Find your qualification route
Find your route to university
Choosing what to study is an exciting step. At Teesside University, you'll find a wide range of degrees and flexible routes to help you achieve your ambitions - whether you're taking your first step into higher education, changing direction, or building on your existing qualifications.
We know everyone's journey is different. That's why we offer courses designed around your goals, interests and preferred way of learning.
Choosing what to study
Think about what inspires you most. Are you drawn to a particular subject, career or type of work? Maybe you want to develop creative skills, solve real-world problems, or make a difference in your community.
Our degrees are shaped by industry, research and professional expertise. You'll learn from supportive staff who bring their experience into the classroom, and you'll have opportunities to apply your knowledge through placements, live projects and employer links.
If you're unsure where to start, explore subjects that interest you - or talk to our friendly advisors for guidance on your options.
Build your confidence
If you're not quite ready to dive straight into a full degree, these options help you prepare, gain skills and confidence, and take your next step. Full-time and part-time options are available for many of our courses.
Foundation year
A foundation year helps you prepare for university study if you don't meet the entry requirements for a degree or want to build your confidence in a subject. It usually takes one year and is built into a four-year degree.
You'll develop academic skills, explore your subject and get ready to move directly onto the first year of your chosen degree.
Foundation degree (FdA, FdSc)
A foundation degree combines academic study with practical, work-based learning. It's designed with employers and focuses on developing the skills you need in your chosen sector.
It usually takes two years full-time and is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's degree. After completing it, you can move straight into employment or continue your studies with a one-year top-up degree to gain a full honours degree.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND)
These qualifications focus on practical and technical skills linked to specific careers or industries.
A HNC typically takes one year full-time and is equivalent to the first year of a degree. A HND takes two years full-time and is equivalent to the first two years. Many students go on to a top-up degree to achieve a full honours qualification.
Go for your degree
Ready to study your chosen subject in depth? A bachelor's degree helps you build specialist knowledge, transferable skills and professional experience.
Bachelor's degree (BA, BSc, BEng, LLB)
A bachelor's degree is the most common undergraduate qualification. It usually takes three years full-time to complete (four with a foundation year, or if you choose a placement year).
You'll study your chosen subject in depth and develop a broad range of knowledge and transferable skills - from critical thinking to communication and problem-solving.
Degrees with honours include a final-year project or dissertation where you apply what you've learned.
Take a different path
There's more than one way to get a degree. Whether you want to build on previous study, combine work and learning, or aim for a higher-level qualification, these routes help you progress on your own terms.
Top-up degree
If you've completed a foundation degree, HND or similar qualification, a top-up degree allows you to progress to a full honours degree. It usually takes one year of full-time study and builds on what you've already achieved.
Integrated master's degree (MEng, MPharm, MOptom)
An integrated master's degree combines undergraduate and postgraduate study in a single course. It usually takes four years full-time (five with a placement year). It's ideal if you're aiming for advanced professional or research roles in fields such as engineering, science or healthcare.
You'll graduate with a master's-level qualification while gaining the depth and experience of a full undergraduate programme.
Higher and degree apprenticeships
A higher or degree apprenticeship combines paid work with part-time study. You'll gain hands-on experience in your chosen industry while studying towards a university qualification such as a foundation degree, bachelor's degree or master's degree.
Apprenticeships are developed with employers, so you'll build the knowledge and skills your sector needs - and earn a salary while you learn.
Make it work for you
Not everyone learns the same way or follows a traditional route - and at Teesside, you don't have to. With flexible options for placements, part-time study, and online learning, you can fit your degree around your life and goals.
Placement year
Many degrees include the option of a paid work placement between your second and final year. This gives you real-world experience, valuable professional skills and the chance to make industry connections before you graduate.
You'll return to your studies with greater confidence and insight - and often a clearer idea of your career direction.
Distance and online learning
Some courses are available to study online, giving you the flexibility to learn wherever you are. You'll still have access to the same expert teaching, resources and support as on-campus students.
Part-time study
If you're balancing study with work or other commitments, many of our courses can be taken part-time - giving you the freedom to progress at your own pace.
Progression and support
Whatever stage you're at, we'll help you plan your next step. From advice on entry requirements to guidance on progression routes, our team is here to make sure you have the support and confidence to reach your goals.
- HNC HND Top-up degree
- Foundation degree Top-up degree
- Foundation year Bachelor's degree Master's degree
- Higher or degree apprenticeship further study or career progression
Your choice depends on where you are now and where you want to be. Our admissions and academic teams can help you find the best path for your background and goals.
Support at every stage
You don't have to decide alone. Our advisers can talk through your options, explain entry requirements, and help you find the best route for your experience and ambitions.
You can also visit us at an open day to explore subjects, chat with staff and students, and get a feel for life at Teesside.
Explore our courses Book an open day