Structure and Content
The International Foundation Programme is comprised of themed courses designed to help you prepare for undergraduate degree-level study.
The IFP in 2024/2025
All teaching for the 2024-25 academic year will take place in-person at the University of Edinburgh's Holyrood Campus.
Courses for 2024/2025
All of the courses within the International Foundation Programme have been specifically designed to ensure you have the best possible start to your university learning experience. As each course progresses, its academic, individual study and assessment requirements will gradually become closer to those you will experience in your first year of degree level study.
The optional courses you will take will depend on which UG degree programme you wish to apply to after the IFP. Your Personal Tutor will ensure that your optional course choices prepare you for degree-level study.
Teaching & Assessment
Every course within the International Foundation Programme will be taught by expert and supportive University of Edinburgh academics.
In most courses, you will take practice assessments which have been designed to help you develop your academic skills and prepare you for degree level study. Further details of course content, structure and assessment methods for each course will be confirmed closer to the start of the 24/25 academic year. Below is an example of what IFP students are currently studying.
Living and Learning in Britain
The Living and Learning in Britain course will provide you with practical knowledge and support to help you with academic skills and to critically reflect on your experience of learning in the UK. Throughout the academic year, you will develop your academic skills and gain knowledge of British culture and society through lectures, seminars, an exam and portfolio work by critically reflecting on three themes.
Foundation English for Academic Purposes Entry or Plus
The Foundation English for Academic Purposes courses will provide you with the necessary English language skills. Successful completion of the course will offer you the English language proficiency required to join the first year of a degree programme within the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. At the start of the course you will be placed in either the Entry or Plus class, based on your IELTS score.
Foundation English for Academic Purposes Entry
This course is designed for students who have not yet met the English language requirements for entry to their chosen Undergraduate degree at The University of Edinburgh.
Term 1 course page Term 2 course page
Foundation English for Academic Purposes Plus
This course is designed for students who have already met the English language requirements for entry to their chosen Undergraduate degree at The University of Edinburgh.
Term 1 course page Term 2 course page
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Introducing Philosophy This course will provide a general introduction to the central issues in philosophy and develop your academic skills for successful degree level study in the humanities. |
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Introduction to Psychology This course will provide an introduction to a range of topics within the discipline of Psychology in the context of classic studies and cutting-edge research. |
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Introduction to Social Science This course provides a gateway to studying social sciences, including sociology, anthropology, economics and politics. |
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Introduction to Art & Design Practice This course includes a series of practical projects which will encourage students to develop their knowledge and understanding of the elements in art and design. |
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Introduction to Politics This course will explore the workings of political systems around the world. Students will be introduced to key concepts and approaches in the study of politics, with a focus on comparative analysis. |
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Introducing Cultural Studies This course will introduce key ideas and theories in the field of cultural studies, which are transferable to a broad range of disciplinary contexts. |
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Introduction to Social Anthropology This course introduces theories and practices of social anthropology, drawing on ideas and practices from around the world. |
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Reading English Literature This course will introduce you to the study of English literature through literary texts in the genres of prose, poetry and drama. |
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Ideas and Concepts in Art & Design This course gives students the opportunity to practise and develop their research skills towards the development of their own personal ideas. |
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Medieval Scotland This course provides an introduction to the history of medieval Scotland, from the 11th century to the eve of the Reformation. |
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Sustainability and Social Responsibility This course enables students to engage with important current local and global issues and climate change. |
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Introduction to Quantitative Data Analysis This course looks at methods for summarising and understanding large data sets and for drawing conclusions from uncertain and incomplete data. This course is suitable for International Foundation Programme Students progressing to undergraduate degrees requiring an understanding of probability and statistics. |
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Introduction to International Relations This course will give you a broad introduction to international relations and equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a social sciences degree. |
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Archaeology Today This course explores the history, development and research methods of archaeology, with examples drawn from around the world. |