Frequently Asked Questions

How will I get to know other students on the course?
Each department runs a variety of induction activities for new students in week one of the first semester which will give you the opportunity to meet both staff and students in the same department.  In addition, there is a separate welcome event for students on the foundation year at which you will meet students on the foundation year of other science and engineering degree courses as well as students studying the same course as you.  Once teaching gets underway in the second week, you will soon get to know other members of your year through tutorials and practical classes.

What is a typical week like?   
A typical week in the foundation year will involve a mix of formal lectures and support classes such as workshops and practical classes.  Some biology modules also include fieldwork.  There are more classes in the foundation year than in future years in order to support you as you develop the skills to become more independent learners.  Wednesday afternoons are always kept free of classes and there are free periods at other times during the week giving you plenty of time to complete assignments and, due to the compact nature of the campus, even play sport.

Who can I turn to if I need advice and help?
On arrival at the University, you will be allocated a member of staff in your department to act as your Personal Supervisor throughout your time at University.  Your Personal Supervisor is there to advise you on any matter, personal or academic.  They will also assist you in reviewing your progress throughout your degree course.  If your Supervisor doesn’t know the answer to your questions or isn’t the best person to help, they will know who is and will point you in the right direction.  Other teaching and support staff are also approachable and will help  you if they possibly can. The University also has a variety of other support services available to assist you such as wardens and tutors in University accommodation, Student Welfare, the  International Office, Study Advice Service, Counselling Service and the Students’ Union.  Whatever your problem, there will be someone you can turn to for advice and help.

What happens if I fail a module, will I have to leave?
No, provided you have attended classes and handed in assessments, you will be given the opportunity to resit the failed foundation modules in August.  Most students pass the resits.  If you find you have passed the majority of your foundation modules, you may still be allowed to continue onto the second year of the degree.

Can I comment on the course and how it is taught?
Yes, the University welcomes student feedback.  At the end of each module we will collect your comments on the content and how it was delivered.  Each department also runs a staff/student committee which meets regularly and there is also a staff/student discussion forum for the foundation year which gives you the opportunity to discuss all aspects of the year with staff teaching on the course.

How easy is it to change degree courses?
It is usually possible to transfer to a different four-year course within the same subject area (eg within biology, within engineering) without any problem during the foundation year.  It is often also possible to transfer between subjects during the foundation year but may depend on whether you have taken the modules appropriate to the degree you want to change to and what your qualifications were on admission.