Note on the format of Foundation Courses

Foundation courses are an increasingly popular way to enter into university undergraduate degree programmes abroad.

Foundation programmes can be generic, designed to prepare the student for starting a degree in a certain field, for example, foundation programmes in business, in computer science or in humanities and arts. They can also be tailored for a specific type of degree course (specific disciplines).

Foundation programmes don’t usually award students an academic degree upon completion but guarantee a certain level of qualification that allows them to follow a higher education degree such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s programme.

Bridge  between high school and university

Education standards differ around the globe, from state to state and country to country. Teaching methods differ, the number of study hours varies, and qualifications differ too. Foundation courses are designed to level out the differences and get all students up to standard. So whether it’s maths, physics or history you’re lacking in, or simply your English language skills that need some attention, a foundation course can help you attain the level you need to move forward.

On a foundation course  you can tailor your course to suit the degree programme you wish to study for in future. It involves studying core modules common to each route, Plus a set of subject-specific modules that are carefully designed to focus on the academic areas most useful to your chosen degree.

Format of Foundation Courses

Most institutions in the  continental Europe offer prep courses that usually take one academic year to complete (a total of 32 weeks). Preparation courses are usually divided into three semesters, or phases, each with its own number of modules. Modules are split into minor (more generic) subjects and major ones, more specialised towards the student’s future career. Usually, students start their foundation degrees in September, graduating in time to start their Bachelor or Master in October, the next year.

Intensive 6-months pathway programmes are available for students who want to complete their studies faster. Faster foundation study tracks start in January and end in August of the same year. However, many international foundation programmes have flexible start dates.

Foundation degree assessment

The evaluation system is very similar to any other study programme and includes exams, presentations, projects, assignments, etc. The foundation programme can be based in the country of study or can also be taught in the student’s local country by an institution that has an agreement with the specific university. An assessment uses a number of academic credit points, assigned differently for coursework or exams.

When should I study a foundation programme?

A foundation programme is very useful when you have decided to study a degree in an international university but don’t have the required qualification to be admitted. The right foundation programme focuses on your particular interests, providing the best chance to become qualified for admission.

Foundation courses at Czech College

Czech College offers foundation degree in Business and Czech language with specialisations on Medicine, Engineering, Economics and Social Studies. Contact Czech College for more details.