Halesowen College

UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

The UAL Level 3 Foundation in Art and Design course follows on from an existing Level 3 qualification. It will enable you to build a portfolio in a relevant area of creative specialist practice and develop the skills required to progress into higher education or the creative industries. Examples of the specialist practice that you can undertake on the course are: Fine Art Painting, Drawing, Printmaking and Sculpture, Graphic Design, Animation, Illustration, 3D Design including Ceramics, Jewellery and Architecture, Textiles including Surface Pattern or Fashion, Photography or Moving Image.

The course is divided between independent studio sessions and taught sessions that aim to develop your critical thinking, help you to establish an individual creative identity and challenge you to solve problems in a variety of contexts. You will learn how to discuss your work confidently and present your ideas to different audiences through group critiques and tutorials.

The course is made up of 3 stages all of which you must pass. The first stage challenges you to think critically, work experimentally and take risks in a supportive studio environment. You will explore a range of approaches, materials and processes across the different areas of creative practice in response to themes and experiences. The second stage of the course requires you to reflect on the experiences of the first stage and use this to identify and develop an area of your own specialist practice. The final stage of the course is your opportunity to bring together what you have learned and take charge of a self-initiated project that includes an extended critical essay or seminar and a summer exhibition.

An important part of the course is the emphasis on using experiences outside of the studio to enrich and nourish your creative practice. Therefore, wherever possible we will arrange to visit museums, galleries and sites that can provide you with inspiration. We also hope that a field trip can be planned.

How will I be assessed?

The first 2 stages of the course are assessed internally though your projects for Unit 1: Diagnostic Investigation into Creative Practice and Unit 2: Developing Specialist Practice. In the final stage of the course your Final Major Project is internally assessed and graded and externally moderated against Unit 4: Consolidating Practice.

What do I need?

You will need to have achieved at least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above, including English and an art-based subject.

In addition, you will need 1 A Level or equivalent Level 3 qualification, preferably in a relevant creative subject such as Art & Design.

You will also need to provide a portfolio of work that demonstrates passion, commitment and energy.

Where can it take me?

The UAL Level 3 Foundation in Art and Design carries UCAS points. You can go on to study a whole range of degrees at university including Fine Art, Visual Communication, Set and Costume Design, Illustration, Architecture, and Product Design amongst many others. Having the additional year to develop your portfolio can prepare you to apply to the most competitive courses and also enhances your potential to succeed at HE level.