Foundation degrees are degree-level qualifications designed collaboratively with employers, and with the needs of both employees and the workplace in mind. They actively combine academic study with hands-on, workplace learning.

Foundation degrees offer the opportunity for employees with substantial industry experience the opportunity to use what they know to help them gain an academic qualification. They are designed to be accessible to people in full-time work, and aim to equip students with the knowledge, understanding and skills to improve their own performance and productivity at work.

Studying for a foundation degree usually takes two years on a part-time basis. Classroom sessions are scheduled to minimise time away from the workplace, for instance, many of them run from 1pm until 9pm on one day a week. Students’ coursework frequently involves producing or developing something which is of significant benefit to the employer, and will add to the job-related experience of the student.

Available in over 80 subjects, across all disciplines, almost all of the foundation degrees from Blackpool and The Fylde College are awarded by Lancaster University, one of the country’s most prestigious universities. Most can be topped up to a full honours degree with extra study.

Funding a foundation degree is easier than you may think, with a non-repayable maintenance grant available to households with an income of less than £50,000 per year. Households earning less than £25,000 per year qualify for a full grant of £2,906.

To find out more about foundation degrees, call course enquiries on 01253 504343, or click here for course information