Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc

Course overview

This course is for UK students only. International students should apply for the International Foundation Year.

This extended four-year degree provides intensive, well-structured support, to enable your progression onto a degree in science, such as engineering, healthcare, Earth sciences or mathematics. If you’re looking to progress onto Medicine and Surgery BMChB or Dental Surgery MChD/BChD the degree will be six years.

The foundation year is taught by expert academics, who are specialist foundation year practitioners based in the Lifelong Learning Centre (home to the University’s specialist teaching and support for mature, part-time and foundation year students). The Lifelong Learning Centre has extensive expertise in supporting learners with diverse learning and life experience. On successful completion of the foundation year, subject to meeting the specific requirements for progression, you'll advance onto your pre-agreed degree course at the University of Leeds.

During the foundation year, you’ll receive an intensive introduction to the academic and life skills, qualities and techniques that are necessary for success as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) undergraduates.

Our curriculum has a focus on digital literacy, ethics and diversity. Compulsory modules in mathematics and a choice of sciences are taken to develop interdisciplinary knowledge and understanding of facts and principles across each of the scientific disciplines. You’ll also gain skills for scientific inquiry in practical, laboratory and field work.

There's a strong emphasis during the foundation year on helping you achieve your full potential and development as an independent, self-directed learner. Teaching is inclusive and supportive to make sure you’re intellectually stretched. As a foundation year student you'll be part of the University from day one with all the experiences and opportunities that this offers.

Group sizes vary based on module choices, allowing you to engage actively and develop team-working skills with your peers. Methods of assessment during the foundation year will ensure you’re prepared for further study onto your degree.

This course is for UK students from a widening participation background (who meet our additional entry criteria) who don’t currently meet the typical entry requirements for direct entry to a degree. This course does not accept students with previous higher education experience, including other foundation years or international students.

Entry requirements

A-level: CDD or above excluding Critical Thinking and General Studies. Applicants taking a science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement. T Levels will be considered on a case by case basis. We welcome applications from students with a wide range of qualifications.

GCSE: English, mathematics and science at grade C/4 or above or equivalent. Applicants wanting to progress on to degree courses offered by the Schools of Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Electronic & Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering and Physics & Astronomy will need GCSE mathematics at grade B/6 or above, or equivalent.

Other course specific tests:

Due to the competitive nature of many of the Interdisciplinary Science progression pathways, the admissions team takes into account a wide variety of factors which include, but are not limited to, actual academic performance to date and predicted results for qualifications currently being studied.

Mature applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Competitive progression pathways (Healthcare, Medicine, Dental Surgery, and Engineering degrees) may be closed earlier in the year.

International Baccalaureate

Career opportunities