Subjects overview

Students will study four STEM subjects, each taught through a series of four 90-minute classes, amounting to 24 hours of dedicated subject teaching.

Biological and Medical Sciences

This component introduces students to the principles of life sciences and the foundations of modern medicine. Covering core areas of biology and chemistry, it highlights how scientific discoveries translate into medical practice, as well as the importance of laboratory work in advancing healthcare.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Describe the basic building blocks of life and their relevance to human health.
  • Recognise the role of chemistry in biological processes and medical applications.
  • Understand how scientific research contributes to the development of new treatments.
Engineering

Students gain an accessible overview of engineering, with an emphasis on how innovation, design, and technology combine to solve real-world problems. Special focus is given to the role of computer science and artificial intelligence in shaping modern engineering.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the fundamental purpose of engineering and its core branches.
  • Recognise how computer science and AI are transforming engineering practice.
  • Apply basic problem-solving skills to simple design and engineering challenges.
Physical Sciences

Explore the fundamental laws that govern the natural world, including the principles of physics and chemistry. Topics are introduced in an accessible way, with emphasis on how mathematics helps explain the behaviour of matter, energy, and forces.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Identify key concepts in physics and chemistry and explain them in simple terms.
  • Understand how mathematics provides a framework for analysing scientific problems.
  • Appreciate the role of physical sciences in everyday life and technological progress.
Mathematical Sciences (with Computer Science)

This component is an introduction to the beauty and precision of mathematical thinking. Covering both pure and applied mathematics, this subject highlights how mathematics underpins computer science, problem-solving, and abstract reasoning.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the importance of logical reasoning and problem-solving in mathematics.
  • Recognise how mathematics connects to computer science and algorithms.
  • Apply simple mathematical techniques to both theoretical and practical examples.

 

Subjects overview (Humanities pathway)

Students will study four Humanities subjects, each taught through a series of four 90-minute classes, amounting to 24 hours of dedicated subject teaching.

Arts and Literature

Students explore the richness of the humanities, from literature and history to philosophy and the arts. By engaging with cultural traditions and primary texts, they learn how to think critically about the ideas and events that shape civilisation.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Identify key themes in literature, history, philosophy, and the arts.
  • Understand how cultural and intellectual traditions influence modern societies.
  • Develop introductory skills in analysis, interpretation, and critical reading.
Economics

This introduction to economics helps students understand how markets work, how economies grow, and how global events shape everyday life. Students are encouraged to apply theory to real-world case studies and current issues.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Explain the basic principles of supply, demand, and market behaviour.
  • Understand the difference between microeconomics and macroeconomics.
  • Apply economic reasoning to contemporary global challenges.
Education & Psychology

This subject examines how people learn, grow, and behave, with reference to both educational theory and psychology. Students will consider how research on the mind informs teaching, learning, and mental health practices.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Understand basic theories of human development and learning.
  • Recognise how psychology is applied in education and clinical settings.
  • Analyse case examples to connect theory with real-world practice.
Human, Social and Political Sciences & Law

This area introduces students to the study of society, government, and law. By examining how institutions work and how people interact with them, students gain a foundation in political theory, sociology, and the principles of legal reasoning.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Describe how social and political institutions shape human behaviour.
  • Understand the role of law in maintaining justice and protecting rights.
  • Develop the ability to think critically about issues of power and society.

 

English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

Afternoons are dedicated to improving academic English through interactive seminars, debates, and workshops.

The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course equips students with the communication skills and academic fluency needed to succeed undertaking university-level study in English.

Afternoons on the programme are dedicated to Downing’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course, providing students with c. 30 hours of focused academic English instruction.

The EAP course equips students with the communication skills and academic fluency needed to succeed at English-medium universities.

Delivered through a mix of discussion-led seminars, short lectures, and TED-style sessions, the course introduces students to thought-provoking themes drawn from both the sciences and the humanities, ranging from climate change, artificial intelligence, and medical ethics to human rights, identity, and the power of storytelling.

Students practise close reading, note-taking, and critical analysis, while also learning to structure persuasive arguments, write with clarity, and present ideas effectively. Classroom activities such as debates, collaborative projects, and forum-style conversations encourage students to explain complex concepts in accessible English and to listen critically to the perspectives of others.

By the end of the course, students not only strengthen their academic English but also develop the confidence to question, analyse, and communicate ideas across a broad range of disciplines, skills that form a strong foundation for success in higher education.

Timetable

Week 1
  Morning Afternoon Evening
Monday

Orientation

College Tour: Exploring Downing College

 EAP course introduction Pop Quiz Night
Tuesday Academic component A EAP session BBQ Night
Wednesday Academic component A EAP session Board Game Night
Thursday Academic component B EAP session Movie Night
Friday Academic component B EAP session Karaoke Night
Saturday & Sunday

Excursion to London: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, National Gallery, British Museum

Spending time in Cambridge city centre
Week 2
  Morning Afternoon
Monday Academic component C EAP session
Tuesday Academic component C EAP session
Wednesday Academic component D EAP session
Thursday Academic component D EAP session
Friday EAP final session Graduation and Formal Dinner at Downing College
Saturday & Sunday Airport transfer and return flight

 

*Timetable is subject to change