University of Leicester

What you'll study

This foundation year introduces core academic skills and subject-specific foundations across the social sciences, arts and humanities. Teaching typically combines lecture and seminar formats with workshops and small-group tutorials. Core themes include academic writing, critical thinking, research methods, and study skills alongside introductory subject modules.

• Academic skills and communication: developing essay writing, critical reading, presentation and note-taking skills required for undergraduate study.
• Research methods and information literacy: basics of qualitative and quantitative approaches, using library and digital resources, referencing and academic integrity.
• Introductory social sciences: key concepts from sociology, politics and social policy to give a grounding in contemporary social analysis.
• Introductory arts and humanities: modules offering foundations in history, literature, cultural studies, languages or philosophy, depending on pathway choices.
• Quantitative and digital skills: numerical confidence for social research, spreadsheet use and data presentation where appropriate.
• Project or dissertation preparation: guided small-scale project work to develop independent study and planning for undergraduate research.

Assessment is by a mix of coursework, presentations, portfolios and unseen tests. Successful completion of the foundation year leads to progression onto a relevant undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester, subject to meeting progression requirements.

Entry requirements

Entry to the foundation year is designed to be flexible to accommodate a range of educational backgrounds. Typical requirements include:

• Successful completion of secondary education equivalent to GCSE level in English and mathematics, or an appropriate alternative qualification.
• Evidence of ability to study at undergraduate level, which may include school or college transcripts and references.
• An acceptable standard of English language proficiency for those whose first language is not English; equivalent recognised qualifications or tests are normally required.
• Mature applicants or those without formal qualifications are considered on the basis of relevant work experience or other supporting evidence.

Specific requirements can vary by applicant nationality and chosen progression route; applicants should consult the University of Leicester admissions guidance for precise evidence accepted and how to demonstrate English proficiency.

Career prospects

The foundation year itself is a preparatory qualification and is primarily intended to enable progression to undergraduate degrees in areas such as sociology, politics, history, English, modern languages, media and cultural studies. Graduates who complete the subsequent bachelor's degree commonly move into careers in:

• public policy, local and national government and non-governmental organisations
• education, community and youth work
• heritage, museums and archives
• journalism, publishing and media production
• marketing, public relations and communications
• research and administration roles in the private and third sectors

The foundation year strengthens study skills and subject knowledge to improve employability and provides access to the University of Leicester’s career and employability services throughout subsequent undergraduate study.

Why study at University of Leicester

Studying the foundation year at the University of Leicester gives you direct access to the university’s academic communities and facilities, including specialist libraries, learning resources and research-active departments across the social sciences, arts and humanities. Teaching is delivered by experienced staff who support transition to degree-level study through small-group tutorials and personalised academic guidance.

The university offers structured progression routes from the foundation year into a wide range of undergraduate programmes, together with dedicated student support services for academic skills, welfare and careers advice. Leicester’s city-centre campus provides a vibrant student environment with opportunities for volunteering, societies and local cultural engagement to enrich your studies.