FOUNDATION Degree is different from a conventional degree, as it has been developed directly with industry professionals and employers to meet the specialist skills and knowledge required for that industry.

It provides a way for people to improve their qualifications and career prospects, whilst still in employment.

Relatively new qualifications, Foundation Degrees can be studied part-time or full-time, with a work placement element, often with your existing employer. In some cases you will be able to top up' your Foundation Degree by progressing on to the final year of a BA (Hons), BSc (Hons) or BEng (Hons) degree at university.

Why choose a Foundation Degree?

* They are exactly what you will need to launch your career
* You will work on practical projects which simulate real industry environments
* They are just what employers are after
* You will be able to study while you work
* They provide a mix of both academic and practical skills
* You will receive a high level of support
* They have agreed progression routes to professional qualifications and top-up degrees

Engineering Technology

The course has been running for a number of years at Bishop Auckland College and is designed for people currently employed in the engineering sector who wish to progress to higher education.

There is a significant work-based element where students study topics of particular interest to their work area. The course also includes substantial elements of professional development and may lead to registration with a Professional Engineering Institution.

John Pitts manufacturing engineering technician of Filtronics, Newton Aycliffe, said: "This part-time qualification is recognised by Filtronics as being a suitable route to becoming a qualified engineer and it has helped me focus on a clear career path to becoming an engineer."

Other Foundation Degrees available at Bishop Auckland College, offered in partnership with universities, include Education & Care, Assisting Learning, Business Management, Community & Youth Work and Counselling.

For further details contact Bishop Auckland College client services: telephone 01388 443030