Home  Areas of work  Qualifications  Foundation Degrees

Qualifications

There is a huge variety of qualifications available to those wanting to work with children and young people, and to those wanting to take their existing career onwards and upwards within the children's workforce

What are Foundation degrees?

Foundation degrees are an intermediate level, work-related higher education qualification. They are offered by universities in partnership with higher education colleges and further education colleges. Flexible study methods make them available to people already in work, unemployed people, or those wanting to embark on a career change. On successful completion, Foundation degree graduates may choose to progress to further professional qualifications or to an Honours degree.

How long is a Foundation degree?

A full-time course can be completed in two years. Part-time is often three to four years in total - your local higher education provider can give you more information.

What are the entry requirements?

There are no set entry requirements. The university or college offering the course will decide if you are eligible. Appropriate experience may be more relevant than educational qualifications but check with the institution as some courses have specific requirements.

What are the progression routes from Foundation degree?

On completion of a Foundation degree, there is the opportunity to progress to a full Honours degree with just a further 12-15 months full-time study, (this can also be done on a part-time basis over a longer period of time). Foundation degree graduates can also progress on to further professional qualifications. For those working in Early Years, the Foundation degree provides the required qualification level to gain entry to Early Years Professional Status.

Latest developments

CWDC are now inviting training providers to apply for Sector Endorsement of Foundation degrees in Early Years and Working with Young People.

Please go to our Sector Endorsement page to find out more information about how to apply.

Page updated: 10 July 2008
© Children’s Workforce Development Council 2008  |  Part of the Sector Skills Council, Skills for Care and Development.
Registered in England. Registered Company 05409076. Registered Office: 2nd Floor, City Exchange, 11 Albion Street, Leeds, LS1 5ES.
VAT Registration Number: 895 1089 87
Site by tictoc