The Bridge Programme

The Bridge Programme is a full-time English language and study skills course. It is specifically designed for European and International students who:

• plan to continue their higher education studies at Foundation, Undergraduate or Postgraduate level
• are looking for an intensive course with an academic focus to improve their general English
• need to develop their professional English for business and industry
• wish to improve their IELTS score for university entrance or professional development

The programme provides each student with the skills and language needed for a smooth transition into academic study and professional life. We aim to develop confident and successful students and professionals for the international market place.

To cater for different student needs and levels the Bridge programme has 9-month (September — June), 6-month (January — June) and 2-month (May — June) options.

English Language Entry Guide
The table below is a guide for students wishing to continue with academic study. 

*Your tutor will advise you (in June) on which Summer course to take.  See pre-sessional course information for further details.

Please note we only accept the IELTS academic test as proof of English language ability.

The above table is based on the achievements of international students who complete their course
successfully and is not a guarantee of IELTS achievement. "Successful completion" means students who have a minimum attendance of 90%, who complete all assignments on the course and have a positive attitude to learning.

Course dates and Fees

Fees are usually payable in full on the first day of the course, although September-entry students may pay fees in three instalments and January-entry students may pay fees in two instalments. The first instalment is due on the first day of the course. 

The Programme
The Bridge Programme focuses on English language skills, study and professional skills, exam strategies and British academic culture. Classes are normally held between 9.00am and 4.00pm. This will normally include approximately 20 hours per of study per week plus directed studies. All students study all areas of the course. The combination and content of each study module helps to produce a confident student who is capable of operating in English in every aspect of their life. The main areas covered are:

English Usage
This develops general language ability across the four skills and broadens your proficiency in:

• grammar
• vocabulary
• comprehension
• communicative fluency
• pronunciation

providing you with the language base on which to build exam strategies, professional competence and study skills. All of these skills will allow you to survive outside the classroom and in your chosen career.

Exam Strategies
Exam strategies are essential to students who need an IELTS score to enter their chosen degree programme or to prove English language proficiency to a variety of employers. Training will be provided on the techniques and strategies necessary to perform successfully as an IELTS candidate. There is an IELTS Examination Centre at Cardiff University, and all students will take the IELTS exam once they complete the Bridge Programme. The cost is included in the course fee for all students studying on the 9-month programme and will be arranged by the English Language Programmes office. Students may take an additional earlier IELTS examination at their own cost.

Study Skills
Students learn and practice the core skills needed to successfully complete their chosen degree programme. Included in these modules are skills such as note-taking, summarising, text structure, understanding lectures, making presentations and participating in seminars and tutorials. The course also introduces Pre-Undergraduates and Pre-Foundation students to learning strategies, British culture and the traditions of British universities. Longer courses introduce students to the Cardiff University campus and academic facilities by providing training in the use of computer systems and software and how to use the University’s resource centres.

Professional Skills
This module teaches each student how to prepare and present professional reports, in the style and appropriate language for the business and professional world. You will also learn how to employ your language awareness to successfully adopt critical thinking skills. Not only will you have an intensive course at a centre of academic excellence but you will be taught by highly qualified Cardiff University staff in an environment that also offers academic and professional counseling, state-of-the-art computer suites and full use of the library and sporting facilities. The University is recognised internationally and is well known and respected by major employers.

Guidance and Support
Students studying on the Bridge Programme will receive educational and professional counseling and support throughout the year. We will offer guidance throughout your application process and advise you on the appropriate channels for career development.

Please contact elt@cardiff.ac.uk for more information.