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Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Poole

Cost£3,022.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
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About this course

Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Poole. Classes run at Bournemouth and Poole College of Further Education, full-time during the day.

You'll explore Visual Arts, Fashion and Textiles, Graphics, Photography, and 3D Design. The course develops your practical skills, research skills, and ability to present and discuss your work. You'll build a strong portfolio through projects, assignments, and group critiques. Contemporary art practice runs throughout, giving you context for your own creative decisions.

You'll need at least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, plus a portfolio of current artwork. You finish with a University of the Arts London Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.

Who this course is for

Please note, places on this course are prioritised for 16 - 18-year-old learners. Adult applications will be considered once these have been filled.

The Level 3/4 Diploma in Foundation Studies - Art & Design is recognized across the UK and also internationally as the primary entry route to the best courses at the most prestigious universities, with more than 15,000 students completing the qualification each year.

This course enables students to develop the skills needed to make an informed decision when applying to art and design Higher Education institutions, or seeking employment within a related industry.

The qualification has been designed to encourage exploration and experimentation. You will learn through projects, assignments, presentations and group discussions which will enable you to develop strong practical and communication skills essential to specialist art and design education.

This course is specifically for students aged 18 and above.

Entry requirements

You will require a minimum of 5 GCSEs including English and Maths Grades 9-4 (formerly Grades A*-C).

We would also require a portfolio of current artwork. This could be examples of drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, textiles, design etc...

For students 19+ a strong portfolio can sometimes be considered as an alternative to formal qualifications.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a range of disciplines including Visual Arts, Fashion and Textiles, Graphics, Photography, and 3D Design.
  • You'll develop practical making and creative skills across different media.
  • You'll build research skills and learn to contextualise your work within contemporary art practice.
  • You'll present and discuss your work in group critiques and seminars.
  • You'll develop and extend your portfolio to a higher education standard.
  • You'll examine work by current artists and designers to inform your own practice.
  • You'll refine your communication skills for specialist art and design study.

How you will learn

You'll learn through projects, assignments, presentations, and group discussions. Studio-based sessions develop your practical skills. Group critiques and seminars build your ability to talk about your work. Your portfolio is central to the course and grows throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to bring a portfolio of current artwork to your application. This can include drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, textiles, or design work. Bournemouth and Poole College of Further Education will confirm any materials you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior graphic designer, creates visual content for brands and agencies.
  • Photography assistant, supports shoots in commercial or editorial settings.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs in-store displays for retail environments.
  • Textile design assistant, develops patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors.
  • Art technician, supports studios or galleries with practical production.
  • Creative arts administrator, coordinates projects for arts organisations.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography, Fashion, or a related subject at university, the most common next step after this qualification.
  • BA (Hons) in Illustration or Animation, for those focusing on image-making and storytelling.
  • HND in Art and Design, a two-year higher-level option if you prefer a college-based route.
  • UAL Level 4 or Level 5 qualifications in specialist creative disciplines, for further structured study.
Apply on thecollege.co.uk →
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