FAQs
Q1. Where will the Foundation Degree in Government take me?
Q2. Are Foundation Degrees worth the same as normal degrees?
Q3. How much will it cost in fees and time off?
Q4. What workplace training takes place?
Q5. How long does it take to complete?
Q6. Where is the FDiG delivered?
Q7. Who can apply to do the FDiG?
Q8. What benefits will I see?
Q.9 What will I study?
Q1. Where will the Foundation Degree in Government take me?
Many people undertake the FDiG to get ahead in their career. Foundation degrees are a qualification in their own right; however, after completing the FDiG you can go on to study further for an honours degree (this usually takes about a year.) It will give you the right skills to cope with the changing work place and put you on top of your game. Inspired and designed by the working world, the Foundation Degree in Government is flexible meaning you can study whilst working.Top^
Q2. Is the Foundation Degree in Government worth the same as a normal degree?
The FDiG is an employment-related higher education qualification, at level 5 in the new QCA National Qualifications Framework just below Honours degree level (at level 6). The FDiG is validated, quality assured and awarded by universities. It is, however, distinctive from most Honours degree qualifications in that it requires the equivalent standard of academic attainment as the second year of an Honours degree but with a much higher level of workplace competence.Top^
Q3. How much will it cost in fees and time off?
The fee for the Foundation Degree in Government is 3,500 which is invoiced to your organisation when you start. Time off for students is at the discretion of the employer in line with the Cabinet Office guidance. Click here for further guidance on this.
As a student you are required to attend two one day workshops at the beginning of the programme. These workshops are held at the National School of Government's centre in central London. Additionally you may have opportunities to attend other formal and informal events which will support your learning.
Top^Q4. What workplace training takes place?
For the FDiG the workplace is considered to be a learning environment just as much as the lecture theatre. Both practical and theoretical skills, as well as key skills, must be developed within the course and it is essential that these skills are subsequently applied in the workplace.
This means that the programme is designed in such a way that the workplace becomes the context for some of the learning and assignments. The opportunities for you and your organisation to benefit from this are manifold including the chance to improve or solve existing business problems.
Top^Q5. How long does it take to complete?
Completing a Foundation degree when studying full-time usually takes two years. Doing so on a part-time basis while working will take at least three years and the work involved while enjoyable and challenging, should not be underestimated. Top^Q6. Who delivers the Foundation Degree in Government?
The FDiG is delivered and awarded by universities working in partnership with the National School of Government, which is responsible for leading a management group and monitoring the programme on behalf of the employers. Currently the Universities of Chester and Portsmouth are the providers. Students will be registered and study with one of these universities who will provide all their academic and tutorial support.Top^
Q7. Who can apply?
Foundation degrees are for everyone with the ability and motivation to get on and succeed in their career. They are aimed at experienced staff at associate professional and technical staff which equivalent to EO/HEO grades. The FDiG gives these people recognition for their workplace experience and is also ideal for staff that are new or returning to work and aspiring to reach the next level. Many Foundation degree students are over 25 and have never thought of themselves as gaining a higher education qualification while they earn and learn.
Top^Q8. How does it work?
The Foundation Degree in Government is a work-based qualification, which involves minimum time away from your job, so you'll need to be able to cope with the discipline of self-managed distance learning. Time off for study will depend on your organisation's policy and you will be expected to study in your own time. The programme includes two compulsory workshops as part of the induction process so that you can learn the skills needed and build relationships with your tutors and fellow students.
The Foundation Degree in Government is open to all employees of the Civil Service and associated bodies. You don't need any formal qualifications, but should be prepared to demonstrate the personal organisation and self-discipline this programme requires.
Top^