Studies in Science with Foundation Year

The foundation year is taught by the Lifelong Learning Centre at the University of Leeds. Staff work closely with you during the foundation year to help identify the degree choices that are most appropriate for you and map out your plans to work towards a successful progression. You’ll know from the beginning of your journey what your academic goals need to be and will be provided with guidance throughout the year to help you be as successful as you can be.

Core modules in chemistry, mathematics and skills are taken concurrently with the study of either biology or physics (depending on your progression route) to develop a knowledge and understanding of facts, concepts and principles within and across each of the scientific disciplines. You also gain skills for academic and scientific enquiry in practical, laboratory and fieldwork.

On successful completion of the foundation year, and any other progression requirements, you’ll progress to year one of your chosen degree programme.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Transition to Scientific Study 15 credits

Optional modules

• Biology for Interdisciplinary Sciences (1) 15 credits
• Biology for Interdisciplinary Sciences (2) 20 credits
• Chemistry for Interdisciplinary Sciences (1) 15 credits
• Chemistry for Interdisciplinary Sciences (2) 20 credits
• Applied Maths for Biologists and Chemists (2) 20 credits
• Applied Maths for Engineers and Physicists (1) 15 credits
• Applied Maths for Engineers and Physicists (2) 20 credits
• Environmental Chemistry 20 credits
• Applied Maths for Biologists and Chemists (1) 15 credits
• Physics and Mechanics for Interdisciplanary Sciences (1) 15 credits
• Physics and Mechanics for Interdisciplinary Sciences (2) 20 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc in the course catalogue

Broadening your academic horizons

At Leeds we want you to benefit from the depth and breadth of the University's expertise, to prepare you for success in an ever-changing and challenging world. On this course you broaden your learning through core and/or optional modules. Find out more on the Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

There is a strong emphasis during the foundation year of the programme on helping you to achieve to your full potential. Teaching is imaginative and supportive to make sure that you are intellectually stretched and helped through any sticking points in your learning. Group sizes are small enough for you to engage actively and be well supported by your peers.

Assessment

Methods of assessment during the foundation year reflect those that you will find later in your degree in order to ensure that you are well prepared for continuing study. Assessment is a key way of enabling students to learn by doing and feedback from tutors supports this process.