Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA

Overview

This course is specially designed for mature students who haven't normally studied at this level previously, looking to return to study and wishing to progress to a range of degrees in the social sciences, arts and humanities, or healthcare. The Preparation for Higher Education (PHE) foundation year course leads to a variety of courses from across the University, and takes place over one year part-time.

Course Details and Modules

The Preparation for Higher Education foundation year course provides an introduction to key academic skills, such as how to conduct research using the University library, how to identify relevant academic sources of information, how to read academic texts and produce a range of academic assignments.

• You'll be supported to develop analytical and critical thinking skills, reflective thinking, and writing.
• On the course you will study two core modules and choose one optional module, which will introduce key subject-specific knowledge in either human biology or the social sciences, allowing you to gain expertise in the area of study that you wish to progress into for your undergraduate degree.

Course Structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time.

Year 1 Compulsory Modules

• Academic and Personal Development (20 credits)
• Information and Data Literacy Skills (20 credits)

Optional Modules

• Human Biology (20 credits)
• People in Society (20 credits)

Learning and Teaching

The course is delivered through a blended approach, which includes online delivery as well as face-to-face on campus learning. You'll engage in a mix of lectures, seminars, and one-to-one tutorials.

Assessment

You'll be assessed through a variety of different assessment methods, which are designed to support the development of your learning, as well as offer an opportunity to practice the type of assessment which will be encountered on the degree.

Entry Requirements

• GCSE: English and maths at grade C/4 or equivalent.
• Level 2 Functional Skills Maths and English at a Pass are accepted as equivalent to GCSE grade 4 or C.
• Courses requiring a higher grade in GCSE maths or English may not accept Level 2 Functional Skills in its place.
• Alternative entry available for mature candidates who do not hold formal qualifications.

Fees

• UK: £2,880
• Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2026/27 will be £2,880 for the part-time foundation year.
• Fees will increase in future years when you progress to your undergraduate degree.

Career Opportunities

On successful completion of the Preparation for Higher Education foundation year, you could progress onto a range of degree courses in the social sciences, arts, and healthcare.

• Recent students have progressed onto a range of degree areas including criminology, professional studies, learning and teaching, child and family studies, sociology, and social policy, nursing and midwifery.
• Graduate destinations are varied, with roles such as child and adult social work, nursing, dental therapists and hygienists, prison educators, teachers in schools, managers in the voluntary sector, and drug and alcohol support coordinators.

Study Abroad

The study abroad option or the work placement opportunity may be part of the undergraduate degree you progress on to.

• For more information about specific opportunities, please check the relevant course information.

Related Courses

• Child and Family Studies BA (Part time)
• Learning and Teaching with SEND BA (Part time)
• Midwifery (Blended Learning) BSc
• Nursing (Adult) BSc
• Nursing (Child) BSc
• Nursing (Mental Health) BSc

University of Leeds

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Overview:

The University of Leeds is a public research university located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. It is a large and prestigious institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Leeds offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including:

• Arts, Humanities and Cultures
• Biological Sciences
• Business School
• Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Environment
• Medicine and Health
• Social Sciences