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London School of Film, Media and Design: Foundation Year

London School of Film, Media and Design: Foundation Year

If you don't meet the initial entry requirements for an Honours degree then don't worry, our Foundation Year courses are perfect for you.

Most of our Honours degrees can be studied with a Foundation Year, which is a full year of study that takes place before the main body of the degree begins.

Over the Foundation Year, you will study a range of subjects that will underpin your future studies, as well as gaining valuable experience of university life with full access to campus facilities.

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year you will seamlessly progress straight onto Level 4 of your chosen degree course, ready to hit the ground running.

Entry requirements: The amount of UCAS points needed to join a Foundation Year course is usually 72, as opposed to the 112-120 UCAS points required to join a degree-level course.

London School of Film, Media & Design

London School of Film, Media & Design

Two male students checking the settings on a video camera

More details

What is a Foundation Year?

A Foundation Year is a full-time, one-year 'level 3' course that precedes the three-year degree in any of the BA courses we run at the London School of Film, Media and Design.

The course will prepare you to meet the demands of undergraduate study by introducing the principles of good academic and research practices.

It will set you in good stead for the rest of your academic journey as well as equipping you with the necessary skills for a successful career in the creative industries.

Students practice their photography skills

What will I study?

Over the Foundation Year you will study the following six modules (subject to change):

  • Personalised Learning - develop independent study skills

  • Academic Performance - academic good practice and discipline

  • Creative Sectors - the various areas of the media and design industry

  • Contextual Studies - how media and design fit with wider society

  • Creative Research - look at the software used within the industry and how to implement it

  • Major Project - our Foundation students create a magazine to showcase the work they have produced.

Selection of student produced Foundation magazines

Why study a Foundation Year?

The Foundation Year course is particularly suited to:

  • those who do not yet have a level 3 qualification in media and design subjects
  • those returning to study
  • those studying in a second language
  • those who are not yet certain which field of media and design they want to specialise in, as you can easily transfer courses within the school.  

It is the first step on your university journey and prepares you for the additional responsibilities and demands of studying for a degree.

The skills and knowledge you acquire will stand you in good stead for progressive levels of study as well as your entry into the world of work.

exhibition of student manufactured textiles and fashion

More reasons to study a Foundation Year

Our well-established Foundation Year course is taught by an experienced team of lecturers committed to enabling and supporting you to develop your skills and creativity.

Over the course of the Foundation Year you will learn how to:

  • manage your time
  • study effectively
  • conduct research
  • make presentations
  • develop your confidence
  • communicate more effectively
  • learn industry-standard software.

You will continue to use and develop these attributes at UWL right through to your graduation on the successful completion of a BA (Hons) degree.

Testimonials from Foundation Course graduates

The Foundation course at UWL gave me the confidence to believe in myself... 

Joe Bowring, Broadcast and Digital Journalism

My Foundation Year at UWL has been such an amazing experience. I learned how to grow my confidence and push myself to achieve. If I could go back I would choose to do a Foundation Year again!

Andrea Vega Demuru, Advertising and PR

The Foundation Year has been extremely challenging but definitely worth it.

Samantha Cleary-Giegold, Broadcast and Digital Journalism

Courses with Foundation Years

FAQs

  • What is a Foundation Year?

    A Foundation Year is a full-time, one-year 'level 3' course that precedes the three-year degree in any of the BA courses we run at the London School of Film, Media and Design.

    It is specifically designed to prepare you to go on and study at undergraduate level upon successful completion.

  • Who is eligible for a Foundation Year?

    Most Foundation Year courses require 72 UCAS points as opposed to 112-120 UCAS points required to join a degree-level course.

    Please check the entry requirements for the particular course you are interested in studying.

  • How long does a Foundation Year take?

    A Foundation Year lasts for a typical academic year.

  • Will I get full access to the university's facilities?

    Yes, you will have full access to all of the University of West London's facilities and be fully integrated into university life.

  • Why should I study a Foundation Year?

    The Foundation course is ideal for students who don't meet the entry requirements of an honours degree.

    Additionally, a Foundation Course may be suited to:

    • those who do not yet have a level 3 qualification in media and design subjects
    • those returning to study
    • those studying in a second language
    • those who are not yet certain which field of media and design they want to specialise in, as you can easily transfer courses within the school.  

    It is the first step on your university journey and prepares you for the additional responsibilities and demands of studying for a degree.

    The skills and knowledge you acquire will stand you in good stead for progressive levels of study as well as your entry into the world of work.