Program Overview

International Foundation Year in Engineering, Computing and Life Sciences
The programme includes academic modules, study skills and English language training, providing complete preparation for undergraduate degree  in Engineering.

On the International Foundation Year in Engineering, you will:

• Gain understanding of mechanics and mathematics relevant to your undergraduate study
• Develop your knowledge of physics and learn about atomic physics, materials, heat and gases and oscillations and waves
• If you choose Life Science, you will focus on biology and chemistry, developing their knowledge in key areas such as cell biology, physiological processes in animals and plants, inorganic and organic chemistry, and an overview of contemporary science.

What will you study?
Throughout the two-semester programme, you will study core modules that will improve your subject knowledge and English level.

Core modules

• Academic English Skills
• Project study
• Applied Maths
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Coding for Computing
• Introduction to Engineering Mathematics
• Maths for Science
• Physics
• Pure Maths

Upon successful completion of the International Foundation Year, and achieving the required grades, you will join the first year of your undergraduate degree at Liverpool John Moores University.

Leading to: Biotechnology BSc (Hons)

BSc (Hons) Biotechnology explores the manipulation of biomolecular processes to develop technologies and products that address global challenges in health, food and the environment. The course provides excellent facilities to develop practical skills and exciting opportunities to engage with industry.

Biotechnology is a fascinating field of study, which has had a positive impact on many aspects of our lives, with applications across medicine, food and the environment.

This multidisciplinary science builds on a foundational knowledge of molecular and cell biology, microbiology and biochemistry, using transgenic plants, animals and microbes to develop valuable technologies and products. Early known examples of biotechnology include the use of microorganisms to make cheese, bread and wine, but advances in genetic engineering and recombinant DNA technology have revolutionised the biotechnology industry. Modern biotechnology has enabled production of drugs, vaccines, energy, industrial chemicals and progressed developments in gene therapy, cancer therapy and sustainable agriculture.

This is a practical, hands-on course in which you will spend a large proportion of your time in our excellent teaching labs for cell culture, molecular biology and imaging studies, practising the latest molecular, bioprocessing and analytical techniques. You will gain an understanding of the principles and applications of biotechnology across this broad-based sector. Optional modules and a research project in the final year provide opportunities to specialise in your own particular area of interest. You will have plenty of opportunities to put your skills and knowledge into practice and explore your own interests by completing a research project. The option to do a years industrial placement between the second and third year will also help develop transferable skills, valued by employers.

The programme enables you to develop intellectual independence, critical awareness and transferable skills — attributes that are vital for employment. There is an emphasis on career development, with additional input from external speakers from industry, increasing your understanding of the business of biotechnology. As well as exploring a wide range of career options, you will develop commercial awareness and learn how new start-up biotechnology companies are created.