Kingston ISC students on campus at Kingston University

International Foundation Year in Engineering, Science and Computing

Study engineering, science and computing in the UK

About this pathway

The International Foundation Year in Engineering, Science and Computing will prepare you for a degree across a range of exciting areas, including architecture, computer science, engineering, game development, and more. By the time you finish the programme, you will have had the necessary specialist English language, study skills and subject specific tuition to prepare you for an undergraduate degree. During the International Foundation Year you will study a core unit of general subject skills, and elective modules, which are carefully designed for your academic development.

Many of the progression degrees include work placements and the opportunity to study abroad, for the same fee as a traditional degree. Combining academic study with professional experience will give you the skills and confidence you need to succeed in your chosen career.

Key Facts

Two semesters

Find out more about specific term dates for this programme.

  • September, November (Enhanced Induction) and January

Find out more about entry requirements and course fees for this programme.

Core modules

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 the partner University.

The Statistics with Project Skills module aims to develop students’ statistical competence in Semester 1 and to apply research, collaborative, and investigative skills in Semester 2 through a structured sustainability-focused project. The module integrates quantitative reasoning with authentic project-based inquiry to prepare students for undergraduate study.

The module is divided into two integrated phases. In Phase 1, students develop core statistical knowledge and techniques through structured disciplinary problem-solving. In Phase 2, students will engage in an investigative project, collaborating, if possible, within multidisciplinary teams to explore and resolve sustainability challenges. This phase builds directly on the subject knowledge and analytical skills developed in Semester 1.

The module is designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and core mathematics skills required for courses in Engineering, Computing, Economics & Finance and other STEM subjects. Its overall aim is to develop the academic language, subject-specific knowledge, academic study skills, and cultural awareness of international students from a wide range of countries and educational systems. This will enable them to progress confidently onto their chosen undergraduate programme with the appropriate subject background skills. The module also aims to foster an interest in mathematics and its applications, while enhancing students' self-confidence, initiative-taking, and independent working skills.

Elective modules

This module introduces the essential principles and concepts of computer science to students with diverse backgrounds, aiming to prepare them for further undergraduate studies in this field. By engaging with this module, students will cultivate their computational thinking abilities, which will enable them to approach real-world systems and their own creations with creative, analytical, and logical perspectives. Moreover, students will acquire foundational programming skills and will create a programme, applying the principles, techniques, and methodologies learned throughout the module in a practical context.

The Physics module provides international students with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics. Through a combination of seminars, experiments, and discussions, students will gain a deep understanding of physics and develop the skills they need to succeed in further study and careers in science and engineering. Topics covered include waves, materials, mechanics, fluids, electrical circuits, and atomic physics. Students will learn about the fundamental laws of physics and how these can be applied to the real-world scenarios. Students also enhance their English language skills through academic writing and discussions. This module prepares international students for further studies and careers in science and engineering.

Please note: you are expected to attend 100% of your classes at the International Study Centre or you are at risk of losing your Student visa.

Why study the Engineering, Science and Computing pathway?

Find out how studying this Engineering, Science and Computing preparational programme at Kingston University London International Study Centre can benefit you as you prepare to study abroad:

Gain expert tuition to reach your potential

At the International Study Centre, students learn from our highly qualified staff. The faculty is made up of a community of dedicated academics, business experts and former industry professionals, all of whom are dedicated to supporting you through your higher education journey. Their expertise, along with the International Foundation Year’s specially tailored curriculum, will provide you with the best start to studying your degree at Kingston.

Access to enterprising career links

Kingston University London is known for its employment links to many global businesses. As well as making connections through the University, students here can gain exposure to a number of career opportunities through being located in the UK's business-centric capital city. With the option to work both before and after you graduate, studying at the International Study Centre will give you all the chances to improve your future job prospects. 

Prepare for life and success at a UK university

Studying at the International Study Centre is designed to ease students into university life. Here, you will get the chance to meet new friends and get used to life in your new city through Centre-hosted social events and outings. Gaining both an academically and culturally focused introduction to university life will help you settle in ahead of studying your degree, as well as ensuring you are ready to achieve your potential in your studies.

Progress to Kingston University degree programmes

Upon successful completion of this International Foundation Year pathway, you may be able to progress to a degree in the area of science, engineering or computing at Kingston University London, in the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment.

English language tuition

If you need to improve your level of English language to enter the International Foundation Year, additional Online English language training is available.

You will need an Academic IELTS for UKVI 4.5 overall (4.5 in writing and minimum 4.0 in all other skills) or equivalent to study the English Language Preparation for International Foundation Year.

Prepare for Success

5 weeks before your selected course you will be automatically enrolled in our Prepare for Success online programme in order to help you get everything you need. You'll benefit from useful insights into studying abroad and have the opportunity to gain key skills before you start your pathway programme.

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Progression degree

Once you have successfully completed your International Foundation Year and achieved the required progression grades, you will progress to your chosen degree.

In addition to achieving the required grades, please note:

  • progression to the Architecture BA (Hons) is subject to a design portfolio review with the University.
Degree Programme NameAwardOverall GradeEnglish Grade
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Kingston University London student Muhammad

"If I would need support, I would definitely contact my tutors. Even my friends as well, they are really good, but the tutors are next level because they are helping in each and every way."

Muhammad from Pakistan

Studied International Foundation Year

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Our student enrolment advisors are available to answer your questions and help you with your application. We can’t wait to meet you.