Course description

Social sciences, arts and humanities are subjects that seek to understand how people think, live, interact and shape the world around them. Our Integrated Foundation Year gives you the chance to explore these issues through short, engaging modules taught by experienced academics who are passionate about their subjects. 

You’ll be introduced to topics in History, Law, English, Criminology, Archaeology and Ancient History, Sociology, Media and Communication, Film Studies, Journalism, Modern Languages, and Politics and International Relations. These taster-style modules are designed to give you a sense of what studying social sciences, arts and humanities is really like, and help you to discover which subjects inspire you most.

Throughout the course, there’s a strong focus on developing essential academic skills like critical thinking, writing and research, all of which will support your success at university and beyond. You’ll receive regular feedback, work closely with your tutors, and have a personal tutor to guide you throughout the year.

But it's not just about academic preparation; you’ll also be gaining the key skills that are valued by employers, including communication, adaptability, organisation, teamwork and leadership. 

If you successfully complete the Foundation Year (by achieving at least 40% in each of the four core modules), you can progress onto one of the full undergraduate degrees available in the schools and departments that make up our College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities:

• Archaeology and Ancient History
• Criminology
• English
• Film Studies
• History
• Journalism
• Law*
• Media and Communication
• Modern Languages
• Politics and International Relations
• Sociology

*NB. For our Law degree (or any joint degree that includes Law), you will need to achieve at least 50% on the ‘SHAPE Your Future 2’ and ‘Historical, Political and Legal Studies’ modules plus at least 40% on the other two modules. 

The Foundation Year takes place on the University of Leicester campus, so you’ll be fully part of university life from the beginning. You’ll join our student community, have access to all our facilities and support services, live in student accommodation if you choose, and take part in everything from academic societies to social clubs. 

If you’re keen to explore everything that the University and a foundation in social sciences, arts and humanities can offer, build your confidence, and prepare for university study, this course offers the perfect first step. 

Entry requirements