Get Pro
Menu

Foundation degree

A level 5 qualification combining academic and work-based learning, roughly two-thirds of a bachelor's degree.

Also called
FdA / FdSc
Used in
England, Wales, Northern Ireland
Topic
Higher education

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

Classfern Pro: report writer, Ask Fern, forum and jobs – no ads. What's in Pro Join the waiting list

HND (Higher National Diploma) All four UK nations (details may differ)
A two-year vocational higher education qualification at RQF level 5 (SCQF level 8 in Scotland).
Foundation year All four UK nations (details may differ)
An extra first year added to a degree for students who need preparation before starting the main course. Different from a foundation degree.
Associate degree United States
A two-year undergraduate degree, such as an AA or AS, often from a community college. Broadly comparable to a UK foundation degree or HND in level.

More terms: Higher education

Access and participation plan · CertHE · DipHE · Student finance

More terms starting with F · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.