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Level 2 Art and Design Course in Derby

Cost£5,421.00
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
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About this course

Level 2 Art and Design Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre, full-time over 36 weeks.

The course covers the formal elements of visual language, including line, tone, plane and colour. You'll explore technical processes, materials and methods across arts, design and related areas. Work placements and live briefs are part of the programme. You'll also develop your English and maths skills alongside your creative practice.

You'll need four GCSEs at grade D/3 or above, a portfolio, and a successful interview to gain a place. You finish with a University of the Arts London Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design.

Who this course is for

This Diploma offers an active live brief and work placement programme in arts, design and related areas. It will also develop your independent learning and transferable skills. Whatever your entry qualifications, you will continue to develop your English and maths skills on the course.

Entry requirements

You will need four GCSEs at grade D/3 or above. Alternatively you may have grade C/4 and above in several subjects, including English and Maths, but have not yet achieved an Art or Design qualification. All candidates must have a successful interview and show a portfolio to gain a place.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop your understanding of the formal elements of visual language, including line, tone, plane and colour.
  • You'll explore a range of technical processes, materials and methods.
  • You'll produce artwork in areas of your own personal interest, guided by creative problem-solving activities.
  • You'll complete a Final Major Project in a specialist area of your choice.
  • You'll take part in live briefs and work placements in arts, design and related areas.
  • You'll build independent learning skills, including managing your own research and creative practice.
  • You'll continue to develop your English and maths skills throughout the course.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based activities, direct observational drawing, and visual and physical problem-solving tasks. Each unit presents a set of creative challenges to work through. You'll experiment, practise and reflect on your work as you go. The course builds toward a Final Major Project in your chosen area. An interview and portfolio review are required before you start.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to bring a portfolio of your artwork to the interview. Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre will confirm any materials or equipment you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer, creates visual content for print and digital media.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for books, advertising and editorial use.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs in-store displays and retail environments.
  • Art technician, supports artists and designers in studios or schools.
  • Photography assistant, supports shoots in commercial or editorial settings.
  • Junior designer, works in a design studio on client briefs.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design, the next step for learners wanting to specialise and build a stronger portfolio for university or employment.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, a one-year course that prepares you for degree-level study in a creative subject.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in a creative subject, for those ready to move into higher education after Level 3.
Apply on derby-college.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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