Foundation Year
At Birmingham Newman University, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their starting point. Our Foundation Year is designed to help you develop the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to thrive in higher education and beyond.
Free Foundation Year Consultation
Not sure which course fits your goals? Book a free consultation with an Academic Life Coach today
Foundation Year courses
Computing (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Business and Marketing (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Computer Science (with Foundation Year) Bsc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Business and Human Resource Management (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Business and Law (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Business Management (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Business and Entrepreneurship (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Business, Accounting and Finance (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Adult Nursing (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Accounting and Finance (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
Theology and Philosophy (with Foundation Year) BA (Hons)
Working with Children, Young People and Families (with Foundation Year) BA (Hons)
- Start date:
- September 2026
About a Foundation Year?
What is the Foundation Year?
The Foundation Year is the first year of a four-year degree. It is designed for students who may not have the qualifications or experience required for direct entry onto a three-year undergraduate course.
Whether you are returning to education after a break or have faced challenges in the past, our Foundation Year offers a fresh start in a supportive and inclusive environment.
What to expect?
- A supportive learning environment
- A tailored curriculum that bridges the gap to undergraduate study
- Opportunities to grow personally and academically
- A welcoming community that celebrates your progress
The Foundation Year curriculum is designed to help you
- Think critically and study independently
- Explore topics such as identity, inequality and what it means to be human in a digital world
- Build skills in communication, problem-solving and academic writing
- Connect with your subject and the wider university community
Join Our Community
Choosing a Foundation Year at Birmingham Newman means more than just preparing for a degree. It is about discovering your potential and finding your place. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Meet our team
Dr Owen Rees
Lecturer in Applied Humanities
Dr Christine Pushpa Kumbhat
Lecturer in Foundation Year
Michael Gilsenan
Senior Lecturer Youth & Community work and Foundation Year
Dr Emma Folwell
Head of Interdisciplinary Studies
Bruce Coates
Course Leader for Drama and Lecturer in Foundation Year
James Brennan
Lecturer in Foundation Year
Why Choose a Foundation Year?
Inclusive and Welcoming
Join a community where everyone belongs. We welcome students from all backgrounds and provide a space where your voice is heard and your journey is valued.
Personalised Academic Guidance
With small class sizes, one-to-one mentoring and a close-knit campus, you will receive the support you need to grow with confidence.
Empowering Your Success
We will help you develop the academic skills, independence and self-belief needed to succeed not only in your degree, but also personally and professionally.
Real Preparation for University Life
You will gain a strong understanding of what it takes to be a successful undergraduate student, while building confidence in your abilities and knowledge of your chosen subject.