Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year University of Leeds

Overview

This course in Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year serves as a pathway for UK students from widening participation backgrounds who may not meet the standard entry requirements for direct admission to degree programmes. The foundation year is an integral part of this four-year course, which culminates in a full degree in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures or BA Geography in the Faculty of Environment.

The initial year is primarily delivered by experienced academics from the Lifelong Learning Centre, a hub dedicated to supporting mature, part-time, and foundation year students. From the outset, students are immersed in university life, gaining access to a multitude of experiences and opportunities that enhance their educational journey. The programme is structured to foster the development of critical thinking and research skills, while also allowing students to explore their interests within the arts and humanities.

Why Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year at University of Leeds?

The course adopts an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging learners to connect their studies with their chosen degree specialisation. All students undertake a discovery module in Level 1, tailored to their future degree aspirations. The foundation year is designed to build confidence and academic abilities, introducing key concepts in the arts and humanities and focusing on contemporary issues that shape the cultural landscape.

Students will engage with historical and modern themes, developing research skills and critical analysis capabilities. The curriculum includes a mix of compulsory and optional modules, allowing for personalisation based on individual interests and academic goals. By the end of the foundation year, students will have a solid understanding of interdisciplinary academic concepts, preparing them for further study.

Syllabus

• Academic English & Communication Skills
• Academic Study in the Arts and Humanities
• Critical Thinking and Argumentation
• Cultural Studies
• History and Society: Trends and Methods
• Literature and Text Analysis
• Creative and Reflective Practice
• Quantitative & Qualitative Research Skills

Careers with Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year

Graduates from the Arts and Humanities BA develop strong critical thinking, research, communication and analytical skills, which are highly valued across many sectors.

• Media & Communications – journalism, content creation, publishing, PR
• Marketing & Advertising – brand strategy, digital marketing, social media
• Education & Training – teaching (with further qualification), academic support
• Cultural & Creative Industries – museums, galleries, heritage organisations
• Public Sector & Policy – civil service, local government, NGOs
• Business & Management – consultancy, HR, project coordination
• Law & Further Study – postgraduate law conversion, MA, research degrees