The International Foundation Certificate Programme (IFC) is specifically designed for non-native English speakers who do not meet the English language requirements for direct entry onto degree programmes in DCU. The programme is taken on a full-time basis over one academic year and covers a mixture of core and specialist modules. The core modules are designed to help achieve the English language skills necessary for DCU programmes and help facilitate your adjustment to university learning in an Irish context; the specialist modules allow students to take 1/3 of the modules from the first year of their chosen degree programme, thus significantly reducing the first year workload.

The Pre-Masters International Foundation Programme (IFP ) is similar in design. Students who successfully complete this course will be guaranteed a place on their target degree programme in DCU and will be entitled to exemptions from modules successfully completed during the foundation year and a corresponding reduction in fees.