Free Level 1 Art and Design Course in Manchester

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Level 1 Art and Design Course in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College City Campus, full-time over one year.

The course is awarded by University of the Arts London. You'll work on creative assignments across animation, print, fashion, photography, and mixed media. Some projects use live briefs, so you work directly with employers. You'll also build research, time management, and teamwork skills alongside your creative practice.

You'll finish with a Diploma in Art, Design and Media.

Who this course is for

If you’re completely new to art and design but would like to get stuck in straight away, this introductory, Level 1 Diploma is the ideal place to begin. It’s designed to develop a foundation of practical skills and knowledge in art and design, helping you to progress onto higher levels of study.

You’ll get to work on a diverse range of creative assignments, covering areas such as animation, print, fashion, photography and mixed media. Some projects will include live briefs, giving you the chance to work directly with employers and develop first hand experience.

As part of the course, you’ll also develop a host of essential study skills that will help you through any subject or future employment, including how to research effectively, how to think creatively, how to manage your time, and how to work well in a team. As with nearly all of our creative qualifications, this Diploma is awarded by University of the Arts London Awarding Body - the only specialist creative arts awarding body in the UK.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore animation, print, fashion, photography, and mixed media through practical assignments.
  • You'll develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • You'll work on live briefs set by real employers.
  • You'll build research skills to support your creative projects.
  • You'll practise time management and working as part of a team.
  • You'll create a body of work that shows your skills and ideas.

How you will learn

You'll be assessed through a series of integrated art and design projects. Each brief combines practical skills with creative thinking. Classes are classroom-based and run full-time during the day at The Manchester College City Campus. A small portfolio or examples of personal work is desirable before you start, but not essential.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College City Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic design assistant, supports design teams with visual projects.
  • Photography assistant, helps with shoots and image editing.
  • Fashion design assistant, works on garments and creative briefs.
  • Print production assistant, prepares artwork for print.
  • Animation assistant, contributes to animation and motion projects.
  • Visual arts technician, supports artists and creative studios.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design, the natural next step to deepen your skills and specialise.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design, prepares you for university or higher-level creative work.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, a specialist route into degree-level study at art school.

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