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Foundation Year

Our degrees with an embedded Foundation Year offer the chance to study almost any undergraduate degree at BGU over four years, rather than the traditional three.

The foundation year is focused on equipping learners with the necessary tools to excel in Higher Education such as critical thinking and digital skills along with boosting confidence and employability.

Throughout the initial year learners will be able to engage with their chosen subject through special sessions and projects. Once the first year has been completed they will then progress onto the rest of the course.

I really found my feet and my confidence, and gained skills in all areas thanks to the Foundation Year. I'm so glad I took the year and I'd suggest it to anyone!

Health and Social Care student
Foundation Year 2020-21

Q&A

We’ve developed our degrees with Foundation Year to give you an alternative route to studying a degree. Studying a course with a Foundation Year is perfect for you if you don’t have the usual academic qualifications or UCAS points necessary for normal entry onto a degree course. It is not a stand-alone qualification, but is designed to underpin specific degree programmes to which it is directly attached. So, for example, instead of direct entry onto a BA (Hons) English Literature course you’ll study BA (Hons) English Literature with Foundation Year. Once you’ve successfully completed your Foundation Year you’ll progress onto your subject specific modules.

Studying a degree with a Foundation Year gives you a perfect introduction in what it means to be a university student, equipping you with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective undergraduate study. At BGU you’ll benefit from small class sizes, intensive teaching and personalised support which will help you to get the most out of your study. It will provide you with a solid base for future study and allow you to settle into university life.

If you’d like to find out more about studying for a degree with a Foundation Year or would like to discuss your options, our Enquiries Team will be glad to help. Simply call (01522) 583658 or email enquiries@bishopg.ac.uk

Application for courses with a Foundation Year is via UCAS, although there is no formal requirement for UCAS points to access the course (normally GCSE English or equivalent is desirable). As part of your application you will have the opportunity to speak with a member of BGU Admissions staff to resolve any questions or queries you may have.

Different degree subjects may have specific entry requirements to allow you to progress from the Foundation Year. Whilst not a condition of entry onto the Foundation Year, you will need to have met these by the time you complete the first year of this four year course.

The Foundation Year syllabus does not include any specific element of upskilling in English language.

Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning RP(C)L will not be accepted.

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept applications from international students for Foundation year programmes linked to Early Childhood Studies courses.

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Studying at BGU is a student-centred experience. Staff and students work together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere as part of an intimate campus community. You will know every member of staff personally and feel confident approaching them for help and advice, and staff members will recognise you, not just by sight, but as an individual with unique talents and interests.

We will be there to support you, personally and academically, from induction to graduation. Below are areas of the University where you can find support catered to you as a student and courses you may be interested in.