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Undergraduate diplomaOfqual UK recognised body

Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies

The objective of the Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies is to provide learners with a foundation to provide an entry route to UK and international university courses.

Duration
9 Months, 6 Months
Credits
120 credits
Level
Level 3
Awarding body
Ofqual UK recognised body

Tuition from £950£1050(fast track £1250)

Duration

9 Months, 6 Months

Credits

120 credits

Awarding body

Ofqual UK recognised body

Level

Level 3

Programme overview

The Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies is designed for learners who wish to pursue a higher education career, but lack the necessary qualifications.

With this Level 3 qualification, you'll gain a solid understanding of higher education principles, academic skills, and research methods.

Some of the key topics covered include academic writing, research skills, and study skills for success in higher education.

By completing this diploma, you'll be well-prepared to progress onto a degree course or other higher education program.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to take the first step towards your higher education career – explore the Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies today and start achieving your goals!

 

Foundation is the perfect starting point for those seeking to pursue Higher Education Studies. This Level 3 Foundation Diploma offers a comprehensive introduction to the subject, providing students with a solid foundation in academic skills, research methods, and critical thinking. By studying Foundation level, you'll gain access to a wide range of career opportunities, including roles in education, research, and policy development. Unique features of the course include Foundation level modules in academic writing, research skills, and data analysis, which are essential for success in Higher Education Studies. With Foundation level, you'll be well-equipped to progress to degree-level study.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion, you will be able to:

  1. Assess knowledge and practice related to academic english and study skills (20 credits).
  2. Demonstrate knowledge and practice related to foundation mathematics (20 credits).
  3. Implement knowledge and practice related to foundation computing (20 credits).
  4. Evaluate knowledge and practice related to society and culture (20 credits).
  5. Apply knowledge and practice related to introduction to business (20 credits).
  6. Analyse knowledge and practice related to foundation accounting and economics (20 credits).

Who is this course for?

Ideal for: Higher Education Admissions Assistant, Academic Support Assistant, Student Services Assistant. This qualification supports progression to Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) and meets UK employers and professional bodies's training recommendations for education and training workers.

What you'll study

  • Academic English and Study Skills (20 credits)
  • Foundation Mathematics (20 credits)
  • Foundation Computing (20 credits)
  • Society and Culture (20 credits)
  • Introduction to Business (20 credits)
  • Foundation Accounting and Economics (20 credits)

Full module detail

The Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies consists of 6 mandatory units for a combined total of 120 credits.

Mandatory units

  • Academic English and Study Skills (20 credits)
  • Foundation Mathematics (20 credits)
  • Foundation Computing (20 credits)
  • Society and Culture (20 credits)
  • Introduction to Business (20 credits)
  • Foundation Accounting and Economics (20 credits)

Learners who complete this qualification often progress to the Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice.

Career outcomes

Graduates progress into roles such as Higher Education Admissions Assistant, Academic Support Assistant, Student Services Assistant, and Administrative Assistant. Typical UK salary ranges for these roles vary by employer, region, and experience — often from £22,000 to £45,000+ per annum.

Entry requirements

  • Previous Qualification: Applicants should have successfully completed a Level 2 qualification (e.g., GCSEs, Level 2 Certificate, Diploma) or hold an equivalent credential. Higher qualifications are also accepted. OR
  • Relevant Experience: Candidates with over 1 year of professional experience in their respective industry are encouraged to apply, as their practical knowledge is highly valued.
  • Minimum Age: Applicants must be 16 years or older . This program is designed to support both recent school leavers and those with some professional experience in advancing their careers.

Assessment

The Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies is assessed through assignment and coursework submission. You complete set tasks online, submit your work for marking, and build evidence of learning without sitting written exams.

  • Assessment is through written assignments and coursework submitted online.
  • There are no written examinations.
  • You receive tutor feedback on your submissions as you progress through the programme.

Awarding body

Ofqual UK recognised body

Fee and payment plans

Duration & course fee

Choose the study mode that fits your schedule and career goals.

Most popular

Standard mode

Study at your own pace with full tutor support

£950

Complete fee

  • Duration: 9 months
  • Start dates: Flexible start dates
Qualify sooner

Fast track

Intensive schedule, ideal for working professionals

£1250

Complete fee

  • Duration: 6 months
  • Start dates: Fixed cohort intakes

Fees quoted above represent the full programme cost. There are no additional or hidden charges.

Payment plans

9 months @ GBP £950

  • Payment option (c): GBP £190 x 5 monthly instalments
  • Payment option (d): GBP £475 x 2 quarterly instalments
  • Payment option (e): GBP £902.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

6 months @ GBP £1250

  • Payment option (a): GBP £416 x 3 monthly instalments
  • Payment option (b): GBP £1187.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

Frequently asked questions

Is this qualification recognised by UK employers?

Yes. The Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies is quality-assured through Ofqual UK recognised body and is designed for recognition by UK employers, recruiters, and professional bodies. Qualifications on regulated pathways appear on the Ofqual register where applicable.

Can I study while working full-time?

Yes. Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies is delivered fully online with flexible scheduling, assignment-based assessment, and tutor support — making it suitable for learners who are employed full-time.

How is this course assessed?

Assessment is through written assignments and coursework submitted online. There are no written exams. You complete set tasks, submit your work for marking, and receive tutor feedback as you progress.

What are the entry requirements?

Previous Qualification: Applicants should have successfully completed a Level 2 qualification (e.g., GCSEs, Level 2 Certificate, Diploma) or hold an equivalent credential. Higher qualifications are also accepted. OR Relevant Experience: Candidates with over 1 year of professional experience in their respective industry are encouraged to apply, as their practical knowledge is highly valued. Minimum Age: Applicants must be 16 years or older . This program is designed to support both recent school leavers and those with some professional experience in advancing their careers.

How long does the course take to complete?

Most learners complete the Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies in 9 Months, 6 Months. UKSM offers standard and, where available, fast-track study modes so you can choose a pace that fits your schedule.

Who accredits this qualification?

This programme is awarded or validated through Ofqual UK recognised body. UK School of Management (UKSM) delivers the qualification as an approved learning provider listed on the UK Register of Learning Providers (UKPRN: 10101873).

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