Level 1 Art, Design and Media Course in Cambridge

CostFee:1525.00 Concession: 238.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Level 1 Art, Design and Media Course in Cambridge. Classes run at Cambridge Regional College, full-time during the day over one year. You'll need 2 GCSEs at grade 2 or above to apply. The course builds a broad foundation across drawing and painting, photography, and animation. It's designed to develop your skills and knowledge before you move into a specialist area. This level 1 art, design and media qualification is awarded by University of the Arts London.

Who this course is for

Course Overview

This Level 1 Study Programme provides a key foundation in developing your confidence and study skills. The Study Programme allows you to develop and learn a wide range of skills that will help to inform your progression to a focussed specialist area at Level 2.

Over the academic year you will study several combined core units covering drawing and painting, photography and animation which will support you in developing your skills, knowledge and understanding of Art, Design and Media. On your chosen pathway you will learn from specialist lecturers who will help you develop practical skills in a professional environment including:

In addition to your core subject choice, you will study English, Maths and IT. These subject areas are vitally important for your progression into employment, apprenticeships, higher education or to progress to the next level course.

The course will provide you with the opportunity to develop your:

Professional skills e.g. your ability to identify and solve problems, improving your organisation and communication skills as well as becoming confident, adaptable and supportive of others

Project planning and presentation techniques, both written and verbal

English and Maths through either a Functional Skills or GCSE retake programme

English, Maths and IT skills through the vocational assignments

CV and interview practice techniques ready for progression

Employability skills e.g. self-management, organisation, problem-solving, team work and leadership

Personal values and demonstrate adaptability, sensitivity, reliability and be supportive to your peers by working with other Level 1 learners on collaborative projects

Attendance at a Welcome Event, attendance at taster days and a reference is required

Entry requirements

You will need 2 GCSEs at grade 9 - 2 (A - E) or above.

In addition:

What you will learn

  • You'll practise drawing and painting techniques across different styles and materials.
  • You'll explore photography, including composition and image-making.
  • You'll be introduced to animation and moving image.
  • You'll develop your study skills and creative thinking.
  • You'll build a portfolio of work across multiple creative disciplines.
  • You'll identify the specialist area of art and design you want to pursue at Level 2.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practical work in the classroom, covering core units in drawing and painting, photography, and animation. Assessment is through coursework and a portfolio of creative work produced throughout the year. There are no written exams. Your tutors will give feedback on your projects as you progress.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cambridge Regional College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic design assistant: support designers in studios or agencies.
  • Photography assistant: assist on shoots or in darkrooms.
  • Visual merchandiser: create displays for retail environments.
  • Print and media technician: support production in print or broadcast.
  • Art and design technician: assist in schools, colleges, or studios.
  • Animator (junior): entry-level roles in animation or games studios.

What you could study next

This Level 1 foundation prepares you for a Level 2 art and design qualification in a specialist area. Options include a UAL Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design, a BTEC Level 2 in Art and Design, or a Level 2 qualification in Photography, Graphic Design, or Fashion. From Level 2, you can progress to Level 3 courses that lead to university or creative industry employment.