Art & Design - Foundation Diploma
If you’re bursting with creativity and looking to express yourself as you work towards a thrilling career, then you are the perfect person to study our Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design.
This course is taught at our Rochdale Campus in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. It’s here where you’ll find the ultimate setting to tap into your talent and develop your skills.
The course is challenging and encourages creative exploration, experimentation, and risk-taking. You will be prompted to expand your subject knowledge, critical thinking, and practical skills to create a college-level portfolio for applications to HND and Degree courses across the UK.
Approaches to drawing and contextual research underpin the course. At the same time, you explore four main specialist areas:
- Painting and Printmaking
- 3D/Sculpture
- Textiles & Fashion
- Visual Communications
Each area is delivered by subject specialists in our state-of-the-art studios. You will develop a broader awareness of the different perspectives, approaches, and ethics within diverse creative practices.
You are encouraged to reflect on your experience as you progress to choose two of the specialist areas to explore further and investigate. During this time, you will be supported in preparing applications and portfolios for HND and degree-level study. During our UCAS visit, HND presentations and university talks will enable you to make informed decisions when applying for Higher Education or employment within the Creative Industries.
During the course, you will benefit from visiting museums and galleries and have the opportunity to visit London on our annual study trip to expand your research further, to inspire and contextualise your creative practice and portfolio.
Students specialise towards the end of the course, independently initiating and developing an extended project of personal work within a chosen professional context. Using the skills gained over the course, you will consolidate your practice, realise your creative ideas and have an opportunity to present your final project at the end of the year assessment.
Art & Design - Foundation Diploma
If you’re bursting with creativity and looking to express yourself as you work towards a thrilling career, then you are the perfect person to study our Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design.
This course is taught at our Rochdale Campus in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. It’s here where you’ll find the ultimate setting to tap into your talent and develop your skills.
The course is challenging and encourages creative exploration, experimentation, and risk-taking. You will be prompted to expand your subject knowledge, critical thinking, and practical skills to create a college-level portfolio for applications to HND and Degree courses across the UK.
Approaches to drawing and contextual research underpin the course. At the same time, you explore four main specialist areas:
- Painting and Printmaking
- 3D/Sculpture
- Textiles & Fashion
- Visual Communications
Each area is delivered by subject specialists in our state-of-the-art studios. You will develop a broader awareness of the different perspectives, approaches, and ethics within diverse creative practices.
You are encouraged to reflect on your experience as you progress to choose two of the specialist areas to explore further and investigate. During this time, you will be supported in preparing applications and portfolios for HND and degree-level study. During our UCAS visit, HND presentations and university talks will enable you to make informed decisions when applying for Higher Education or employment within the Creative Industries.
During the course, you will benefit from visiting museums and galleries and have the opportunity to visit London on our annual study trip to expand your research further, to inspire and contextualise your creative practice and portfolio.
Students specialise towards the end of the course, independently initiating and developing an extended project of personal work within a chosen professional context. Using the skills gained over the course, you will consolidate your practice, realise your creative ideas and have an opportunity to present your final project at the end of the year assessment.
Entry Requirements
- 48 UCAS Tariff points
- A Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject
- Pearson Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma – MPP
- GCSE grade C/4 in English Language or equivalent, e.g. Pass in Level 2 Functional Skills English
- GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics or equivalent, e.g. Pass in Level 2 Functional Skills Mathematics
- Other Level 3 qualifications equivalent to GCE A level are also considered
Details
This course includes the following modules:
Part 1: Diagnostic Investigation:
- Explore key areas of art and design and develop essential drawing and research skills.
Part 2: Developing Specialist Practice:
- Focus on two chosen specialisms while preparing for HND or Degree-level applications.
Part 3: Consolidating Practice:
- Undertake a self-directed personal project within your chosen specialism and present your final work.
Contextual & Critical Studies:
- Develop the analytical and communication skills essential for success in higher-level creative study.
Assessment:
You will receive written and verbal feedback throughout the course on your portfolio submissions, as well as group critiques and tutorials. You must pass each part of the course to progress. Final grades of Pass, Merit or Distinction are awarded upon submission of your final personal project.
Work Experience
Throughout your studies you will engage directly with industry professionals through guest lectures, client briefs, portfolio reviews, and public exhibitions. Each is designed to help you define your role within the creative industries. This course offers numerous opportunities to build valuable professional relationships, work on real-world projects, and attend key industry events where you can showcase your work and connect with potential employers.
Progression
On successful completion of the Foundation Diploma, you will be awarded valuable UCAS points:
- Pass: 80 points
- Merit: 96 points
- Distinction: 112 points
This course offers the chance to explore, experiment, and evolve. Whether you're aiming for a top university or ready to take bold steps in your creative journey, the UAL Foundation Diploma gives you the tools, guidance, and confidence to succeed.
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