About this course
- Entry year: 2012/13
- Course code: G100
- Applications: UCAS
- Level: Undergraduate
- Tariff points: 180
- Department: Engineering, Design and Mathematics
- Campus: Frenchay
- Duration: One year full-time
- Delivery: Full-time
- Study Abroad: No
- Programme leader: Helena Wildblood
Introduction
At the University of the West of England (UWE) we are committed to widening participation and being able to offer alternative means of access to those who do not meet the standard entry criteria for Higher Education. In keeping with this commitment, the Department of Engineering Design and Mathematics offers a foundation programme which provides a route to the wide range of honours degrees offered in mathematical sciences, music systems and engineering.
This one year extension to the degree programme is designed for those who lack the subject specific qualifications normally needed for entry, and is suitable for a range of entrants. Those currently on the course include students who do not meet the minimum academic entry requirements but have significant life and/or work experience, students with arts-based qualifications who wish to transfer into these science-based subjects, some students from Access courses and those without the mathematics qualifications needed for direct entry onto their chosen course. The one thing all students have in common is the motivation to prepare for a degree course. We particularly encourage students who have minimum qualifications but significant experience to contact the Faculty of Environment and Technology Admissions Office for advice.
The Foundation Year has three pathways, leading to degrees in the Department. Please note that all students are enrolled on an Engineering degree, level 0 (foundation year). However, depending on the degree they wish to progress to, different pathways are selected. Help is provided in choosing the right degree programme for you.
Structure
Content
The main aim of the foundation year is to provide you with the knowledge and skills you will need to be successful in your future studies. It consists of three streams - engineering, mathematics and music systems.
Mathematics stream
You will study Professional and Communications Skills, Foundation Mathematics: Algebra and Manipulation, Foundation Mathematics: Calculus, Foundation Laboratory Programme and Analytical Modelling.
Engineering stream
You will study Professional and Communication Skills, Foundation Mathematics: Algebra and Manipulation, Foundation Mathematics: Calculus, Foundation Laboratory Programme, Introduction to Mechanics and Mechatronics.
Music Systems stream
You will study Professional and Communication Skills, Foundation Mathematics: Algebra and Manipulation, Foundation Mathematics: Calculus, Foundation Laboratory Programme, Music Systems for Engineers and Mechatronics.
Teaching is largely in tutorial groups, allowing significant personal support. Where possible, assessment is carried out throughout the entire year, although there are end of year exams in some modules.
The programme structures change from year to year. Therefore you might find some variation between that shown here and the final version of your course.
Due to a restructuring process, we have amalgamated the previous stand-alone Mathematics Foundation Year with the Engineering Foundation Year. As the majority of students go on to do engineering degrees, we have taken the decision to keep the name as Engineering Foundation. However, you will take the mathematics pathway of the Engineering Foundation Year and will progress onto your chosen mathematics degree thereafter.This amalgamation represents very little change in content from the stand-alone Mathematics Foundation year, so you need not worry that you will end up doing lots of engineering and very little mathematics. If you have any queries or questions in this regard, we would be happy to help.
Teaching and learning
Much of your learning will be through lectures, tutorials, laboratory work and projects. Courses in IT and other aids to personal development are also provided. You can expect to study some modules along with students from other streams.
Assessment
Your work is normally assessed through a mixture of assignments, group work, continuous assessment and examinations, depending on the nature of the subject.
Special Features
Study facilities
You will use UWE's Mathematics Resource Centre which gives you access to statistical and analytical software packages and additional support. You will also use UWE's vast IT services, including 24-hour computing laboratories.
Careers/further study
On successful completion of the foundation programme, you will progress onto one of the honours degrees offered within the Faculty of Environment and Technology. Your tutor will help you make the right choice for you.
Entry
Typical offers
- Tariff points: 180
- GCSE: Maths and English Language at grade C or above
- Specific subjects: None specified, but at least one A2 (or equivalent)
- Relevant subjects: Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Science
- Access: Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma; achievement of level 2 credits in Maths and English Language
- Baccalaureate IB: Accepted (see the UCAS website for the UCAS tariff points that you can gain from the IB to put towards or points requirements above)
Advice on typical offers
In addition to the 'typical offer' given here, please read the general information about
entry requirements.
Entry requirements
Students who do not meet the normal entry requirements for their chosen degree should apply. All applicants must have achieved at least a Grade C or above in Maths and English at GCSE level, as well as at least one A2-level subject, or equivalent.
How to apply
Please see the general information about applications. For information about the course please contact Programe Leader, Helena Wildblood, on helena.wildblood@uwe.ac.uk
For further information
Page last updated 14 December 2011