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Level 3 Art and Design Foundation Course in Leicester

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modePart-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, part-time during the day over two years.

The course is free if you're under 19 on 31 August in the year you start. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply. You'll explore a wide range of disciplines, from traditional techniques to contemporary practice. The course introduces you to at least nine specialist workshops, covering areas such as drawing, photography, graphic design, and mixed media. You'll build a strong portfolio that prepares you for degree-level study.

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 both traditional and contemporary art and design techniques.
  • You'll develop skills across at least nine specialist workshop disciplines.
  • You'll practise drawing, photography, graphic design, and mixed media methods.
  • You'll build and refine a professional portfolio of creative work.
  • You'll research and develop ideas across a range of art and design subjects.
  • You'll learn to evaluate your own work and respond to creative briefs.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio practice, workshop sessions, and project-based assignments. Classes are classroom-based and run during the day. Assessment is through a portfolio of practical work and project outcomes rather than written exams. You'll receive feedback throughout to help you develop your creative practice and prepare your portfolio for degree applications.

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 platforms.
  • Photographer, works in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography.
  • Art and design technician, supports studios, galleries, or educational settings.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs retail displays and brand environments.
  • Multimedia artist, creates digital content across animation and interactive media.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, the natural next step for learners focusing on studio practice.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, for those drawn to visual communication and branding.
  • BA (Hons) Photography, for learners who specialise in lens-based work.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration, for those developing a drawing or narrative art practice.

Most learners use this Foundation Diploma as direct entry preparation for a degree in their chosen art and design subject.

Apply on dmu.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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