If you don't meet the entry requirements for a Bachelor's degree, or you're returning to study after a break, a university foundation year course is an ideal option.
Taking a foundation year course offers you a different pathway to uni, a taste of what university is like. You'll get the knowledge, skills and tools to succeed in your studies and pursue what you're passionate about.
When you finish your full degree with a foundation year, you'll come out with the same qualification as someone with a straight bachelor's degree. Your decision to take on a foundation year shows that you can persevere and handle the challenges that come your way.
What is a foundation year?
A foundation year at university is a one year course that gives you a bridge into a bachelor's degree. It covers broad topics in your subject area and provides you with key skills you'll need as a uni student.
At the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿, many students start their academic journey through pathway programmes delivered by International College Portsmouth (ICP).
Like many universities with foundation courses, these programmes are taught at the University Learning Centre on campus and are designed to prepare students academically and personally for degree-level study.
Why a foundation year is worth it
A university foundation year gives you your first step towards studying at university, where you'll study a wide range of topics in your chosen field.
On your foundation year you'll:
- Get used to the way lectures, tutorials and uni life runs
- Relearn the ropes if you've been out of education for a while
- Use the same equipment and expert knowledge as other uni students
- Get access to support services so you know you have the tools you'll need to succeed
Foundation year at university: what it is like
Doing a foundation year is the first step towards a full bachelor's course. You'll get access to the same facilities and resources, and if you're studying on campus, you'll experience everything that comes with student life.Â
When you'll study:
The academic year runs from September to early June with breaks at Christmas and Easter. It's divided into 2 teaching blocks and 2 assessment periods:
- September to December – teaching block 1
- January – assessment period 1
- January to May – teaching block 2 (includes Easter break)
- May to June – assessment period 2
What to expect:
It depends on what course you're doing but in a week of studying in foundation year you'll:
- Attend classes focused on developing core skills for your discipline and your study skills
- Have roughly 8 – 15 hours in lectures, guest lectures, seminars, and tutorials
- Conduct independent study like research, reading, coursework and project work either alone or in a group
- Aim to spend a total of 35 hours a week in classes or studying
Accessible entry requirements for foundation year
If you didn't get the UCAS score you were aiming for, lower entry requirements on foundation year courses give you the option to still go to university. We'll consider any Vocational A levels (AVCE), BTECs and Access courses in your application.
If you're applying through UCAS you'll also need to write a personal statement. It's a written submission that shows your chosen universities why you'll make a great student and why they should make you an offer.
Progressing to your Bachelor's degree
When you successfully complete your foundation year, you'll progress straight onto the first year of your Bachelor's degree.
You may be asked to attend an interview before continuing on your Bachelor's degree after completing your foundation year. Some courses might also have additional entry requirements, which you can find in the entry requirements section on the course page.
If you're unsure or have any questions, our admissions team are standing by to help.
Support available during your foundation year
College Services team
ICP Students have their own student support services called the College Services team. The team work together with students, staff and the University to ensure that all ICP student’s academic and personal needs are met.
Based at ICP Reception, students can reach out to a member of the team 8:30am-5pm every day, or through e-mail or by calling. This dedicated team supports students throughout their journey from registration until progression to the University.
Academic support
We understand that students can find the academic demands of University challenging. ICP provide support in navigating through this part of their studies.
Wellbeing support
The College Services team are first aid, safeguarding and mental health first aid trained. We offer a range of support services for students in need of welfare support.
UoP facilities
Students on the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ foundation year at ICP have full access to all university facilities and services. This is included but not limited to the Ravelin Sports Centre, Careers Services, Wellbeing Services, Accommodation services and Student Union (including all the societies and events). Students can therefore feel part of the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ from Day 1 and live and breathe on-campus life.
Support for students under 18
At ICP, students under 18 will receive additional support to help them with their journey.
Progressing to your Bachelor's degree
When you successfully complete your university foundation year, you'll progress straight onto the first year of your Bachelor's degree.
You may be asked to attend an interview before continuing on your Bachelor's degree after completing your foundation year. Some courses might also have additional entry requirements for a foundation year, which you can find in the entry requirements section on the course page.
If you're unsure or have any questions, our admissions team are standing by to help.