Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year

This course is for UK students only. International students should apply for the International Foundation Year.

This extended four-year course supports progression onto a wide range of degree courses in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures or BA Geography in the Faculty of Environment.

The first year of the course is primarily taught by expert academics from the Lifelong Learning Centre (home to the University’s specialist teaching and support for mature, part-time and foundation year students). As a foundation year student you'll be part of the University from day one with all the experiences and opportunities that this offers.

You can explore your current and developing interests as part of an introduction to study in the arts and humanities. The course has an interdisciplinary focus on developing skills for study, alongside integrated opportunities to begin transition to a degree.

We support your development as an interdisciplinary learner and make connections to your chosen degree subject specialism as part of your journey. All learners undertake a discovery module at Level 1 in a subject relevant to their future degree. You can also tailor your Level 0 module choices to align with your personal subject interests.

You’ll build your critical thinking skills and confidence for future study and be introduced to key academic ideas in the arts and humanities. The course features degree-level topics to immerse you in an undergraduate experience that is enquiring, creative and focused on the world around us. You'll investigate historical, contemporary, social and cultural issues to develop your skills as a researcher and use critical analysis to debate topics relevant to your future study.

This course is for UK students from a widening participation background (who meet our additional entry criteria) and who don’t currently meet the typical entry requirements for direct entry to a degree. This course does not accept students with previous higher education experience, including other foundation years or international students.

Specialist facilities and support
The Lifelong Learning Centre provides a supportive environment to enable you to progress to degree-level study. We’ll work with you during your foundation year to provide guidance and help to identify the degree pathway most appropriate for you.

During your foundation year, you'll have access to University of Leeds Special Collections. You are encouraged to engage with other social, historical and cultural resources on campus, such as Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery and University Chaplaincy.

As a Foundation Year student, you’ll have access to dedicated study and social spaces that are designed to be welcoming and accessible. The areas in Beech Grove House and the Marjorie and Arnold Ziff Building (pictured below) offer computer access, reference books and the space to socialise and work with your peers.