Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Hull – Hull College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Hull. Classes run at Hull College, full-time during the day.

The course starts with six weeks of introductory workshops covering the core principles of art and design. You then choose a specialist pathway and work with tutors in that area. Over two years, you'll explore subjects across art, design, and communication, building a portfolio of work as you progress.

You'll finish with an Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication.

Who this course is for

The course has been designed to allow you to explore a range of specialisms through quick taster sessions, before you decide which pathway to focus your studies. The first six weeks of the course will introduce the main principles of art and design through theoretical studies and experimental workshops. After this swift introductory period, you will continue your studies in your chosen area with specialist tutors to support and nurture your development. The Creative Arts department offers outstanding specialist facilities for use by students studying all disciplines. These include print studios, dye labs, photography suite with industry standard photographic and lighting equipment, fashion workshop with specialist machinery and mannequins as well as an extensive 3D workshop and CAD facilities. Studios are equipped with mac computers and PCs, in addition to this students have full access to the latest Adobe Creative Cloud (including Photoshop & Illustrator) to develop their studies using digital software. Art and Design theory is an integral part of the qualification and will support individual studio work. Research and contextual studies is embedded in the study programme to gain a deeper understanding of how artists and designers work, this informs creative thinking and practical work. Students will develop important employability and communication skills, and be guided by specialist art and design staff as to the career opportunities within the creative industries. They will also benefit from an enrichment programme of educational visits, competitions, live/simulated briefs and the opportunity to participate in exhibitions. Upon successful completion of all units at the end of the course, a final grade will be awarded. Students will have produced a professional portfolio of work to aid progression to higher education, employment or training.

Entry requirements

4 x GCSEs at grade 4(C) or above, including at least 3(D) in English In addition: GCSE in Art or Design preferred but not essential. Portfolio of artwork will be required at interview. Strong work ethic and an interest in creative skills.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the core principles of art and design through experimental workshops.
  • You'll develop skills in your chosen specialist area, such as graphic design, illustration, or web design.
  • You'll study visual communication and how ideas are expressed through design.
  • You'll build a portfolio of creative work across different projects.
  • You'll learn to research, develop, and present creative ideas.
  • You'll work with specialist tutors to refine your practice in your chosen pathway.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based workshops, practical projects, and theoretical study. Assessment is based on coursework and portfolio submissions rather than written exams. You'll complete projects in your specialist area and present your work as part of the assessment process. Hull College uses a mix of group sessions and individual tutorials to support your development.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a portfolio of artwork to present at interview. Hull College will confirm any materials or equipment you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer, creates visual content for brands and campaigns.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital media.
  • Web designer, designs the look and layout of websites.
  • Art and design technician, supports creative teams in studios or schools.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs product displays for retail environments.
  • Animator, creates moving images for film, games, or online content.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or a related subject at university, building on your Extended Diploma.
  • A Higher National Diploma in Art and Design, a work-focused alternative to a full degree.
  • A degree-level apprenticeship in a creative or digital discipline, combining study with paid employment.

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