About

Are you interested in how the modern world works? Do you want to gain an understanding of the past in order to see how the world can be changed in the future? Are you looking to study for a degree in English or History but need a helping hand to get there?

The Humanities Foundation degree is a stepping stone to an undergraduate degree. You will explore a range of topics taken from across the humanities subject areas such as history, literature, language and linguistics, creative writing, and American studies. You will be encouraged to embrace your curiosity and creativity, as well as learning how to study at university level. You will learn how to research, evaluate sources, construct a thorough argument, and present your findings.

You will graduate with the analytical, philosophical and practical skills you need to undertake undergraduate study and with a wider understanding of the role of humanities in the modern world.

On successful completion of the foundation year you will qualify to join any of the following degrees:

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2025/26

Standard Entry

80 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo

Subject Requirements:

There are no specific subject requirements for this course.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

There are no additional requirements for this course.

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

English Program Requirements

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Career

What can I move on to after my foundation course?

On completion of the Foundation degree you will have developed a wider understanding of the humanities and developed the knowledge and skills necessary for you to progress onto your chosen undergraduate degree, including History, Literature, Language and Linguistics, Creative Writing, and American Studies, depending on your interests and desired career path.

Click the images below to find out more about the subjects within our Humanities department.

Humanities Foundation Year