Foundation Programme in Engineering and Applied Science - Foundation programmes

Successful graduation from our foundation programme paves the way to any Engineering and Physical Sciences undergraduate degree programme at Aston University.

Location: Aston University, Birmingham

Our foundation course will prepare you fully for undergraduate study and provide a pathway to a degree of your choice. As well as developing your technical skills, youll have the opportunity to develop the skills and attributes needed to be a professional engineer or applied scientist. Youll learn note taking, academic writing, clear communication and the collection, evaluation and analysis of data from different sources.

During your foundation year, youll have excellent support from your tutors and lecturers. We also have a Learning Development Centre that can provide additional support, and a peer-assisted learning scheme. Group projects will give you the chance to meet new people, make new friends and build a network of peers who will share your university journey.

Core modules and module choices

The core modules for progression for engineers are Mathematics, Physical Science & Engineering Foundations and Engineering Skills for Engineering & Applied Science. Engineering covers a wide range of disciplines and a unique feature of this programme is the opportunity for you to study a subject which will enable you to progress onto the degree of your choice.  

In addition to the core modules there are a number of choices available to you, which will lead you to your degree course.

Biomedical Engineering Foundations

Biomedical Engineering is a broad, interdisciplinary field that applies engineering principles to biology, medicine, and biotechnology. This module provides the fundamental knowledge of biomedical engineering as discipline, alongside with examples on application of available technologies for diagnostics, treatment, modelling and replacement of human body systems, organs or parts.

Construction Project Management Foundations          

This module gives an overview on the largest industry in the world ‘the construction industry and its relevant disciplines. It provides the students with an introduction to the knowledge and skills involved in studying three main themes: Civil Engineering, Construction and Project Management. The module involves fundamental theoretical studies and some practical applications which provides a solid basis if you wish to study any subject within the construction field.

Electronic Engineering Foundations

This module provides the necessary fundamental knowledge and skills required by an electronic engineer.  You will investigate direct current electrical circuits, capacitors, inductors, alternating current circuits, alternating and direct current generators and motors and digital electronics.

Engineering a Sustainable Future

This module has been designed to provide students with a wide overview of the meaning of ‘Sustainability and the implications of sustainable development. During the module you will learn concepts related to sustainability and how sustainability principles are translated into the business practice through a series of case studies.

Foundation Chemistry I and II

To provide a general background to the fundamentals of the electronic structure of atoms and molecules and an introduction to the physical properties of elements and substances. You will study atoms and molecules, metals, organic and bio-organic materials, inorganic materials, organic chemistry.

Fundamentals of Computing

This module is aimed at introducing some basic and essential computer programming skills that engineers or scientists may need and the fundamentals of computer systems.  You will study such topics basic components of a computer program, basic GUI components, program testing and documentation.

Mechanical Science I and II

To provide an introduction to mechanical engineering. To introduce experimental and design work involving mechanical engineering principles.  You will study such topics as applied mechanics, kinematics, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.

Systems and Logistics Foundations

This module provides students with a fundamental knowledge of systems thinking, its role in engineering and the role of logistics in society. Topics such as logistics and supply chains, its management in society and the design and re-engineering of logistics networks will be introduced to the students.

Transport Foundations

Provides an introduction to transport and its place within engineering.  Introduces you to the technology and practice that transport infrastructure and services are built on, and their place in society. Provides you with the key skills to enter a degree in this area.

• CCC
• CCD (with an EPQ or Core Maths at grade B)
• CDD (contextual offers)

To be accepted onto our programmes, you must be able to satisfy the University's English language requirements. The level required will depend on the programme you are applying for. We strive to make your application process as easy as possible, however in all cases we reserve the right to request an English language qualification and / or conduct an interview.

We accept a wide range of English language qualifications including:

• IELTS Academic
• TOEFL
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT Home Edition
• Password
• Duolingo English Test (for entry onto Pre-Sessional English programmes, and direct entry courses starting in January 2022 and September 2022, excluding Aston Medical School, OSPAP, and Postgraduate Research degree programmes).
• Kaplan International Tools for English (KITE) 

Progression

Please note that all modules studied during the degree must be passed in order for a student to progress onto a degree programme.

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year programme you can progress onto any of the Engineering and Applied Science undergraduate degree programmes provided you meet the progression criteria for your selected degree. Progression criteria onto a degree includes the module selected during the Foundation Year, e.g. progression on to a Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry degree requires that the following modules are taken; all core modules plus Foundation Chemistry I, Foundation Chemistry II and Physical Science and Engineering Foundation II. Progression on to other degrees may have a different requirement of modules that would need to be selected.

Please contact us if you require information about this. Please note that you should state your intended progression route (i.e. which degree you would like to progress on to) upon application.