A Foundation Diploma will appeal to students who need a refresher course, normally after a longer break from full time education. It can be taken either as part of 3-year integrated undergraduate course at this college or as a 1-year preparation for a degree level study at a university. Many students are anxious when they start their foundation course, particularly if they have not been in a classroom for some time or if they are studying in the UK for the first time. Although you can expect the course to be challenging, the whole purpose of the foundation course is to help you to be successful. A portfolio of units on the course has been designed to ensure that you are thoroughly equipped for studying at a degree level. You will be required to complete 8 units, divided into core and specialist. Core units focus on study skills and specialist subject knowledge required at a degree level. Specialist units expand on the skills and knowledge into broader areas of study. International students will also be taught English for Academic Purposes. If you are an international student, you will practise reading, writing, listening and speaking to develop accuracy and fluency in English. By the end of the course, you should feel confident enough with your English ability to deliver a presentation, write an essay or report, collate a research paper or prepare a practical project. You will be taught through a combination of lectures and tutorials. A wide range of assessment methods is used including essays, portfolios, presentations and practical projects.

The Foundation Diploma is accredited at level 4 and therefore students who have successfully completed the programme can progress directly to Year 2 of level 5 qualifications offered at this college, e.g. the Higher National Diploma. The Higher National Diploma leads directly to the final year of a bachelor degree and therefore students choosing this progression route can complete the bachelor degree in 3 years, including Foundation Year. The Foundation Diploma is a well-established qualification with a proven track record of success. Students who have successfully completed the Foundation Diploma will be able to progress to the relevant undergraduate degree programme at any British University. To offer a broad range of choices to our students, the Foundation Diploma is independent of any particular university. We will provide guidance to the students on their choice of degree and university.