Foundation degrees are employment-related higher-education qualifications designed in conjunction with employers to meet skills shortages at the higher technician and associate professional levels. They are offered by universities in partnership with higher education colleges and further education colleges. The flexible study methods they use make them available to people already in work, unemployed people or those wanting to embark on a career change.
Hundreds of foundation degrees are available, covering many different occupational and subject areas. Entry requirements vary, but many institutions prefer relevant work experience or employment history to academic qualifications. Some require A-levels or NVQ Level 3 qualifications as standard. A foundation degree takes two years full-time or pro rata part-time, after which you can reconsider your career options and then decide whether to use it as a step towards further professional qualifications or to do an honours degree. Foundation degrees are well regarded by employers, who see them as heavyweight vocational qualifications because they equip students with real skills and experience as well as knowledge.
