Our Different Approach

OU launches foundation degree in Financial Services

The Open University is launching a new foundation degree in Financial Services this week (Wednesday, 18th November).

The event, held at the Plaister’s Hall, One London Wall, will be introduced by Paul Myners, Financial Services Secretary to the Treasury.

The foundation degree arrives at a time when there is an increased emphasis on regulatory practices, employee skills and education following the recent turmoil within the financial sector.

Developed through broad consultation with the industry and employer-led bodies, it features a number of innovations – such as the recognition of professional qualifications – which will increase its appeal to both employers and students.

The foundation degree is endorsed and supported by the National Skills Academy for Financial Services (NSAFS) making it their ‘preferred’ foundation degree.

Ian Fribbance, Senior Lecturer in Economics at The Open University - who has led the development of the Foundation Degree - said: “This model of collaborative teaching where OU materials will be delivered within the Skills Academy network throughout England and through other colleges, such as Neath Port Talbot College in Wales, is a new way of working for us. It opens up the qualification to a whole new set of students and it is exciting to see new partners come on board and help us reach out to those working in this crucial sector.

“With the current increased emphasis on regulation and training, there has never been a more crucial time to launch a qualification like this.

“We already have students enrolled for the new qualifications and financial services employers are showing interest.”

Sylvia Perrins, CEO of NSAFS, added: “The National Skills Academy for Financial Services is pleased to endorse this Foundation Degree believing it to enhance and develop skills much needed by the industry at large.

“It recognises existing professional qualifications and can incorporate these as well as content specifically developed with employers.

“The Degree offers a realistic work based pathway into higher education for non-graduates and will be available across the UK, through some of our NSAFS network of training providers.”

Course description