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Foundation Year

Foundation Year Courses

Whether you don't meet the initial entry requirements for a degree, are returning to study after a break or just want to build up your skills, then a Foundation Year course could be perfect for you.

Many Honours degrees can be studied with a Foundation Year. This is a full year of study that takes place before the main degree begins. 

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, also known as an access course, you will progress to your chosen degree. Find out more information below.

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

Foundation Year

What is a foundation year?

A foundation year is an extra year of academic study that takes place before you start the main section of your university course.

As well as developing your skills you will get the full student experience including full access to the university campus, facilities and support services making it easier to get started at university.

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How does a foundation year work?

A foundation year takes place before the main body of your degree begins.

Over the course of the foundation year, through studying a series of specifically designed modules, you will develop your study skills and get used to university life.

On successful completion of your foundation year, you’ll be ready to progress to the first year of your degree course.

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Who are they for?

Foundation courses are a great option if you:

  • don’t have the grades for a full degree course
  • have non-traditional qualifications or experience
  • are starting university after some time away from education
  • have been living abroad
  • want to change direction with your career
  • need more support during the transition into university study
  • don't have a level 3 qualification
  • are studying in a second language.
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What will you study?

You will study a selection of modules designed to build your confidence and prepare you for the rest of your chosen degree. The modules can vary depending on which subject you choose.

We use a range of teaching methods during your foundation year involving a mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical workshops, laboratory sessions and online learning.

You will also spend time each week on independent study. Your foundation year will be assessed by coursework and formal exams.

Courses with a Foundation Year

Entry requirements

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Most of our Foundation Year courses require 72 UCAS points to join.

These can include:

  • A Levels at grades B and C (if you have two A levels) or grades D, D and D (if you have three), or above
  • BTEC Extended Diploma with Merit, Merit, Pass
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T Levels

You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.

Testimonials

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