Science and Engineering Foundation Programme CCX1, FFX1, FFY1
Leading to degrees in the Biological & Chemical Sciences
The Science and Engineering Foundation Programme (SEFP) combines a foundation year with a traditional university degree in an integrated four-year or five-year programme. Progression is available onto all the BSc and MSci degree programmes offered by the School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, subject to successful completion of the foundation year and the achievement of the necessary academic criteria for progression onto the programme of concern. The progression criteria (specifying which foundation modules must be passed, and with what marks) reflect the normal admissions criteria for our degree programmes, and are therefore most-demanding for popular degree programmes such as B990 Biomedical Sciences and C800 Psychology.
The SEFP is particularly suitable for mature students returning to full-time studies, to students with non-standard academic backgrounds, and to those who lack the specific qualifications required for the degree they wish to pursue. The foundation year classes are taught entirely on the main Queen Mary campus, and students have full access to all the university’s facilities.
For general information about the SEFP, and other degree programmes available via the SEFP, see the main "Science & Engineering Foundation Programme" website.
Programme structure
The following list of modules is a typical programme of study for the foundation year for those students wishing to go on to take a biological sciences degree, who have not studied Mathematics to A-level.
- Communication in Science and Technology
- Principles of Mathematics
- Mathematics 1
- Introductory Chemistry
- A Closer Look at Chemistry
- Form and Function in Biology
- Molecules to Cells
- Diversity and Ecology
Some of the biology modules may be substituted by physics modules for students interested in progression to chemistry degree programmes, and different mathematics modules are taken by those students who have already studied mathematics to an advanced level.
Entry requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements for the University of London, and will also be asked to meet additional requirements that are dependent upon their educational background.
For students studying A levels, offers will normally be around 240 UCAS points (depending upon the subjects being studied to advanced level). Offers will normally be higher for students who have not studied science subjects at an advanced level.
Applications from mature students, and from students studying vocational courses, will be considered on an individual basis, but applicants should note that this programme is generally not suitable for students who have taken vocational courses without substantial biology and/or chemistry content.
For information on the application procedure see How to apply
Career opportunities
This programme provides an alternative entry route onto degree programmes in the biological and chemical sciences. For career opportunities, please see the web page for the specific degree programme that you wish to follow after the foundation year.