New IYOs! Study Business or Computer Science at the University of York

Exciting news: students have two new routes straight to the second year of a Russell Group degree! You can now gain entry to the prestigious University of York through one of these International Year One (IYO) courses:

• IYO in Business (studied in person or online)
• IYO in Computer Science (studied in person)

Fast-track to Year 2 of a degree at a Russell Group university

An IYO combines degree preparation with content similar to the first year of an undergraduate degree. When you successfully pass the course, you’ll progress straight to the second year of your chosen degree.

This means you’ll save time and money, because you’ll still be able to graduate in the standard three years.

It’s also a great opportunity to earn a degree that’s really respected by employers — in fact, York is top 30 in the UK for graduate prospects (Complete University Guide 2025). That’s because the University of York consistently ranks within the UK’s top 20 universities, and is renowned worldwide for its excellent research and teaching.

Where will I study my IYO course?

You won’t have to wait until you start your degree to get settled in York, as you can study both IYOs on campus at the welcoming University of York International Pathway College. You’ll live and study alongside other York students, so you’ll feel like part of the student community right away!

The in-person IYOs are taught by the University’s own expert teachers, so you can be sure you’re getting the very best preparation for your York degree. In fact, the results of our 2024 student satisfaction survey show that the Pathway College’s students are very satisfied indeed! Of those who responded to the survey:

Alternatively, you’ll also have the option to study your IYO in Business online. You’ll study through Kaplan’s Digital Pathways, benefitting from our cutting-edge Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and comprehensive support. When it’s time to progress to your degree, you’ll move to the UK to study on campus at the University of York.

What can I study?

The two new IYOs offer progression to a range of specially selected bachelor’s degrees at the University’s School for Business and Society and Department of Computer Science.

For example, you could study Business and Management to learn management theory and practice, or choose Business and Society and explore the intersection between business and public policy.

If you choose the IYO in Computer Science, you can progress to a general Computer Science degree or add a specialism in Artificial Intelligence or Cyber Security.

All of these degrees also include an optional year in industry, so you can gain valuable work experience while you study.

Start your IYO from September 2025

Applications for both IYO courses are open now! The first intake will begin in September 2025 with progression to a degree at the University of York in September 2026. If you’re not ready to start your studies this year, there is a January 2026 intake which still leads to a degree in the same year.

Shape your future at the University of York

Ready to shape your future with an IYO leading to Year 2 of an undergraduate degree at the University of York? Get in touch and one of our friendly Education Advisors will help you to get started. Alternatively, you can apply now on our website.

Learn more about York