A foundation degree is a vocational qualification in the United Kingdom, designed to give students the skills they need to enter the workforce in a specific industry. Foundation degrees are typically offered by universities and colleges, and are equivalent to the first two years of a full honours degree.
Foundation degrees are considered to be at level 5 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), which is the framework used to classify qualifications in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The RQF levels range from level 1 (entry level) to level 8 (doctoral level).
Here is a comparison of the RQF levels to other qualification frameworks:
RQF Level | Qualification |
---|---|
5 | Foundation Degree |
6 | Bachelor's Degree |
7 | Master's Degree |
8 | Doctoral Degree |
Overall, a foundation degree is a valuable qualification that can lead to further study or employment opportunities in a specific field. It is a great option for those looking to gain practical skills and knowledge in a shorter period of time compared to a traditional honours degree.