is aimed at both EU and non-EU students who wish to gain entry to various degree programmes
at universities in Ireland and in the UK. The programme will be a multi-departmental collaboration including the Schools
of Language Studies, Computing, Business and Science & Engineering. This programme is for a two-semester, 80 credit
qualification delivered over 36 weeks.
The concept of an International Foundation Programme (IFP) evolved from many discussions with both staff and students
in various universities. While some students do not gain entry to their chosen undergraduate programme either through
lack of recognition of their second level qualification or lack of appropriate grades especially in English, others
gain entry but struggle with undertaking a new programme through English or with the course load. This International
Foundation Programme places a large emphasis on achieving a high standard of English and as such substantial proportion
of time is totally devoted to an intense English for Academic Purposes course, at the end of which students will sit
the IELTS exam.
Philosophy, Aims and Objectives
- The aims of the International Foundation Programme at ICOT are to:
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- Furnish prospective students with the requisite subject specific knowledge to both gain entry to and succeed in their chosen degree area.
- Significantly improve students' Academic English language skills to enable students to reach their potential and achieve their target in IELTS scores for gaining entry to their chosen university degree.
- Significantly improve students' general English language skills to enable each student to undertake courses through English and partake in everything living in Ireland has to offer.
- Develop students' skills in learning and study through planned experiential learning, assessments and classroom tuition to enable students embark on their future academic careers.
- Familiarise students with the requisite technical knowledge in Information Communication Technology (including word processing, spreadsheets, preparing and delivering presentations and efficient internet use) to participate in any university degree programme
- Nurture students' skills and confidence to put into practice knowledge learned and continually strive to acquire new skills and knowledge necessary for any future academic career.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should be able to demonstrate completion of second level education with an average mark of at least 50% and have achieved an IELTS score of at least 4.0 or equivalent. In exceptional circumstances, the Director of Studies may choose to interview applicants at her/his discretion where applicants fail to meet entry criteria.