Program Overview

University Foundation in Science Stage1 at International College Portsmouth (ICP) at University of Portsmouth is designed to prepare you for entry to university-level program. During Stage 1 you will complete a range of modules relevant to your chosen degree, as well as modules concentrating on the skills that are vital for University level education such as Critical Thinking.

Foundation
A Foundation pathway is available for students who:

• Don’t meet the entry requirements to enter university level study directly (but hold GCSE level qualifications)
• Feel that additional support at the start of university studies will help them stand a better chance of success
• Have been away from studies for a period of time
• Come from a different academic environment to that of the UK
• Require additional English language training

If you fall into any of the above categories, choosing an undergraduate pathway at International College Portsmouth (ICP) at University of Portsmouth is the right decision. Depending on your academic needs here at International College Portsmouth (ICP) at University of Portsmouth.

Progressing from Foundation

Stage 1 will be the first stage in the 4 stage process. Meaning that on successful completion of stage 1 you will seamlessly progress to stage 2, which is the first year of a bachelor’s degree. There is no need to reapply, you will simply just progress between each stage until you reach the final stage and graduate with a degree from International College Portsmouth (ICP) at University of Portsmouth.

Biology

Are you excited by the natural world and want to tackle issues like disease, endangered species, and food and water shortages?

This accredited BSc (Hons) Biology degree gives you the knowledge and skills to apply your interest in the science of life and living organisms. With this degree under your belt, you can contribute positively to society in your career.

In your first year, you'll get a foundation in key biological theories and principles. You'll also be introduced to the practical skills and technology you'll use throughout your degree and in your career as a biologist.

In years 2 and 3, you'll build on your fundamental biology skills and knowledge. You can specialise in the strands of biology that interest you most, such as microbiology and biotechnology, cell and molecular biology, or ecology and evolution.

In your final year, you'll design and run an investigation and present it to a professional specification. You can do a placement year after your second year, or study abroad on a conservation or research scheme.

Your Biology degree could set you up for a rewarding career in education, research, scientific journalism or the biotechnology and environmental sectors. And you'll be eligible to apply for Associate Membership of the Royal Society of Biology.

What you'll experience

On this degree course, you'll:

• Develop your knowledge and abilities by learning from internationally recognised scientists who are leading the way in their respective fields
• Cover areas at the forefront of scientific endeavour, including biotechnology, ecology, cell biology and molecular biology
• Put your knowledge to work in the lab, using world-class equipment and the latest technology
• Specialise in subjects that interest you most, from marine and terrestrial biology, to molecular genetics
• Develop problem-solving, communication and numeracy skills alongside technical skills
• Explore the diversity of local ecosystems and go on field trips to destinations such as Lulworth Cove, Devon and Mexico
• Have the chance to study abroad on a conservation or research scheme

Equipment you can use includes:

• Molecular biology instrumentation
• Chemical analysis facilities for detecting pollutants
• Fluorescence microscopes, scanning and transmission electron microscopes

Facilities you can use include:

• Microbiology and embryology laboratories with high-tech imaging and gene analysis equipment
• Ancient DNA preparation and analysis laboratories
• Water quality laboratory
• The European Xenopus Resource Centre
• Research greenhouse