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

CostFREE
Duration12 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start13 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Manchester. Classes run full-time at Manchester School of Art, over one year.

The course is awarded by University of the Arts London. You'll explore a broad range of creative projects, working with ideas, materials, processes, and technologies across specialist areas of art and design. Units cover drawing, design, fine art, photography, and digital media, helping you build a strong portfolio for degree applications. Entry requires 48 UCAS tariff points from Level 3 study, GCSE English and Maths at grade C or grade 4, and a portfolio interview.

You'll finish with a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design at Level 3.

Who this course is for

The UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design builds on the reputation of the previous provision which has been described as one of the strongest and most distinctive foundation programmes in the country. Its remit is to enable students to develop the necessary skills and portfolio to apply to a range of art and design degree courses. As a student the broad range of creative projects you will undertake will allow you to experience a range of ideas, materials, processes and technologies. Individual diagnostic projects and tutorials will help you to distil and identify your main areas of interest and make an informed application to a degree course with the support of an experienced staff team. At the end of the course, direct progression onto Manchester School of Art's degree programmes is available to those who meet the required academic standard. The UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design builds on the reputation of the previous programme which was awarded an Ofsted grade 1 report in the most recent report. The programme: - Gives you the skills and knowledge relevant for most degree programmes in art and design at this university as well as similar programmes at other universities. - Enables you to apply for direct entry onto all of the Manchester Metropolitan art & design courses (except Architecture) providing you have achieved the required academic standard. - Gives broad experience of creative techniques, disciplines and media, to develop your abilities and skills and help identify your preferred area of study at degree level. - Provides you the chance to take part in School of Art events, lecture programmes, artist residencies and exhibitions.

Entry requirements

UCAS TARIFF POINTS/GRADES REQUIRED 48 from A2 or equivalent (such as BTEC National at Level 3 or Advanced Diploma). GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or grade 4. Equivalent qualifications (e.g. Functional Skills) may be considered Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject with at least 45 credits at Level 3. We will interview you as part of your application and we will ask for a portfolio of your work as part of your application.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a wide range of specialist areas in art and design through ambitious creative projects.
  • You'll work with diverse materials, processes, and technologies to develop your creative practice.
  • You'll build an independent body of work and a professional portfolio.
  • You'll develop critical and analytical thinking about your own creative ideas.
  • You'll identify your main areas of interest to make an informed degree application.
  • You'll receive individual tutorials to support your personal creative development.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based projects, workshops, and individual tutorials. Assessment is through a portfolio of practical work and a personal development record. You'll present your work at key review points throughout the year. The course is classroom and studio based, full-time during the day.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a portfolio of your creative work as part of the application process. Manchester School of Art will confirm any materials or equipment you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Visual artist, creates and exhibits original artwork professionally.
  • Graphic designer, produces visual content for brands and media.
  • Illustrator, creates images for publishing, advertising, and digital platforms.
  • Photographer, works in commercial, editorial, or fine art photography.
  • Art director, leads visual creative decisions in agencies or studios.
  • Set or production designer, designs environments for film, theatre, or television.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, the natural next step for those focusing on studio practice and exhibition.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, for those drawn to visual communication and branding.
  • BA (Hons) Photography, for those specialising in lens-based work.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration, combining drawing skills with narrative and commercial briefs.
  • BA (Hons) Architecture, for those interested in spatial and built-environment design.
Apply on art.mmu.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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