A foundation degree (often abbreviated as “FdA”) is a two-year, vocational-style higher education programme that combines practical training with academic study. In the UK education system, it sits at Level 5, effectively the first two years of an honours degree. At Italia Conti, our FdA programmes, including FdA Dance and FdA Musical Theatre, blend rigorous training with opportunities to explore performance, choreography, technique, and industry-focused learning. This makes an FdA a great option if you want solid vocational preparation with academic grounding but aren’t ready (or prefer not) to commit straight away to a full three-year honours degree. What Does a Foundation Degree Offer? Balanced learning: You’ll learn core performance skills, dance, singing, acting, and choreography while also studying theoretical and contextual modules. This helps you grow as a well-rounded, thoughtful artist. Flexibility: After the two years, you’ll graduate with a recognised qualification. You also have the option to top up to a full honours degree if you decide to do a third year (BA/BFA). Industry readiness: The training is vocational, performance-based, and aligned with industry standards and expectations, giving you usable skills for theatre, dance, musicals, screen work, and more. Who Is It Best For? Emerging talents who want serious performance training without committing immediately to a full degree. Students who value flexibility and who may want to balance training with other commitments. Creatives who might want to enter the workforce sooner or test their dedication with 2 years of intensive training before choosing to top up. Individuals who wish to gain real vocational experience and prepare for a variety of career pathways, from stage and screen performance to teaching, choreography or dance-related roles. Assessment & Progression As an FdA student, you’ll complete a mix of practical and academic assessments: technique classes, performance projects, choreography tasks, written/contextual assignments, and collaborative work. This mix develops both your artistic talent and critical thinking, a useful balance for both creative and academic career trajectories. If you choose to continue, you can progress to a full honours degree by completing a one-year “top-up.” Credits earned during your FdA count toward that final year, so you don’t repeat what you’ve already done; you build on it. Typical Paths After FdA Graduates from the FdA may go on to: Enrol in the third/top-up year for a full BA/BFA degree to deepen artistic and academic credentials. Enter the industry immediately, joining theatre companies, dance troupes, musical productions, film/TV work, choreographic or teaching roles. Continue training independently (e.g. private coaching, additional vocational training) while working. So… Is the FdA Right for You? If you want a strong, practical foundation, combining performance skills with the academic understanding of your craft, then an FdA degree at Italia Conti is an excellent fit. It’s efficient (two years instead of three), flexible, and gives you the freedom to decide whether to top up to a full degree later. Whether you’re confident you want a career in performing arts, curious to explore your potential, or prefer a balanced route, an FdA could be a smart, realistic first step.