Bath Spa University

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Foundation Course in Business for International Students

A one year course for international students who want to study for a Business degree at Bath Spa University, but who have IELTS 4.5 – 5.0 (or equivalent). Also for students who want to develop their Business English. Bath is a beautiful World Heritage City.

At Bath Spa University you will study:

• Business topics – key vocabulary and ideas related to business. Opportunities to explore ideas through classroom discussion, case studies, project work and research.
• Academic skills – learn and practice the skills needed for degree studies.
• Language skills – improve your general English language: vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening and speaking. You will also prepare for IELTS.

All students who successfully complete the Foundation course with IELTS 5.5 can apply for a place on the Business and Management degree course at Bath Spa University.

Course Structure and Content

We understand that it can be difficult to study in another country so far away from your family and friends. We aim to take you along the path to academic success by providing you with the building blocks that you need to reach your full potential as a student. If there are any problems along the way, we will be there to guide and support you.

The Business Foundation course will help you to:

• understand and talk about key business concepts;
• improve your language level;
• plan and write effective essays and reports;
• develop research and IT skills;
• evaluate company case studies;
• give effective presentations;
• understand lectures and take effective notes;
• take part effectively in seminars;
• explore and discuss aspects of British life and culture.

Modules

On the Foundation Course in Business for International Students, you will take six modules:

1. Business Concepts: Here you will explore key ideas related to business topics such as business management, marketing, economics and accounting.
2. Language Skills/IELTS: Here you will practise language skills and improve your grammar, vocabulary and accuracy. You will also prepare for IELTS.
3. Academic Skills through Business: Here you will develop your academic reading, writing, listening and speaking skills, and apply these skills in practical contexts.
4. Research Skills: Here you will learn how to conduct research including collecting and analysing data, sourcing texts, citation and referencing.
5. Presentation Skills: Here you will develop presentation skills including planning, organising and delivering individual and pair/group presentations.
6. British Life: Here you will have the chance to look at British life and customs. You will explore aspects cultural life in the ‘real’ world.

All six modules will run throughout the academic year.

Teaching Methods and Resources

The style of teaching and learning on the Foundation Course is interactive and communicative. The tutors will help and encourage you to fully contribute to all classroom activities. We want you to become a strong independent learner. Students often work together in pairs or groups, as well as individually. Not all lessons take place in the classroom and students will have the opportunity to work on projects in the wider community.

You may be surprised by the style of teaching. Often students are not used to taking such an active role in their own learning. For example, at first students may be shy and lack the confidence to speak in class and share their ideas and views. We understand how difficult this situation can be. We will help you to develop your language skills and gain the confidence you need to adjust to this new learning environment.

We are sure that you will find the experience enjoyable and rewarding and a good preparation for your undergraduate life.

Sample Timetable

Day:	09:00-10:00h	10:00-11:00h	11:00-12:00h	12:00-13:00h	13:00-15:00h
Monday:	Academic Skills through Business			Lunch	Business Concepts
Tuesday:	Language Skills/IELTS				British Life
Wednesday:	Research Skills	Presentation Skills			Business Concepts
Thursday:		Language Skills/IELTS			Academic Skills through Business
Friday:	Research Skills

Teaching Materials

We will use a wide range of teaching materials to deliver the course, with a strong focus on authentic and up-to-date resources. These will include library books and articles, modern course books, internet resources, newspapers, magazines and podcasts.

Assessment Methods

For each module there will be final assessment at the end of the course. However, you will have lots of opportunity to practise the different skills needed for these assessments throughout the year.

Module:	Assessment:	%
Business Concepts	Written Examination	70
	Coursework File	30
Language Skills/IELTS	Examination	100
Academic Skills though Business	Extended Essay	100
Research Skills	Report	100
Presentation Skills	Presentation	100
British Life	Coursework File	100

All assessments will be marked according to the grading scheme below:

A	70% +	Excellent pass
B	60% - 69%	Very good pass
C	50% - 59%	Good pass
D	40% - 49%	Pass
F	below 40%	Fail

Your Future at Bath Spa University

Becoming a Business Undergraduate

When you have successfully completed your Foundation Course in Business for International Students, you can then apply for a place on the Business and Management degree course at Bath Spa University. Your year on the Foundation Course will have prepared you thoroughly to meet all the challenges of undergraduate study. However, if you want to study any further to prepare for your undergraduate course, you can apply for a summer introductory six-week course. Remember that you will already have met some of the staff and the tutors who run the degree programme. Also, during the Foundation Course you will have attended taster seminars and lectures. We will do our best to help you feel confident and secure from the very first day of the degree course.

Continued Language Support

When you finish the Foundation Course your language support does not stop. We want you to reach your full potential on your degree course. We know that to achieve this goal it is important for you to have continued language support throughout your studies. Your language tutors will be there to give you this support. There will be time dedicated to helping you in groups and individually with all your language needs.

Entry Requirements

Students must have IELTS 4.5 – 5.0 (or equivalent).