Foundation Degrees – FdA, FdSc, HNDs and HNCs

Foundation Degrees – FdA and FdSc

A Foundation Degree is a modern, vocational higher education qualification which combines study with hands-on work experience. Designed, developed and supported by employers who are keen to make sure that these degrees meet their needs, they are highly valued by both employers and students because they equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to get on in the workplace.

The Foundation Degree is a qualification in its own right. You can use the letters FdA or FdSc after your own name when you’ve gained your Foundation Degree. Upon successful completion of a Foundation Degree, there is one or more articulated progression route, usually to the third year or an Honours Degree course. You can also progress from a Foundation Degree to other professional qualifications. Foundation Degrees are for everyone with the ability and motivation to succeed: for post A level and Extended Diploma students; for people who are unemployed and looking for a way into work; for employees who want to get on in their job; for those wanting to return to work or change their career and for people who want to gain a work-related qualification.

A Foundation Degree can also provide a route into higher education for people who have never before considered higher education. Thousands of students are currently studying for a Foundation Degree and the choice of subjects available is varied.

Higher National Diplomas/Certificates - HNDs and HNCs

Higher National Diplomas and Higher National Certificates are vocational Higher Education qualifications that prepare you for working life. They will give you a thorough grounding in practical skills and key concepts. As they are recognised nationwide by employers, once you have finished your course, you can easily progress directly into employment. All Higher National qualifications will help develop some essential skills that you will use throughout your whole career, including creative problem solving, planning and scheduling your work and applying complex theories to work related challenges.

HNC courses normally involve one year full-time study (some courses offer part time study). Our HNC courses are Stage One of a Foundation Degree or HND.  Successful completion means you could go onto the second year of a related foundation degree, HND course or bachelor degree course.

HND courses normally require two years full-time study (some courses offer part time study). Successful completion of an HND means you could go on to the second or final year of a related bachelor degree course.