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Foundation Degree in Trade Union Studies (Lancaster University)

Qualification Obtained

Foundation Degree in Trade Union Studies

UCAS Code(s):

NL12

About this Course:

This is a newly-developed Foundation Degree, which is relevant to the changing world of work and which will allow students an opportunity to gain contemporary skills and knowledge focusing on this important aspect of employee relations and rights. The course provides up-to-date coverage of trade unionism in a global economy and it was designed through collaboration with local trade union representatives to meet their current and future skills needs. The course will focus on key aspects of trade union work such as employment law, health and safety at work, equal opportunities, and lifelong learning. It will provide an opportunity to acquire a more thorough understanding of the historical, economic, international and contemporary context of the British trade union and labour movement.

Assessment Methods:

For each module, assessment methods have been chosen which most effectively assess the learning outcomes and develop the student's skills and competencies. This results in the students being offered a variety of ways in which to demonstrate their learning and develop their skills.

Special Features:

The course is designed for adult post-experience students and will build on existing knowledge and experience. As such, work-based learning plays an important role in the course.

Course Options:



  • Trade Unions and Change at Work


  • Trade Unions and Europe


  • Equality and Diversity at Work


  • Health and Well-Being in the Workplace


  • Employment Law 1


  • Applied Employment Law


  • Trade Unions and Lifelong Learning


  • Employee Relations 1 and 2


  • Trade Unions and Social Responsibility


  • Organisation Based Project (Double Award)


  • Mediation and Counselling Skills


  • Continuing Professional Development


  • Understanding Organisations' Finances


  • Research Skills


Teaching Methods:

The traditional trade union education approach to learning is interactive and participatory. This takes good account of the diversity of experience of the learners and the wide differences between workplaces. It uses the workplace as a starting point for learning, recognising that the this is as much a learning environment as the lecture theatre.. Learners have to apply their knowledge in the workplace; so much of the teaching is based on real workplace tasks and problem solving.

Teaching will be by a combination of lectures, seminars, discussion and tutorials, supplemented by visiting speakers, practical sessions and visits where appropriate

The course will run from 1.00 p.m. 9.30 p.m. for one day per week over two years.

There is ongoing support available to students provided by Student Services, Learning Support and the Access Centre. In addition to the above study support is offered through Higher Education Learning Mentors (HELMS). They provide study skills support (for example, research, academic writing, revision and exam techniques etc) and general health/welfare support (for example stress, anxiety and emotional management skills, positive self esteem strategies etc) for all Higher Education students.

Skills Developed:

These include:

  • problem-solving
  • planning change and organising for it
  • decision-making
  • interpersonal communication, including influencing and negotiating
  • resolving conflict
  • identifying and using information
  • briefing others
  • leadership

How to Apply

Once you’ve decided to apply for a course, you’ll need to work out whether you satisfy our entry requirements (or will have done by the time your course starts). Providing you meet the criteria, you can then apply for your course. Full-time applications go through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), although foundation degree graduates progressing to a relevant top-up programme can (subject to certain criteria) apply to the College direct.

More information about entry requirements and the application process is available within our Higher Education section

Course Occurrences:

Course Code Start Date End Date Location Tuition Fees Attendance Mode
BH1HE5710th Sep 201213th Jun 2014University Centre£6000HE Full Time

Disclaimer

Blackpool and The Fylde College makes every possible effort to ensure that the information published on this web site is accurate and up-to-date, but we accept no legal liability for errors or omissions, and reserve the right to make changes without notice. Where tuition fees are shown they are for one year only and correct only for the current academic year. Fees for subsequent years are subject to review. Some courses have additional costs such as equipment, uniforms, visits, exams, etc details of which can be obtained by contacting us on 01253 352352. Read our full disclaimer here