Free Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Manchester – The Manchester College City Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College City Campus, full-time over one year.

The course covers a wide range of media and materials. You'll explore painting and drawing, sculpture, illustration, graphics, textiles, and photography. Live briefs from industry experts give you hands-on creative experience. You'll also develop research, teamwork, and problem-solving skills alongside your practical work. The University of the Arts London awards this qualification, the only specialist creative arts awarding body in the UK.

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

Who this course is for

Designed for anyone who would like to go on to study specialist art & design disciplines at university level, this Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design provides the essential foundational studies you’ll need to make the transition from a general exploration of the subject to a more in-depth focus of core topics.

It will also help you decide which areas of art & design you’d like to further your skills in. You’ll cover a wide range of media and material throughout the duration of the Diploma, including painting and drawing, sculpting, illustration, graphics (both digital and traditional), textiles and photography. As you boost your confidence in the use of concepts and vocabulary through practical assignments, you’ll also be fostering your own individual creative development.

You’ll develop a range of skills that will be essential for both further study and employment in the industry, such as teamwork, creative thinking, research skills and problem solving. Your Diploma is awarded by the University of the Arts London Awarding Body, the only specialist creative arts awarding body in the UK.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore painting and drawing techniques across different styles and materials.
  • You'll work with sculpture and three-dimensional making processes.
  • You'll develop illustration skills, both hand-drawn and digital.
  • You'll practise graphic design using traditional and digital methods.
  • You'll experiment with textiles and photography as creative disciplines.
  • You'll respond to live briefs set by industry professionals.
  • You'll build research, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • You'll develop your own individual creative voice and portfolio.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical studio-based assignments and live project briefs set by industry experts. Assessment is through a portfolio of creative work developed over the year. You'll also take part in the Creative Futures project, with the opportunity to exhibit your work at Manchester Art Gallery. The course includes visits to Manchester's arts and design partners, including The Whitworth Art Gallery and HOME.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College City Campus 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.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital media.
  • Textile designer, develops patterns and materials for fashion or interiors.
  • Photography assistant, supports professional shoots in studios or on location.
  • Art and design technician, supports creative departments in schools or studios.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs displays and layouts for retail environments.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Textiles, Photography, or a related creative subject at university, the most common next step after this Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) in Architecture or Interior Design, for those drawn toward the built environment.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design, a two-year college-based route into creative industries.

Related courses at The Manchester College City Campus

More courses near you