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Liberal Arts with Foundation
The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts with Foundation at Durham University is a four-year, full-time program designed for students who wish to pursue a broad-based education in the humanities and social sciences but need additional support to meet the academic demands of the program. The foundation year helps students develop essential skills in writing, research, and critical thinking while preparing them for the interdisciplinary nature of liberal arts studies.
In the following three years, students will study a range of subjects across the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, including philosophy, history, sociology, literature, and economics. This flexible program encourages students to explore different academic fields and develop a well-rounded skillset that can be applied to a variety of careers. Graduates of this program will be prepared for careers in education, publishing, media, policy analysis, or any field that values critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary knowledge.
Key information
Key Facts
Program Title: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts with Foundation
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Duration: 4 years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Application Deadline: 30th January 2026
Location: University of Durham, United Kingdom
Field of Study: General Studies
Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundation in Liberal Arts
- Introduction to Liberal Arts
- Critical Thinking and Communication
- Foundations of History and Society
- Introduction to Literature and the Arts
- Basic Research and Writing Skills
Year 2 – Core Liberal Arts Disciplines
- Social and Political Philosophy
- Cultural Studies and Anthropology
- History of Western Thought
- Introduction to Psychology
- Ethics and Society
Year 3 – Advanced Liberal Arts Studies
- Modern Literature and Society
- Comparative Political Systems
- Global Cultures and Identities
- Research Methods in the Humanities
- Elective Modules in Humanities and Social Sciences
Year 4 – Specialization and Final Project
- Advanced Topics in Liberal Arts
- Interdisciplinary Approaches to Social Issues
- Final Year Dissertation / Research Project
- Professional Development and Career Planning
- Elective Modules in Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Liberal Arts with Foundation program have diverse career opportunities in fields such as education, communications, cultural management, and public policy. They can pursue roles in social services, publishing, journalism, and international relations. The program’s broad interdisciplinary approach, combined with strong research and communication skills, makes graduates adaptable to a variety of roles in non-profits, government, and private sector organizations. Additionally, graduates are well-prepared for further study in fields such as law, public administration, and education.
Why Choose This Program
The Liberal Arts with Foundation program provides students with a solid grounding in critical thinking, communication, and interdisciplinary studies. The foundation year is specifically designed to support students in their transition to higher education, helping them build key academic skills. The program's broad curriculum allows students to explore multiple fields within the humanities and social sciences, offering flexibility and academic enrichment. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills prepares graduates for a wide range of careers or further academic study in a variety of disciplines.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)191 334 2000
Email: admissions@durham.ac.uk
Address: University of Durham, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom
