Pre-sessional English Language Foundation Programmes
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You can join one of our Pre-sessional English programmes in January, April, July or September and you will be able to study on a course for between 1 and 3 terms depending on your existing level of English and the requirements of your department. These programmes are suitable for students progressing onto undergraduate or postgraduate degree programmes.
Course outline
The Foundation English programmes aim to:
- develop your English language skills to the required level for your degree course
- develop your study skills to the required level for university study
- encourage and help you develop an understanding of the academic and cultural context of university study in order for you to be fully involved in your degree course.
The primary focus is on developing your English language skills to enable you to manage degree-level study. This includes factors such as
- study skills
- reading for gist
- planning and submitting an academic project
- listening to lectures
- note-making
- giving presentations
- taking part in seminars
Students can expect to raise their English level by approximately 0.5 IELTS per term of study. So, if your current IELTS score is a 5.5 and your School of Study requires a 6.5 for entrance onto degree, you will usually be expected to take 2-terms of an English language course.
You may be required to study an English language programme if your English language level falls slightly below the entry requirement for your chosen degree. Successful completion of this course will then allow you to progress onto your chosen School of Study. Please check the minimum entry requirements for your proposed degree before applying.
Course options
On the course students will study the following subjects each week:
- Reading and writing skills: essay / report / project writing
- Speaking and listening skills: note-taking from lectures, giving presentations
- English Communication skills
- Current Affairs
Entry requirements
This course is suitable for students progressing onto undergraduate or postgraduate degree programmes. The minimum English level for admission is IELTS 5.0.
Students can expect to raise their English level by approximately 0.5 IELTS per term of study. So, if your current IELTS score is a 5.5 and your school of study requires a 6.5 for entrance onto the degree, you will usually be expected to take 2-terms of an English language course.
Please check the minimum academic entry requirements for your proposed degree before applying.
The University is a UKVI Tier 4 Sponsor.
The Admissions Assistant for Foundation English would be happy to answer any questions you may have:
Terms and conditions for prospective students
When you are offered a place at the University you will be notified of the terms and conditions between the University and students on our courses of study. When you accept an offer of a place on the course at the University a legal contract is formed between you and the University on the basis of the terms and conditions outlined in your offer letter. Your offer letter and the terms and conditions contain important information which you should read carefully before accepting any offer. Read the admissions terms and conditions > >
Quality teaching
We offer high quality, traditional Oxbridge-style teaching, which leads to our degrees being recognised around the world. The standards of degrees and awards are safeguarded by distinguished external examiners – senior academic staff from other universities in the UK – who approve and moderate assessed work.
High calibre staff
Most of our academic staff teach for three terms out of four, with the remaining term used for research. Because of this, we have no difficulty in attracting high calibre, highly respected lecturers, many of whom also have a background in business or industry and can offer networking opportunities for students.
Teaching methods
Teaching is carried out through a combination of lectures supported by seminars and tutorials by highly qualified teachers who are used to dealing with mixed nationalities and vary their teaching methods according to both the tasks and the students.
A key feature of the Buckingham teaching method is the use of small tutorial groups which provide the most effective means of ensuring that the students benefit from the academic expertise at their disposal. It is also the philosophy of Buckingham’s faculty to be available to students outside the scheduled tutorial times and to encourage good working relationships between staff and students.
Assessment methods
The assessment of individual modules within each course varies according to the subject. Assessment is usually by examination, assessed coursework, or a combination of the two. Please check module information for more details.
Preparation for work
All our degree courses combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. Many of our more vocationally-focused degrees offer the opportunity of work placements and experience in industry.
The successful completion of any of our Foundation level courses will allow you to progress to an undergraduate degree (according to the specialism of the Foundation level course).
Our Foundation courses will equip you with the vital academic and language skills needed for Buckingham’s two-year undergraduate degree.
Most students are therefore able to complete their foundation and degree programme in three calendar years.
You may also find it useful to visit the following fee related information on our site:
On-campus accommodation
We guarantee on-campus accommodation to all new students for their first four terms of study, as long as it is booked and paid for in good time, so you’re assured of a safe and secure home from home when you arrive at the University. Most new students choose this option.
Living on campus enables you to become involved in University activities, make friends, and integrate with the University community. For some of you this will be your first time in the UK; for others it will be the first time living away from home – and independence brings its challenges as well as its excitements. Whatever your circumstances, we know how important it is for you to feel comfortable in your accommodation.
What’s included?
All our study bedrooms are fully furnished, centrally heated, and connected to the internet. With few exceptions they have a wash basin and small refrigerator. We have a large number of ensuite rooms, and are upgrading more rooms each year. There are shared kitchens for when you wish to cook for yourself.
Find out more
If you’d like to find out more, visit our Accommodation pages or get in touch with our Accommodation Team.
We recommend that all prospective students visit our campus if they are able to, and campus tours include a typical student room. Arrange a tour via your Admissions Officer.