FOUNDATION DEGREES
WHAT ARE THEY ?
Foundation degrees are a combination of study and workbased learning , with a focus on a particular job or profession . They are created by universities , colleges , and employers , and are available in a range of subjects . On completion of a foundation degree , you can continue for a further year to ‘ top-up ’ to a full university degree , progress in your current career or find employment in your newly studied sector . See Careerpilot ’ s video stories for more information and firsthand student experiences .
HOW ARE THEY ASSESSED ?
Like many courses , you could be assessed by a combination of exams , practical and written work , as well as demonstrating you have the competencies required in the workplace for your chosen area of work . You might also be asked to keep a personal development portfolio which you will add to throughout the duration of your course .
WHERE CAN YOU STUDY ?
Courses differ in content and delivery styles . There are a variety of study patterns , but all have some work-based or work-related learning , alongside study . If you study full-time it takes 2 years , or up to 4 years if you study part-time . Some people prefer studying part-time as it enables them to work alongside completing their foundation degree .
HOW AND WHEN DO YOU APPLY ?
You can apply for full-time foundation degrees through UCAS , and for part-time foundation degrees you can usually apply directly to the relevant university , college , or training provider . There is similar financial support available from Student Finance England for foundation degrees as a full university degree , but there may be different entitlements for part-time courses . The cost of a foundation degree would , however , be less than the fees for a full university degree .
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