Public Services Foundation Degree
Public Services Foundation Degree
Subject to revalidation 2023/24
Please note that during 2023/24 we will be revalidating this programme in order to update content which will result in some changes to the course modules.
Application for this course will be via UCAS
UCAS Institution/Course Codes: Institution Code: W66, Course Code: L431.
The Foundation Degree in Public Services (delivered in partnership with University of Plymouth) is designed to open your eyes to the diverse range of careers available. These include uniformed services, such as emergency, defence, security, justice and probation through to non-uniformed roles with local and central government, as well as related voluntary and private-sector agencies. If you want a job that is challenging, offers great career prospects, and provides great job satisfaction, then why not consider a career in public services? The course aims to equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills to progress and develop your career in public services and related voluntary and private-sector organisations.
What are the benefits of studying at Weymouth College?
- Flexible delivery enabling you to work and learn at the same time
- Exciting and varied programme of theoretical and practical subjects
- A wide knowledge and skills base is covered, transferable to a range of job roles and public service-related organisations
- High-quality provision with access to Plymouth University resources
- Regular industry liaison and visiting speakers
- Exciting programme of off-site trips and practical activities
- Professional and inspirational staff from a wide range of employment backgrounds
- Weymouth College has excellent practical facilities both on our main campus and at the nearby Redlands Community Sports Hub
Entry Requirements
Applications are welcomed from candidates with a subject-specific Level 3 course such as a National Subsidiary/Diploma/Extended Diploma, A Level, Access to Higher Education Course, or a work-based course, such as NVQ 3 or Advanced Apprenticeship with 80 UCAS points achieved. Applications from candidates without formal qualifications, but who have a minimum of two years’ relevant work experience and are able to demonstrate that they have developed the necessary skills to succeed on the course will also be considered. All applicants will normally require at least 5 GCSE passes at grade C or above including Maths and English (grade 4 new GCSE grading from 2017) or their Level 2 equivalents. All applicants will be required to attend an interview.
Course Content
Year 1:
Discovering Your Academic Ability; Crime & Deviance; Introduction to Sociological Perspectives; Introduction to Research Skills; Human Rights & Social Justice; Organisation, Structure & Governance of the Public Services.
Year 2:
International Relations & Contemporary Sociological Perspectives; Research Project; Multi Agency Working & Strategic Risk Management; Harm & Reducing Harm; Strategic Leadership; Public Service Policy Delivery & Evaluation
How will I be assessed?
This course is assessed through a combination of coursework and examinations.
Progression
Successful students have the opportunity to apply for the University of Plymouth BSc (Hons) Professional Practice (Health and Community) Top Up held at Weymouth College.
In addition to this there are currently options to progress to courses offered by the following Plymouth partner colleges (which may be subject to change): BSc (Hons) Community & Public Service Management (City College Plymouth). Progression onto other top-up courses at a variety of institutions is an option for those who wish to apply to study elsewhere.
Fees
The course fees for all students for this course will be £6750 per annum for 2024/25. Details of the student finance available for all higher education students can be found on the student finance website www.gov.uk/student-finance. For information and advice on course fees please contact Roz Osborne at email roz_osborne@weymouth.ac.uk or telephone 01305 764733.
Additional Course Costs
Currently the cost of visits/trips are funded as part of this course, as well as application costs for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance which is an enrolment requirement of this course. You will be expected to have appropriate sportswear, i.e. shorts, T-shirt and trainers.
*Note – All costs may be subject to change and may vary dependent on place of purchase.
Please note International Students will be charged an additional £250 admin fee on top of their tuition fee.