InternationalFoundation ProgrammeHealth & Life Sciences

www.cardiff.ac.uk/ifp

Research ExcellenceThe latest independent assessment of research quality in the UK demonstrates that 33 out ofthe 34 subject areas evaluated are undertaking research that is world-class in terms oforiginality and significance. Cardiff University is also a member of the prestigious Russell Groupof UK universities and attracts over £100 million in investment each year.

World-class TeachingAt Cardiff, world-class academic staff ensure that students are exposed to a stimulating learningenvironment and the very latest thinking in their disciplines. In 2008, Professor Sir Martin Evansfrom our School of Biosciences was awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine for groundbreakingdiscoveries in the field of stem cell research.

Cutting-edge FacilitiesOur students benefit from the use of the most innovative technology and equipment available,and also enjoy access to excellent library and computing resources. Additionally, all internationalstudents entering through the normal admissions cycle are guaranteed a place in Universityaccommodation for the duration of their studies.

Supportive Study EnvironmentOutside the classroom, Cardiff University offers a comprehensive range of welfare services, withstudent advisors and counsellors based at the Student Support Centre and the Students’ Union.As a student on the International Foundation Programme, you are fully integrated into Universitylife: your classes are taught on campus by Cardiff University professors and academic staff andyou have full use of our first class facilities and services.

LocationCardiff is a vibrant and welcoming city in which to live and study. It is steeped in history thatstretches back 2000 years and was recently short listed for European Capital of Culture 2008.Cardiff is also a modern and progressive capital city. Its facilities and amenities are constantlyimproving and yet the city remains friendly, inexpensive and compact. Its cosmopolitan natureprovides something for everyone, from the excitement of the city centre to the tranquillity of thesurrounding countryside.

EDINBURGHGLASGOW

ABERDEEN

LIVERPOOL

CARDIFF

HULL

MANCHESTER

BIRMINGHAM

HOLYHEAD

SWANSEABRISTOL

LONDON

DOVER

SOUTHAMPTON

BELFAST

DUBLIN

PLYMOUTH

LEEDS

NEWCASTLEUPON TYNE

CAMBRIDGE

HARWICH(

The Cardiff Experience

Contents

Ten good reasons to study the IFP at Cardiff University . . . . . . . .2

International Foundation Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Entry requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

How will I study? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

English language modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Health & Life Science modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Undergraduate opportunities at Cardiff University . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Undergraduate opportunities at UWIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Pre-IFP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Student life at Cardiff University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Where can I live? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

How do I apply? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

1

01Automaticprogression

Cardiff’s InternationalFoundation Programmeoffers automaticprogression to a range ofdegree schemes in someof the best academicdepartments in the UK.The Cardiff UniversityInternational FoundationProgramme is the ONLYInternational FoundationProgramme that offersautomatic progressioninto Cardiff University.

02Taughton campus

Our foundation classesare taught on campus bythe University’s academicstaff, and experiencedand well-qualified Englishlanguage tutors fromthe University’s EnglishLanguage Programmesunit.

03Full membersof University

Our foundation studentsare full members of theUniversity and haveaccess to all ourfacilities, includingextensive resourcecentres, sports facilitiesand the Students’ Union.

04Dedicatedfoundation office

We have a dedicatedFoundation Office – aplace where you can goto find a friendly face,someone who knowsyour name and is thereto help you with anyproblems that you mayhave. We try our best tomake your transition tolife in Cardiff as smoothas possible.

05Personaltutor system

Students benefit fromtwo personal tutors: onefor the English languagemodules and one for theacademic subjects.We always encourageyou to discuss anyissues that you mayhave with your personaltutor in your academicand English languagemodules.

2

GOOD REASONS TO STUDY THE INT

CARDIFF10

06English foracademic purposes

One of the mostimportant aims of theFoundation Programmeis to provide the idealpreparation for you to dowell on an academiccourse taught in English.We provide you withguidance in the cultureand requirements of theBritish higher educationsystem and will prepareyou for different teachingand learning methods.

07Library andcomputing facilities

As a Foundation student,you will have access tothe University’s extensivelibrary and computingfacilities. You will begiven a username andpassword to enable youto use the computerstations situated allaround the Universityand to make use of thevirtual learningenvironment.

08Comprehensiveinduction programme

We offer acomprehensive inductionprogramme for ourstudents including freecoach collection servicesfrom Heathrow andCardiff airports and alsoinformation events andsocial activities designedto introduce you to theUniversity and to life inCardiff.

09Guaranteedaccommodation

Accommodation inUniversity halls ofresidence is guaranteedfor all single internationalstudents during thefoundation programmeand future studies atCardiff University.

10Embassy /sponsor links

We have well-establishedand successful workingrelationships withmany embassies andsponsorship organisationsthroughout the world.

3

UNIVERSITYTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION PROGRAMME AT

4

IntroductionThe International Foundation Programme is aone-year academic programme taught at CardiffUniversity. It is designed to give you theacademic and English language skills you needto enter an undergraduate degree scheme.The Cardiff University IFP is the only foundationprogramme that offers automatic progressioninto Cardiff University.

Who can apply?The International Foundation Programme isdesigned for:

� Students whose secondary school-leavingqualification means that an extra year’sstudy is necessary to reach the appropriatelevel for undergraduate study in the UK.

� Students with appropriate academicqualifications who need to develop theirEnglish language and study skills in

preparation for an undergraduate degreeprogramme at Cardiff University orelsewhere in the UK.

� Students from outside the European Union.

WebsitePlease visit www.cardiff.ac.uk/ifp to find all theinformation contained in this brochure, ingreater depth and regularly updated.

You can also find information on our websiteabout how to sign up for our IFP Facebook pageso that you can start making friends with yournew class-mates even before you arrive inCardiff. You can also see some video clips andpictures of IFP graduates and read all abouttheir experience of studying with us and whatyou can expect from the course.

www.cardiff.ac.uk/ifp

International Foundation Programme

5

Entry requirements

CountryArab States

Azerbaijan

Ghana

India

Japan

Kazakhstan

Kenya

Libya

Nigeria

Pakistan

People’s Republicof China

Russia

South Korea

Taiwan

Turkey

Vietnam

QualificationTawjhiya, Thanawia Certificate ofGeneral Education

Certificate of Secondary Education

SSCE (WAEC)

CBSE or ICSE

Upper Secondary School Certificate

Certificate of Secondary Education

KCSE

Tawjhiya, Thanawia Certificate ofGeneral Education

SSCE (WAEC)

HSSC

Senior High School GraduationExamination

Certificate of Secondary Education

High School Diploma fromSpecialised High Schools

Senior High School LeavingCertificate

State/Private High School Diploma

High School Certificate

Score*At least an 85% average with at least 85% in the relevantsubject areas

4/5 average with at least a grade 4 in relevant subject areas

B average with at least a B in the relevant subject areas anda C grade in English

65% average with at least 65% in relevant subject areas

4/5 average with at least a grade 4 in relevant subject areas

4/5 average with at least a grade 4 in relevant subject areas

B average with at least a B in relevant subject areas

At least an 85% average with at least 85% in the relevantsubject areas

B average with at least a B in the relevant subject areas anda C grade in English

75% average with at least 75% in the relevant subject areas

At least an 80% average with 80% in each of the relevantsubject areas

4/5 average with at least a grade 4 in relevant subject areas

B average with B in relevant subject areas

At least an 80% average with 80% in each of the relevantsubject areas

3/5 average with at least a 3 in relevant subject areas

At least 7.0 average

*please note these scores are required students wishing to progress into Cardiff Business School, School of Engineering, Law School and School ofBiosciences. Students wishing to progress to other undergraduate subjects such as Medicine should contact the IFP office for further information

You will need to successfully complete yoursecondary education at a level equivalent to12th grade before you join the InternationalFoundation Programme. Qualifications from allcountries outside the European Union areconsidered. Examples of acceptablequalifications are shown in the table below.*You will also need to show that you have theEnglish language skills necessary to take anactive part in the programme.

English language entry levelTOEFL iBT: 68

IELTS 5.5

Students who do not achieve the Englishlanguage entry requirement may apply tostudy on our Pre-IFP course in the summer(see page 12)

(with the following minimum sub Reading 08, Writing `17, Speaking 19, Listening 13).

(with a minimum of 4.0 in each sub score.Please note we only accept the Academic version of the

scores:

IELTS exam as proof of English Language level.)

6

How will I study?

Teaching and learning methodsThe course employs a variety of teachingmethods, all chosen to deliver the tuition youneed in the best possible way.

LecturesLectures are classes given to large groups ofstudents. Lectures allow you to gain acomprehensive base of knowledge. Lecturersmake use of a range of resources and facilities toprovide the information you need. During lectures,you will be given written material (handouts),information about exams and essays, and multi-media presentations. You may even find that youare invited to give your own presentation.

SeminarsThese are smaller discussion groups of three toten students led by tutors. This is an ideal timeto discuss any questions after lectures and anopportunity to fully understand the subjects youare studying.

TutorialsYou can arrange to meet any tutor to discussany aspect of the course. For example, if thereis something you did not understand in alecture or seminar, or if you want to discuss theprogress of your project or essay – or any othertopic you want to talk about.

If you have any questions at any time, you areencouraged to meet your tutors who will giveyou individual attention. Our aim is to provideyou with the necessary subject knowledge andstudy skills for undergraduate study on acompetitive degree programme. Although youwill need to display personal qualities ofdetermination, self-motivation, enthusiasm andcommitment to be successful, you will in returnreceive guidance and support from theFoundation Programme staff to help youachieve your objectives.

AssessmentA variety of assessment methods are usedincluding written essays, reports, presentations,project work and final examinations. All writtentasks are word processed and normally submittedelectronically. All students are encouraged tospeak individually to their tutors if they have anyquestions or problems; your tutor will always bepleased to see you and happy to help.

You will be awarded a score out of 100 for eachmodule:

� 40% and above - Pass

� 50% and above - Merit

� 65% and above - Distinction

AttendanceAttendance and participation in all classes,lectures, and tutorials on the InternationalFoundation Programme (IFP) at CardiffUniversity are compulsory and essential foracademic success.

Please note that, due to new immigration rulesintroduced this year, we will be required to keeprecords of attendance.

7

English language modules

Course structureThe programme is organised on a modularbasis and you will take the equivalent of 12modules, giving a total of 120 credits over twosemesters (nine months). You will study amixture of academic modules related to yourintended degree programme, supported byfurther modules in English language and studyskills.

� Modules in English Language, study skillsand related topics (listed below) - 50credits

� Science Modules (listed on page 8) - 70credits

English language componentThe overall aim of the English language andstudy skills input is to help you meet thedemands of academic study during yourFoundation programme and to prepare youeffectively for the academic scheme you willproceed to afterwards.

The modular programme includes:

� English Language & Study Skills (10 credits)

� Further English Language & Study Skills(10 credits)

� English for Academic Purposes (10 credits)

� Further English for Academic Purposes(10 credits)

� English for Health & Life Sciences(10 credits)

One of the most important aims of theFoundation Programme is to provide the idealpreparation for you to do well in an academiccourse taught in English. The course will reviewyour knowledge of English grammar andvocabulary and help you to improve so that youcan develop a solid foundation for academicuse. You will practise reading, writing, listeningand speaking to develop accuracy and fluency.The course will include different written andspoken formats to help develop academic style.You will also receive specialist classes toprepare you for the technical vocabularyrelevant to Health & Life Sciences.

Study of the culture and requirements of Britishhigher education will prepare you for differentteaching and learning methods, such aspresenting a seminar or writing an extendedessay. By the end of the course you should feelconfident enough in your English ability to beable to contribute fully to class discussions,complete written assignments and get the mostout of your studies here.

As well as developing your English language andskills for general university purposes, werecognise the importance of subject-specificorientation in the field of Health & LifeSciences. This will involve language and skillsdevelopment useful for students in your field,for example language for patient care

situations. It will incorporate workshops byvisiting professionals to introduce you torelevant language, skills and environments.

During the course you will also be given theopportunity to complete a PersonalDevelopment Plan (PDP) which will improveyour ability to understand what and how you arelearning and help you reflect on and plan yourown learning.

The PDP will help you to get the most out ofyour student experience by encouraging you totake responsibility for your development andraising your awareness of the variety ofopportunities for development. PDP is not justan important process for your time at universitybut will prove to be a useful skill throughoutyour life. Learning and development arecontinual processes and engaging in PDP willhelp you to develop a positive attitude to allaspects of learning.

Name: Nazim AlseedCountry: SudanCourse: IFP Health and Life Sciences

The IFP in Health and Life Sciences hasbeen a really amazing experience. From mypoint of view, I got a lot of support withwriting my personal statement and interviewpractice. I feel that I have literally beengiven a foundation for Science and a greatidea about what life in the first year ofUniversity will be like. I feel prepared andready to tackle my first year of a MedicineDegree at Cardiff University.

8

Health and Life Sciences modules

Science componentThis part of the programme provides afoundation-level introduction to theScience subjects that will be relevant to yourfuture undergraduate studies inHealth & Life Sciences.

We have designed this programme to give you asolid foundation in Biology and Chemistry whichwill be necessary for your undergraduate studiesin Health & Life Sciences and to give you thebest possible information and assistance foryour time as a student in the UK.

The modular programme includes:

� Fundamental Aspects of Chemistry(10 credits)

� Thermodynamics, Kinetics & Equilibria(10 credits)

� Chemistry of Organic Compounds(10 credits)

� Inorganic and Redox Chemistry (10 credits)

� Genetics, Evolution & Diversity (10 credits)

� Cells & the Chemistry of Life (10 credits)

� The Way the Body Works (10 credits)

Fundamental Aspects of ChemistryThis module is designed to introduce basicdescriptions of elemental properties and theperiodic table, solid and molecular structuresand bonding and to relate these to theelectronic structure of atoms. The mole as aunit is introduced so that a quantitativetreatment of stoichiometry can be considered.Practical work introduces the use and handlingof basic chemical equipment.

Thermodynamics, Kinetics & EquilibriaThis module provides the basis for aquantitative understanding of:

� the kinetic theory of gases (which isdeveloped to consider the nature of liquidsand solids)

� equilibria and the concepts of theequilibrium constant and of pH

� energy changes in chemical reactions andthe fundamental principles ofthermodynamics

� the rates of chemical reactions and theconcepts of the rate determining step andthe activation energy

Practical work deals with examples ofthese topics.

Chemistry of Organic CompoundsThis module is designed to introduce the maintypes of organic compounds by reference tosimple systems and to specific compounds ofbiological, medicinal and dental importance.The more important reactions of each of thesetypes are described and are explained in termsof the electronic structure of the functionalgroups involved. The practical work illustratesthe basic techniques involved in the preparation,isolation and purification of organic compounds.

Inorganic and Redox ChemistryThis module covers some basic chemistry ofhydrogen and selected elements from theperiodic table; simple co-ordination chemistry ofmetal ions in solution; the ideas of oxidationand reduction in relation to oxidation statechanges and electron transfer; and electrodereactions and potentials. Practical workexamines some of this chemistry and usesoxidation-reduction reactions as a basis forquantitative analysis.

Genetics, Evolution & DiversityThis module deals with the structure, functionand transmission of genes and with inheritanceof genetically controlled characteristics,including more complex patterns of inheritancebrought about by linkage and interactionbetween genes. This is followed by a briefreview of the evidence for evolution and acoverage of evolutionary processes. Finally, themodule provides the student with anintroduction to the diversity of living organisms.The theoretical coverage in lectures andtutorials is supplemented by practical classeswhich allow examination of cell division inplants and animals, analysis of patterns ofinheritance or various genetic traits andexamination of a diversity of life forms at boththe microscopical and whole organism level.

Cells & the Chemistry of LifeThe module provides an introduction to themolecular basis of living organisms. Afterdeveloping an appreciation of the very“molecules of life” the student goes on to learnhow these molecules are organised into cells.The concepts taught in the module arefundamental to all aspects of biology.

The Way the Body WorksThis module deals with the broad principles ofphysiology, the nervous system, its nature,structure and function; the cardiovascularsystem and the roles of the heart, blood vesselsand blood; changes in disease; breathing andlung function; the role of the kidneys; thefunction of the endocrine system and thephysiology of reproduction; the digestion andabsorption of food; and finally, with motherhoodand the physiology of the new-born child.

9

Cardiff School of BiosciencesCardiff School of Biosciences has well-equippedmodern laboratories, its own libraries, a Teachingand Learning Resource Centre, study areas withfully up-to-date networked computers and itsown Field Centre set in the Welsh countrysidenear Newbridge on Wye.

The School offers an extensive range of degreeschemes in Biological and Biomedical Sciences,all of which have recently been assessed bygovernment-sponsored panels and rated as“Excellent” – the highest quality rating available.Within each degree scheme you are able tomake choices so that your degree will reflect yourown special interests.

Progression is guaranteed to all studentswho achieve a merit (minimum 50%) ineach module and who choose to study onany of the Bioscience degree courses atCardiff University.

Progression to Medicine and Dentistry atCardiff University

Entry to Medicine and Dentistry isextremely competitive.

The Heath Park Campus houses the MedicalSchool, the Dental School, the School ofHealthcare Studies and the School of Nursingand Midwifery Studies. These four academicSchools deliver the teaching of undergraduatehealth-related schemes of study. The Universityshares this 53 acre site with the UniversityHospital of Wales and Dental Hospital at HeathPark, just north of Cardiff City centre. TheUniversity Hospital of Wales is the third largesthospital in the UK and one of the largest inEurope. World-class research and recent teachingassessments have further strengthened theCollege’s international reputation for excellence.

The University’s academic departments areintegrated with the hospital so that teaching andresearch take place alongside first-classhealthcare delivery. Schemes of study offeredinclude Dental Hygiene, Dental Therapy, Dentistry,

Medicine, Midwifery, Nursing, OccupationalTherapy, Operating Department Practice,Physiotherapy and Radiography. The academicstaff of the University, many of whom areacknowledged international experts in theirparticular field, provide valuable clinical servicesto the people of Cardiff, throughout Wales andeven further afield.

The Medical and Dental degree schemes providean integrated curriculum blending basic sciences,delivered principally at Cardiff School ofBiosciences, with clinical education, delivered atthe Heath Park Campus. The acquisition ofclinical skills is provided in hospitals, generalpractices, dental practices and communitysettings throughout Wales, for the entire fiveyears of the course. The courses in Nursing,Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapyand Radiography are delivered primarily at theHeath Park campus in Cardiff with clinicalplacements throughout Wales.

Progression to Medicine and Dentistry willbe subject to application, interview andobtaining good grades on the IFP. You willreceive help and advice on applying forthese courses during your FoundationProgramme at Cardiff University.

All IFP applications will be scored equally againstall other international applications received.

Students who wish to apply for Medicine orDentistry degree courses will also have to registerto take the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT).Further information on this test can be found atwww.ukcat.ac.ukFor further information on the selection procedureand admissions policies students should consultthe individual School’s websites:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/medic orhttp://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dentl

Name: Samir TaherCountry: KuwaitCourse: IFP Health and Life Science

I found the IFP course very beneficialand think that I have gained a lot ofknowledge that will help me next year.Cardiff is a peaceful and beautifullocation. I have really enjoyed thecourse and I would recommend it to allmy friends. I do not regret my decisionto come here. I really needed the IFPand I now feel confident and ready forthe future.

Undergraduate opportunities atCardiff University

Opportunities for Undergraduate Studyat Cardiff School of Biosciences

� Biology

� Biomedical Science

� Biomedical Sciences (Anatomy)

� Biomedical Sciences (Neuroscience)

� Biomedical Sciences (Physiology)

� Ecology

� Genetics

� Microbiology

� Molecular Biology

� Zoology

Cardiff School of Optometry and VisionSciencesThe School of Optometry and Vision Sciencesenjoys an international reputation for its activities.Housed in a dedicated £21 million new building,the School boasts state-of-the-art facilities,enabling high quality research and teaching.

In recent assessments of undergraduateteaching, the School of Optometry was awardedthe designation “Excellent” and this was partlybecause of the excellent staff-student relationsand friendly atmosphere that exists within theSchool. In the 2008 Research AssessmentExercise, a clear majority of work submitted wasclassed as being of an internationally excellentstandard. The School has 22 academic andclinical staff who are experts in their fields ofresearch. Their work attracts grants in excess of£1.5million every year from governmentresearch councils and other agencies.

Approximately 90 undergraduates are acceptedevery year. Around 20% of our undergraduatescome from overseas, bringing a vibrantinternational flavour to the School. We alsohave approximately 50 postgraduate studentscarrying our research for their doctorates.

The Optometry degree course has beendesigned to be stimulating, flexible and relevantto the needs of a career in Optometry. Greatemphasis is placed on the practical aspects,and you will spend considerable time in ourpurpose-built clinic which is open to membersof the public who require an eye examination.

Progression to undergraduate courses inOptometry will be subject to application,interview and obtaining good grades onthe IFP. You will receive help and adviceon how to apply for these courses duringyour Foundation Programme.

www.cardiff.ac.uk/optom

The Welsh School of PharmacyThe Welsh School of Pharmacy is a long-established department with an internationalreputation for excellence. The School enjoysoutstanding resources and facilities, includingnew laboratories and sophisticated equipment.

The Pharmacy degree scheme is a four-yearscheme that provides teaching to Mastersdegree level while at the same time equippingyou with the vocational skills required to enterthe profession. The scheme is fully accreditedby the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and theSchool was awarded the “Excellent” designationin recent teaching quality assessments.

The School has approximately 70 academic,technical and support staff, many of who areexperts in their field of research. Their workattracts grants of £3million each year fromgovernment research councils, pharmaceuticalcompanies and other agencies. About 120undergraduates are accepted each year, andthe School has a total student body of 650,which includes a large number of postgraduatestudents.

The School benefits from excellent staff-studentrelations and operates a successful “buddy”system for new students (where each newstudent is assigned an older student to act as a“big brother/sister”).

In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, theSchool had 55% of its research assessed asexcellent by international standards.

Progression to the undergraduate coursein Pharmacy will be subject to application,interview and achieving good grades onthe IFP. You will receive help and adviceon how to apply for this course duringyour Foundation Programme.

www.cardiff.ac.uk/phrmy

10

Undergraduate opportunities atCardiff University

Name: Dania AlturwaigiCountry: Saudi ArabiaCourse: IFP Health and Life Sciences

The IFP has been really helpful to me. Itwas very interesting and the teacherswere very helpful. I developed a lot ofskills in English and also in the sciencesubjects which has helped me toprepare for next year. The IFP was agreat course, the teachers were friendlyand the IFP Office was always happy tohelp. I would recommend both thecourse and University to others.

11

UWIC students benefit from the highlyvocational nature of the courses we offer andalmost 100% of all students find suitableemployment within 6 months of graduating. In2005, The Sunday Times League Table rankedUWIC as the top 'new' university in the UK.Further recognition came in 2007, when TheTimes "Good University Guide" placed UWIC inthe top 50% out of the 120 state-recogniseduniversities in the UK. This is not only areflection of UWIC’s teaching and researchquality , but also of the high-level of the supportoffered to students, the world-class library andcomputing provisions and our considerableinvestment into each and every one of ourstudents.

UWIC has an established reputation forattracting students from across the world withover 800 international students from 120different countries. The University has a uniquemulticultural mix. However, because theUniversity is relatively small, the atmosphere isvery friendly and our staff provide a supportiveenvironment that is conducive to study. UWIC’scampuses are situated in attractive areas ofCardiff just a short distance from the vibrantcity centre. As well as the excellent research,library and IT facilities, UWIC’s exceptionalreputation for sport means that UWIC studentscan enjoy some of the finest sporting andleisure facilities in the UK.

UWIC is delighted to be able to offer successfulCardiff University International FoundationCourse students a progression route to a rangeof programmes in the Cardiff School of HealthSciences. The School enjoys an excellentreputation internationally and houses a numberof specialist Centres of Excellence.

These include:

� The Wales Applied Health Research Unit

� Wales Centre for Podiatric Studies

� Biomedical Sciences Enterprise andResearch Centre

� Centre for Health, Safety and Environment

The Sunday Times League Tables rates anumber of subject areas at UWIC as ‘excellent’including biomedical science, environmentalhealth and subjects allied to medicine (forexample podiatry and nutrition).

The School offers a range of undergraduatestudy options in health and life sciences.

For more information about UWIC’s courses andbeing an international student at UWIC pleasevisit our website at:www.uwic.ac.uk/international

Undergraduate opportunities at UWIC

Some students wish to improve their Englishlanguage skills before joining our InternationalFoundation Programme. The Pre-InternationalFoundation Programme (Pre-IFP) is an optionalsummer course in English language and studyskills designed for students with offers to studythe International Foundation Programme atCardiff University.

Students studying on the Pre-IFP receivepersonal attention and support throughout thecourse, whenever it is needed. In addition tohelping develop language skills, the course isan excellent introduction to academic study anduniversity life.

Students holding conditional offersStudents who have offers for the InternationalFoundation Programme conditional on achievingan IELTS score of 5.5

(TOEFL iBT 68) can attend our8-week Pre-IFP course.

If a student already has IELTS 5.0 (or if theycan achieve IELTS 5.0 before the end of June)and they then successfully complete* the8-week Pre-IFP course at Cardiff University,they can automatically progress to theFoundation course without taking the IELTSexamination again.* “successful completion” means that studentsmust have minimum attendance of 90%,successfully complete all assignments and testson the course and have a positive attitude tolearning.Students holding unconditional offersStudents who already have unconditional offersare welcome to study on the Pre-IFP course.Many students choose to arrive in Cardiff earlyfor a number of reasons:

� You may wish to settle into Cardiff Universitylife before the IFP begins in September. Thisallows you to focus on your studies as soonas the Foundation Programme starts

� Students who choose to study on the Pre-IFP course often do better academically andare more confident in their English languageabilities

Course datesThere is an 8-week course in July/August

It is specifically designed forstudents with an IELTS score of 5.0 and aconditional offer for our InternationalFoundation Programme. This course is alsoopen to students with an unconditional offer forour International Foundation Programme.

Included in your course:� a minimum of 18 and a maximum of 24

tuition/contact hours per week(plus assignments)

� a study coursebook� one-to-one tutorial guidance and support� full use of all University academic and social

facilities, including resource centres,computer workstations, sports and fitnesscentres and the Students’ Union

� a busy summer programme of activities andevents organised by the English LanguageProgrammes office

� we are happy to make arrangements for youto take the IELTS exam at the end of thecourse (exam fees are not included in theprice of your course)

� a £1000 scholarship is awarded to the bestperforming student on the pre-IFP every year

www.cardiff.ac.uk/elt/preifp

12

Pre-International Foundation Programme(Pre-IFP)

every year.

, with a minimum of 4.0 ineach sub score

13

Student life at Cardiff University

In your spare time...Even though the study programme is intense,you will have time available for a full and activesocial life. As a Foundation student, you will beable to take advantage of the University’sextensive range of social and sporting facilitiesduring your leisure time.

Cosmopolitan student bodyCardiff University has a long history ofwelcoming international students and staff frommore than 100 countries around the world. Thisyear, we will support almost 3,000 internationalstudents in their efforts to obtain a world-classeducation. As one of Europe’s youngest capitalcities, Cardiff has a lot to offer internationalstudents. With a population of 330,000 the cityhas a friendly atmosphere and students arewelcomed into a multicultural and safeenvironment.

The Students’ Union on campusThe focal point for most Cardiff Universitystudents is the Students’ Union which is one ofthe biggest, best and most active in Britain. Itprovides for all aspects of student life at theUniversity and offers several restaurants, cafésand fast-food outlets serving meals and snacksthroughout the day. There is also a bookshop, agames room and video arcade, pool andsnooker tables, banking services, a travelservice and satellite television. More than 200cultural, political, religious, social and sportingsocieties cater for a variety of interests.

Sport and recreationThe University has an impressive range ofindoor and outdoor sporting facilities, includingaerobic conditioning and weights rooms; indoorand outdoor tennis courts; squash courts; amartial arts dojo and, an organised programmeof classes for all levels of fitness. The AthleticUnion runs over 65 sports clubs that studentscan join and beginners are always welcome.

As one of the UK’s major sporting centres,Cardiff offers an outstanding range of facilitiesand events for the most avid of sports fans. TheMillennium Stadium hosts world-class footballmatches as well as international rugby. It seats76,000 people, and the atmosphere in the cityon the day of a big game is certainly somethingto experience. International one-day and first-class cricket matches (including a recent AshesTest match) are played in the heart of the cityat the Swalec Stadium. Cardiff even has its veryown baseball and ice hockey teams!

Exploring CardiffIn addition to the University’s facilities, the cityof Cardiff has a great deal to offer. After class,you may want to explore the grounds of historicCardiff Castle, visit the National Museum andGallery or go window shopping at one of theold-fashioned Victorian and Edwardian Arcadesdotted around the city. Cardiff offers a selectionof ethnic restaurants (Greek, Arabic, Indian,Italian, Chinese and North African to name afew) as well as theatre performances, cinemas,concerts, dance clubs and live sporting events.

At weekends and holidays, many students liketo take advantage of Cardiff’s excellent rail andbus services to explore the nearby coast andlocal countryside such as the beautiful GowerPeninsula or splendid Brecon BeaconMountains. It is also easy to visit populartourist destinations like London, Bath andStratford-upon-Avon. Low cost airlines operateout of Cardiff International Airport to manyEuropean destinations allowing you theopportunity to travel further afield if yourtimetable and budget allows.

A network of supportCardiff University values the happiness andsecurity of all its students. Apart from theFoundation Office permanent staff who arealways available to help, the Student AdviceCentre (located in the Students’ Union) offersfree help and advice to students, and theStudent Support centre provides trainedcounsellors who can offer confidential advice onpersonal, financial or academic matters. Withinthe Student Support Centre, there are also twodesignated Immigration advisors who can helpyou with any visa questions that you may have.

www.cardiffstudents.com

14

University halls of residenceSettling in and making new friends areimportant first steps in your new life at CardiffUniversity and living in University residencesprovides you with an ideal opportunity to meetpeople from different countries studying a widerange of subjects.

You are guaranteed a single occupancy place inUniversity residences for the full duration ofyour studies. This is providing you apply throughthe normal admission and allocation processand re-apply for residences each year throughthe overseas returners process.

About 70% of our individual study/bedroomshave private bathrooms (called en-suite) andstudents generally share kitchens. Someresidences have on-site facilities includinglaunderettes, social centre, shop and sportscentre. All University residences have access to24-hour security and are within easy travellingdistance of Cathays campus. We recommendthat all first year students – especially thosenew to Cardiff and the UK – take advantage ofthe benefits of living in a University residence.

A choice of residencesAs a foundation student you will automaticallyget a choice of three halls of residence and asyou progress onto your undergraduate courseyou can choose from any of our 14 halls ofresidence/student houses. Whether residencesare catered or self catered, mixed or femaleonly, the Residences Office has the widest

possible range and seeks to meet yourpreferences as far as is possible.

Applying for residencesFull details of all University residences and howto apply online are contained in the informationwe send you once you have been made an offerto study on the foundation course.

The residences officeIn addition to allocating University residences,the Residences Office also offers help tostudents seeking privately-ownedaccommodation and maintains a regularlyupdated list of flats and shared houses whichare available to rent. Advice on tenancyagreements and other aspects of living inprivate sector accommodation is available viathe University Student Advisory Service andfrom the Housing Advice Centre in theUniversity Students’ Union. If you are looking forprivate accommodation you are strongly advisedto visit Cardiff before the start of session.

You can find further information aboutresidences in Cardiff, both University and privateat: www.cardiff.ac.uk/resid

Where can I live?

An example of a typical flat layout.

15

How do I apply?

An application form is available on our website:www.cardiff.ac.uk/apply

You should also include:

� Copies of your high school results orexamination grades

� English language test results

� A confidential academic reference(from a teacher who knows you well)

If you have taken examinations or language testsbut do not have the results yet, you can still applyto us – just write on the application form the dateyou expect to receive the results.

What happens next?As soon as we have a complete application, wewill send it to the Admissions Tutor for your chosensubject. We will then write to you to let you knowif your application is successful.

Successful applicants will receive detailed informationover the following weeks about life in Cardiff,including a Residence Brochure with a choice ofaccommodation for the Foundation year.

We understand that your choice of FoundationProgramme is very important to you and yourfamily. We are here to answer any questions thatyou have. You are very welcome to contact us atany time, and we will provide you withinformation, help and advice on any matterconcerning living and studying in Cardiff.Contact detailsPost:International Foundation ProgrammeCommunications and International Relations DivisionDeri House2-4 Park GroveCardiffCF10 3PAUKTelephone: +44 (0)29 2087 6416Fax: +44 (0)29 2087 6591Email: foundation@cardiff.ac.ukYou can also find useful information on ourwebsite, written especially to answer yourquestions: www.cardiff.ac.uk/ifp

International Foundation ProgrammeCommunications and International Relations DivisionDeri House, 2-4 Park Grove, Cardiff, CF10 3PA. UK.

Tel: +44 (0) 29 2087 6416 Fax: +44 (0) 29 2087 6591foundation@cardiff.ac.uk www.cardiff.ac.uk/ifp

International Foundation ProgrammeHealth & Life Science