Fast-Track Your Uni Journey with MDX’s International Foundation Programme

As a truly cosmopolitan city, Dubai attracts students from all around the world. Dubai has a strong economy and has become an international hub for business, finance and entrepreneurship. People who choose to work in Dubai and the UAE benefit from exciting job opportunities across various industries, tax-free salaries and a thriving expat community.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai is a well-respected institution with strong business ties in the UAE. We have a current community of over 5,600 students encompassing 120+ different nationalities, creating a diverse global experience. MDX Dubai offers over 70 UK degree programmes and professional qualifications and as the largest UK 5-Star KHDA rated university, it stands out as a leader in British education.

Some high school students are ready to begin their journey to university at an earlier stage: This is where the Middlesex University Dubai International Foundation Programme (IFP) comes into play. As a 120-credit programme, it provides you with the required skills for entry into one of our undergraduate programmes. In addition, it helps you to transition from high school to university by teaching the use of academic conventions, fostering a learner-centred environment and encouraging independent learning. You will also develop transferable skills in your chosen subject area along with communication and problem-solving skills.

You are given the opportunity to try out a range of different subjects offered at Bachelor’s level at MDX Dubai, developing foundational knowledge so that you can easily continue to undergraduate study in your chosen subject. 

International Foundation Programme (IFP)

The IFP Programme is aimed at students with intermediate to advanced levels of English, who have completed high school with good grades but would like to improve their study skills to meet the entry requirements for an undergraduate programme at MDX Dubai. 

The programme is divided into a number of fulfilling and diverse core units, during which you will gain the academic writing and research skills necessary for study at undergraduate level. You will gain transferable linguistic skills that will support you to successfully complete the other IFP modules. You will also be introduced to higher level thinking skills through critical and lateral thinking exercises, along with time management and independent learning skills. Incorporating one-to-one Academic Advising and support, which aims to build your confidence in readiness for undergraduate studies. The maths module covers introductory areas of mathematics including numbers, algebra, data collection and statistics in a structured and supportive environment. Software will be used to demonstrate real world situations.

Following these core modules, you will be introduced to your chosen pathway, which will be selected from the following options; Business, Law and Politics, Psychology, Media and Film, Art and design,  Computer Science, Technology and Engineering. Each module successfully provides a taster introduction to each programme, equipping you with excellent foundations for further study.  

The benefits of studying our IFP are numerous: You will develop academic language skills, and essential independent learning skills. You will gain comprehensive in-person and online support and can connect with both faculty and students on potential future degree programmes. Graduates of the IFP have gone on to become some of our most successful students.

Careers linked to all 6 specialisations are numerous, and the pathways are offered based on global market employment need, ensuring a successful career launch.

Dr Louise Edensor, Head of the International Foundation Programme said: “Having the opportunity to experience life at university before beginning an undergraduate degree is a brilliant opportunity for any school student, in the UAE or beyond. This is a chance to step onto campus, learn academic skills, trial a specific subject you are interested in and meet new friends, all before you commit to your undergraduate degree. With an IFP under your belt, you’re guaranteed entry to one of Middlesex University Dubai’s amazing undergraduate programmes.”

Launchpad for a Successful Future

Most of the MDX Dubai IFP alumni’s have gone on to study an MDX Dubai undergraduate programme in order to prepare for a career in their chosen industry, or even further their studies at postgraduate level. 

Former MDX Dubai IFP student Hadia Iman chose the Psychology pathway, and said of her experience: “IFP has sharpened my skills in so many ways and has laid the perfect groundwork for my upcoming years of study. The course not only focuses on classes for a specific major but also on essay writing, referencing, critical thinking, etc, which has helped me polish myself in a way other fields of study could perhaps not. Middlesex has become a safe haven for me and I look forward to spending the rest of my years here. My grades speak for themselves I think, I have never excelled in my studies as much as I did studying this course!”

More Than Academics: Celebrating the Student Experience

As an IFP student, life at the University also offers engaging and enriching extracurricular opportunities. Our sports and social clubs empower you to build confidence and develop leadership and organisational skills, ensuring friendships are formed outside of the classroom. Get involved in events hosted by MDX Dubai, such as International Day, YouthFest talent contest, international trips to destinations such as Japan, Georgia and Italy, student galas and more. With over 30 sports teams and social clubs to choose from there is something for everyone! 

Team Middlesex is the focal point for the development and delivery of competitive and recreational sport and social activities at MDX Dubai, ensuring you have the best student experience. 

At MDX Dubai, student welfare is our top priority, and we are dedicated to promoting the well-being of all students under the age of 18. While most students transition into university life smoothly, you may find you need some extra support. Our Student Support Services are available throughout your studies to help whenever you need a shoulder to lean on. Whether you need advice about life in Dubai, feeling homesick, having health issues, or finance concerns our friendly Centre for Academic Success (CAS) team is here to help. 

The services offered by CAS are available throughout your studies. Our designated team of experienced counsellors and advisors are available for face-to-face meetings, and you have the option of setting up an appointment or to even drop in at the CAS offices for urgent matters. CAS provides customised support and guidance for those with learning and physical disabilities, and our Inclusion Counsellor ensures that your journey at university is as smooth as possible.

International students have the option to stay at our student accommodation The Myriad throughout the year, so our support services extend beyond term-time. The library and other university facilities are open year-round, with faculty and support staff available to chat or assist with anything you need. 

At MDX Dubai, we provide you with the opportunity to transfer your studies to one of our overseas campuses in London or Mauritius within your second year of undergraduate study. This allows you to explore a new culture and make overseas contacts while benefiting from the same high quality of teaching that you receive here at our Dubai campus at Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP).

Our DKP campus features state-of-the-art classrooms equipped for hybrid learning; labs for Graphic Design, Robotics, Engineering, VR, Cybersecurity, and Fashion Design; and an exciting student recreation centre called the MDX Social Hub, which is home to our dance studio, gaming room and much more. We are also the first UK university in the UAE to have a campus in each of Dubai’s higher education hubs. Our second campus is located in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) and is home to study areas, and our brand new MBA Study Hub.

Career-Led Education with Industry Exposure

MDX Dubai is committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry through solid partnerships and industry collaborations. At MDX Dubai, you will benefit from long-standing connections through bespoke learning programmes, mentorship programmes and work placements. Companies such as IBM, ORACLE, Microsoft and CIM are just a few of the organisations that engage with you, providing insights and career opportunities.

You will not only gain industry-specific knowledge but also will be equipped for successful future careers. The dedicated Careers and Employability Services (CES) department ensures that you are guided towards a rewarding and dynamic professional path. CES provides a range of services including career guidance, expert career counselling, industry insights, internships, and employment prospects, among many others. With a focus on personalised support, skill development, and industry connections, we empower you to thrive in an ever-evolving job landscape. The aim of CES is to make every student at the University 100% employable by understanding their individual career goals and aspirations and supporting them in achieving future success.

Ensuring Accessible Education

MDX Dubai remains committed to delivering high-quality British education that meets market demands. You can qualify for various scholarships based on eligibility criteria, and study grants are available to all students from the UAE and globally, across all study levels. Flexible payment plans are offered to make a quality British education accessible to everyone.

We offer two intakes for the IFP programme in September and January. Apply for the next intake at MDX Dubai and take the first step towards achieving your career aspirations. Join MDX Dubai and become part of an inclusive and diverse community that nurtures growth, innovation, and success. Find out more: https://mdx.ac.ae/courses/course-list/course-detail/ifp