Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Level 3 Art and Design Course in Leeds

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

Free if you're 19 to 23 and this is your first full Level 3. Leeds Arts University lists a fee of £4,291 if you're not eligible. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Leeds Arts University for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Level 3 Art and Design Course in Leeds. Classes run at Leeds Arts University Vernon Street Building, full-time over two years. It is free for students aged under 19 on 31 August in the year the course starts. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply. You will specialise in one of four pathways: Fashion and Textiles, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, or 3D Design. Each pathway covers a wide range of disciplines, from illustration and animation to sculpture, product design, and filmmaking. You will also build skills in communication and professional practice. This art and design qualification is validated by University of the Arts London.

Who this course is for

This two-year course is an attractive alternative to A-levels and provides an exceptional bridge between school and university. It offers students with an interest in visual arts the opportunity to explore and develop creativity within a specialist, stimulating, and supportive environment. Based at the University’s Vernon Street site, this transformative course has been designed to provide the skills, knowledge, and understanding to help you discover your talents. We nurture individual strengths through a wide range of visual disciplines, and you will specialise in one of four pathways: Fashion & Textiles, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, or 3D Design. Several disciplines are introduced within each pathway. Fashion & Textiles may, for example, focus on fashion or costume design, fashion branding, or textile design. Fine Art can include painting, printmaking, sculpture, and installation. Graphic Communication can incorporate graphic design, comic and concept art, illustration, animation, creative advertising, photography, and filmmaking. 3D Design can involve product design, interior design, theatre design, design crafts, and architecture. You will also develop important employability and communication skills and be guided on career opportunities within the creative industries. Students benefit from an enrichment programme of visiting professionals, competitions, and live/simulated briefs. Upon successful completion of all units, the overall grade for the qualification will be achieved through the assessment of a final unit of course work and is the equivalent of three A-levels.

Entry requirements

This course is only open to applicants between the ages of 16-18 years old.

You must have achieved:

  • Four GCSEs with English and Maths at Grade 4/Grade C or above; or
  • Level 2 BTEC First Diploma in Art and Design at merit or above

You will be required to submit a maximum of six examples of you work which show your interest and ability in art, design and/or technology.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a broad range of visual arts disciplines before specialising in Fashion and Textiles, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, or 3D Design.
  • You'll develop practical skills in your chosen pathway, which may include fashion design, painting, printmaking, graphic design, illustration, animation, photography, product design, or interior design.
  • You'll work on live or simulated briefs, gaining experience of how the creative industries operate.
  • You'll build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your creative development and technical ability.
  • You'll develop communication and employability skills relevant to the creative sector.
  • You'll receive guidance on further study and career opportunities within the creative industries.

How you will learn

The course is coursework-based. You will be assessed through a portfolio of work built up across the two years, with the overall grade determined by a final unit of coursework. Teaching takes place in specialist studios at the Vernon Street site. You will also take part in an enrichment programme that includes visiting speakers, competitions, and live or simulated briefs.

What you will need to bring

You will need to submit up to six examples of your work as part of the application process, showing your interest and ability in art, design, or technology. Leeds Arts University Vernon Street Building will confirm any materials or equipment you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer, creating visual content for print and digital media
  • Illustrator, producing artwork for publishing, advertising, or games
  • Fashion designer, developing clothing or textile collections
  • Animator, working in film, games, or digital media
  • Photographer, working commercially or in editorial contexts
  • Interior designer, planning and designing interior spaces
  • Product designer, developing consumer or industrial products
  • Art and design technician, supporting creative studios or education settings

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in your chosen discipline (such as Graphic Design, Fine Art, Fashion, or 3D Design) at university. The UAL Extended Diploma is designed as a direct route into degree-level study and is widely accepted by UK universities.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3), if you want a broader foundation year before committing to a degree specialism.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in a creative subject, as an alternative higher education route with a more vocational focus.
Apply on leeds-art.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

Related courses at Leeds Arts University Vernon Street Building

More courses near you