Social Sciences and Humanities with a Foundation Year

The social sciences and humanities encompass some of the most important and versatile disciplines available at university, from sociology and psychology to history, philosophy, economics and cultural studies. A combined social sciences and humanities programme allows you to develop breadth across these disciplines before potentially specialising, building the analytical, research and communication skills that are the hallmarks of a strong humanities and social science education. A foundation year attached to such a programme provides additional academic preparation for students who need a supported transition into university-level study.

At Loughborough University, this four-year programme with a foundation year is designed for students who have not studied the prerequisite subjects for first-year entry, who have not met expected entrance requirements due to adverse circumstances or sporting commitments, who are returning to education as mature students, or who are care leavers. The programme provides a genuine pathway into a strong social sciences and humanities education, ensuring that potential is not limited by circumstance. The foundation year builds the academic skills and subject knowledge needed to succeed on the main degree, and you will progress into a well-supported learning environment with access to Loughborough's strong academic community.

Graduates from social sciences and humanities programmes enter careers across education, social research, the civil service, law, journalism, media, policy, international organisations, the voluntary sector and commercial roles where analytical and communication skills are valued. The breadth of the disciplines covered means the programme develops transferable capabilities that are applicable across a very wide range of professional contexts. Many graduates pursue postgraduate study in one of the component disciplines, including sociology, history, psychology, economics or a professional field such as law or social work.