University College Cork

Computer Science – International Foundation Programme prepares international students for undergraduate study in Ireland by building core academic skills in English, mathematics and computing-related subjects.

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

Duration: 7 months (two semesters of 12–13 teaching weeks plus an examination week) Study load: ~25 hours per week (on average) Location: OnCampus Ireland centre in Maynooth Qualification: QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies (NFQ Level 5; EQF Level 4 equivalence) Delivery: Full-time programme English language support: English is timetabled and compulsory; integrated into academic subjects and available as additional support Progression: Intended progression to partner undergraduate programmes in Ireland Application/start dates: Check the programme website for the latest intake dates and application deadlines Tuition fees: Check the programme website for current tuition fees and any applicable scholarships

Programme Structure

The programme is delivered over two semesters and includes an examination period at the end of the course. You will study a mix of academic subjects and English language development throughout the year.

Core modules

• English (including academic writing and language development)
• Intercultural Studies and Communications
• Mathematics
• Business Studies
• Information Systems
• Global Politics

How learning is supported

• English language study is compulsory and is scheduled throughout the programme.
• Academic subjects are supported through language integration, with additional support available where needed.

Assessment

Assessment includes end-of-module and end-of-programme examinations. Exact assessment formats may vary by module—confirm details with the programme team.

Next step: After successful completion, you can progress to partner undergraduate pathways. For the full curriculum and module breakdown, visit the programme website.

Academic requirements

Specific GPA or grading thresholds are not listed for this programme. Entry is based on your prior education and overall suitability for foundation-level study.

English requirements

IELTS: overall 5.0 (minimum 5.0 in Writing and 4.5 in Listening, Reading and Speaking) or an equivalent English qualification.

Other requirements

General

• Minimum English level: Council of Europe B1+ / IGCSE C / or equivalent (including IELTS 5.0 as stated above).

Age

• Applicants must normally be 17 years old and will be 18 by the end of the programme.

Documents (typical)

• Academic transcripts/certificates from previous education
• Passport/ID
• English language test results (if applicable)
• Any additional documents requested by the admissions team

Important: Application deadlines and intake dates vary. Please check the programme website for the latest deadlines and start dates.

Student insurance

Before travelling, ensure you have appropriate health and travel insurance for your stay in Ireland. Requirements can vary by institution and programme—confirm any specific insurance expectations with University College Cork and/or the programme team.

Work rights after graduation (Ireland)

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 meeting the relevant immigration criteria at the time of application.

• Eligibility depends on your programme and award: you must have successfully completed an eligible course and hold the required Irish immigration documentation.
• Duration: the permitted work period is determined by the immigration rules in force when you apply.
• Conditions: you may need to apply within specified time limits after graduation and provide evidence of completion.
• Rules can change: immigration policies and eligibility requirements may be updated by Irish authorities.

For the most accurate guidance for your situation, confirm the current post-study work options with the programme team and the relevant Irish immigration authority. Visit the programme website for the latest information.