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Level 3 Art and Design Foundation Course in Leicester – De Montfort University

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Level 3 Art and Design Foundation Course in Leicester. Classes run at De Montfort University, full-time during the day. If you're under 19 on 31 August in the year you start, the course is free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply.

The course runs for one year and takes you across a wide range of art and design disciplines. You'll work in at least nine different workshops, exploring both traditional and contemporary techniques. You'll build a strong portfolio ready for degree-level study. Topics span drawing, photography, graphic design, illustration, and more.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.

Who this course is for

This is a year-long course that will help you improve your skills and knowledge across a wide range of art and design subjects, preparing you for your chosen degree or helping you decide which course to study.

Build a strong portfolio of work before you start your degree, so you can hit the ground running and realise your full potential. You will be inducted into at least nine different workshops, exploring both traditional and contemporary disciplines and techniques

Entry requirements

-A good portfolio of work -One A Level or equivalent, in an art and design subject at a grade C or above, and -Five GCSEs grades 9-4 including English Language or Literature at grade 4 or above, OR a BTEC First Diploma plus two GCSEs including English Language or Literature at grade 4 or above -Applicants who are 18 or under must also hold a GCSE Maths and English, grade 9-4 -Applicants with relevant qualifications will be invited to submit a portfolio of work.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore traditional and contemporary art and design techniques across at least nine workshops.
  • You'll develop drawing skills and visual communication methods.
  • You'll work with photography, graphic design, and illustration.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of creative work.
  • You'll investigate different art and design disciplines to help you choose a degree specialism.
  • You'll develop critical thinking and the ability to evaluate your own creative work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practical work, workshop sessions, and project briefs. Assessment is through a portfolio of work and coursework projects rather than written exams. You'll receive regular feedback from tutors as you develop your practice throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. De Montfort University will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer, creates visual content for brands and media.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital media.
  • Photographer, works in commercial, editorial, or fine art photography.
  • Art and design assistant, supports creative projects in studios or agencies.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs retail displays and in-store experiences.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or Photography, the natural next step after completing this Foundation Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) in Architecture or Interior Design, for those who discover a spatial design interest during the course.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design, a two-year vocational route if you prefer a more applied path before committing to a full degree.
Apply on dmu.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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