Foundation degrees : Overview

What is a Foundation degree?

Foundation degrees (Fds) are higher education qualifications that combine academic study with work-based learning. They were introduced in 2000 and are designed in partnership with employers to address local, regional or national skills’ needs. They blend academic and work-based learning, but are validated and awarded by universities. Graduates of Fds are entitled to progress to honours degree level (usually going into the final year), but the Fd is a stand-alone, recognised degree in its own right, which allows graduates to use letters after their name such as FdA, FdSc or FdEng, depending on the course of study.Fds are aimed primarily at people who are already in the workplace, and designed and delivered with input from employers. This means that students work on real projects with relevance to the world of work and often receive the support of employers whilst studying. Fds aim to equip students with the knowledge, skills and work experience to enhance their career prospects and enable them to progress into a variety of areas including further study.

'Authentic and innovative work-based learning is an integral part of Foundation Degrees and their design. It enables learners to take on appropriate role(s) within the workplace, giving them the opportunity to learn and apply the skills and knowledge they have acquired as an integrated element of the programme.'

Foundation Degree Qualification Benchmark. May 2010 QAA

Fds have grown significantly since their introduction in 2001 and there are now over 3100 Fd courses available. In 2008/09, there were 16,225 Fd graduates, a rise of almost 25% from 13,010 in 2007/08. In 2010, there were 22,085 graduates, an increase of 36.1% on 2008/09.

Length of study

Fds are designed to be flexible and accessible so they can be studied in a variety of ways: full time, part-time, through distance learning, via the internet and/or fitted around employment. Of the 22,085 who graduated in 2010, 13880 had studied full-time and 8205 (37.1%) part-time. A full-time programme should take two years to complete and successful completion allows progression on to an honours degree or some other higher level professional qualifications. If studied part time, or by flexible learning whilst working, an Fd will normally take three to four years. Entry qualifications are also flexible and relevant work experience is taken into account when applying for Fd courses.