Technology & Engineering Foundation Year

Learning That Aligns with Your Future Degree

Unlike traditional A Levels, this foundation course focuses entirely on subjects that are directly relevant to your chosen subject and university degree. Instead of spending time on areas you may not pursue long-term, you will build deep understanding in core engineering disciplines that align with your further studies. This ensures your time is spent wisely, learning what truly matters for your academic and professional future.

Build the Mindset That Drives Innovation

Alongside your studies, you will begin thinking like an engineer – learning to analyse, problem-solve and approach tasks with logical precision. Whether your dream is to design sustainable infrastructure through civil engineering, develop cutting-edge machines with mechanical engineering, innovate in environmental or aerospace engineering, build future-ready software, or shape the next era of technology, this course will prepare you for university life and beyond.

Accelerate Your Pathway into Top Technology & Engineering Degrees

Step confidently into your university future with a focused foundation year built to fast-track your progression into degrees in Civil, Mechanical, Environmental and Aerospace Engineering, as well as Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Games Design, Architecture and more. Whether you are planning to study in Ireland or the UK, this intensive course equips you with the academic preparation, English language skills and expert support you need to succeed.

📅 Start dates: September (9 months) or January (7 months).
📍 Location: On campus in Dublin.
💶 Tuition Fees: €16,600 + registration fee.
🎓 Guaranteed university progression.

From Ambition to Admission – Your Journey Starts Here

At DIFC, we provide a clear and structured solution – a fast-track International Foundation Year programme designed to bridge this gap and prepare you for entry into some of the world’s best universities.

Gain the University Entry Requirements You Need

Our Technology & Engineering Foundation Year provides the same academic level as GCE A Levels, the standard qualification for entry into universities in the UK and Ireland. Unlike traditional A Levels, which typically require two years of study for UK students, this accelerated course can be completed in just 7–9 months, enabling you to progress to your undergraduate degree faster while saving both time and costs.

Focused Learning Designed Around Your Future Career Path

Our Technology & Engineering Foundation Year is designed with your future in mind, concentrating solely on the subjects that truly matter for your university studies. Instead of covering broad areas that may never feature in your degree, you will develop a strong foundation in the essential building blocks for degrees in engineering, architecture, computer science and technology. Every module is purposefully aligned to give you the most relevant preparation for your academic journey and the career that follows.

Who Should Apply for the Technology & Engineering Foundation Year

If you are an ambitious international student aiming for a degree in engineering, technology or design -but your current qualifications or English level don’t yet meet UK or Irish university entry requirements – this programme is designed for you.

This course is ideal for international students who:

✅ Are non-EU students, and who don’t qualify for direct university entry in the UK or Ireland.
✅ Have completed their high school (or O-Level) qualifications.
✅ Have completed A-Levels, IB Diploma or equivalent, but do not meet university entry criteria.
✅ Need to improve their academic English before university.
✅ Want personalised support in choosing and applying to UK or Irish universities.

Bring your ambition to DIFC, and we will create the pathway to your future in innovation and design.

We are proud to be the first choice for many international students, helping them leave DIFC not only fully prepared for university life but also filled with excitement, confidence and a hunger to succeed in the world of engineering and technology.

Students choose us for the following reasons:

✔️ Guaranteed University Progression

Successfully completing the Technology & Engineering Foundation course guarantees you progression to an NCUK partner university – without the uncertainty or stress of navigating applications on your own. DIFC’s foundation programme is the only one of its kind in the EU offering a secured pathway, provided you meet the required entry requirements for your chosen university.

✔️ Over 4,000 Degree Options Across 60+ Universities

Gain access to a wide network of partner institutions across Ireland and the UK. From civil, mechanical and electrical engineering to computer science, architecture and emerging technology fields – your foundation year opens the door to globally recognised degrees at leading universities.

✔️ Tailored Curriculum for Engineering & Technology

With a strong foundation in mathematics, further mathematics, physics and chemistry, you will be fully prepared for success as an engineering student while building the core skills valued by engineering technicians and technology professionals. This essential knowledge supports progression into degrees across engineering, computer science and advanced technology fields.

✔️ Dedicated Student Support

Our dedicated colleges admissions service and academic staff support your personal and professional development with tailored, one-on-one guidance. From understanding your personal circumstances to helping you select the right course, prepare applications, and succeed in interviews, our team ensures your journey to university is as smooth and supported as possible.

✔️ Accelerated Learning with Flexible Start Dates

Choose from two flexible start dates:

• September Intake (9 months)
• January Intake (7 months – fast-track)

Both pathways are designed to ensure you are fully prepared to begin university at the start of the autumn academic year, saving you valuable time and money compared to longer routes.

✔️ A Smarter Alternative to A Levels

This foundation programme is equivalent to GCE A Levels but can be completed in less than half the time – saving you around €30,000 and getting you to university sooner.

✔️ Live and Learn in Dublin

Study in one of the world’s friendliest international cities with a reputation for innovation, education and opportunity – a perfect launchpad for your career in technology and engineering.