What is a foundation degree and is it right for you?

When it comes to deciding where you're headed next, many people choose to study for a Bachelor's degree at university. You may be surprised to find out that it's not your only option! A foundation degree may be the answer if you're looking for a degree that involves learning on the job and offers you a clear career path.

What is a foundation degree?

A foundation degree is a combined degree that gives you both an academic and vocational qualification. It's a great option if you like to learn by doing and are looking for a more hands-on career. You can study a foundation degree in subjects such as art and design, engineering, education and so much more.

Many universities offer foundation degrees and can offer them as long as they have they can award foundation degree qualifications.

What is a foundation degree equivalent to?

A foundation degree is equivalent to two-thirds of a Bachelor's degree and sits at Level 4 to 5, while a Bachelor's goes from a 4 in the first year to a 6 at graduation.

Why you may hear a foundation degree is referred to as a "foundation year" is that some universities offer this to students to upskill before starting their undergraduate degree. It might be if you just miss out on the grades for the Bachelor's or didn't study for a related subject at college.

Foundation degrees are typically two years and many students choose to take this as a bridge between college and an undergraduate degree, or before a full-time job.

Foundation degree UCAS points

Similarly to A-Levels, your foundation degree will be graded from A* to E, with equivalent UCAS points that can be used towards any further study applications.

This will be as follows:

• A * = 56 points
• A = 48 points
• B = 40 points
• C = 32 points
• D = 24 points
• E = 16 points

Should I do a foundation degree?

As with any course or degree, you'll want to know if it's worth it. Well, it depends on what you want to get out of it!

Practical skills for work

Foundation degrees are a great way to kick-start your career as you'll gain hands-on training in your chosen area, building practical skills that can set you apart from others in job applications. For those already out in the working world, they can also help to improve your skills and secure a promotion!

Great flexibility

If you're already working and looking to upskill or have certain personal circumstances you need to accommodate, foundation degrees are a flexible option that can work around existing commitments. Speak to the course provider and they can give more information about what they can specifically offer you.

Re-training

If you're a mature student, looking to try your hand at a different career - it's never too late! A foundation degree will allow you to learn all about a new area and support you in finding a job using the skills you've gained.

A taste of what's to come

Committing to a 3-year course can feel daunting, especially if you're not sure what it is you want to do or what you need to achieve the career you want. Foundation degrees can be a wonderful way to test the waters. While gaining new knowledge and experiences, you'll start to understand the structure of a course and what it can offer you. Though, remember that a Bachelor's may involve less hands-on training. It might be that a foundation degree is exactly what you need to land the job you want!

How much does a foundation degree cost?

The cost will depend on how long the course will run for - if it's one or two years or an integrated foundation degree that leads to an undergraduate degree.

Typically, the overall cost of a foundation degree is £2,500 per year but can vary depending on where you're applying, the subject you're studying and whether it's full-time or part-time.

Like other undergraduate degrees, you can receive student finance to cover your tuition fees. As for a maintenance loan, you'll only be able to receive this if you're studying dental hygiene or a dental therapy foundation course.

Foundation degree entry requirements

Each university will have different entry requirements for a foundation degree and there are no set requirements as such, like there are with other undergrads. To understand what you'll need, take some time to look at a few courses and their entry requirements.

While Bachelor's degrees usually have a list of formal qualifications they offer, foundation degrees are more likely to accept different forms of training that you may have already received through existing job roles.

What's always good to have is relevant experience for the subject, or transferable skills you've already gained that can be used on this course.

How to apply for a foundation course

If you're studying for a full-time foundation course and they are a UCAS course provider, you can apply with their UCAS undergraduate application. This will include submitting a personal statement for the university to use in their consideration.

If you're looking for a part-time course, you'll need to apply directly through the university or college offering the course. They will have more details listed for you and you can always get in touch with them directly if you're unsure.