Certificate in International Foundation Studies (CIFS)

The main aims of the English language module are twofold: one, to develop learners’ English language level from B1+ to B2+ CEFRL, while equipping them with the relevant academic English knowledge, and two, provide learners with the skills needed to deal with the academic practices that learners may be unfamiliar with e.g. academic writing, critical thinking, etc. At the core of this module, the focus is on improving learners’ ability to produce grammatically accurate texts and broaden the learners’ knowledge in lexis, register and style. The module aims to provide solid foundations and develop learners’ English language abilities while instilling in learners the skills they require to thrive in third-level undergraduate programmes where English is the medium of instruction. All four skills (listening, reading, writing and speaking) are addressed during each semester, with a particular emphasis on written language throughout the programme.

The objective of this module is to assist international learners in the transition to higher education through the medium of English. Many international learners have difficulties adapting to the academic requirements of third-level education. Learners need to develop their ability to study independently as well as in groups. Through this module, they are introduced to the landscape and academic practices of third-level study.    

The aim of this is to provide learners with the necessary foundations in knowledge, understanding and skills to effectively use computer applications in higher education. More specifically, learners study how to use Microsoft Office suite applications to support their learning and development in third-level educational institutions. This module provides learners with a practical introduction to file management, Internet and email, presentation tools and skill, word processing and spreadsheets. The skills that learners acquire on this module are transferrable to the IT skills that learners need to complete assessments in core and content modules on the programme effectively. As a result, this module is linked closely with all modules on the programme, especially the English language module and the learning, study and communication skills module.

The objective of this module is to give learners a solid foundation in mathematics, both procedural and applied. The module aims to give learners the chance to review their current knowledge of mathematics and prepare for higher education studies. Modelling abilities and problem-solving skills are used to extend the learner’s ability to handle real-world applications of mathematics while drawing on a rigorous base of established solution methods.

The aim of this module is to introduce learners to the key concepts of business management and to prepare them for future study of business modules at third level. The module aims to develop a basic understanding of business management, functions and processes, in addition to familiarising learners with the internal and external environment in which business operates. The module facilitates learners in developing an understanding of the different strands of business theory and how it informs business decisions across various sections of an enterprise, for example, human resources, marketing, leadership and ethics.

The aim of this module is to give learners an introduction to the basic principles of physics, gaining an appreciation for the importance of physics as a scientific discipline and how it describes the physical world in which they live. Learners are also taught how physics has developed historically and how it continues to develop. The module aims to introduce them to physical experimentation and gives learners an opportunity to develop skills in laboratory procedures and techniques. Learners are facilitated in developing the skills of scientific inquiry to develop skills of observation, analysis, evaluation, communication and problem-solving. Additionally, the module aims to prepare them to study physics at a more advanced level as part of an undergraduate degree programme.

This module provides learners with an introduction to the theoretical and practical base of financial accounting. It develops the learners’ understanding of the basic concepts and principles of accounting and ensures the learners develop a clear understanding of the techniques used to record and summarise financial accounting information for unincorporated entities. The module aims to provide an understanding of the role, function and basic principles of accounting. Learners develop the necessary knowledge and understanding of the techniques used to prepare ledger accounts. This enables them to prepare financial statements for unincorporated entities. The module provides an opportunity for learners to apply fundamental accounting techniques accurately and efficiently while learning to recognise both the significance and limitations of financial statements.

The aim of this module is to give learners a strong foundation in the basic principles of chemistry in order to prepare them to undertake the study of chemistry at a higher level as part of an undergraduate degree programme. The module also aims to give learners an understanding of the world of chemistry and instil in them an interest and enthusiasm for the subject by highlighting its usefulness in our everyday lives. In this module, learners gain an understanding of the ethical, historical, environmental and technological aspects of chemistry. A significant part of this module takes place within the laboratory as learners are afforded the opportunity to develop skills in laboratory procedures and techniques. Learners are encouraged in developing the skills of scientific inquiry, to develop skills of observation, analysis, evaluation, communication and problem-solving.

The objective of this module is to enable learners to grasp the fundamentals of economic theory, understanding how the decisions of individuals, firms and governments interact. This module introduces the fundamentals of both micro- and macroeconomics and aims to demonstrate how economic theory can be applied as a methodology for understanding choice. Economics underpins a great deal of decision-making not only in business but also in our everyday lives. This module examines economics from both a business and personal perspective. In this module, learners develop the ability to understand and explain the behaviour of consumers and firms in the market place, and how economics can be used by individuals and businesses alike to assess problems and develop solutions.

The aim of this module is to give learners an introduction to the basic principles of biology in order to prepare them to undertake the study of biology at a more advanced level as part of an undergraduate degree programme. The module also aims to give learners an understanding of the world of biology and instil in them an interest and enthusiasm for the subject by highlighting its usefulness in our everyday lives. Learners develop an appreciation of the role of biology in the development of life and in maintaining a dynamic equilibrium between organisms and other components of ecosystems.