Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Richmond upon Thames

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Richmond upon Thames. Classes run at Richmond College, full-time during the day over 34 weeks. Tuition fees may apply depending on your circumstances.

The course helps you move from general education into specialist art and design study. You'll explore a wide range of disciplines, from drawing and printmaking to photography, textiles, and three-dimensional design. You'll be encouraged to experiment, take creative risks, and develop your own ideas. It's a strong foundation art and design qualification for anyone considering a degree in a creative subject.

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

Who this course is for

This programme is a pivotal qualification which provides a transition from general education to specialist art and design education. As part of the course, students will be encouraged to become more experimental and risk-taking in their approach and develop their thinking and idea generation strategies. A key goal of the course is to enable students to make an informed decision about whether they wish to progress to higher education in art and design, study a degree in a separate field

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a broad range of art and design disciplines, including drawing, painting, and printmaking.
  • You'll develop skills in photography, textiles, and three-dimensional design.
  • You'll build your ability to generate and develop creative ideas.
  • You'll learn to take an experimental and risk-taking approach to your work.
  • You'll create a portfolio of work that demonstrates your creative range.
  • You'll reflect on your own practice and make informed decisions about specialist study.
  • You'll research artists, designers, and movements to support your own projects.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practical work, projects, and creative exploration. Assessment is portfolio-based. You'll build a body of work across different disciplines throughout the course. Written reflection and research also form part of the assessment. Classes are delivered in person at Richmond College during the day.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior graphic designer, creates visual content for print and digital media.
  • Studio assistant, supports artists or designers in a professional studio.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs product displays for retail environments.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital platforms.
  • Photography assistant, supports shoots in commercial or editorial settings.
  • Art technician, maintains materials and equipment in an educational or studio setting.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Fashion, or a related creative subject at university, the most common next step after this qualification.
  • BA (Hons) in Architecture or Interior Design, for those drawn to spatial and three-dimensional work.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design, a two-year higher education route at college level.

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