Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Wigan – Wigan and Leigh College

CostFREE
Duration35 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Wigan. Classes run full-time at Wigan and Leigh College, five days a week during the day, over 35 weeks. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec art and design qualification covers a wide range of industry-related skills and practical knowledge. You'll work from dedicated studios and classrooms, and have the opportunity to complete live briefs with employers. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs graded 9 to 4, including maths or English and an art-related subject.

Who this course is for

If you enjoy gaming and feel you have creative ideas for games then this could be the industry for you. This is one of the fastest growing sectors of the entertainment industry. You will discover how the creative process is an integral part of the gaming industry from idea generation to digital concept artwork.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-4 or equivalent including maths or English and an art related subject.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills across a range of art and design disciplines.
  • You'll produce work in response to live briefs set by industry employers.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of creative projects.
  • You'll study design processes, from initial concept through to finished outcome.
  • You'll explore materials, techniques, and visual communication methods.
  • You'll develop critical and contextual understanding of art and design practice.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practical work, project briefs, and classroom sessions. Assessment is through a portfolio of coursework and project work rather than written exams. You'll complete assignments linked to real industry briefs, building evidence of your skills and creative development throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wigan and Leigh College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer: create visual content for brands and media
  • Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital platforms
  • Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and in-store environments
  • Art technician: support artists and designers in studios or schools
  • Photographer: work in commercial, editorial, or event photography
  • Junior designer: entry-level role in a design studio or agency
  • Set designer: create visual environments for theatre, film, or TV

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Art and Design or a specialist subject such as Graphic Design, Illustration, or Fine Art. The Extended Diploma is widely accepted for university entry, and 90% of Level 3 students at the college go on to higher education.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design. A work-focused alternative to a full degree, often available at college level.
  • Degree Apprenticeship in a creative discipline, combining paid work with higher-level study.

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