The International Foundation Year at HBU-UCLan school of Media, Communication and Creative Industries provides students with a strong academic and linguistic foundation as they begin their four-year dual degree journey. The IFY serves as the dedicated first year of university study, combining intensive English for Academic Purposes modules with a major specific course that supports students’ transition into their chosen discipline.

Students complete five EAP modules that strengthen their communication, academic writing, reading, research and study skills. They also take one twenty-credit major specific module that introduces the core practices of their field. These modules ensure that students develop the critical, creative and academic abilities required for success in Levels 4, 5 and 6 of their undergraduate degree.

With large cohorts, majors are taught in multiple groups to create focused learning environments that support collaboration and teacher interaction. The IFY curriculum is guided by officially validated Programme Specifications and Module Descriptors, which outline the learning outcomes, assessment approaches and academic expectations for the year. All students receive structured weekly learning materials through the Module Information Packs, ensuring that they progress confidently and consistently throughout the programme.

The International Foundation Year functions as an essential bridge to undergraduate study at HBU-UCLan, preparing students to thrive academically while developing the discipline specific skills needed for their creative degree pathways.