The destinations of Foundation degree graduates in the south west of England

Abstract

The Foundation degree was introduced in the UK in 2001 with a view to addressing two main government agendas: widening participation in higher education and improving higher level skills. Both of these agendas are in response to a set of policy drivers aiming to increase levels of employment. Despite its importance in relation to these national agendas as well as for students themselves, research into Foundation degree students has tended to focus upon their experience of studying and their profile rather than on destinations and employability. This paper reports on a research study carried out over a two?year period aiming to obtain an insight into the progress of Foundation degree graduates in the South West of England following completion of their course. The findings show that a large number of Foundation degree graduates chose to continue their studies in order to obtain a Bachelor’s degree. A comparison of Foundation degree graduate destinations in the region was made with those nationally. Of those who chose employment following completion, high levels of satisfaction were reported with their employment, despite the fact that many occupied non?graduate roles. The possible reasons for this finding are discussed, including the relative importance to the graduate of a skills match over an educational match

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