Level 3/4 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design and Media Practice

Course overview

Unsure which creative degree is right for you? The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is a one year pre-degree programme which gives you the opportunity to experience a range of specialist subject areas and enable you to build a comprehensive portfolio of creative work. The emphasis of the course is geared towards exploration of ideas, materials and concepts which can then be directed through a selected specialist pathway of study. This highly recognised course will prepare you for application and entry to higher education establishments across the country.

Exploratory Phase:
The exploratory phase of the course will allow you to experiment with diverse media, materials, techniques and processes across a wide range of specialist skills areas. You will develop an understanding of 2D and 3D design processes, observational drawing techniques, research skills and critical analysis through the development of personal project work. Content areas taught throughout the year include investigation, experimentation, evaluation, review, realisation, communication and self-directed practice. This broad and experimental approach will enable you to make an informed decision regards your specialist pathway and create a diverse portfolio of work for your future progression aims. Examples of specialist pathways include, fine art, graphic design, animation, illustration, games design, textiles, surface pattern, fashion, product design, architecture, jewellery design, 3D design, set design, costume design etc.

Confirmatory Phase:
During the confirmatory phase, you will plan and produce a final major project that draws upon the summation of knowledge and skills acquired during the course. You will be encouraged to extend personal ambition whilst understanding the professional context for presenting your finished work through a final exhibition.

What else do I need to know?

The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is the only post A Level Art & Design course that will give you the opportunity to fully explore all aspects of art and design before committing to costly higher education options and career paths; and if you are under 19 years of age, there are no fees. Progression and achievement rates for this course are outstanding with many students receiving offers from three or more universities. In advance of starting the course you will need to equip yourself with a range of basic materials including a variety of drawing materials, portfolio and camera. You will then build on this through the requirements of your specialism.

Trips and enrichment are embedded throughout the duration of the course, providing informative sources to support project development. Live work and collaborative arts opportunities enable students to learn how to develop and apply their practice in a variety of contexts.