Deciding to pursue enter higher education, whether as a school-leaver or a 'mature' student who has been away from education for a number of years, can be a huge step to take. The University of Bedfordshire offers a plethora of fascinating courses that can ignite new passions and launch exciting new careers, but knowing that a university course is right for you is not always easy.

That is where a Foundation Year can be incredibly useful. Continue to Juliet's article below, published by Prospects, to find out why.

Why you should consider a foundation year

Going to university is a big step. If you've been out of education for a few years, it can be a daunting prospect. For mature students in particular, there may be the added worry of whether university is really for you - will you have anything in common with your fellow students?

The development of the foundation year has opened doors for those who may have previously thought university wasn't an option, whether for academic or personal reasons, from school leavers to busy working parents. It can be seen as a stepping-stone into the world of higher education (HE), particularly if you don't have the right qualifications to go straight onto your chosen degree programme.

What is a foundation year?

A foundation year gives you the opportunity to get an understanding of your field of interest before progressing to the full three-year degree programme. As well as subject knowledge, you'll get used to the HE context and gain the skills needed for higher level study. For example, at the University of Bedfordshire, initial sessions focus on career aspirations and opportunities, existing transferable skills, an introduction to your chosen subject, and writing essays.

A variety of subjects can be studied with a foundation year, and many degrees now offer this as an option. At the University of Bedfordshire a large number of our courses provide an FY pathway.

These include subjects such as:

• biological sciences
• business
• education
• social studies
• sport.

As an alternative route into university, a foundation year can ease you back into the education environment while providing access to the degree of your choice. If you successfully complete the foundation year, you can progress immediately into the first year of a degree.

Who should take a foundation year?

A foundation year offers a supportive environment if you've been out of education for a few years and are nervous about embarking on a university degree. For example, as a mature student you may be worried you'll be the only person over 25 in a room full of teenagers, but this isn't the case. More mature students are going to university than ever before. In fact, at the University of Bedfordshire, more than half of the student population is aged 21 or over. This presents you with a fantastic opportunity to mix with people with a shared interest.

What are the entry requirements?

If you're considering doing a foundation year, you shouldn't be put off because of a lack of formal qualifications. If you have work experience and passion for your subject area, universities will look at your profile and advise whether they can accept you, or what else you need to do prior to starting the course. Many universities across the country are now offering degrees with a foundation year so there's plenty of choice.

In terms of finance, students are currently eligible to take out student loans for the full four years of their degree with a foundation year. When applying to a university, be sure to ask about their available bursaries.

What else do I need to know?

The foundation year is firmly linked to the degree you'll progress onto. It allows you to meet with your peers in the year above, so you'll know what to expect when you move onto a degree. You're typically taught by tutors who will be with you throughout your degree, and you also complete the type of assessments you'll be taking in subsequent years, preparing you for what's to come.

You'll get plenty of support in understanding how the foundation course works and what's needed to reach the required standard. As a foundation year student, you're a university student from the day you register, and will benefit fully from the facilities and opportunities available to all students.

Read the article via Prospects here.