Foundation Certificate in Higher Education

Course code: OLUAT   Level: 3

The Foundation Certificate in Higher Education is an online Level 3 foundation course designed to provide you with the English, Maths and Study skills required in order to study at a higher education level.

Why should I take this course?

This course aims to provide you with the transferable skills, knowledge and competence required to gain an accessible route into Higher Education with the opportunity to progress on to undergraduate or postgraduate courses that require a higher level of English and Maths.

It bridges the gap for any students who do not currently hold the appropriate level or traditional entry qualifications in English and Maths to embark on their learning journey into higher education. It is also ideal for those who already have a wealth of experience and a range of qualifications but may not have previously studied at university level. This course provides you with an opportunity to learn the skills taught at GCSE/AS Maths and English levels or equivalent, while introducing academic study skills that will help you with future higher educational courses.

You may also be looking to refresh your study skills before taking the next step in education, looking to take this course as part of your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) or to enhance your career employability.

What modules will I study?

For the Foundation Certificate you will need to study two core modules: Study Skills for Higher Education and English for Academic Purposes. You can then choose one of two optional modules – either Technical English or Introduction to Maths in Preparation for Higher Education.

Alternatively you can choose to complete individual Certificates of Credit in each of the skills.

Complete one 20 credit module and achieve a Certificate of Credit

You may wish to complete just one module to update your skills for undergraduate or postgraduate study or as part of your CPD and personal development. You can study all of the modules individually if you chose to, but collectively they cannot be classed as the Foundation Certificate.

Each 20 credit module can be completed as a standalone award and you will receive a Certificate of Credit upon completion in the following:

. Credit in English for Academic Purposes

. Certificate of Credit in Introduction to Maths in Preparation for HE

. Certificate of Credit in Technical English

. Certificate of Credit in Study Skills in HE

. Access to UDOL’s undergraduate and postgraduate courses

If you wish to complete a University of Derby Online Learning undergraduate or postgraduate course, we will accept this Foundation Certificate of Higher Education as evidence that you are able to perform at a suitable level of IELTS 6.0 which will improve your eligibility for a number of our courses, providing you have a IELTS 4.5 and meet all additional entry criteria.

Although this course is not classed as a GCSE equivalent, it will enable you to demonstrate your ability to study at English and/or Maths GCSE level. The University of Derby Online Learning recognise upon successful completion of this course that you are able to meet the academic requirements needed to study at higher education level for many of our undergraduate or postgraduate programmes providing you meet additional criteria.

Preparing you for IELTS

If you are an International student, this course will provide you with the opportunity to develop the appropriate academic English Language competences needed at Level 3, giving you ideal preparation for undertaking IELTS 6.0 testing at a local centre in your country. Although this course is not an IELTS qualification, you will have an opportunity to underpin your knowledge to complete the IELTS test.

What skills will I develop?

You’ll develop a broad range of practical skills in academic writing, communication, interpersonal skills, study skills, numeracy, data collection and interpretation, problem solving and application underpinned by academic knowledge.

Enhancing your Personal Development Plan (PDP)

This course is also an ideal way to update your Personal Development Planning (PDP). There will be opportunities for you to reflect on your progress and the learning journey within activities set in the academic skills module. The activities will help equip you with the required skills needed in the development of your digital literacy and communication skills and provide you with a foundation for future development in education. During the course you will be directed to activities that will assist in developing your study and career plans, utilising digital tools and technologies.

The Foundation Certificate in Higher Education is a 60 credit, Level 3 foundation course designed to provide you with the English, Maths and Study skills required in order to study at undergraduate level. It is an ideal course to undertake if you are new to Higher Education or if you want to refresh or improve your skills. The course also offers the opportunity for you to take individual Certificates of Credit in each of the skills – ideal if you do not need to refresh all of your skills. Further information of this option can be found below.

 

Modules:

Core

. English for Academic Purposes

Code:3PE500

Info:This module will introduce you to reading and writing skills, critical analysis and speak and listening activities. The module content aims to equip you with the necessary academic skills, required for future progression in education. You will develop your academic English skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking in a range of contexts in preparation for study in Higher Education.

This module aims to build on your existing levels of English and provides you with sufficient English Skills to enable you to engage confidently with modules. By the end of the module you will be able to communicate (both orally and in writing) to a minimum standard of B2 according to the Common European Framework standards for Languages (CEFR).

This module will also provide the opportunity for you to discuss topics of interest, structuring speech appropriately and paying attention to range and accuracy of vocabulary, and to pronunciation.

It will support your preparation for further undergraduate studies in order to:

Read effectively and efficiently through skimming; scanning; increasing speed; predicting content; reading with a purpose

. Identify language when reading: recognise discourse markers to follow a text; infer meaning and deal with unknown words; recognise cohesive devices such as connectors and pronouns

. Build academic vocabulary through reading and use this vocabulary in speaking and writing

. Plan and write effective paragraphs, focussing on clear topic sentences and supporting sentences and cohesion as well as range and accuracy of grammar and vocabulary, and accuracy of spelling and punctuation

. Plan and write a variety of essay types, focussing on structure and cohesion as well as range and accuracy of grammar and vocabulary, accuracy of spelling and punctuation

. Take effective and organised notes while listening, identifying key points and representing these through use of key words, symbols, abbreviations etc.

. Recognise descriptions of data whether in numeric, table, graph or diagram form

. Prepare for a group seminar discussion, following others’ contributions in the discussion and participating in the discussion according to a number of functions

. On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

. Understand a variety of texts which include unknown vocabulary to consider the writer’s messageProduce written English accurately and fluently showing awareness of academic writing styleEngage in an academic conversation, orally present your own perspectives using virtual media

Graduate Skills

. Communication using a range of written and verbal formats

Self-awareness and reflection activities

. Demonstrating analysis, problem solving and reasoning

. Digital Skills

. Demonstrating accurate and appropriate referencing.

. Demonstrating the ability to create a personal environment incorporation elements of UDOL digital practices at appropriate level.

. Demonstrating the use of a range of sources appropriate to the discipline.

. Distinguish between functions and uses of common mobile communication devices, e.g. phone calls, texting, messaging to individuals or groups, using smart phone, tablet, etc.

. Distinguish between instances of public (e.g. social networking sites) and private (e.g. email) online communication

Credits:20; Stage:Core; Core:Core module

. Study Skills for Higher Education

Code:3PE501

Info:

This module will enable you to develop the skills necessary to become a flexible and autonomous learner in preparation for study in Higher Education. You will be encouraged to successfully manage your time, prioritise workloads, and cope with stress as well as acquiring practical skills such as accessing materials for self-study, and developing your abilities in using primary and secondary sources for research.

You will be expected to work collaboratively in groups and develop the ability to work in a team. You will also develop an understanding of academic English skills in writing, reading and presentation in a range of contexts, including report writing, reflecting and referencing for academic purposes. You will receive guidance in skills such as nalyzing assignment tasks, referencing, researching, developing an argument and presenting findings in the form of an essay, report or oral presentation. This modules gives you the ability to use the library effectively including identifying subject related information from online resources and electronic journals.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  1. Devise strategies for successful time management and independent learning
  2. Accurately source and nalyzi resources for researching and referencing in line with the referencing system for the desired discipline.
  3. Produce extended written work using basic arguments with supporting information and demonstrate  an awareness of and reflect on basic academic skills
  4. Recognise your own learning style and areas for development; study effectively and efficiently by managing time and stress
  5. Plan an assignment from finding a title, formulating an action plan through to writing the introduction and conclusion
  6. Deal with assignment questions – nalyzing the task; identifying key words, planning the structure of the argument and providing an answer in an appropriate formatReference accurately using
  7. Harvard conventions

Literacy Skills

. Communication using a range of written and verbal formats

. Self-awareness and reflection activities

. Demonstrating analysis, problem solving and reasoning

. Digital Skills

. Demonstrating the ability to create a personal environment incorporation elements of

UDOL digital practices at appropriate level.

. Demonstrating the use of a range of sources appropriate to the discipline.

. Distinguish between instances of public (e.g. social networking sites) and private (e.g. email) online communication

. Distinguish between different types of information to be found on the internet using a search engine and between levels of reliability of information found in this way.

. Distinguish between examples of information of high and low quality on the web.

. Articulate reasons for acknowledging others’ thoughts and ideas in one’s own work.

. Distinguish between examples of digital content having different conditions of use, e.g. copyright

Credits:20; Stage:Core; Core:Core module

Optional

. Introduction to Math’s in Preparation for Higher Education

Code:3PE502

Info:

This module covers the topics consistent with introduction to mathematical content of GCSE Maths in the following areas of statistics and probability, number work, graphs and algebra. Reflective learning will be used as a key transferable skill, giving you the ability to apply mathematical skills and competencies to interpret and analyse data. The module will also enable you to learn how to perform mathematical calculations with whole numbers, decimals, percentages and fractions, the basics of maths that will allow you to apply your knowledge to any given scenario. You will also investigate and present maths aspects of real life problems using graphical and non-graphical methods.

You will be introduced to some of the fundamental ideas such as; statistics; investigations; data charts; data interpretation; correlation; probabilities; number sequences; problem solving; calculations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions and percentages; algebra and more.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:

1.Identify and apply personal mathematical skills and competencies

2.Interpret and analyse dataPerform mathematical calculations with whole numbers, decimals, percentages and fractions

3.Investigate and present maths aspects of real life problems using graphical and non-graphical methods

Credits:20; Stage:Optional; Core:Optional module

Technical English

Code:3PE503

Info:

This module will introduce you to technical English skills required to prepare you for further undergraduate study. It will provide the context in which you are able to write clear, coherent written texts with a high level of accuracy to B1 and B2 standards. This module will also enable you to recognise, interpret and use appropriate written and spoken language, both general and involving key disciplines specific terminologies. These transferable skills are designed to help with developing structural and expressive concepts accurately. It will provide you with an understanding of essay writing, report writing and how to interpret questions.

The module content will seek to enhance and support your preparation for further undergraduate studies, allowing you to recognise and produce spoken and written language to function effectively when studying appropriately within a specific subject area. It will enable you to develop confidence and competence for studying at undergraduate level, prepare you for assignments, report and specific technical writing skills, increasing your awareness of how to study and becoming more self-confident. You will also develop an awareness of specific terminology and vocabulary building, grammar and accuracy writing and listening skills.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:

1.Demonstrate ability and skills needed for level 3 studies

2.Demonstrate understanding and knowledge of specific subject appropriate for progression to undergraduate programme

 

Graduate Skills:

. Communication using a range of written and verbal formats

. Self-awareness and reflection activities

. Demonstrating analysis, problem solving and reasoning

Digital Skills:

. Demonstrating accurate and appropriate referencing.

. Demonstrating the ability to create a personal environment incorporation elements of UDOL digital practices at appropriate level.

Credits:20; Stage:Optional; Core:Optional module

You will require:

1.Level 2 qualifications such as GCSE (grades A*-C); NVQ; Skills for Life; Higher Diploma; BTEC award – certificate and diploma; Cambridge National; Cambridge Technical.

2.Candidates with extensive work/vocational experience will be considered on an individual basis

3.CV and personal statement.

International/European students will:

. Have graduated from secondary school in their country, demonstrating a basic level of English to benefit from the programme

. Have a minimum IELTS 4.5 or equivalent.

. Normally the entry qualification will need to be mapped to the UK equivalent course to ensuring access to the appropriate programme level (with a view to progressing to undergraduate level and achieving 60 credits at level 3).

When applying, it is essential that you submit the following:

CV

. Qualification evidence awarded in country [These will be checked for equivalency with the National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) organisation]

. Transcripts of all relevant education/training

Non-standard entrants:

If qualifications do not match the criteria above, it may be possible to access as a ‘non-standard’ entrant where there are equivalent/alternative qualifications. You will be required to submit evidence of work experience and have a discussion with the Academic Lead before being offered a place as a direct entrant to ensure that you have the necessary capacity for studying at level 3.

Specialist online university
University of Derby Online Learning (UDOL) specialises in delivering higher education and its objective is to empower students to achieve their full potential through a first class educational experience supported by information, advice and guidance.

University experience enriched with support
UDOL recognises that studying online and at a distance comes with its own challenges and that it’s a very different experience to traditional campus based study. The university´s support services have been designed to ensure that you can make the most of your time at the UDOL; with a wide range of support and information readily accessible.

Student support services include:

– Academic Team and Online Tutor
– Online Learner Advisor
– Student Wellbeing
– IT Service Centre
– eLibrary and Resource Centre
– Study Skills Advisory Scheme
– Skills Diagnostic Self-Assessment Tool
– Careers and Employment Service

Read more below:

Academic Team and Online Tutor
UDOL has a large team of highly qualified academics from around the world, who are experts in their field. They are research active and many of them have a wealth of experience in industry as well as in academia, bringing great value to the programmes. The team also has a high level of expertise in online learning, using best practice techniques combined with online teaching methods to ensure your studies are rich and stimulating.

Online Learner Advisors
Once enrolled onto your course, you will be assigned a dedicated Online Learner Advisor with extensive knowledge of your programme, who will be your main point of contact throughout your course.
To help you succeed in reaching your academic goals, your Online Learner Advisor will maintain regular communication with you, offering advice and guidance for any non-academic issues such as pace of study, fees and funding, authorised breaks from study, dealing with exceptional circumstances, and much more.

Student Wellbeing
Achieving success in your studies is affected as much by your wellbeing as it is by your academic ability. If you are happy and confident within yourself and your environment, then you will be far more able to achieve the success that you deserve.
The Student Wellbeing services offer support for anything that may impact on you, your academic performance or your experience as a student, from budgeting and anxiety to managing serious problems. The counsellors are especially trained in supporting students online, no matter the issue.
For students with disabilities, learning difficulties or long-term or mental health conditions, specialist support is also available. The student wellbeing team will assess your requirements and put Support Plans in place containing reasonable adjustments to the way you are taught or assessed.

IT Service Centre
The IT Service Centre is able to provide assistance if you are experiencing technical difficulties. They are available 24 hours a day so no matter your time zone, IT support is just a call away.

eLibrary and Resource Centre
The University’s library is accessible to online and distance learners. Investment has been made to make sure that your reading lists are in electronic format and that there is a wide range of online databases, digital texts and ejournals available to you.
As a UK based University of Derby student, you can also access other libraries via the SCONUL Access Scheme, which enables materials to be borrowed from higher-education libraries across the country. Many universities, HE colleges and national libraries throughout the UK and Ireland participate in the scheme making their resources widely available.
The library runs a comprehensive schedule of Support Sessions covering a wide range of topics. These live, one hourly webinars cover topics such as study skills, using the virtual library enquiry desk and dealing with assessment anxiety.

Study Skills Advisory Scheme
Developing your study skills is an integral part of studying. It is particularly important if you are returning to study after a long break and lack confidence in this area.
There is a wide range of resources including guides, audio-visual tutorials and live webinars covering:

– Writing essays and reports
– Writing a dissertation or Independent Studies
– Citing and referencing
– Reading and note taking
– Research skills
– Time management and coping with pressure
– Reflection and personal development planning
– And much more…

Skills Diagnostic Self-Assessment tool
To ensure you have the skills needed for online and academic study, our unique study skills diagnostic tool gives you the opportunity, at any point of your studies, to identify the skills that you are strong at and those which you may need additional help with. The tool will direct you to information and assisted support according to your needs.

Careers and Employment Service
Whether you’re just starting your career or are on a well-established pathway, the Careers and Employment Service has lots to offers. Live webinars, career coaching, CV tailoring and online resources are just some of the services that are freely available to help you develop your employability skills and to plan your next career move. The Careers and Employment service is equipped to help you explore what you will need to do to enhance your career and support you in applying for roles.
As an Alumnus of the University, you will have access to the Careers and Employment Centre for up to 3 years after graduation. You can access the service online, over Skype/ Hangout, on the phone, through e-mail or in person at our Derby campus.

Find out more about the careers and employment centre

-Step 1- Start your online application.

It’s free to apply and you have 28 days to complete your application so don’t worry if you don’t have everything to hand right now.

-Step 2 – Submit your online application.

Provide as much detail as you can and we will send you an email acknowledging receipt of your application.

Please, attach the following documents to your online application:

– Photo ID – this could be your passport or driving licence

– Written reference supplied on headed paper from either a manager, supervisor, tutor or teacher

– Copies of certificates or letter of testimony for previous qualifications

Don’t worry if you can’t attach your documents right away.  Simply write your name and unique application id onto them, email, fax or post them to us after you’ve submitted your completed application.

-Step 3 – Wait for a response.

Our Online Learning Advisors will review your application and contact you within 1 working week. If your application is successful, we will make you an ‘unconditional’ offer. If we still need some additional information from you (eg evidence of your qualifications and experience including certificates and references) we may make you a conditional offer. If your application is unsuccessful on this occasion, we will email you to let you know.

-Step 4 – Time to enrol

We’ll ask you to enrol onto your course about 4 – 6 weeks before the start of term.  For example, if you apply to start your course in September enrolment will open approximately mid-August.

-Step 5 – … and pay

Contact us for more details about payments and notes for sponsors.

-Need Help?

If you have any questions during your application, don’t hesitate to contact your friendly Online Learning Advisors for assistance.

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