Foundation Year
If you want the training our BA programmes offer, but need the necessary academic qualifications to apply, or have been out of education for some time, this is the programme for you.
Programme duration
1 year full-time (as the first year of a 4 year degree programme)
Location and mode of study
- Christchurch Campus: placement-based
- Plus location of placement

“The Foundation Year guides you into a deeper understanding of yourself, your calling and helps a person recognise their true potential to be all that God has called them to be. Life-changing!”—Elaine (pictured)
Programme content
The Foundation Year is based at our Christchurch Campus and is designed to effectively prepare you for progression onto Level 4 of either the BA (Hons) Applied Theology or BA (Hons) Applied Theology (Youth and Community Work) degree. We equip you with a basic biblical and theological understanding and provide an introduction to Christian ministry.
Your own personal and spiritual development is central to the Foundation Year, and the development of effective academic study skills is integral to all that is taught. You’re also encouraged to regularly reflect on your learning in the context of your existing placement—which may typically be a church or Christian organisation.
The Foundation Year comprises six modules: Biblical Studies, Theological Studies, Personal and Spiritual Development, Ministry, Study Skills, and Placement and Portfolio.
Assessment and feedback
You compile a portfolio of work throughout the year, as a record of engagement in placement activities. In addition, you will complete assignments, including written essays and presentations.
Timetable
Christchurch Campus
Lectures will be scheduled over three consecutive days during the week at our Christchurch Campus, with the rest of time available for you to participate in your placement. As a Moorlands College student, you play a full and vital part in the college community—with the opportunity to use on-site accommodation; attend our Chapel services; share meals with other students; and be part of a tutor group.
“Without A-levels, Moorlands College’s Foundation Year gave me the interest and opportunity to study on the degree.”—Callum, campus-based BA student
Entry requirements
To be accepted onto this course you need to have the potential to succeed in it and to benefit from it. This is normally demonstrated by:
- Five GCSE’s (including English, see below) at grade C or above, or equivalent qualifications at level 2.
- GCSE in English (Language or Literature) at grade C or above, or equivalent qualifications at level 2, or an IELTS Academic Certificate with an overall score of 6.0 with at least 6.0 in each of reading and writing or nationally-recognised English language-based level 3 award, equivalent to these IELTS scores, from a different testing system.
- An appropriate understanding of, commitment to and suitability for the range of vocations for which these studies prepare you.
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