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Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Blackpool

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
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About this course

Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in Blackpool. Classes run at Blackpool and The Fylde College University Centre Campus, full-time during the day. Students aged 18 or under pay no course fees. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though a repayable loan may be available.

This Level 3 foundation art and design course bridges general education and specialist creative study. Over one year, you'll explore a broad range of art and design disciplines, developing your creative thinking, practical skills, and personal visual language. The course helps you decide which area of art or design to specialise in before applying to higher education or entering the industry.

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

Who this course is for

This UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is an exciting and challenging qualification which provides a transition from general education to specialist art and design education. This enables students to make an informed decision when applying to Higher Education or seeking employment within a related industry. The course builds on your prior experience, linking skills you already have with ideas and challenges designed to develop your creativity and conceptual understanding. The focus of the UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is on creative development through experimentation and risk taking. You will get an experience of a broad range of creative skills, methods, materials and techniques including drawing, painting, ceramics, graphics design, fashion design, photography, digital editing software, mixed media, life drawing and printing. This will be supported by engaging with research, group critique sessions and conceptual development. This course is for you if you want a challenging and supportive environment designed to identify and build on your creative strengths and passion.

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs grade 4 or above including English or maths grade 4 or above OR Level 2 vocational qualification in relevant subject and English or Maths grade 4 or above (Students can re-sit English or Maths GCSE alongside this course) PlusA successful discussion with a tutorThe ability to study independentlyA genuine interest in the subjectGood communication skillsHardworking approach towards the industry

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a wide range of art and design disciplines, including fine art, graphic design, fashion, and photography.
  • You'll develop your creative thinking and learn to generate and communicate original ideas.
  • You'll build practical skills in drawing, making, and producing work across different media.
  • You'll learn to research and contextualise your work within art and design history and culture.
  • You'll develop a personal creative direction to help you choose a specialist area.
  • You'll produce a portfolio of work that reflects your skills and creative identity.
  • You'll learn to evaluate your own work and respond to feedback from tutors.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practice, projects, and tutor-led sessions in the classroom. Assessment is through a portfolio of creative work and a personal statement or presentation. You'll take part in group critiques and individual tutorials throughout the year. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English or maths at grade 4 or above, plus a discussion with a tutor.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Blackpool and The Fylde College University Centre Campus 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.
  • Studio assistant, supports artists or designers in a professional studio.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs displays for retail environments.
  • Photography assistant, supports shoots in commercial or editorial settings.
  • Art technician, prepares materials and equipment in educational or gallery settings.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital media.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Fashion, or a related subject at university, the most common next step after this qualification.
  • BA (Hons) in Architecture or Interior Design, for those drawn to spatial and built-environment disciplines.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design, a two-year college-based route into creative industries.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training, for those interested in teaching art and design in the future.
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