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
The course is taught by expert tutors with a wide range of industry experience at the College's Centre for Excellence in Creative Arts, based in the Parson's Walk campus. You will work on a wide range of projects, including live briefs set by practitioners from industry. You will also showcase your work to the public through exhibitions and national competitions. This creative course will help you explore all areas of Art and Design. It will build on your previous experience and develop your creative skills in a full range of art and design subjects, such as fine art, 3D Design, textiles and graphic design/illustration.
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.
