Science with Foundation Year University of Portsmouth

Overview

There’s more than one route to becoming a scientist. If you don’t have the grades for our other science degrees, this BSc (Hons) Science with Foundation Year course is the best place to start. Once you’re up to speed, you can choose which science degree to move on to after your Foundation year.

You’ll study introductory science and study skills in areas such as biology, chemistry, earth sciences, psychology, sport and exercise science, and health sciences. And develop skills you’ll use throughout your career, from technology to numeracy.

If you want to be a professional scientist, this science foundation degree could be your launchpad.

Course highlights

• Gain knowledge of many different scientific principles and practices, and build the skills and understanding to use them
• Get hands-on in our labs, assessing the physical effects of polar conditions in our extreme environments lab, working with medical manikins in our healthcare simulation suite, and monitoring ecosystems in our shoreside marine station
• Study alongside students from other scientific interests and backgrounds, and be taught by academics and guest lecturers with experience in industry and research
• Learn how to meet the demands of taking on a science degree at university – including how to conduct field work and write up your findings

After your foundation year

Once you’ve successfully completed your foundation year, you'll be ready to progress onto a variety of undergraduate science and health courses.

The topics and modules you go on to study will depend on the degree course you choose to take.

Note that some pathways may have specific requirements between completing your foundation year and starting the course.

Careers and opportunities

Do you see yourself conducting lab experiments and researching cutting-edge scientific theories? Perhaps you want to help athletes break new records, uncover new ways to protect endangered species, or fight diseases.

Whatever area of science you're interested in, there's never been a better time to become a scientist. Science and technology are key areas of the UK economy and likely to be even more important in the future as low-skilled jobs decline. There's a shortage of science graduates across various fields, and many sectors are struggling to recruit professionals.

This science foundation year, and the Bachelor's degree you move on to, will prepare you for a scientific career that makes a real difference.

You'll have the flexibility to choose what science-related degree you want to study from year 2 onwards, and you'll get ongoing careers support from our Careers and Employability Service for up to 5 years after you graduate from your full degree.

Placement year opportunities

Once you've completed your foundation year and moved on to your full Bachelor's degree, you'll have the chance to do an optional work placement year to get valuable longer-term work experience in the industry.

Taking a placement year will give you the experience you need to increase your chances of landing your perfect role after graduation.

For example, Environmental Science students have taken placements at organisations including Mott MacDonald and Enitial, and Sport and Exercise Science students have completed placements with Portsmouth FC, England Volleyball and the Hampshire Football Association.

We'll give you all the support you need to find a placement that prepares you for your career, and we'll continue to mentor you throughout your placement.

Entry requirements

56 points to include a minimum of 2 A levels, or equivalent. Other qualifications such as Vocational A levels (AVCE), BTECs and Access courses will also be considered. 

Progressions onto some pathways will be subject to interview and Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance.

English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.