University College Cork

You’ll study the Commerce International Foundation Programme at the OnCampus Ireland centre in Maynooth, designed to help you build the academic and English skills needed for undergraduate study in Ireland.

On successful completion, you receive a QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies and progress to selected partner degree options.

• Qualification: QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies
• NFQ level: Level 5 (Specific Purpose Certificate)
• EQF alignment: Level 4
• Duration: 7 months (two semesters of 12–13 teaching weeks plus an examination week)
• Study time: On average, ~25 hours per week of classroom-based study
• Delivery location: OnCampus Ireland centre, Maynooth
• English language: At least 9 hours per week; integrated into academic subjects and available as additional support
• Progression: Designed to support progression to selected partner undergraduate programmes in Ireland
• Application details: Check the programme website for current intake dates and application deadlines

Programme Structure

The programme is delivered across two semesters and includes subject modules, academic English, and assessment preparation.

Core modules

• English (Academic English): language development integrated with your academic timetable, plus additional support where required
• Intercultural Studies and Communications
• Mathematics
• Business Studies
• Information Systems
• Global Politics

Assessment and progression

• Ongoing assessments across modules during the teaching weeks
• An examination week at the end of the programme
• Successful completion supports progression to selected partner undergraduate programmes

Note: For the most up-to-date curriculum map (module breakdown by semester) and assessment details, please refer to the programme website.

English requirements

IELTS

5.0

Minimum IELTS: Overall 5.0, with no less than 5.0 in the written component and 4.5 in listening, speaking, and reading (or an equivalent accepted English qualification).

Work rights after graduation

Check for any work restrictions

After completing your programme in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to Irish immigration rules in force at the time you graduate.

• Eligibility: You must have successfully completed your course and meet the conditions set by the Irish authorities for post-study work.
• Duration: The permitted work period depends on the type and level of your qualification and the rules applicable to your graduation date.
• Timing: You typically apply after you have completed your studies and received the required documentation (e.g., confirmation of completion).
• Restrictions: Work permission rules can change, and some programmes may have specific conditions. Always verify the latest requirements before you apply.

For the most accurate guidance for your situation (including any country-specific or qualification-specific rules), check the programme website and the official Irish immigration guidance.