Learn about different engineering concepts, the principles of mechanics and electronics and the mathematical knowledge required to develop both the theoretical and practical applications of engineering. In addition to the engineering specialism modules, the programme also provides a solid grounding in the core knowledge and skills recognised to prepare you for future study.
Upon successfully passing this programme (subject to progression requirements), you will be guaranteed a place on one of our engineering undergraduate degrees.
This course will introduce you to life studying in the UK and will develop the core academic and English language skills you will need to progress on to an undergraduate degree with Northumbria University.
You will be taught the theory, look at examples and then test out the some of the key learning each week in a workshop or lab space. You will develop a wide range of skills in order to think critically about engineering and various applications of engineering in real-world situations. You will understand how to prepare for practical sessions as well as report on your findings and what they mean.
| IELTS | Oct-Dec | Jan-Mar | Mar-Jun | July-Aug | Sept |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.5 | International Foundation Programme – Engineering (12 month) |
Start your undergraduate degree at Northumbria University |
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| 5.0 | International Foundation Programme – Engineering (9 month) |
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| 5.0 | International Foundation Programme – Engineering (9 month) |
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| 5.5 | International Foundation Programme – Engineering (6 month) |
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| Related reading |
Upon successful completion and subject to specific entry requirements, you can go on to study a range of Engineering undergraduate degrees at Northumbria University.
To progress and be eligible for entry onto our undergraduate degree programmes you must achieve at least 40% in your International Foundation Programme.
Please note that our undergraduate degrees are currently being reviewed, however, we have previously offered the opportunity for students to progress on to the following courses:
Alternative progression options
If you would like to progress on to a degree in Art, Design and Media; Business; or Computing, English Language, Law, Media Production, Psychology and Sport subjects, please see our alternative pathway programmes:
Upon successfully passing your programme you will receive a Foundation Diploma in International English for Academic Communication which some other universities may also accept as an entry qualification.
Enquire nowWe welcome applications from students who have obtained good grades in their upper secondary education.
We also now accept the following:
Depending on your chosen degree course, specific subject requirements may apply. Our team will be able to help confirm the details for you.
For other country specific entry requirements, please check our Entry Requirements. Alternatively, please contact our team who will be able to help you.
There are multiple entry levels to the International Foundation Programme depending on your IELTS level:
Please note that if your qualifications are not in English, we might need certified translations in order to proceed with your application.
You must be over 16 years old
If you are under 18 at the start of the International Foundation Programme, you will need to include with your application a signed consent form by your parent or legal guardian. You can find a copy of this on our How to Apply page.
Enquire now12 and 9 month IFP students only
| New Beginnings: Life and Study in the UK (0 credits) |
This interactive and practical module is designed for you, as an international student, transitioning to UK Higher Education (HE) and a new life in the UK.
It will focus on equipping you with essential life and digital skills familiarising you with the UK HE system and preparing you for living independently in a new cultural context.
You will explore UK university support services, develop digital literacy, and learn vital life skills such as budgeting and time management. Weekly activities will be engaging, incorporating games, challenges and collaborative tasks to make learning fun and practical.
12 month IFP students only
| English for University Studies (0 credits) |
This module provides you with the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the skills needed to study in a UK university. You will learn about UK Higher Education culture, and acquaint yourself with the many university support mechanisms to develop your skills and thrive at university.
This will be learnt in a number of ways including onsite communicative and task-based learning. This will engage you in the active use of the English language and encourage you to study at university more proactively and independently.
In addition, you will also be introduced to your subject specialisms and the International Foundation Programme as a whole.
All students will study the following modules:
All modules are core and worth 20 credits unless specified.
| Academic Practice |
Explore broad range of essential study skills such as research and working with sources and use of digital tools.
| Professional Development Planning |
Explore the skills that are necessary for preparing you for studying at university and starting your journey into employment.
| Applied Algebra and Trigonometry |
Use algebra to think logically and break down and solve engineering problems.
| Introduction to Engineering Design and Problem Solving |
Explore principles of engineering design, presenting problems and apply your engineering skills and design knowledge to find new solutions.
| Physics for Engineering |
You will take this module after completing the Applied Algebra and Trigonometry module.
Study theoretical aspects of physics (e.g. electricity, energy and mechanics) to identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems.
| Project - Option (based on IELTS Score) |
Carry out a project in your subject-specific area and will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to complete your project successfully.
| English for Foundation - Optional (based on IELTS Score) |
Gain the skills you need to become an independent language learner. Take responsibility for your own language learning, and gain the habits of continuous learning which you will need on your undergraduate program.
The course information displayed on this page is correct for the academic year 2025/26. We aim to run the course as advertised however, changes may be necessary due to updates to the curriculum (due to academic or industry developments), student demand or UK compliance reasons.
Access to a laptop/PC with a microphone, speakers, webcam and a reliable internet connect is required for accessing your live online sessions.
| Included in your Tuition Fees |
| Academic Support, including the Academic Community of Excellence (ACE) Team |
| Careers and Employment Service |
| Class hours (lectures, seminars and tutorials) |
| Facilities (computers, on-campus wi-fi, printers, vending machines) |
| Library resources, including a large online catalogue of books, journals and other more |
| Online resources |
| Social spaces (quiet study spaces, multi-faith rooms and spaces to socialise) |
| Student Support (Welfare Team, Finance Team and more) |
Tuition fees do not include the cost of course books you may choose to purchase, stationery, printing, photocopying, accommodation, living expenses, travel or any other extracurricular activities.
We recommend you allow an additional £300 per annum to buy some of the course texts.
Depending on the country you are from, you may be eligible for a country bursary and/or scholarship when studying this programme.
All of our scholarships and bursaries are automatically applied when we process your application and one of our team will be able to confirm your eligibility.
Scholarships and bursariesIf you need support to spread the cost of your tuition, you may be eligible for our payment plan.
Payment plansEnquire now to find out more information about this course, studying with us, the application process, and to have any other questions you have.
Enquire nowWhen you are ready you can apply online to study the International Foundation Programme – Engineering. Applying online allows you to upload all of your supporting documents and you will automatically receive your student application number.
Please note: For 2025 & 2026 applications you will be redirected to the Northumbria website to select which intake you would like to apply for.
When you are applying, please add the progression degree you would like to apply for to the ‘Personal Statement’ section.
| Apply for 2025 & 2026 | |
|---|---|
| 12 month | Apply for the 12 month IFP Engineering |
| 9 month | Apply for the 9 month IFP Engineering |
| 6 month | Apply for the 6 month IFP Engineering |
Information for disabled applicants
At Northumbria, we welcome applications from disabled students and are committed to ensuring an equal and accessible application journey. Your application will be considered on an equal basis to all other applications. Please contact us if you require any assistance. This website is continually optimised to adhere to accessibility best practice guidelines; tools to assist users with specific accessibility requirements have also been provided. More information is available in our accessibility statement.
We strongly recommend that you submit your application as early as possible to allow you to complete all of the preparations needed to study your programme. After receiving your offer it can take time to arrange your finances and apply for your visa (if required) and it is important that you arrive in good time to enrol on to your course. Please refer to the Dates and Fees page.
You can check more information on how to apply here, including guidelines for the application forms.
“The lecturers are so knowledgeable and very interesting. They have helped me to improve my Mathematical and English language skills. They also use a range of teaching methods to support my learning and develop my skillset.”
Babawale Olajire Emmanuel Babalola
International Foundation Programme - Engineering
The pathway programmes detailed on this website are run in partnership with QA Higher Education - a UK higher education provider. All of our pathway programmes are validated by the University and taught by QA Higher Education and University staff.
