Science (with a Foundation Year)

The Foundation Year in Science at the University of East Anglia provides students with a comprehensive introduction to fundamental scientific principles, laying a solid foundation for further study in various science disciplines. This preparatory year is designed for students who wish to pursue a degree in science but need additional preparation to meet the entry requirements or to develop core skills essential for success in higher education. Throughout the Foundation Year, students will engage with a variety of modules that cover essential topics such as chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. These modules are tailored to build essential scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and practical abilities, equipping students with the confidence and competence to undertake undergraduate studies in their chosen scientific fields.

The programme emphasizes a supportive learning environment, where students have access to expert tutors, state-of-the-art laboratories, and extensive academic resources. In addition to subject-specific modules, students will develop key skills in scientific communication, data analysis, problem-solving, and research methods, which are crucial for succeeding in university-level science courses. The Foundation Year also offers opportunities for personal development, including teamwork, independent study, and time management skills, preparing students for the demands of degree-level education and beyond.

Students who successfully complete the Foundation Year are eligible to progress directly onto a range of undergraduate science degree programmes at the University of East Anglia, including BSc Biology, BSc Chemistry, BSc Physics, and interdisciplinary science degrees. The programme is ideal for students who have a strong interest in science but need an additional preparatory year to enhance their academic background or meet university entry criteria. By choosing the Foundation Year in Science at UEA, students are opening the door to a wide array of scientific careers, supported by a university renowned for its research excellence and innovative teaching.

The programme not only prepares students academically but also encourages engagement with current scientific issues, fostering a curiosity-driven approach to learning. With access to excellent facilities, experienced staff, and a vibrant academic community, students will find themselves well-equipped to undertake their undergraduate journey and make meaningful contributions to scientific understanding and innovation.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10550 Year (EEA)

• English

Course Content

BSc (Hons) Science Programme

The BSc Science programme consists of a number of core units drawn from the main undergraduate degree programmes in the Faculty of Science at UEA.

You will have a wide selection of science units to choose from, including Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Mathematics and Computing Science, allowing you to tailor the course to meet your personal requirements. Guidance in your choice of path will be provided by your academic adviser and the course director.
During Year 1 students must take at least 120 credits from the units on offer, of which a minimum of 60 credits must be in one main discipline and a minimum of 20 credits in a subsidiary discipline.

The final two years allow you flexibility in your choice of units. Students may carry out a research project in their final year or continue to broaden their knowledge, by studying units selected from a wide range of science disciplines, supported as appropriate by additional laboratory classes. You are allowed free choice from a variety of science-based topics, although some restrictions may apply.

Teaching and Assessment

The interdisciplinary research carried out in the Faculty of Science, enables us to teach a wide spectrum of topics, in the form of individual course units.
A typical teaching week consists of around 20-25 hours of timetabled study.

This is taught with a combination of lectures, practical laboratory sessions and small-group tutorials and workshops, where you can discuss, in an informal setting, any points which were raised in lectures and find solutions to problem sheets distributed by tutors. You are also encouraged to discuss academic matters with tutors on a one-to-one basis.

In the laboratory, you will carry out experiments, based on the subject matter of your lecture programme. These sessions are supervised by your tutors and by postgraduate student demonstrators, who will ensure the safe execution of the experiments and discuss the theory behind them.

Units are assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. Marks from the Foundation Year do not count towards your final degree classification, but are important for transfers to other degree programmes.

Help and Advice

On arrival at UEA, you will be introduced to a faculty member who will act as your adviser throughout your time with us. You will have regular discussions about the progress of your studies with your adviser, and he or she will also help with your selection of units and discuss any worries you may have about university life.

The bond between the advisor and student is often very strong and many graduates keep in touch with their advisers long after leaving UEA.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A Level:

CCC from three A2 levels

• International Baccalaureate:

Baccalaureate 28 points overall

• Scottish Highers:

240 UCAS points

• Scottish Advanced Highers:

240 UCAS points

• Irish Leaving Certificate:

Please contact institution for further information

• Access Course:

Please contact institution for further information

• HND:

Please contact institution for further information

• European Baccalaureate:

60% overall

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
• PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

If you are studying the BTEC National Diploma please contact us for further information.

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirements. Please contact us for further information.

GCSE Offer

All applicants are required to have GCSE English language and Mathematics (or equivalent) at a minimum of Grade C.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

The University of East Anglia offers a Foundation Year in Science designed to provide students with a solid grounding in fundamental scientific principles and techniques, preparing them for onward study in various science-related undergraduate degree programmes. This foundation year is particularly suitable for students who have recently completed school education but do not yet meet the entry requirements for direct admission to a full undergraduate degree, or those who want to strengthen their scientific knowledge before progressing.

The Foundation Year in Science covers essential areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, ensuring that students acquire a broad base of scientific understanding. The curriculum emphasizes developing practical laboratory skills, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, which are vital in scientific research and industry applications. Throughout the year, students engage in a mixture of lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and project work, fostering both theoretical understanding and practical competence.

Students will also develop transferable skills such as data analysis, scientific report writing, and teamwork. The program is designed to ease the transition from school to university education, with support from dedicated academic advisors and career services to help students plan their academic pathways and future careers.

The Foundation Year is integrated into various undergraduate degree programmes at UEA, including disciplines such as Biomedical Sciences, Environmental Science, and other science-related courses. Successful completion of the foundation year typically allows students to progress directly into the first year of their chosen undergraduate degree, with many students benefiting from the university’s strong links to research institutions and industry, which enhances employability and practical experience opportunities.

The University of East Anglia is known for its research-led teaching, vibrant campus community, and excellent student support services. Students enrolled in the Foundation Year in Science will be part of this dynamic environment, gaining not only academic knowledge but also personal development opportunities. The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in their subsequent undergraduate studies and future careers in science.

The foundation year course typically spans 9 to 12 months, with entry points aligned to the start of the academic year. Support services include academic mentoring, language support if needed, and opportunities for extracurricular involvement. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, students are encouraged to transfer seamlessly into the first year of their chosen BSc or related undergraduate degree programme at UEA, paving the way for further academic achievement and professional development in the sciences.