by Larissa Petryca, on 29 July 2022 10:00:19 CEST
In the past weeks students have been cramming for exams, hoping to achieve university-worthy results. But did you know that there is alternative path to an undergraduate degree?
Foundation Diplomas
Foundation Diplomas are one year introductory programmes that help students explore their interests and abilities before they commit to a specialised undergraduate degree.
The Foundation year is also open to students who do not have a high school diploma or Czech equivalent. Yet on completion of a Foundation programme, graduates qualify for university studies, so it's an easier pathway in.
In addition, the awarded diploma is viewed favourably over a high school qualification, therefore unlocking more options for study.
Worldwide, Foundation Diplomas are growing in popularity, with many universities encouraging students to complete the Foundation year before committing to a Bachelor’s degree.
Prague City University
Prague City University (PCU) offers two British-accredited Foundation programmes in English. The Foundation Diploma in Business and the Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media Practice. Both are BTEC Pearson International level 3 programmes developed in the UK and recognised as a valid progression route into undergraduate studies.
Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media Practice
The first semester introduces students to a new creative discipline every two weeks and pushes experimentation and development of skills. In the second semester the student’s focus shifts to fine tuning portfolios and student’s determining their specialization.
A strong portfolio is essential for selection into undergraduate Art and Design programmes as selectors are looking for a high level of specialist knowledge and skills that are outside of a regular high school art programme.
Students also present a weekly Friday Show exhibition in the first semester showcasing their project work in new areas of skills such as; animation, painting, sound, interactive art, illustration, photography, sculpture, graphic design and more.
So in one year students are able to fully explore and master a full toolbox of creative skills before deciding where their talents lie with confidence.
For more information on the Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media Practice visit: https://www.praguecityuniversity.cz/programmes/foundation-diploma-in-art-design-and-media-practice
Foundation Diploma in Business
PCU’s Foundation Diploma in Business is a practical and comprehensive introduction to business studies before pursuing a Bachelor’s degree. At PCU, Foundation Diploma graduates move into business programmes but have also crossed into IT.
Over the course of one year, students are introduced to a wide range of topics, including:
- Management skills
- Marketing
- HR
- Finance
- Presentation skills
- Event management.
Small class sizes ensure that students receive individual support from experienced international lecturers with solid business and academic backgrounds who help guide them on tasks, academic writing and assignments.
Their teaching methodology is to engage students and encourage interactive learning with students regularly working in teams to problem solve real-life business scenarios which help reinforce their learning.
Study Online
The Foundation Diploma in Business is also available online in blended format, allowing students to learn from any location. The programme is delivered via the Digital Campus, PCU’s online platform that has been refined and developed over the past 10 years. During their year of study blended students also have the option to attend two residential weekends in Prague to meet with their lecturers, fellow students and to attend lectures and workshops.
For more information on the Foundation Diploma in Business visit: https://www.praguecityuniversity.cz/programmes/foundation-diploma-in-business
