Program Overview

An International Foundation Year at our International Study Centre prepares you for your degree at Lancaster University. You will focus on English language, university-level study skills, and academic modules that relate to your degree subject.

Supporting your progression to the University
At the International Study Centre, we take every measure to ensure you are supported in your academic journey. Our programmes allow for increased time spent learning, researching and developing your skills. By studying with us, you will benefit from:

• Formal assessments at the end of each term.
• An improved English language module, Academic English Skills, providing greater opportunity for informal assessments and feedback.
• Combining and reducing the number of module assessments allowing more time to prepare.
• A personal tutorial system with a focus on your academic progress at key points of the academic year, creating action plans based on your performance and progession options.

Mathematics and Statistics
The International Foundation Year in Mathematics and Statistics leads to a choice of bachelors and master degrees in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. To prepare for your degree, you will study core English language modules and subject modules for Mathematics and Statistics. Degree options include Accounting, Finance and Computer Science.

You will study Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Statistics. Areas of study include number theory and graph theory (Pure Mathematics); vectors and variable acceleration (Applied Mathematics); and correlation and hypothesis testing (Statistics).

Accounting, Finance and Mathematics
Want to take your maths to the highest level while learning how to apply it to the world of accounting and finance? This degree is the perfect balance of theory and practice. Whether you become a banker, an accountant or a quantitative mathematician, your studies will equip you with the advanced mathematical and statistical techniques needed in the City of London and beyond.

How do you build a strong investment portfolio? How can you calculate financial risk? You will study investor decision-making, reporting and market analysis. You’ll also learn the key elements of relevant mathematical areas such as calculus, probability and statistics. 

This course is accredited by British accountancy bodies, providing graduates with exemptions from certain professional examinations. It also includes Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) exams. This means, on graduation, you’ll be further along the Chartered Accountants route than many of your contemporaries.

Your degree starts with subjects including calculus, algebra, probability and statistics. We will teach you the foundations of economics, accounting and finance. You will use real-world data to develop your financial reporting skills.

The second year builds on your mathematical knowledge as well as introducing you to statistical computer programming. You’ll also study auditing, management accounting techniques and corporate financing.

Third year students develop their understanding of financial accounting theories and practices. These include strategic investments, taxation, pensions and reporting standards, plus how to select the best statistical model.

Our graduates leave equipped for a working life of teamwork, equations and algebra. Their analytical ability, logical thinking and project management skills are highly prized in banking, general and financial management and consulting.