When you successfully complete the Foundation Year (UCAS code T70F), you are guaranteed progression to the American and Canadian Studies (Study Abroad) BA.
Course overview
Whether you've come to the subject through an interest in global relations, politics, or even a love for American television shows, our expert-led courses let you design your degree to suit your strengths and interests.
This course is designed for talented UK students with an interest in all things American and Canadian but whose personal circumstances make achieving our usual entry requirements difficult.
Through a range of engaging modules spanning the arts and humanities, the foundation year gives you an opportunity to develop key skills such as communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and digital capability. Your foundation year tutors will support you in developing the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence for undergraduate study.
During the foundation year you will be a full member of the university, with all the opportunities this offers, including the same accommodation options as direct entry students.
Indicative modules
About modules
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer, but is not intended to be construed or relied on as a definitive list of what might be available in any given year. This content was last updated on Thursday 25 July 2024. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.
Teaching methods
- Lectures
- Practical classes
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
Your six foundation year modules are assessed using a wide variety of methods.
Each module has two assessment points. For example, our Critical Thinking and Reflective Learning module is assessed by an essay (50% of the module mark) and a reflective learning portfolio (50% of the module mark). These modules will prepare you for undergraduate assessment and allow you to develop a broad range of skills.
Assessment methods
- Essay
- Poster
- Presentation
- Portfolio (written/digital)
- Creative piece
- Workbook
Teaching
During your foundation year you’ll have at least 12 hours of timetabled contact a week through lectures, seminars and workshops. Your tutors will also be available outside these times to discuss issues and develop your understanding.
One-to-one tutorials
You will have four general progress tutorials as well as individual module-focused tutorials during your foundation year.
For learning, assessment, contact and study information after your foundation year see American and Canadian Studies (Study Abroad) BA.
Evidence shows that students commencing their university study at foundation level achieve the same levels of undergraduate degree as their fellow direct-route students, which in turn leads to the same wide range of career options.
In addition to your study we recommend that you participate in at least some of our CV-enhancing programmes which include:
- Nottingham Advantage Award
- Student Ambassador scheme
- subject-specific volunteering programmes
You will also be able to take advantage of the wide range of services offered by our dedicated Faculty of Arts careers team within the Careers and Employability Service.
More information about subject-related careers opportunities from our Careers and Employability Service.
Average starting salary and career progression
78.8% of undergraduates from the Faculty of Arts secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual starting salary for these graduates was £23,974.
HESA Graduate Outcomes (2017 to 2021 cohorts). The Graduate Outcomes % is calculated using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.
Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.
Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.
Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.
The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).
The Foundation Year improved my essay-writing skills immensely. On arrival to university, having to write essays seemed quite daunting but the Critical Thinking and Reflective Learning module was key for my development
Franklyn Ogosi
BA Theology and Religious Studies (with Foundation Year) Graduate
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