STEM Foundation Year

UCAS code: Varies by pathway

Develop the key transferable skills and subject-specific knowledge needed to join science-based degrees in the subject areas of biology, computer science, engineering or geography at Edge Hill University.

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Overview

Course length:	4 years full-time 4 years full-time
Start dates:	September 2025 September 2026
Location:	Edge Hill University
Subject(s):	Biology and Biosciences Computer Science Engineering Geography and Geology Mathematics Physics
Faculty:	Arts and Sciences
Department:	Language Centre

A student gives a presentation to their peers during a seminar in a classroom in the Catalyst building.

The STEM Foundation Year provides the opportunity to study an integrated 4-year programme where you will complete a Foundation Year before progressing onto a degree in biology, computer science, engineering, or geography and geology, subject to passing all assessments. The information below describes the Foundation Year only. The curriculum for the subsequent three years is outlined in the Progression Routes section at the bottom of this page.

The STEM Foundation Year provides the opportunity to develop scientific skills and knowledge, tailored to your individual needs, that will enable you to progress onto the first-year of selected science-based degrees at Edge Hill University. The programme equips you with the key transferable skills needed for higher education and future employment. It is suitable if you meet the University’s minimum entry criteria but do not meet the subject-specific requirements for science-based courses or wish to extend your scientific knowledge base prior to joining a relevant degree. You will develop skills in academic writing, critical analysis, systematic thinking and personal reflection, and receive a broad overview of applied mathematics and physics. The programme includes three pathways which enable you to enhance your scientific knowledge in computer programming, biology or geography. The pathway you will study is determined by your intended degree.

Please note, this Foundation Year does not normally lead to an award or qualification in its own right, however successful completion of the Foundation Year at the required pass mark enables progression onto a relevant degree at Edge Hill University.

Course features

International students can apply

What you'll study

The STEM Foundation Year combines the core fundamental knowledge, which underpins science subjects, with the skills that form the foundation of studying at university.

You will hone your skills in academic writing and critical analysis, and reflect on your academic experiences. A group project enables you to work as part of a team and produce a significant piece of work focused on the acquisition, handling and application of a wide range of information sources.

You will also receive a firm grounding in applied mathematics and physics and study one of three subject-specific modules that provide introductions to computer programming, biology and geography. The optional module studied will be determined by your intended degree upon completion of the Foundation Year.

On successful completion of the STEM Foundation Year, you will progress to Year 1 of your intended degree.

Compulsory modules:

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Physics provides a foundation in topics that are fundamental to the study of physics and essential for rigorous academic study in science and engineering. The module provides technical breadth and embraces important skills to enable modelling of the physical world. Through a series of lectures, seminars, and tutorials, together with a range of practical laboratory sessions to help reinforce material discussed in lectures, you will use a problem-solving approach to explore classical concepts in physics, covering mechanics, energy, properties of waves, and electricity.

Module code: STM0005

Credits: 20

Assessment

70% Exam

30% Coursework

One of:

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Introduction to Biology provides an overview of biology at all scales from molecular biology to global ecology. The study of biology is the study of life itself and the module recognises this as it reaches back in time and examines evolution. All material will be related to real-world examples and case studies to ensure that you gain a range of specific practical laboratory and fieldwork skills. The topics introduced in this module will provide a grounding in key biological concepts and principles across a broad biological range.

Module code: STM0004

Credits: 20

Assessment

50% Coursework

50% Exam

Introduction to Geosciences equips you with an understanding of the Earth’s systems and related processes. Recognising that geosciences is key to managing resources and sustainability, the module will introduce you to topics such as mineral resources, climate change, water, energy, geohazards, and the relationship between the Earth sciences and human activity. You will receive a detailed overview of the discipline, from basic concepts and principles, to the ability to conduct guided and independent study and evaluate, interpret and analyse your findings.

Module code: STM0006

Credits: 20

Assessment

50% Coursework

50% Exam

Introduction to Programming outlines the foundational concepts underpinning modern computer programming, an area of computer science concerned with the creation of software systems. Such systems can vary significantly in scope and complexity. From the desktop applications we use at work, to the control systems that protect energy grids or manage transactions on the stock exchange. Whether we realise it or not, software is being actively used to support and manage our everyday lives on a grand scale. Indeed, software is now so embedded into our world, that it has become vital to a successful modern economy. The module will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to create simple software systems using an object-orientated programming language. You will also be introduced to computational thinking and analytical problem-solving techniques.

Module code: STM0003

Credits: 20

Assessment

70% Coursework

30% Exam

How you'll study

The programme focuses on student activity as a means of learning. Classes are highly interactive, with practical application of concepts a key factor, as well as cases drawn from real-life. Workshops, seminars, group tutorials and practical activities provide opportunities for you to work interdependently.

The STEM Foundation Year is delivered on a full-time basis. You may be required to attend up to four days a week. Upon completion of the STEM Foundation Year, you will continue your degree on a full-time basis, with the option to switch to part-time delivery on some programmes if you wish, subject to availability.

Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You can expect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.

How you'll be assessed

You will be assessed through a combination of practical exercises, reports, essays, presentations and examinations. We want you to develop the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Assessment therefore includes both forms of participation, though the emphasis is strongly on individual work.

Who will be teaching you

You will learn about the very latest developments in subjects from tutors who are leaders in their fields and whose research feeds directly into their teaching. The programme team regularly engage with the wider business and academic environment in sharing knowledge, while also contributing to academic conferences and journals.

Entry criteria

Entry requirements

Typical offer 72-96 UCAS Tariff points, for which no specific subjects are required, plus GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent).

Example offers

Qualification	Requirement
A Level	DDD-CCC.
BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications)	Merit, Merit, Pass (MMP).
T Level	Overall grade of Pass (E or above on the core).
International Baccalaureate (IB)	We are happy to accept IB qualifications which achieve the required number of UCAS Tariff points.
Access to Higher Education Diploma	45 credits at Level 3, for example 24 credits at Merit and 21 credits at Pass. The required total can be attained from various credit combinations.

Please note, the above examples may differ from actual offers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awards may also be accepted.

If you have a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent), there is no maximum number of qualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. This includes additional qualifications such as Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), AS Levels that haven't been continued to A Level, and General Studies AS or A Level awards.

English language requirements

International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score no lower than 5.5 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.

If your current level of English is half a band, one band, or one-and-a-half bands lower, either overall or in one or two elements, you may want to consider our Pre-Sessional English course.

How to apply

Apply online through UCAS

Read our guide to applying through UCAS to find out more about the application process.

Apply as an international student

Please see our international student pages for further information about how to apply as a prospective international student.

Each course has a bespoke UCAS code for its four-year pathway which includes the integrated foundation year.

UCAS codes for Biology and Chemistry progression routes

- BSc (Hons) Biology with STEM Foundation Year – C109
- BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with STEM Foundation Year – B919
- BSc (Hons) Biotechnology with STEM Foundation Year – B219
- BSc (Hons) Ecology & Conservation with STEM Foundation Year – C189
- BSc (Hons) Genetics with STEM Foundation Year – SR99
- BSc (Hons) Plant Science with STEM Foundation Year – CC29
- BSc (Hons) Chemistry with STEM Foundation Year- available from September 2026
- Please note, the same entry criteria will apply if these routes are taken. The above routes can also be accessed following completion of the Fastrack programme

UCAS codes for Computer Science and Mathematics progression routes

- - BSc (Hons) Computer Engineering with STEM Foundation Year – G609
  - BSc (Hons) Computer Science with STEM Foundation Year – CS19
  - BSc (Hons) Computing with STEM Foundation Year – G419
  - BSc (Hons) Computing (Games Programming) with STEM Foundation Year – G619
  - BSc (Hons) Computing (Networks, Cyber Security and Forensics) with STEM Foundation Year – I299
  - BSc (Hons) Information Technology Management for Business with STEM Foundation Year – GN59
  - BSc (Hons) Mathematics with STEM Foundation Year (2025 start) – G101
  - BSc (Hons) Robotics & Artificial Intelligence with STEM Foundation Year – GH79
  - BSc (Hons) Software Engineering with STEM Foundation Year (2025 start) – II39
  - BSc (Hons)Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence with STEM Foundation Year(2025 start) -I1I9

UCAS codes for Engineering and Physics progression routes

- - BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering with STEM Foundation Year – H699
  - MEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering with STEM Foundation Year (2025 start) – H609
  - BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with STEM Foundation Year – H399
  - MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with STEM Foundation Year (2025 start) – H309
  - BSc (Hons) Physics with STEM Foundation Year (2025 start) – F309

UCAS codes for Geography and Geology progression routes

- BSc (Hons) Geography with STEM Foundation Year – F809
- BSc (Hons) Physical Geography & Geology with STEM Foundation Year – FF69
- BSc (Hons) Geology with Physical Geography with STEM Foundation Year – 8T19

Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

Facilities

The STEM Foundation Year is delivered by the Language Centre, located in Creative Edge, a state-of-the-art £17million building offering highly contemporary suites of outstanding facilities.

Upon successful completion of the STEM Foundation Year, you will be based in the Department of Biology, Department of Computer Science or Department of History, Geography and Social Sciences, depending on your chosen degree.

You will benefit from our brand-new £17.4m Life Sciences building, featuring dedicated student research labs for learning advanced cell culture and histology techniques.

Where you'll study

Creative Edge

BioSciences

GeoSciences

Tech Hub

Finance

Tuition fees

£9,535

a year

£17,000

a year

The UK tuition fee rate is subject to final Government approval for academic year 2023/24 entry. The University may administer a small inflationary rise in tuition fees, in line with Government policy, in subsequent academic years as you progress from the STEM Foundation Year and through your intended degree.

EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, as well as Irish nationals, may be eligible for the UK tuition fee rate.

Financial support

Subject to eligibility, UK students joining this course can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK students enrolling on the course may also be eligible to apply for additional funding to help with living costs.

Scholarships

We offer a range of scholarships, which celebrate the determination, commitment and achievement of our students. Many of our scholarships are awarded automatically. There are some however, where you will need to be involved in an application or nomination process. To find out more about our scholarships and check your eligibility, please visit our dedicated scholarships pages.

Money Matters

Please view the relevant Money Matters guide for comprehensive information about the financial support available to eligible UK students.

Money Matters

EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme may be eligible to apply for financial support. Irish nationals can ordinarily apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI). If you are an EU student who does not have settled or pre-settled status, or are an international student from a non-EU country, please see our international student finance pages.

Your future career

The programme will equip you with the skills, knowledge and understanding required to progress onto Year 1 of your intended degree in biology, computer science, engineering or geography at Edge Hill University.

Please note, places on specific degrees are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. In the unlikely event that your intended degree is not available upon successful completion of the STEM Foundation Year, you will be offered the opportunity to progress onto the first year of an alternative degree relevant to your choice of specialism.

You should be aware that the STEM Foundation Year is designed to enable progression onto relevant degrees at Edge Hill University and may not be accepted by other institutions.

Course changes

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, however our courses are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses.

Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of professional bodies, revisions to subject benchmarks statements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.