Foundation Polytechnic, Ikot Ekpene is a leading tertiary institution in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The polytechnic has earned a reputation for academic excellence and skill development. It offers various accredited programs across different faculties to equip students with the knowledge and competencies for professional success and nation-building. This article provides an in-depth overview of the accredited courses available at Foundation Polytechnic, Ikot Ekpene.
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Overview of Foundation Polytechnic, Ikot Ekpene
Foundation Polytechnic, Ikot Ekpene (FPI) was established in 2000 as a private polytechnic. It is located along Ikot Ekpene-Uyo Road and approved by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). The vision of FPI is to be a center of excellence for skill acquisition and development.
FPI currently has four faculties – Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Management Sciences, and Basic & Applied Sciences. The polytechnic is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, well-stocked libraries, workshops, studios, and laboratories. It runs full-time and part-time programs leading to the award of National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates.
All the programs offered at FPI are officially accredited by the NBTE. The polytechnic has a culture of excellence and maintains high academic standards. It is dedicated to nurturing all-round students ready to contribute to national development in the 21st century.
Accredited Engineering Courses
The Faculty of Engineering at Foundation Polytechnic offers two accredited engineering courses leading to ND and HND certificates.
1. Electrical/Electronic Engineering
Electrical/Electronic Engineering deals with the study, design and application of systems and components for power generation, transmission, distribution, control, and use. This program equips students with knowledge of electrical circuits, electronics, control systems, telecommunications, power systems, and machine design.
As an HND graduate of Electrical/Electronic Engineering from FPI, you will be equipped to work in different sectors like power, oil and gas, manufacturing, construction, consulting, and telecommunications. The program lasts for 5 semesters for the ND certificate and 6 semesters for the HND certificate.
2. Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering focuses on the design, development, and application of computer systems including both software and hardware. The program offers a blend of electrical engineering and computer science courses.
Students take courses in programming languages, operating systems, computer architecture, circuits, digital logic design, and embedded systems. The HND program also covers advanced courses in data communication, artificial intelligence, computer networks, and system security.
An HND in Computer Engineering qualifies you to work in IT consulting, telecoms, banking, manufacturing, and other sectors. The duration is 5 semesters for the ND and 6 semesters for the HND.
Accredited Computer Science Courses
The Department of Computer Science at FPI runs the following accredited programs:
1. National Diploma in Computer Science
This is a 5 semester program focused on software development and computer applications. Courses covered include:
- Programming languages like Java, Python, C++
- Database design and management
- Software engineering principles
- Computer architecture
- Operating systems
- Data structures and algorithms
- Web design and development
2. Higher National Diploma in Computer Science
This 6 semester course builds on the ND program with advanced courses in:
- Artificial intelligence
- Computer networks and network security
- Mobile app development
- Cloud computing
- Data analytics
- Project management
HND Computer Science graduates can work as programmers, database administrators, systems analysts, network engineers, and computer science instructors.
Accredited Statistics Courses
Foundation Polytechnic runs ND and HND programs in Statistics accredited by the NBTE.
National Diploma in Statistics
This 5 semester program equips students with statistical knowledge and analytical skills applicable in different sectors. It covers courses in:
- Probability theory
- Statistical inference
- Regression analysis
- Time series analysis
- Statistical quality control
- Survey sampling techniques
- Statistical software like R, SAS, SPSS
Higher National Diploma in Statistics
The 6 semester HND program includes advanced courses in:
- Multivariate statistical analysis
- Econometrics
- Actuarial science
- Demography
- Statistical machine learning
- Data mining
- Applied data analytics
HND Statistics graduates can work in banking, insurance, manufacturing, research institutes, and government agencies. The program prepares students to pursue professional certifications like CFA, CPA, and CIMA.
Accredited Business & Management Courses
The Faculty of Management Sciences at FPI runs the following accredited programs:
1. Business Administration & Management
This program equips students with knowledge and skills in business operations, organizational behavior, marketing, accounting, entrepreneurship, human resources, and managerial strategies.
Key courses covered include:
- Principles of management
- Financial accounting
- Business mathematics
- Microeconomics
- Business communication
- Entrepreneurial development
- Business policy and strategy
2. Public Administration
Public Administration focuses on principles of public sector management, government policies and processes, development administration, organizational theory and behavior.
Courses include:
- Government accounting
- Public sector economics
- Local government administration
- Comparative public administration
- Human resource management
- Public financial management
- Policy analysis and formulation
HND Business Administration and Public Administration graduates can secure jobs in both private and public sector organizations in Nigeria.
Other Certificate Programs
Aside from the ND and HND programs, Foundation Polytechnic offers short professional certificate programs to equip students and working professionals with specialized skills. These include:
Procurement Management & Contract Bidding
This program covers public procurement policies, contract management, bidding processes, negotiation skills, and supplier relationship management.
Peachtree Accounting
Students learn how to use Peachtree Accounting software for financial accounting, inventory management , payroll, and reporting.
Business Communication Studies
This course focuses on developing strong business writing, presentation, negotiation, customer service, and interpersonal communication skills.
The certificate programs run for 1-2 semesters on flexible part-time basis.
Application Requirements
To apply for any program at Foundation Polytechnic, you need:
- 5 O’level credits including English and Mathematics for ND programs
- ND certificate for HND programs
- JAMB UTME may be required for some programs
- Complete an application form from the school website
- Write an entrance exam and interview
Foundation Polytechnic, Ikot Ekpene Requirements.
The major admission entry points are through UTME/Direct Entry for ND programs, and through HND entry for HND programs. FPI also offers PGD and short professional courses for working-class applicants.
Admission Requirements for ND Programs
The National Diploma is a 5-semester technical program that leads to the award of an ND certificate. To gain admission for the ND, you must meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications
- 5 credit passes in SSCE/GCE O’Levels/NECO or equivalents in not more than two sittings. The credits must include English Language, Mathematics, and three other subjects relevant to your program of choice.
- A minimum score of 120 in UTME examination conducted by JAMB is required for most programs. Higher scores may be set for competitive programs.
- Some programs like Mass Communication and Statistics may require science-based subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or Additional Mathematics.
Age Limit
- There is no official age limit for the ND program. However, applicants are generally expected to be between 16-25 years old.
Direct Entry Admission
- Applicants with certain higher qualifications like NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, WAEC A-Level certificates, approved pre-ND qualifications, or an acceptable diploma certificate can apply for direct entry admission into Year 2 (semester 3) of the ND program.
- Direct entry applicants may be required to take an entrance examination and interview.
International Applicants
- In addition to the academic credentials, foreign applicants must submit their passport biodata page, evidence of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores), and all transcripts translated into English.
How to Apply
- After meeting the admission requirements, applicants can obtain the ND admission forms online or from the polytechnic.
- Completed forms, credentials, and relevant documents should be submitted before the deadline. An application fee is paid.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for the post-UTME screening exercise.
Admission Requirements for HND Programs
The Higher National Diploma is a 6-semester advanced program leading to an HND certificate. To qualify for HND admission, you must:
Academic Credentials
- Have an ND with a minimum of Lower Credit grade in the related field and from an approved institution.
- Minimum CGPA of 2.0 for most HND programs. Higher CGPAs may be required for competitive courses.
- In some cases, applicants with an acceptable HND-related diploma certificate may be considered.
Work Experience
- Minimum of one-year work experience may be required for certain programs like Accountancy. Attach evidence of NYSC discharge certificate or work experience letter.
Direct HND Entry
- Applicants with approved qualifications like NCE, IJMB, HND equivalents may apply for direct entry admission into Year 2 (semester 4) of the HND program. Additional requirements may apply.
Application Procedure
- HND applicants must complete the online application form, submit the required documents, and make payment online before the deadline.
- An entrance examination and interview will be conducted for shortlisted applicants.
Admission Requirements for PGD Programs
The Postgraduate Diploma programs are available for graduates who wish to pursue advanced diploma courses. To qualify for PGD admission, applicants must:
Academic Qualification
- Possess a Bachelor’s degree with at least a Third Class classification in a relevant discipline from an accredited university.
- Have a minimum CGPA of 2.5 for most PGD programs. Some programs may require a higher CGPA.
Work Experience
- Applicants may be required to submit proof of NYSC completion or 1-2 years relevant work experience.
Application Process
- After meeting the admission criteria, complete the PGD form online or in-person at the polytechnic.
- Submit copies of your credentials, biodata form, signed reference letters, and application fee payment evidence before the deadline.
- Attend a panel interview if shortlisted.
General Admission Tips
Beyond meeting the basic admission requirements outlined above, here are some useful tips that can enhance your chances of admission:
- Apply early: Applying as soon as admissions open gives you the best chance. Places are limited.
- Understand the admission criteria: Read and adhere to the specific requirements for your desired program.
- Present outstanding credentials: Higher grades/scores give you an edge over other applicants.
- Double-check documents: Ensure all copies of credentials submitted are complete, legible and certified where required. Mistakes can jeopardize your chances.
- Follow up: Politely follow up on your application status and provide any requested information promptly. This shows dedication.
- Confirm details: Crosscheck that all details provided in your application including names, subjects, grades, scores are accurate. Errors can invalidate an application.
- Attend the screening: Ensure you are present for any scheduled post-UTME/entrance exams and interview on the date indicated to complete the selection process.
Here are some resources where you can find more information about admission requirements:
- Foundation Polytechnic website: https://foundationpoly.edu.ng/
- JAMB website: https://www.jamb.gov.ng/
Conclusion
Foundation Polytechnic, Ikot Ekpene offers top-notch accredited programs tailored to address skills gaps in Nigeria’s labor market. Students enjoy access to qualified faculty and excellent learning facilities. Graduates are well equipped for professional roles or further studies. The polytechnic prides itself on producing work-ready graduates with strong technical and soft skills. If you desire tertiary education that delivers both academic and professional success, Foundation Polytechnic is a great place to be.
FAQ
How many faculties are in Foundation Polytechnic?
Foundation Polytechnic has 4 faculties – Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Management Sciences, and Basic & Applied Sciences.
What certificates do the ND and HND programs award?
The ND program awards the National Diploma certificate while the HND program leads to the Higher National Diploma certificate. Both are awarded by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
What is the difference between ND and HND?
The ND is a 5 semester basic program while the HND is a 6 semester advanced program building on the ND. The HND covers more complex technical courses and specializations.
What is the duration of certificate programs at FPI?
The certificate programs run for 1-2 semesters on a flexible part-time basis.
Can I combine ND and HND programs from different fields?
No, you must complete both ND and HND in the same field of study.
Does FPI offer postgraduate programs?
No, FPI currently does not offer any postgraduate programs. It focuses on undergraduate ND and HND programs.
How do I apply to study at Foundation Polytechnic?
To apply, you need the basic admission requirements, complete an admission form online, write an entrance exam and attend an interview at the polytechnic.