Foundation Pathways Programme University of Derby

Overview

This course gives you the time and space to refresh your knowledge, rebuild study skills, and prepare for undergraduate study without the pressure of jumping straight into a degree. Each pathway is linked to a specific subject area, allowing you to choose the route that best supports the degree and career you want to progress to.

If you are thinking about returning to education after a break, this programme offers a gentle but structured transition into higher‑level study. You will develop essential study skills, including essay writing, report writing, research, presentations, time management, teamwork, and data handling. You will also have the opportunity to improve your Maths and English skills, helping you meet university entry requirements and build confidence.

Careers

Each Foundation Pathway is designed to support clear progression into higher education and a broad range of future career opportunities. Whether your aim is to progress to university, change career direction, or strengthen your long‑term employability, this programme provides a strong and supportive starting point.

The pathways – Business, Computing, Criminology and Law, Engineering, Humanities and Education, Psychology, Science, and Health and Wellbeing – align with common degree routes and help you develop subject knowledge alongside the transferable skills valued by universities and employers. These include critical thinking, research, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and time management.

Successful completion of your chosen pathway can lead to progression onto degree‑level study in related disciplines, opening opportunities across sectors such as business and management, digital and computing industries, engineering and technology, public and legal services, psychology and social sciences, scientific fields and some health-related programmes.