Cath Richardson, Principal, Lakes College West Cumbria

Last updated 17:09, Wednesday, 26 March 2008

WITH the introduction of foundation degrees, the whole concept of higher education has changed. For those who are still a little confused, a foundation degree is work- based learning qualification delivered by colleges and universities in partnership with local employers.

Cath Richardson

Employers lead their development to ensure that courses meet the needs of industry, so can be tailored very specifically. It may be surprising to learn that Tesco has developed its own management foundation degree with Manchester University, and with McDonalds allowed to run its own training programme the way people are learning at work is changing.

Foundation degrees are fully-fledged degrees that entail much more hands-on work experience to develop practical skills for a fast track to a better career. They are awarded by universities ensuring the same quality as any other degree and, should you wish, you can ‘top up’ the qualification by taking the final year of an honours degree. Foundation degrees aim to equip individuals with the knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to their employment.

One of the best improvements in delivery is that you can learn in a way that suits you. Many courses have flexible teaching arrangements involving part-time or evening attendance at college, distance learning or learning via the internet. A full-time course will usually take two years to complete, a part-time course may take longer. Many students study while they are employed in order to improve their skills and job prospects. Some companies offer their employees the opportunity to study for a foundation degree while they work.

You don't necessarily need traditional academic qualifications to gain entry to a foundation degree. Your experience and work achievements, plus your desire to learn, are all factors that are as important as formal qualifications.

Many students are already employed and take a foundation degree in order to get ahead in their chosen career; others do a foundation degree when returning to work or changing their career.

In some industry sectors, foundation degrees offer a route to professional qualifications.

Lakes College is planning to offer a range of foundation degrees this Autumn in conjunction with the University of Central Lancashire, University of Cumbria and Lancaster University.

We offer foundation degrees in a wide range of subjects such as Business, IT, Childcare and Nuclear Skills.

Have a look at the Higher Education section of our website – www.lcwc.ac.uk – for up-to-the-minute information.