British Sign Language (BSL) and Deaf Studies (with Foundation Year)

Course Overview

Interested in learning BSL and working in the Deaf community? Come and study on the British Sign Language and Deaf Studies with Foundation Year course.

Courses with a foundation year are ideal if you’ve got the ability to study for a degree, but don’t have the necessary formal qualifications to directly join an honours programme. It’s a great stepping stone to a full degree.

British Sign Language (BSL), sign linguistics and deaf studies at the University has long been recognised for world-leading research, continuous top student satisfaction rates and pioneering work on the development of employability skills.

Our course covers all aspects of deafness as a social and cultural phenomenon and will enable you to develop a fluency in British Sign Language. The wealth of modules available to choose from will enable you to tailor your studies to meet your individual interests and career goals.

It is estimated that more than 60% of British Sign Language English interpreters working in the UK have been taught on our courses.

We have nearly 30 years expertise in teaching British Sign Language and Deaf Studies.

Why study with us


• You will undertake field trips and that will help you to gain real-world experience at local and regional events where sign language users are gathering, as well as places of interest to the course, such as the British Deaf History Museum trip.



• You may be offered an opportunity to join an international trip to experience other sign languages and cultures.



• Our staff members include Fellow of the Higher Education Academy Lynne Barnes, who is recognised for her work in BSL and Deaf Studies.



• This course is taught through block learning, which means you can plan part-time work, caring responsibilities, or other interests around your learning. Find out more about block learning on our website.



What you’ll do


• You’ll be taught by a mixed deaf and hearing team who are experts in a range of topics including linguistics, translation studies, community and history.



• There are opportunities to take a work placement module as part of your overall programme of study.



• You’ll have an opportunity to study abroad. In recent years we’ve provided students with opportunities in Finland, Germany, the USA and Holland.



Future careers

British Sign Language and Deaf Studies Foundation Year could lead to a variety of careers and professions, including: lecturers, teachers, BSL/English interpreters, social workers, educational support workers, or working with the media or the police.

Our graduates have also moved on to higher degrees and research, as well as running their own businesses.

It's more important than ever to consider the cost of your education. At the University of Lancashire, you'll be well-equipped for the road ahead, whatever you study.

All first-year Clearing students are guaranteed a room in halls on campus for all new full-time students at their Preston Campus. Included in university-owned halls of residence are bills, WiFi, on-site laundry, kitchen appliances, bedding, 24/7 security and social spaces.

You will learn from leaders in their field at the University of Lancashire and their academic staff will use their expertise and real-world experience to teach courses, that range from Business to Law, Nursing or Sport, that will allow you to secure your dream job. The University of Lancashire focuses on employability, they have close links with leading employers across the North-west and build work experience into a wide range of courses to ensure you thrive in your chosen field.

If you're interested in applying to the University of Lancashire, call now to find out more information or click to visit their website where you can book on their Open Day on 16 August or a place on a campus tour!