What is a Foundation Degree?

Foundation Degree FAQs

Have you always dreamed of studying your favourite subject at university, but lack the desired grades?  Are you keen to experience the student lifestyle or study at a degree level?  If so, then don’t let your previous exam results from secondary school or college prevent you from enrolment.  Perhaps your route to university is through a foundation degree.    

Want to learn more about this option?  We’ve covered the foundation degree FAQs to provide you with all of the introductory information you need.  Read on to see if this degree is a good match for you and your goals.

What is a foundation degree? 

Introduced in 2001, a foundation degree is a higher education qualification that can give you access to applying for a bachelor’s degree at a university.  Whilst foundation degrees are essentially pathways, they are also individual qualifications in their own right.  Taking a foundation degree does not necessitate that you go on to study at a bachelor’s level, but it can be an accessible way for those without the right A-Level results to access university.  A foundation degree programme also allows you to study full-time or part-time. 

What level of qualification is a foundation degree?

A foundation degree is a vocational qualification, but is also the equivalent of the first two years of an undergraduate degree.  With many courses, you’ll have the option of continuing your education and completing a full honours degree, although that does vary depending on the subject and where you’re studying.  If you do choose to carry on your education, you may have to complete an additional short course first before going on to the final stage of undergraduate study. 

Am I suitable for a foundation degree?

If you’re passionate about a subject but either don’t have the right enrolment qualifications or you feel that you’re not ready for full degree studies, then a foundation degree is for you.  Not only will it give you a qualification, but by getting used to learning again (especially relevant for mature students), it can prepare you for potentially going on to study further, if you wish.  

How much does it cost to study? 

The course cost varies depending on which higher education college or university you’re enrolling to and the subject you’re planning on studying.  The costs can range from less than £3,500 to £9,000 maximum, so it’s worth looking around to find a course at a location and price that suits you.

Can I get funding to study a foundation degree?

Like any full-time undergraduate student, you should be entitled to a tuition fee loan and a means-tested maintenance loan and grant through student finance.  The loans will then be repayable once you’ve graduated and are earning above a certain threshold.  Different universities offer their own bursary schemes, so it’s recommended to check and see if you’re eligible to apply for these options. In many cases, scholarships may also be available.

What type of person takes a foundation degree?

A foundation degree is usually best suited to students who want to gain a further qualification with a particular profession in mind.  The courses often combine academic learning with hands-on work experience, with many degree programmes directly linked to an employer.  The courses are often studied part-time, so students can continue employment while learning.  This flexibility attracts students who are currently working and would like to continue to do so while gaining a degree.    

What qualifications do I need for a foundation degree?

The entry requirements aren’t as strict for a foundation degree as they are to enrol on an undergraduate course.  Students are expected to have at least three GCSE A*-C grades (including Maths and English), although equivalent NVQ qualifications will be accepted for those that don’t have them.  Applicants will usually be asked for some kind of A-Levels or BTEC, but the grade boundaries tend to be much lower.  In some cases, industry experience will be considered more important than previous qualifications.

Why take a foundation degree?

Not only will a foundation degree significantly boost your career and job prospects, but it also allows you to gain a qualification while continuing to work.  Foundation degrees can also be entry requirements for some bachelor's or master's programmes; for example, it is common for Art programmes to require a foundation degree as part of your application in order to bridge the gap between secondary school/college and higher education.

Do I get letters in front of my name like other degree programmes?

Once you’ve completed your foundation qualification, you’ll also be able to use letters in front of your name to show your new graduate status.  Art foundation graduates will use FdA, while science students will be able to add FdSc to their names.

How long does a foundation course take to complete?

If studied full-time, a foundation degree typically takes two years to complete. However, if you decide to study the programme part-time (which many students do) or through distance learning, it’s likely to take longer.

Where can I study a foundation degree?

Many universities and colleges offer foundation programmes as part of their available courses.  They are held either on the main campus or at one of the university’s partner colleges.  An advantage of studying at a partner college is that they’re usually off-campus, are often less expensive, and less busy than the main site.