Your offer: Integrated Foundation Year
Congratulations on your offer – we’re thrilled you want to study with us at Edge Hill University and can’t wait to welcome you to our student community.
As you’ve been offered a course that was different to the one you originally applied for, we understand you might have questions or need some more guidance on what an integrated foundation year involves – so we’ve put together this guide to help explain why you’ve received this offer and what it means for you.
Why have I been offered a foundation year?
There are a few reasons you might be offered an Integrated Foundation Year instead of the degree you originally applied for, including:
- You might not have quite met the UCAS points needed for your degree
- Or your current qualifications don’t include all the subject content required for the first year of your chosen course
We can see your potential and want to give you the best possible start, and that’s why you’ve received this offer. The foundation route is designed to help you build confidence, strengthen your skills, and prepare for success in your degree and beyond.
What is an Integrated Foundation Year?
An integrated foundation year is the first year of a four-year degree programme.
You’ll study modules that develop your academic skills and subject knowledge so you’re ready to hit the ground running when you start your degree.
Once you complete the foundation year successfully, you’ll move straight on to your chosen degree – no need to reapply.
Your Foundation Year Options
Our STEM and Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences foundation year pathways offer you the support you need to progress onto many of our undergraduate degrees. Our subjects range from Computer Science and Psychology to Business Management and Law.
STEM Integrated Foundation Year
If you’re heading into science-based subjects like Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, Geography, Mathematics, Psychology, or Sport and Physical Activity, this year will help you:
- Build your understanding of scientific principles
- Strengthen your maths and problem-solving skills
- Get hands-on experience with practical work
- Learn how to research and write at university level
When you apply for the STEM Foundation Year, you’ll choose from a series of designated degree programmes. This means you’ll know exactly which degree you’re working towards from the start. So you’ll have a clear and focused path through your studies.
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Integrated Foundation Year
If your interests are in Business, Education, English, Geography, History, Media, Law, Sociology, or similar subjects, you’ll:
- Develop strong academic writing and communication skills
- Learn how to think critically and analyse ideas
- Gain confidence in research and digital literacy
- Explore introductory modules in arts, humanities, and social sciences
Unlike the STEM route, the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Foundation Year offers a broader subject focus. So you’ll apply to the general pathway and once you’ve successfully completed the year, you can be considered for a wide range of degree programmes within your specialist field.
Benefits of foundation years
Firstly, and most importantly, the Foundation Year gives you time and space to develop the essential academic skills you’ll need throughout your degree. You’ll build your abilities in areas like writing, communication, problem-solving and independent learning. And you’ll learn it all in a supportive environment that’s designed to help you succeed.
You’ll also gain an introduction to your chosen subject area, helping you feel more prepared and engaged when you begin your first year of undergraduate study.
Beyond the academic skills, the Foundation Year is also a great opportunity to:
- Build your confidence in a university setting
- Get to know your tutors and classmates
- Access personalised support, including one-to-one tutorials
- Learn how to manage your time and workload effectively
- Get extra support to transition into your degree programme smoothly
Foundation year FAQs
What’s next?
Once you’ve decided to start your university journey with a foundation year, there are a few steps you need to take.
Accepting Your Place
Once you’ve received your offer through UCAS, make sure to accept it as soon as possible. This will allow you to start receiving important information about your course and life at Edge Hill University.
Preparing for Your Course and University Life
After accepting your place on UCAS, you’ll get updates via email on enrolment and welcome activities alongside tips for settling into university life. You’ll also be sent key information on accommodation and student support services.
If you have any questions, contact our Course Enquiries Team who will be happy to help. Or, you can come and visit us at an open day.
WhatsApp: 01695 657000
Email: [email protected]