Foundation Degrees Learning Partnerships
skills & knowledge for employment
academic & work-based learning
local study opportunities
progression to full honours degree
accessible & flexible
http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees
Nyasha started at the College in 2005 on the National Diploma in Information Technology. On successful completion he progressed to the FdSc Computing and then did the top-up year to achieve a First Class Honours degree in Computing. “I received a first class education at Weston College; my time here has been memorable and exceptionally fruitful. I will always remember how all my tutors encouraged and challenged me to be the best I could possibly be. The College has helped me realise my potential and achieve highly.� Since graduating Nyasha has gained employment at the Royal Bank of Scotland. He would like to progress to a senior management position and is due to start studying for his Masters this year.
Nyasha Applied Computing Weston College
Contents What are Foundation Degrees?
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What are the benefits of a University of Bath Foundation Degree? 2 Who can study for a Foundation Degree?
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Where can I study for a Foundation Degree?
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When can I start studying?
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Which Foundation Degrees can I study?
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Addictions Counselling
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Applied Computing
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Creative Digital Media
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Early Childhood Studies
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Engineering Systems
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Motorsport Engineering
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Sport (Coaching)
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Sport (Health & Fitness)
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Sport (Sports Therapy)
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What can I do after my Foundation Degree?
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Further information
Jennie was disappointed with her A Level grades and decided to get a job. However she still wanted to gain qualifications so she enrolled on a part-time City & Guilds electrical course at Swindon College. Returning to study gave her the confidence to carry on and by then she was working as an electrician. Her tutors recommended the Foundation Degree and she hasn’t looked back - Jennie is one of the top performing students in her class and will go on to the BSc Honours year. “I have grown more by coming back to education as a mature student.”
Jennie Engineering Systems Swindon College
Back Cover
Learning Parnerships Office University of Bath Claverton Down, BATH, BA2 7AY Telephone: 01225 386513 Fax: 01225 386849 Web: www.bath.ac.uk http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees Admissions Office Telephone: 01225 383019 Fax: 01225 386366 Web: www.bath.ac.uk/ask-admissions UCAS code: B16 This prospectus is published for the guidance of students who wish to enter the University in the next academic year. The information in this publication is correct at the time of going to press, but all matters contained in the prospectus are subject to change from time to time both before and after a candidate’s admission. The University may at its discretion, and for any reason, alter or not offer courses or parts of courses. If you require the prospectus in large print, braille or electronic format, please contact the Learning Partnerships Office.
http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees
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Foundation Degrees
Foundation Degrees What are Foundation Degrees? Foundation Degrees are Level 5/ Intermediate Higher Education qualifications, equivalent to Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), Diplomas of Higher Education or the first two years of a full-time Honours Degree. Offered on a full-time (2 year) or part-time (3-4 year) basis, they integrate both academic and work-based learning and are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge for employment. The University of Bath’s Foundation Degrees have been developed in a collaborative partnership with other Higher Education institutions, Further Education colleges, professional bodies and employers.
What are the benefits of a University of Bath Foundation Degree? • Vocational and academic study
• Local study opportunities
Our Foundation Degrees are delivered by approved further education colleges and partner organisations. This provides the perfect opportunity to study locally which will help you to save on travel and accommodation costs while you are studying. However, we welcome applications from local, national and international students.
• Progression opportunities
On completion Georgia would like to become a Sports Development Officer.
Georgia Sport (Coaching), Weston College
On successful completion of your Foundation Degree, you may be given the option of completing a one-year (full-time) or 18 month/2 year (part–time) top-up programme leading to a full honours degree providing you meet the necessary entry requirements. The Honours years are also delivered at our partner organisations.
• Access to a range of facilities
You will have access to the facilities at your partner college or organisation as well as those at the University which include the Library, Learning Centre, brand new Student Centre and extensive, first class sport and recreation facilities.
• Entry criteria
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You will be given an opportunity to show how your ‘experiential learning’ has given you the knowledge and skills which are equivalent to those you would gain through completing a level 3 qualification, and which are needed in order to succeed on the course. You will still need to hold a level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in English and Maths (where appropriate).
Work-based learning is a key feature of Foundation Degrees and you will combine this vocational aspect with your academic study. Employers are involved in the design of our programmes so that you are equipped to work in your chosen field at the end of your studies. • Full-time and part-time study options Typically you will be expected to complete a work placement which enables you to put Where possible, we offer both fullyour academic knowledge into practice. If time and part-time study options for you are already working, Foundation Degrees maximum flexibility. may provide flexible study to fit around, and incorporate, your work commitments. • Student support
Since studying at Weston College Georgia has been selected to play football for England Colleges. “I’m really enjoying this course; it’s a good mixture of theory and practical. The opportunity to gain work experience and be involved in coaching sessions helps you to gain a greater understanding of the industry.”
Applicants should normally hold a level 3 qualification (e.g. BTEC National Diploma or A Levels). However, where this is not the case applicants may be admitted to the programme because of knowledge and skills gained through experience rather than formal qualifications.
http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees
Studying at one of our partner organisations means that group sizes tend to be small allowing a higher level of support for individuals. All partners have personal tutorial systems to provide help and advice on academic and personal issues.
• University of Bath qualification
On successful completion you will gain a University of Bath qualification. The University of Bath ranks highly in the league tables of UK universities published by a number of national newspapers, including the Times, Independent and Guardian.
“I’ve seen a lot of damage done by alcohol and drugs within my own and other families. This course has given me the tools to take that experience and try to help people, turning it in to something good.”
Geoff Addictions Counselling Action on Addiction, Warminster
Foundation Degrees Who can study for a Foundation Degree?
When can I start studying?
If you are…
All of these Foundation Degrees will be available to study from September 2012/13
• a school or college leaver looking for a work-related qualification to launch your career, • employed and want to progress in your line of work, • employed but want to change career, • not currently in employment and seeking a way into work with prospects …then a Foundation Degree may be the right choice for you!
Where can I study for a Foundation Degree? Course
Applications for full-time programmes should be made via ucas www.ucas.co.uk For further information on part-time applications please contact the Learning Partnerships Office. Full details of how to apply for each of our programmes can be found on our website at: http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees The contact details for the University of Bath’s Learning Partnerships Office are on the back cover.
Venue(s)
Addictions Counselling Applied Computing
Action on Addiction, Warminster
Creative Digital Media Early Childhood Studies Engineering Systems Bridgwater College
Chichester College/Wiltshire College
Motorsport Engineering Racing Circuit) Sport (Coaching)
Wiltshire College (at Castle Combe
Sport (Health & Fitness)
City of Bath College/Weymouth College
Sport (Sports Therapy)
North Star Campus, Swindon College
Weston College/Wiltshire College
Wiltshire College Chichester College/Swindon College/
City of Bath College/Weston College
“I enjoyed taking A Levels but I didn’t know what to do next. I wanted to stay local but also wanted to study a university level course. I Googled media degrees and Wiltshire College seemed perfect! It was convenient and I would have access to some great facilities and professional equipment. I really enjoy the practical elements of the course; you’re not just sitting there being talked at, you get to be creative and have free rein on the projects. The course has given me a taste for the kinds of things I’ll be doing in my career and now I’m raring to go. I would like to go into editing films; I find it really satisfying to put my own stamp on a piece.”
Trudy Creative Digital Media Wiltshire College
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Foundation Degrees
Which Foundation Degrees can I study? Addictions Counselling Foundation Degrees
FdSc Addictions Counselling
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
This programme aims to meet the increased demand for capable practitioners in the field of Addictions Counselling. It enables students who are interested in working in the field of addictions treatment to become skilled, reflective and competent counsellors. The programme aims to integrate humanistic, cognitive-behavioural, motivational and twelve step models. Whilst maximising flexibility in terms of learning opportunities it is intended that this programme be available to both novice practitioners and others who are employed within an addictions setting.
Foundation Degrees
FdSc Engineering Systems
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
Engineering Systems This programme should appeal to those students who are interested in training for a career in manufacturing engineering and technologies. The course has been developed in collaboration with international manufacturing companies and other industry experts. It provides broad- based core skills and knowledge including practical and professional abilities in specific areas, as well as providing a broad range of analysis, design and implementation skills. Work-based learning and simulated projects form an integral part of the programme. *This course is accredited by IMechE
Creative Digital Media Foundation Degrees
FdA Creative Digital Media
For students looking for a career in film, video, multimedia or graphics production this course has been tailored to meet your needs. This dynamic course will cover a diverse range of topic areas within the creative digital media industry which will allow students to achieve a strong skill set, becoming more specialised as the course progresses.
Motorsport Engineering Foundation Degrees
FdSc Motorsport Engineering
www.bath.ac.uk/lifelong-learning/
This course appeals to students who have an interest in competition vehicle design, construction and preparation. Students study all aspects of race car design and manufacture including chassis, power train, aerodynamics, telemetry and electronics and apply this knowledge in the practical setting of race car preparation. Workbased learning and competition projects form an integral part of the programme. It has been developed with considerable support from the local, regional and national motorsport industry.
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
Applied Computing Foundation Degrees
FdSc Applied Computing
www.bath.ac.uk/lifelong-learning/
This programme is intended to prepare students for a variety of careers across the IT industry through the provision of specialised options. It equips students with practical and professional abilities in specific areas, as well as providing a broad range of analysis, design and implementation skills. Students study major computing topics such as systems analysis, programming, web design, databases and computer architecture plus a variety of more specialised subjects. In addition, students develop personal and professional skills and undertake a substantial individual project.
Sport (Coaching) Foundation Degrees
FdSc Sport (Sports Coaching)
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
Early Childhood Studies Foundation Degrees
FdSc Early Childhood Studies
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
This programme is endorsed by the Children’s Workforce Development Council. This endorsement is designed to provide employers and students with confidence that the qualification meets the requirements of the sector. It is suitable for those who are already working with children aged 0-5 as well as Teaching Assistants in the Foundation Stage. The theory and practice of Early Years is linked to enable the practitioner to widen and deepen their own practice and understanding, ultimately maximising the opportunity to progress in their careers. It is concerned with ideas and practices that are drawn from a range of disciplines, all of which contribute to the understanding of early years practice and theory.
Sport (Health & Fitness) Foundation Degrees
FdSc Sport (Health and Fitness)
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
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This programme is ideal for those students who have an interest in health and fitness, or who would like to further develop and enhance their understanding and knowledge of sport, sport science and the health and fitness industry. It provides students with a sound understanding of the components of health and fitness, lifestyles and attitudes to exercise, promotion of healthy living, principles of fitness and training and industry specific management skills. Students may be given the opportunity to study additional qualifications which enable them to work as fitness instructors.
Sport (Sports Therapy) Foundation Degrees
FdSc Sport (Sports Therapy)
http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees If you have any questions or you would like a course leaflet on any of these Foundation Degrees please contact the University of Bath’s Learning Partnerships Office via the contact details on the back cover.
This degree will appeal to those who have an interest in sports coaching, or would like the opportunity to develop and enhance their understanding of the coaching process. The programme provides students with a thorough understanding of sport, sport science and the key components of coaching practice. Students can develop their ability and knowledge of sports coaching throughout the programme through work placements and additional coaching qualifications.
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
This programme should appeal to those students who have an interest in sport and a desire to help injured clients return to their sport. Successful sports therapists must have a clear understanding of anatomy and physiology as well as lifestyle management. As students progress through the course, increased emphasis is place on developing observational, evaluative and analytical skills in determining treatment and rehabilitation regimes. Students are expected to undertake work placements in a variety of settings and the course is accredited by The Society of Sports Therapists.
Ifan studied for his A Levels in Cardiff before taking a year out travelling. He then moved to Bath to study Sports Development but wanted to focus specifically on sports injury treatments. The University of Bath recommended the Sports Therapy course at Swindon College to Ifan. He commutes on the train two days a week. Living in Bath, Ifan gets to make good use of the university facilities at both campuses and says staff at Bath and Swindon have been extremely supportive. Ifan feels he has progressed well due to the small class sizes and plans to study for an MA in Sports Rehabilitation next.
What can I do after my Foundation Degree? On successful completion of any of these Foundation Degrees, you may be given the option of completing a 1 year (full-time) or 18 month/2 year (part–time) top-up programme leading to a full Honours Degree providing you meet the necessary entry requirements. The Honours Degree adopts the same work-based learning approach but adds value by preparing you for potential, longer-term leadership roles at work. You continue to study your chosen subject at honours level and to develop a critical, analytical and reflective approach valued by employers.
Ifan says: “I have accrued more than 500 hours of work experience in hospitals, sports clubs, therapy units and clinics as part of studying towards my degree which has been invaluable for experiencing different aspects of the industry.”
Ifan Sport (Sports Therapy) Swindon College
Frequently Asked Questions Is a Foundation Degree the same thing as a Foundation Course or Foundation Year?
No. A Foundation Degree is a Level 5 qualification and is equivalent to a Higher National Diploma.
What is Work-based Learning?
Work-based learning is learning that is integral to the programme of study and is usually achieved and demonstrated through engagement with a workplace environment and the assessment of reflective practice.
Accommodation
Unfortunately, the University does not offer accommodation. Please contact the relevant partner college or organisation who can help you to find accommodation in the local area.
your application form of where you have gained knowledge and skills through learning outside formal education (for example, in the workplace), indicating the time period and your level of responsibility.
I have not studied for some time, what is it like to study a Foundation Degree? Please visit www.life-pilot.co.uk for further information.
What grades do I need?
How will I be taught and assessed?
Can I be accepted on to a programme through experience rather than by formal qualifications?
The work-based component will afford opportunities for learning in an organisational environment, and to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations.
Full details of the entry requirements for each of our programmes can be found on our website at http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees
If you do not hold a valid level 3 qualification (e.g. BTEC or A level in the relevant subject) but have substantial relevant experience you should apply via UCAS outlining your experience in the personal statement section and provide relevant references. Applicants will still need to hold a level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in English and Maths (where appropriate). For full details of this process please see the website.
You may be invited to attend an interview to discuss your application further. If the programme leader believes you may be a suitable candidate you will be required to complete a written task which will be assessed at the appropriate level 3 standard. If your written task meets the appropriate level 3 standard the programme leader may recommend that an offer is made. When your application is based on your experience rather than formal qualifications, make sure you include examples in
Most teaching and learning will be class based and will include a variety of learning activities such as lectures, seminars, debates, practical sessions, presentations and guest speakers.
Assessment will be by a variety of methods including assignment/report writing, examinations, practical sessions, presentations, employer assessment in the work placement and Personal Development Plans.
What fees will I pay and what help can I get with funding?
You will find full details at www.bath.ac.uk/finance/student/ You can also find out more from the Department for Education and Skills at www.dfes.gov.uk/studentsupport/. In addition to Government support the University of Bath is offering a range of bursaries. Please go to http://www.bath. ac.uk/finance/student/ to confirm your eligibility. For free, impartial, confidential advice on all financial matters for all students, you can contact Student Funding on 01225 385388 or studentservices@bath.ac.uk
http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees
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Foundation Degrees Learning Partnerships
How do I find out more information about Foundation Degrees? Please contact the: Learning Partnerships Office University of Bath Claverton Down Bath BA2 7AY Tel: 01225 386513 Email: learningpartnerships@bath.ac.uk Website: http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees
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http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees