Portsmouth is the only University in the UK with the flexibility to choose when to do an optional paid placement or self-employed year. Either take a placement in your third year, or finish your studies first and complete a placement in your fourth year. You can decide if and when to take a placement after you've started your course.

This foundation year course sets you up for success if you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for one of our Bachelor's degrees in computing, engineering, surveying, maths or physics.There’s more than one route to a degree, and missing out on the right grades first time round or beginning your studies as a mature student shouldn’t stop you realising your potential. On this BEng (Hons) Engineering and Technology degree with foundation year, you’ll develop the maths, science and technology skills vital for studying at degree level.You’ll then move onto the first year of one of our Bachelor’s degrees.

* Develop the knowledge to go onto your Bachelor's degree course with confidence* Study alongside other students working towards achieving a full degree, just like you* Experience hands-on practical work in our technology laboratories such as the * Microcontroller and Digital lab, Energy Lab and the Future Technology Centre Computing Lab* Benefit from remote access to our simulation software, including Google App Scripting and LTSpice – supporting your studies even when you're off campus* Discover how to learn engineering concepts using everyday materials at home* Get student membership of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), paid for by the University

A foundation year course allows you to:* Explore your options before choosing your Bachelor's degree course* Experience university life and get a taste for the way you'll be taught* Develop the study skills and knowledge you'll need to succeed in your chosen Bachelor's degree

Studying engineering, technology, maths or physics gives you in-depth knowledge of the parts that make the modern world work.This foundation year, and the Bachelor's degree you move onto, will give you the skills employers need to implement innovative technologies and designs that could influence our healthcare system, aviation, transport, communication and so much more.Depending on the degree you move onto after your foundation year, it's likely there will be a high demand for your profession in the industry sector you graduate into. And you'll get ongoing careers support from our Careers and Employability Service for up to 5 years after you graduate from your full Bachelor's degree.

Between your third and fourth year, you can do an optional work placement year to get valuable longer-term work experience in the industry. Taking an optional placement year will give you the experience you need to increase your chances of landing your perfect role after graduation.We'll give you all the support you need to find a placement that prepares you for your career, and we'll continue to mentor you throughout your placement.