Courses with a foundation year

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Are you ready to study for a degree but don't have the right qualifications? We have a wide range of courses with a foundation year available.

What is a foundation year?

A foundation year is an extra year of study at the beginning of your undergraduate degree. These are for people who don't meet the entry requirements or who are returning to study after a break. It equips you with the academic skills you need to study at university.

What's the difference between a foundation year and a foundation degree?

Foundation degrees are usually a two-year course. They cover the key areas of a subject, which is the equivalent of two-thirds of a degree. You'd need a further top-up year to gain an honours degree.

Why study a foundation year?

A foundation year could be your route into a degree. If you didn't study the right subjects at A Level, or you are returning to study, a foundation year can help you get onto your chosen course. They are also useful if your qualifications don't meet the current entry requirements for your chosen course.

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Hear from our students

I know that my foundation year is the reason that I’ve succeeded in my time at university...my foundation year showed me exactly what my lecturers would expect of me for the next few years at UCLan.
selfie of student for testimonial
Elijah Jasse
Sexual Health Studies, BSc
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Discover our foundation year courses

We have a wide range of courses with a foundation year. These range from art and design, to engineering and medical sciences. Whatever your passion, this could be the route for you to achieve your degree. Explore our subject areas and discover our courses that offer a foundation year.

Explore our courses with a foundation year

Frequently asked questions

Considering returning to study as a mature student?

Around two thirds of our students are over 21 years old when they start their degree. There are many routes into returning to education and we have plenty of support available, take a look at our Return to Study webpage to find out more.

Return to study