What is a pathway course?
Foundation pathway courses can help you improve your English skills and give you the confidence to start undergraduate or postgraduate study.
Further education institutions offer many of the same courses as schools and higher education institutions, as well as vocational and technical courses designed to meet the needs of employers. They are taught in a way to suit those who prefer to learn in a vocational context.
You can find a list of UK further education colleges on these websites:
- England: Association of Colleges
- Wales: Colleges Wales
- Scotland: Colleges Scotland
- Northern Ireland: NI Direct
You can also search for a specific course using the National Careers Service course search.
What types of courses are there?
- Academic pathway courses
Including AS and A levels, International Baccalaureate and undergraduate study – can lead to university, an apprenticeship or a job.
If you do not meet the academic or English language requirements set by the university that you are interested in, then a pathways course can help you plot a route onto your chosen degree.
- Applied general or technical pathway courses
Including national vocational qualifications and business and technical qualifications – can lead to higher apprenticeships, higher education at college or university, or a job.
- Occupational or professional pathway courses
Taken in apprenticeships or through training courses for employees – can lead to higher apprenticeships, a job or promotion.
Note: As apprenticeships are primarily focused on the job and employment, any international applicant must be eligible to work in the UK, as well as have the necessary visa.