The Level 3/4 Diploma in Foundation Studies – Art & Design is recognized across the UK and also internationally as the primary entry route to the best courses at the most prestigious universities, with more than 15,000 students completing the qualification each year.

This course enables students to develop the skills needed to make an informed decision when applying to art and design Higher Education institutions, or seeking employment within a related industry.

The qualification has been designed to encourage exploration and experimentation.  You will learn through projects, assignments, presentations and group discussions which will enable you to develop strong practical and communication skills essential to specialist art and design education.

What the course leads to

What courses can I do after this? 

Upon successful completion of the course, most students progress on to Higher Education (Degree or HND in their chosen area of study). After completing the course you will have gained the equivalent of 3 A-Levels along with a substantial portfolio of artwork which will assist you with interviews at university.

Some students may wish to proceed onto the UAL Level 4 Professional Diploma in Creative Enterprise in order to prepare them for a career in self-employment.

What jobs can I get? 

 Some of the professions you might consider working and studying towards for the future are:

• Fashion and Textiles

• Graphics

• Illustration

• Digital Media

• Visual Arts

• Photography

• Architecture

• Interior Design

• Animation

• Model Making

What do I need to apply

To do this course you should have... 

You will require a minimum of 5 GCSEs including English and maths Grades 9-4 (formerly Grades A*-C).

We would also require a portfolio of current artwork. This could be examples of drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, textiles, design etc...

What about work experience? 

International entry requirements 

If you are not from an English Language speaking country, you will need to have UKVI IELTS 5.5. We accept a wide range of academic qualifications awarded overseas and use the UK NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Centre) guidelines for international comparisons. For tuition and accommodation fees please visit www.thecollege.co.uk/international/courses/tuition-fees and our International Operations team can offer you advice and guidance before and during your studies.

Course costs

Course Code Start Date Costs 16-18 Costs 19-23 (with concessions) Costs 19+ (no concessions)
BP01305 02/09/2024 £100.00 £3022.00 £3022.00
There is an Advanced Learner Loan available for this course.

* Please note fees are subject to change.

Costs 

All students pay an enrichment fee of £50.00 which covers educational visits and additional materials

 

International Fees 

For tuition and accommodation fees please visit www.thecollege.co.uk/international/courses/tuition-fees and our International Operations team can offer you advice and guidance before and during your studies.

Associated Costs 

Students may wish to invest in additional specialized materials. A portfolio for university interviews is recommended

Course content

Course Content 

The aim of the course is to prepare students for Higher Education or employment by allowing skills to be developed and refined in their chosen area of study.

This is a broad and practical programme of study. It allows the student to extend the range of their portfolio via Visual Arts, Fashion and Textiles, Graphics, Photography, 3D Design etc. During this course you will be introduced to contemporary art practice, examining the range of work currently being produced by artists and designers.

You will develop research and communication skills and learn to talk about your work to peers in the form of group critiques and seminars.

More info

Start Day/Time 

Hours of attendance and start date will be confirmed at interview or enrolment.

Duration 

1 Year

Attendance 

Full-time

Level 

Level 3

Qualification Name 

Foundation

Awarding Body 

University Arts London

Curriculum Area 

Creative and Digital Industries - Art and Design

More about the course 

The Design and Creative Arts department provides a bespoke area of study for Foundation students consisting of specialist studio space and iMacs. You will also have access to the Learning Resource Centre (LRC) at North Road, which holds an extensive selection of art, design and photography books and IT facilities.

As part of the student learning programme, you will participate in various external trips, including the UCAS Event Designing Your Future at EXCEL in London.

Students will participate in curating an end-of-year exhibition which gives them the opportunity to display their work in a professional setting.

The UAL Awarding Body only approves institutions to deliver this qualification if they are able to demonstrate significant expertise in and commitment to creative arts education.

Academic Year 

2024/25

Duration 

1 Year

Attendance 

Full-time

Level 

Level 3

Qualification Name 

Foundation

Awarding Body 

University Arts London