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WHEN WILL I TAKE CREDIT-BEARING COURSES?

Students on the 2-semester Foundation Diploma take four credit-bearing course in semester 1 and five credit-bearing courses in semester 2.

Academic course content is  introduced at a more gradual level on the 3-semester program.

Students on the 4-semester Foundation Diploma do not take credit-bearing courses until semester 2.

The duration of your program is dependent on your English language ability on entry. Alongside credit-bearing courses, you will also take English for Academic Purposes.

Course structure details

WHICH ACADEMIC ENGLISH COURSES WILL I STUDY

The results of a Fisher College English Placement Test determine whether you must take Preparatory English before any credit-bearing university-level English courses.

If your English level is high enough, you can study both English 1 and English 2 during the Foundation Diploma program.

However, if you have a lower English level, you are required to take Preparatory English and English 1 during the Foundation Diploma, and can study English 2 in your sophomore (2nd) year.

Academic courses

ACADEMIC COURSES ON THE FOUNDATION DIPLOMA

English

Preparatory English*

(no credit toward degree) 
Develop reading and writing skills necessary for success in English 1. The writing process and critical reading are stressed. 

English 1

(3 credits)
An introduction to critical reading, writing, and critical thinking. Analyzing and responding to ideas, the mechanics of writing and research techniques feature strongly.

English 2

(3 credits) 
The skills introduced in English 1 are further developed. Evaluate and formulate arguments and present them both in writing and orally. 

Course prerequisite: English 1 (grade C-).

Mathematics

On the Foundation Diploma you study ONE of the following mathematics courses:

Fundamentals of Algebra*

(no credit toward degree) 
Review your knowledge of fractions, decimals and percentages before moving on to consider basic topics in algebra, for example, variable expressions, linear equations, graphing points and lines and systems of linear equations. 

Elementary Algebra

(3 credits)  
For students with a better than basic knowledge of algebra: cover topics as exponents and polynomials, factoring, algebraic fractions, radicals, quadratic equations and fractional exponents.

Course prerequisite: Fundamentals of Algebra (grade C-) or Placement Test.

College Algebra

(3 credits)  
Build on an elementary knowledge of algebra. Topics include linear and quadratic equations, functions, graphs and logarithms. 

Course prerequisite: Elementary Algebra (grade C-) or Placement Test.

Applied Calculus 1

(3 credits)   
For students with a stronger math background: an  introduction to differential calculus - both the techniques and applications in business and the social sciences. 

Course prerequisite: College Algebra (grade C-) or Placement Test.

Computer science 

Computer Concepts and Applications

(3 credits)
Examine the capabilities, uses and limitations of computers. Discuss types of software in the context of applications of computers in a range of areas such as management and communications.  

Advanced Computer Applications

(3 credits) 
Build on concepts and skills learned in Computer Concepts and Applications. An introduction to networks, operating systems and computer graphics.

Course prerequisite: Computer Concepts and Applications (grade C-).

Business and law

American Business in the Global Economy

(3 credits)
Examine the major functions of business, for example, marketing, finance and human resources, in the context of the opportunities and challenges facing American business in the global village.

Survey of United States Government and Law

(3 credits)
An overview of how government, law and justice have evolved in the USA. Understand the democratic process and institutions. Consider the legal environment of business in the USA.

Liberal and visual arts

Drawing, Painting and Visual Fundamentals

(3 credits)
Helps your creative development through elementary studies in drawing and painting from life. Deal with basic problems in color and composition. Be prepared to work outside and to purchase art supplies. No prior art experience is needed.

The American Experience

(3 credits) 
Look at aspects of American Civilization from its Native American, European and African origins to the present. Examine topics in American history in the context of their significance to communities, families and individuals.  

Cultural transition

The Common Experience

(3 credits)
An introduction to forming academic plans, developing learning strategies and accessing cross-curricular learning opportunities, to help transition to the college community.

* The results of a Fisher College Placement Test determine whether you must take this course before credit-bearing courses in the same subject.