Are you interested in how the modern world works? Do you want to gain an understanding of the past in order to see how the world can be changed in the future? Are you looking to study for a degree in English or History but need a helping hand to get there?

The Humanities Foundation degree is a stepping stone to an undergraduate degree. You will explore a range of topics taken from across the humanities subject areas such as history, literature, language and linguistics, creative writing, and American studies. You will be encouraged to embrace your curiosity and creativity, as well as learning how to study at university level. You will learn how to research, evaluate sources, construct a thorough argument, and present your findings.

You will graduate with the analytical, philosophical and practical skills you need to undertake undergraduate study and with a wider understanding of the role of humanities in the modern world.  

On successful completion of the foundation year you will qualify to join any of the following degrees:

• BA (Hons) American Studies
• BA (Hons) English Language Studies
• BA (Hons) English Language and Literature
• BA (Hons) English Literature
• BA (Hons) English Literature and Creative Writing
• BA (Hons) English Literature and History
• BA (Hons) History
• BA (Hons) History and Politics
• BA (Hons) English Literature and American Studies
• BA (Hons) History and American Studies

How will I learn on this Foundation Year course?

Immersed in a stimulating and challenging learning environment, you will explore a wide range of key areas, including history, literature, film, philosophy, and politics, as well as the digital humanities.

Teaching methods include lectures, workshops and seminars, guided study and self-directed learning. You will learn to share ideas with your peers and work as a productive member of a team. Guest speakers from across the humanities will put what you have learnt into context and give you a real world perspective.

Assessment will take the form of essays, reviews, creative reflections, presentations, research portfolios and digital projects.

Who will teach me during my course?

The Foundation degree is a dynamic, research-rich programme.

You will learn from a team of world-leading scholars from across the humanities spectrum. Our lecturers are dedicated and passionate about their subject areas and you will benefit from their extensive knowledge.

Teaching encompasses your lecturer’s own practice as well as current research, which means you will learn from those at the cutting-edge of the subject.

Where will I learn during my degree?

Your learning environment is both colourful and dynamic. You will be encouraged by lecturers and peers to develop your intellectual curiosity, to immerse yourself in your studies and to gain the skills needed to take you through to undergraduate study or into employment.

You will learn in a department that is both contemporary and innovative. We embrace new technology and you will be supported in your learning through Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) activities. This includes use of the electronic learning portal (Blackboard) that provides remote access to course materials, electronic submission and feedback on your assessments and online reading lists.

What can I move on to after my foundation course?

On completion of the Foundation degree you will have developed a wider understanding of the humanities and developed the knowledge and skills necessary for you to progress onto your chosen undergraduate degree, including History, Literature, Language and Linguistics, Creative Writing, and American Studies, depending on your interests and desired career path.