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

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College, full-time during the day.

You'll spend the first term exploring different areas of art and design, from fine art to graphic design and beyond. As the year progresses, you focus on your own projects and build a personal portfolio. The course ends with an exhibition of your work. You'll need five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including maths and/or English, or a Level 2 qualification with equivalent English and maths.

You'll finish with a University of the Arts London Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.

Who this course is for

The University of the Arts London Awarding Body Foundation Diploma in Art & Design is designed for post A-Level students, and prepares for progression from diploma to degree. Students spend the first term investigating different areas of art and design, identifying strengths and personal interests. As the year progresses, students have freedom to specialise and focus on individual projects, resulting in an exhibition of your work at the end of the year and a unique and varied portfolio, ready for your undergraduate degree.

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including maths and/or English, or a Level 2 qualification plus maths and/or English at Grade 4 or above.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a broad range of art and design disciplines in the first term.
  • You'll develop your own creative ideas through individual projects.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of work across different media.
  • You'll specialise in an area of art and design that suits your strengths.
  • You'll present your work in an end-of-year exhibition.
  • You'll develop skills in visual research, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practice, workshops, and individual project work. Assessment is portfolio-based, drawing on the work you produce throughout the year. Your portfolio is central to your final grade. The end-of-year exhibition forms a key part of how your progress is presented and evaluated.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior graphic designer, creates visual content for brands and agencies.
  • Studio assistant, supports artists or designers in a professional studio.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital media.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs displays for retail environments.
  • Art technician, supports art departments in schools or colleges.
  • Photographer, works across commercial, editorial, or fine art photography.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, the natural next step for students who want to specialise in fine art at degree level.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, for those who discovered a passion for design and visual communication.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration, a strong route if your portfolio focuses on image-making.
  • BA (Hons) Fashion Design, for students drawn toward the fashion and textiles pathway.
Apply on suffolk.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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