Social Sciences and Humanities with a Foundation Year

This course is primarily for candidates who have not studied the prerequisite subjects needed for first year entry, or have not met their expected entrance requirements due to adverse situations, or because of their previous sport performance commitments, as well as mature students returning to education or care leavers.

Overview

Our Foundation Studies programme at Loughborough is designed to help a range of students realise their university ambitions. Our streamed approach enables you to progress on to one of multiple courses within your chosen stream – giving you further time to decide which course is right for you.

The foundation programme would suit:

• Students who have not studied the prerequisite subjects needed for first year entry on a preferred course;
• Students who did not meet the expected entrance requirements due to adverse situations (including illness or caring responsibilities);
• Mature students or care leavers;
• Students who meet our contextual offer criteria. For example individuals from specific postcode areas or those who have received free school meals.
• Students performing at elite athlete level who have the added challenge of combining study with high-level sporting competition.

Why Complete a Foundation Year

• Completing a foundation year within the Business, Social Sciences and Humanities Stream will enable you to progress onto the first year of our Social Sciences and Humanities programmes, provided the relevant progression criteria are met.
• Completing a foundation year can be a real attribute to your overall degree success. It not only opens doors to courses that may have previously looked closed, but also provides a sound base on which to establish a successful academic career.

What You'll Study

The Foundation Programme is integrated into your degree and prepares you for degree-level study in a supportive learning environment. Our modules are taught by University academics who have significant experience of teaching in Higher or Further Education.

Semester 1 & 2

Compulsory Modules

• Sustainability in Practice
• Global Citizenship
• Business and Finance
• Introduction to Numerical Methods
• Macroeconomics
• Sociology and Psychology
• Numerical Methods in Data Analysis

How You'll Study

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Independent study
• Group work
• Workshops
• Laboratory work
• Practical sessions

How You'll Be Assessed

Foundation modules are assessed via written exams and/or coursework assignments.

Elite Athlete Pathway Available

Our foundation programme now also offers the opportunity for students performing at a very high sporting level who are looking to join one of our performance programmes and study at Loughborough, but do not have the required qualifications due to sporting commitments.

Entry Requirements

General Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for each course should be read alongside the University’s general entry requirements which give further details on acceptable subjects, alternative UK and international qualifications and minimum English language requirements.

United Kingdom

• Typical A level offer: BBB-CCC
• Typical IB offer: 32-28 points overall
• Typical BTEC offer: BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma: DDD-DMM
• GCSE: A minimum of 5 GCSE grades 9 - 4 (A*-C) including Maths and English Language
• Other: T Level - Merit Overall, B in Core Component

Selection

This course enables entry into a selection of our Social Sciences courses for students that have not studied the correct subjects, or not quite achieved the qualifications required, perhaps due to illness, family issues or other commitments.

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry

UK Fees

• Full-time course per annum: £5,760

International Fees

• See ON CAMPUS Loughborough

Foundation Course Pathways

Upon successful completion of this foundation course, you’ll be able to progress onto the following courses:

• Criminology and Sociology BSc
• Criminology BSc
• Media and Communication BSc
• Sociology BSc
• History and Politics BA
• History and International Relations BA
• History BA
• International Relations BA
• Politics and International Relations BA
• Politics BA
• English with Business Studies BA
• English with Creative Writing BA
• English and Sport Science BA
• English BA
• English Literature BA
• Politics, Philosophy and Economics BA

Additional Information

• The course duration is 4-5 years full-time (Foundation year + Undergraduate course + Optional placement year).
• The UCAS code is L3FY.
• The start date is October 2026.
• The Institute code is L79.
• The subject area is Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy.
• Elite athlete pathway is available.

Loughborough University

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Overview:

Loughborough University is a public research university located in Loughborough, Leicestershire, England. It is renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in sports science, engineering, and business. The university boasts a vibrant campus life and a strong focus on research and innovation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Loughborough University offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and volunteering opportunities. The university has a strong sporting heritage and is home to world-class facilities. Students can also enjoy a vibrant social scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and events happening on campus.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class facilities:

Loughborough University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated sports village, a modern library, and cutting-edge research labs.

Strong academic reputation:

The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK for its academic excellence.

Vibrant campus life:

Students can enjoy a lively and diverse campus community with numerous opportunities for social interaction and personal development.

Focus on research and innovation:

Loughborough University is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on tackling real-world challenges.

Excellent career prospects:

Graduates from Loughborough University are highly sought after by employers, with strong career prospects in various fields.

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Academic Programs:

Loughborough University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Engineering:

Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and more.

Business and Economics:

Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, and more.

Sport Science:

Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, Sports Management, and more.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

Psychology, Sociology, History, and more.

Science and Technology:

Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and more.

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Other:

Loughborough University has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The university is actively working towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions and promoting inclusivity and diversity within its community.