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Foundation Degrees

Foundation Degrees are higher education qualifications that combine academic study with workplace learning. They have been designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers and are available in a range of work-related subjects.

What is a Foundation Degree?

A Foundation Degree is a type of degree that is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge that businesses are looking for. They also offer a route into higher education. The qualification is broadly equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's degree and can lead straight to a job, or prepare you for developing your professional skills in the future.

Foundation Degrees are offered by a growing number of higher education and further education colleges and you can learn in a way that suits you:

  • through distance learning
  • in the workplace
  • online

It takes around two years to complete a Foundation Degree full-time, or three to four years part-time.

Foundation Degrees are at 'intermediate' level on the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. The framework shows how different higher education qualifications compare, in terms of the demands they place on learners.

What you can study?

There are an increasing number of Foundation Degree courses available covering a wide range of subject areas including:

  • Broadcast, film, video, interactive media and photo imaging
  • Building services engineering
  • Computing and software engineering
  • Culinary arts
  • Construction
  • Environmental and land-based industries
  • Equine management
  • Event management
  • Food studies, product innovation,nutrition and manufacture
  • Financial services
  • Horticulture
  • Hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism
  • Information and technology
  • Process and manufacturing technologies
  • Retail management
  • Rural and countryside management
  • Social care, children and young people
  • Science, engineering and manufacturing technologies

There are no set entry requirements so check with the university or college to see if you have the necessary experience, or qualifications, to do a particular Foundation Degree. Alternatively, search for Foundation Degree courses at the UCAS website, the organisation responsible for managing applications to higher education courses.

Want to know more about the courses available?

All six Further Education regional colleges in Northern Ireland offer Foundation Degrees. You should contact your local college for further information on the Foundation Degree courses available.

How you are assessed?

Different Foundation Degree courses will assess you in different ways. Most courses involve a mixture of exams and coursework, plus assessment of the learning you do in the workplace. Some ask you for a written dissertation that you produce at the end of the course.

Generally, there are no grades for Foundation Degrees and in most cases you are awarded either a 'pass' or 'fail'. Some, however, may also offer a 'distinction'.

Appeals

If you are not happy with your award and want to appeal, you will need to follow the appeals procedure at your college or university.

Where can a Foundation Degree lead?

As they are designed in collaboration with businesses, Foundation Degrees can often lead straight to a job. You can also use your Foundation Degree to progress to a bachelor's degree with further study.

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