University College Cork

Overview

The Commerce International Foundation Programme at University College Cork is offered at the OnCampus Ireland centre in Maynooth. This course is specifically designed to equip students with the necessary academic and English language skills crucial for pursuing undergraduate studies in Ireland. Upon successful completion, students are awarded a QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies, allowing them to progress to selected partner degree programmes.

• 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 (comprising two semesters of 12–13 teaching weeks plus an examination week)
• Study time: Approximately 25 hours per week of classroom-based study
• Delivery location: OnCampus Ireland centre, Maynooth
• English language: At least 9 hours per week, with integration into academic subjects and additional support available
• Progression: Facilitates progression to selected partner undergraduate programmes in Ireland
• Application details: Refer to the programme website for current intake dates and application deadlines

What you'll study

The programme spans two semesters and consists of various subject modules, academic English, and preparation for assessments.

Core modules

• Academic English: Language development integrated with the academic curriculum, supplemented by additional support as needed
• Intercultural Studies and Communications
• Mathematics
• Business Studies
• Information Systems
• Global Politics

Assessment and progression

• Continuous assessments throughout the teaching weeks
• An examination week at the programme's conclusion
• Successful completion enables progression to selected partner undergraduate programmes

Note: For the latest curriculum details and assessment information, please consult the programme website.

Entry requirements

Specific GRE/GMAT requirements do not apply to this programme, and GPA requirements are not specified.

English requirements

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

Other requirements

General requirements

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

Age requirements

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

Documents

• Generally includes academic transcripts/certificates and proof of English proficiency (the specific document list may vary—confirm on the programme website).

Career prospects

Graduates of the Commerce International Foundation Programme are well-prepared to pursue further studies in various undergraduate programmes. The skills and knowledge acquired during this course open up numerous career opportunities in business, finance, and related fields, both in Ireland and internationally.