Program Overview

The International Foundation Year at Dublin International Study Centre is a three-term undergraduate foundation programme. It’s designed for ambitious international students, who have good academic qualifications from their home country.

You will be based on UCD's main campus and prepare to make a confident start to your degree in Ireland.

We offer three subject routes for progression to UCD. Across each route, you will study a mix of modules designed to improve your English language and academic skills so you're ready to progress to university. You will also benefit from our dedicated support staff in-centre, who will work with you to ensure you're on the path to success.

Once you successfully complete your International Foundation Year and achieve the required grades, you will be able to progress to your chosen undergraduate degree.

Engineering & Sciences
This engineering and sciences foundation year programme is perfect for students wanting to study an innovative undergraduate degree at an Irish university. You will have good subject knowledge, and want to develop it further, while also improving your English language skills.

Why study the International Foundation Year in Engineering and Sciences?

• When you progress to UCD, you'll benefit from world-class facilities in both the UCD College of Science and College of Engineering & Architecture.
• Each school within the College of Engineering & Architecture is individually accredited by prominent organisations so you can be confident in the quality of your degree.
• UCD offers a range of internship opportunities, as well as professional placements in industry for specific disciplines.
• UCD is ranked No.1 in Ireland for Chemical Engineering, Civil & Structural Engineering, Architecture and Built Environment, Veterinary Science and other Engineering and Sciences subjects. (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024).

Progression to Food Business with Chinese Studies
Our Food Business with Chinese Studies programme prepares graduates with the skills urgently required by the Irish food industry to succeed in the changing market landscape. With Brexit and the uncertainty surrounding the UK market, it is critical for the industry to expand exports to emerging markets, particularly China. This requires improved foreign language capability, which we provide through a combination of fundamental food science and food business management modules, and language, cultural, and target market-oriented courses.

In third year, students study at Renmin University of China, taking Chinese language courses and other relevant modules, while experiencing the diverse culture and vibrant economic growth of China. By fourth year, students will have the knowledge and skills necessary for professional decision-making in agri-food business sectors in the global market, with particular emphasis on China.