Foundation Degrees
Foundation Degrees
Learning Partnerships
Learning Partnerships
How do I find out more information about Foundation Degrees? Please contact the: Learning Partnerships Office Division for Lifelong Learning 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
Contents
Contents What are Foundation Degrees?
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Addictions Counselling
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“I was made redundant so I decided to change careers and follow my dream of becoming a personal trainer, which I did but I realised that I needed to complement my new qualifications with a degree that would set me apart from other personal trainers. When I’m at the University for my studies, I use the library, computers, coffee shop, student union building, banks, shops and car park. I’m really proud of just being on the Sports (Sport Therapy) course and being able to say I’m a
Applied Computing
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student at the University of Bath.”
Digital Media Arts
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Early Childhood Studies
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Engineering Systems
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Motorsport Engineering
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Sport (Sports Coaching)
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Sport (Health & Fitness)
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Sport (Sports Therapy)
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What are the benefits of a University of Bath Foundation Degree? 2
“The thing I’m most proud of is the fact that I’m here now. I mean, if you’d asked me 3 or 4 years ago if I thought I’d be doing a degree, I’d have said no. But there’s one thing about being here, it’s taught me that anything is in fact possible if you just put your mind to it. I would definitely recommend this course because it not only fits in with your working life, it improves your knowledge and allows you to go further.” Aaron Engineering Systems Swindon College
Who can study for a Foundation Degree?
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Where can I study locally 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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What about progression?
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Some Frequently Asked Questions
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Junni Sports Therapy Swindon College
How do I find out more information about a Foundation Degree? Back
Learning Parnerships Office Division for Lifelong Learning University of Bath Claverton Down, BATH BA2 7AY Telephone: 01225 386513 Fax: 01225 386849 Web: www.bath.ac.uk 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 Division for Lifelong Learning.
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 students 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.
Foundation Degrees
What are the benefits of a University of Bath Foundation Degree?
gained through experience rather than formal qualifications. The interview process will give you 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.
• Vocational and academic study Work-based learning is a key feature of Foundation Degrees and students combine this vocational aspect with their academic study. Employers are involved in the design of our programmes so that students are equipped to work in their chosen field at the end of their studies. Typically students will be expected to complete a work placement which enables them to put their academic knowledge into practice. For those already working, Foundation Degrees can provide flexible study to fit around, and incorporate, their work commitments.
• Full-time and part-time study options
Where possible, we offer both fulltime and part-time study options for maximum flexibility.
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Good student support
Studying at one of our partners means that group sizes tend to be small and students are taught in teaching rooms rather than lecture theatres. This leads to a higher level of support for individuals.
• Local study opportunities
“I’m proud of the marks I’ve achieved to date and how well I led my group during the Lackham College project. I would recommend the Foundation Degree in Digital Media Arts as Wiltshire College is making some sound improvements to the course by tailoring it to your
Our Foundation Degrees are delivered by approved further education colleges and partner organisations. This increases your opportunity to study locally which will help you to save on travel and accommodation costs while you are studying.
• Progression opportunities
individual interests.”
John Digital Media Arts Wiltshire College
On successful completion of your Foundation Degrees, you will 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 reqirements. The top-up programmes 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.
• Flexible entry criteria
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We appreciate that not all applicants may hold a valid level 3 qualification in the relevant subject area. Applicants may be admitted to the programme because of knowledge and skills
http://go.bath.ac.uk/foundation-degrees
• University of Bath qualification
On successful completion you will gain a qualification which has been quality assured and awarded by the University of Bath which ranks highly in the league tables of UK universities published by a number of national newspapers, including the Times, Independent and Guardian. “I decided to take a Foundation Degree in Sport (Health & Fitness) as I could study at a college local to my home and still get a degree from the University of Bath. I mostly use the Sports Training Village and the library on campus. I would recommend studying a Foundation Degree as it’s a great way to study Higher Education for those students who thought they weren’t smart enough!”
Lucy Sport (Health & Fitness) City of Bath College
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.
• 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 locally for a Foundation Degree? Course
Applications for full time programmes should be made via ucas www.ucas.co.uk Applications for part time programmes should be made directly to the relevant partner college/organisation. 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 Division for Lifelong Learning are on the back cover.
Venue(s)
Addictions Counselling Applied Computing
Action on Addiction, Warminster
Digital Media Arts* Early Childhood Studies Engineering Systems
Chichester College**/Wiltshire College
Motorsport Engineering Sport (Sports Coaching)
Wiltshire College (at Castle Combe Racing Circuit)
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 Bridgwater College
City of Bath College/Weston College
*Creative Digital Media from September 2011 **Subject to approval
“I like the fact that a lot of the Foundation Degree in Addictions Counselling is work-based learning so I knew I would be equipped to get a good job at the end. I’m really proud of the fact that I’ve made the leap into HE. Giving up a full time job to return to study has been very liberating. I would recommend this course to anyone who has a passion for working with people with substance misuse issues.”
Liz Addictions Counselling Action on Addiction, Warminster
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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.
What about progression? On successful completion of any of these Foundation Degrees, you will 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 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.
“I would recommend studying here as the class sizes are smaller which means you receive extra support and a more personal experience. The student voice is regarded highly as well. Some of the complex programming is a challenge, however, the lecturers have industry experience which is extremely useful and supports your learning.”
Robert BSc Computing (Hons) Weston College
*This course is accredited by IMechE
Digital Media Arts Foundation Degrees
FdA Digital Media Arts
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
This course is currently being updated for September 2011 and will be known as Creative Digital Media.
This course offers a choice of two options, multimedia and moving image production. Both specialist options share a common experience of skills development in the first year before focusing upon individual specific elements in the second year. The first year, which is common to both options, covers areas such as computer applications, pre-production planning and design, web design and development, video production, as well as looking at the historical and contextual culture. In the second year all students will study modules on scriptwriting, professional team brief, business and professional practices as well as modules about work- based learning.
Motorsport Engineering Foundation Degrees
FdSc Motorsport Engineering
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
Sport (Sports Coaching) Foundation Degrees
FdSc Sport (Sports Coaching)
Applied Computing Foundation Degrees
FdSc Applied Computing
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
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.
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.
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 Division for Lifelong Learning via the contact details on the back cover.
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www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
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)
www.bath.ac.uk/learning-partnerships
Some 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 do you mean by a franchised Foundation Degree?
A franchised Foundation Degree means that you will be taught at a partner college/organisation but you will receive a University of Bath award.
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, the assessment of reflective practice and the designation of appropriate learning outcomes.
Where would I have to I live? Sport (Health & Fitness)
Foundation Degrees
Foundation Degrees
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
FdSc Sport (Health and Fitness)
FdSc Early Childhood Studies
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.
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.
Please contact the relevant partner college or organisation who can help you find accommodation in the local area.
What grades do I need to get in?
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
Can I be accepted on to a programme through experience rather than by formal qualifications? If you do not hold a valid level 3 qualification in the relevant subject area but hold substantial relevant experience you should apply via UCAS outlining your experience in the personal statement section and provide relevant references
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 your application form of where you have gained these kinds
of knowledge and skills through learning outside formal education. For example, in the workplace, over what period of time and your level of work 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.
How will I be taught and assessed?
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. The work-based component will afford opportunities for learning in an organisational environment, and to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations. 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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