About this course
- Entry year: 2012/13
- Course code: H100
- 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
The University of the West of England (UWE) is 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 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 with arts-based qualifications who wish to transfer into these science-based subjects, some students from Access courses, those whose A2-level or BTEC results were disappointing and those who do not meet the mathematics entry requirement of their chosen degree. 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 programme has two pathways, leading to degrees in the Department. Please note that all students are enrolled on the BSc(Hons) Engineering degree, level 0 (foundation year), whichever degree they intend to take. Help will also be provided in choosing the best degree programme for you, which you will then be transferred to upon successful completion of the foundation year.
We also offer a Computing Foundation Year through a partnership with City of Bristol College. It's an extension to your chosen degree programme in a wide range of computing and IT courses offered by the Department. It is also excellent preparation for BSc(Hons) Audio and Music Technology. Please note that we do not offer a foundation year which allows for progression onto one of our Product Design courses. If you need help in what you should do to prepare yourself for these courses, please contact our Admissions Office on 0117 32 84242 or by email fet.admissions@uwe.ac.uk.
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 two streams - engineering and mathematics, both offered at UWE's Frenchay Campus.
Engineering stream
You will study Professional and Communications Skills, Foundation Mathematics: Algebra and Manipulation, Foundation Mathematics: Calculus, Foundation Laboratory Programme, Mechatronics and Mechanics.
Mathematics stream
You will study Professional and Communication Skills, Foundation Mathematics: Algebra and Manipulation, Foundation Mathematics: Calculus, Foundation Laboratory Programme, Introduction to Mechanics and Analytical Modelling.
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.
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.
Assessment
Your work is normally assessed through a mixture of assignments, group work, continuous assessment and examinations, depending on the nature of the subject.
Careers/further study
On successful completion of the foundation programme, you will progress onto one of the honours degrees offered within the Department. 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 required.
- 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 our points requirements)
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 further information
Page last updated 14 December 2011