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Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Derby

Cost£5,421.00
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
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About this course

Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre, full-time over 36 weeks.

This foundation art and design course bridges general education and specialist creative study. You'll explore a broad range of art and design disciplines. The course includes work experience, personal development, and critical language skills. It's designed to help you make informed choices about higher education. You'll typically need five GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths, plus an A-level or equivalent in a creative subject.

You'll finish with a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, awarded by the University of the Arts London.

Who this course is for

The Advanced/Higher Level 3/4 Art and Design Foundation Studies pathway has been specifically designed for students wishing to study Art and Design as a single creative subject, along with work experience, tutorial and personal and professional development. Available to students aged 18 and above, this course can be taken as a Creative Gap Year following the completion of creative A Levels or a diploma. It is also suited to learners who have an interest in art and design but have not previously studied a creative qualification at Level 3. Whether you studied Art or Design at GCSE and chose a different post-16 pathway, or are looking to explore your creative potential before progressing to university or employment, this course provides the time, support, and opportunities to develop your skills and make informed decisions about your next steps. Students would be expected to have already achieved GCSE English and Maths qualifications.The Art and Design Foundation Studies pathway provides a transition from general education to specialist art and design education and encourages exploration, experimentation and risk-taking, which will extend your critical independence and enable you to demonstrate a full understanding of the relevant standards required to achieve progression to higher education.You will expand your skills, knowledge and experience of art and design and develop your critical language skills. The pathway has specifically been designed to enable you to make better informed decisions about higher education.  It will also provide continued opportunity to develop basic skills including maths and English and enhance your understanding of the many fulfilling career opportunities in this field.

Entry requirements

Typically, you will have one of the following:

  • Advanced GCE (A-level) or an AS GCE (AS-level) in Art and Design or the equivalent
  • Advanced Diploma in Art and Design or suitable Creative Pathway
  • Other A levels or level 3 qualification.
  • a minimum of 4 GCSE's grade 4 or above including a creative subject, English and Maths

Mature applicants will need to provide evidence of their ability within an art and design field. A portfolio is required for entry to the foundation course.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a wide range of art and design disciplines and media.
  • You'll develop your critical thinking and visual language skills.
  • You'll experiment with creative processes and take risks in your practice.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of work.
  • You'll gain work experience relevant to the creative industries.
  • You'll develop personal and professional skills alongside your creative practice.
  • You'll research and evaluate your own work and the work of others.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio practice, workshops, and project-based work. Assessment is through a portfolio of creative work and a personal development record. An interview is required before you start the course. You'll also take part in work experience as part of the programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre 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, and digital media.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs retail displays and in-store environments.
  • Art technician, supports artists and educators in studios or schools.
  • Creative assistant, supports projects in design, fashion, or media studios.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, the natural next step for those pursuing a career as a practising artist.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, for those drawn to commercial and digital creative work.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration, a specialist route for visual storytellers.
  • BA (Hons) Fashion Design, for those interested in the fashion and textiles industries.
  • Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in a creative discipline, combining work and study.
Apply on derby-college.ac.uk →
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