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Free Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Plymouth

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Plymouth. Classes run at Arts University Plymouth, full-time over one year.

The course is intensive and studio-based. You'll experiment across a wide range of disciplines, working with different media, materials, and techniques. Units cover drawing, critical thinking, and creative development, giving you the breadth a Level 3 art and design qualification demands. Entry typically requires at least five GCSEs at grade C or above, including a creative subject at AS or A Level. Mature applicants with other relevant experience are also welcome.

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

Who this course is for

Our Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is an intensive one-year course which will inspire and motivate you to learn through discovery, experimentation and exploration across a range of disciplines. Our programme gives you the freedom to try out new ideas and will introduce you to a range of media, materials, and resources, as well as our world-class equipment, facilities, and workshop spaces. We will help you to become creative, confident, independent and successful - and prepare you for progression to BA (Hons) or a Foundation Degree.

Entry requirements

Our Foundation Diploma is a chance for students to discover, experiment and explore across a wide range of disciplines - as well as maximise their chances of gaining a First if they decide to progress on to degree level study. We offer places to students who have a GCSE profile of at least 5 A*-C grades and a combination of AS and A-Level qualifications (with one in a creative subject). We also welcome applications from mature students who may not have the qualification profile - but who have other experience and knowledge. All applicants need to show a portfolio of creative work that reflects their passion, enthusiasm and commitment for art, design and media.

What you will learn

  • You'll experiment with a wide range of art and design disciplines.
  • You'll develop skills in drawing, mark-making, and visual communication.
  • You'll explore different media, materials, and processes in professional workshop spaces.
  • You'll build a critical understanding of art and design practice.
  • You'll develop your own creative ideas through research and experimentation.
  • You'll create a portfolio of work that reflects your individual creative voice.
  • You'll gain the independent working skills needed for degree-level study.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio practice, workshops, and project-based work. Assessment is ongoing and portfolio-based, with tutors reviewing your creative development throughout the year. You'll present and discuss your work as part of the assessment process. The course is delivered full-time during the day at Arts University Plymouth.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Arts University Plymouth will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Visual artist, creates original work for galleries, commissions, or exhibitions.
  • Graphic designer, produces visual content for print, digital, and branding projects.
  • Illustrator, creates images for publishing, advertising, and media.
  • Textile designer, designs patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors.
  • Animator, produces moving image work for film, games, or online content.
  • Art technician, supports artists and educators in studio or gallery settings.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, the natural next step for those wanting to develop a personal art practice at degree level.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, for those drawn to commercial and digital visual communication.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration, for those who want to specialise in image-making for publishing or media.
  • BA (Hons) Textile Design, for those interested in pattern, fabric, and surface design.

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