Free UAL Level 3 Visual Arts Course in Portsmouth. Classes run at COPC Sixth Form Campus, full-time during the day. This two-year course builds on your GCSE art and design experience, giving you the space to develop your own creative practice in greater depth. You'll combine practical studio work with critical and theoretical study, exploring a range of visual arts disciplines. To enrol, you'll typically need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths, plus a grade 4 in an art and design subject or a portfolio of work.
Who this course is for
This course is for students who want to continue studying Art and design after GCSE. You'll already be familiar with some of the skills and techniques, but the A level will give you the chance to study in more depth and develop your own particular artistic strengths and interests. It will suit you if you are creative and enjoy combining theory with lots of practical work. Even if you aren't aiming for a career in art and design, this course will give you a set of transferable skills including creativity, communication and the ability to work independently which can be useful in a range of careers.
Entry requirements
4-5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above including English and maths and Grade 4 or above in Art and Design subject preferred if taken at GCSE or portfolio of evidence.
What you will learn
You'll develop your own creative practice across a range of visual arts disciplines.
You'll explore materials, techniques, and processes used in art and design.
You'll analyse and respond to the work of artists, designers, and movements.
You'll produce a personal portfolio of practical work.
You'll write critically about your own work and the work of others.
You'll plan and carry out independent creative projects.
You'll build transferable skills in research, problem-solving, and communication.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio-based practical sessions, workshops, and taught classes at COPC Sixth Form Campus. Assessment combines a portfolio of practical work, written critical and contextual studies, and a final major project. You'll receive ongoing feedback on your work throughout the course, and your progress will be assessed through coursework rather than written exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. COPC Sixth Form Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: creating visual content for brands and media
Illustrator: producing artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital platforms
Art technician: supporting studios, galleries, or educational settings
Photography assistant: working alongside professional photographers
Visual merchandiser: designing displays for retail environments
Junior animator: entry-level roles in digital or traditional animation
Arts administrator: supporting the running of galleries or arts organisations
What you could study next
UAL Level 4 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design: the standard entry route into undergraduate art and design degrees at many universities.
BA (Hons) Fine Art, Graphic Design, or Illustration: degree-level study at university, building on the skills and portfolio developed at Level 3.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design: a two-year higher education qualification available at some colleges, offering a more vocational route into the creative industries.
