Apply
Call us on 01392 400 500

UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

Course Information

Share Print
  • Course Type Post Level 3 Extension Course
  • Subject Area Art and Design
  • Qualification University of the Arts London (UAL) Diploma
  • Study Mode: Full Time
  • Course Level Level 3
  • Location Centre for Creative Industries
  • Course Length 1 year
  • Start Date September Yearly
  • End Date June Yearly
  • Fee Free to 18 year olds, then £3,300
  • Reduced Fee

    See below

  • Course Code Please note that you will not be able to apply via UCAS for this course.
Get in touch Apply

This is a progression course and you must have successfully completed a Level 3 course.

Overview

This intense and exciting year-long course gives you the opportunity to explore various art and design approaches, experiment with a range of materials and processes and build a portfolio of work to support progression to Higher Education or the workplace. You will gain an insight into a wide range of disciplines, such as painting, printmaking, 3D making, fashion, textiles, architecture, photography, film, illustration, graphic design and drawing.

Who is this course for?

This is a one-year course, typically taken after A Levels, an Extended Diploma. Students are 18 when they begin. It is ideal for creative students who want to develop their skills, strengthen their portfolio, explore different specialist areas, and make informed decisions about higher education or creative careers.
Foundation provides the time, space and support to develop your creative identity before committing to a degree course.

What you will study

On this course you will:

  • Explore new ways of working in your studio practice, supported by critical and contextual academic study
  • Have the opportunity to visit regional, national and international galleries
  • Build a portfolio of work to take you to the next stage of your career
  • Show off your talents and exhibityour work in the Summer Show
Assessment

Your coursework will be assessed throughout the year.

Entry requirements

Eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths. Also, you should normally have a minimum of five subjects at GCSE or above and will have completed an A Level/IB programme or Extended Diploma in Art and Design. You may be interviewed for this course and have to present a portfolio of work that demonstrates an interest in, and a curiosity about, the visual world and a desire to communicate this to a wider audience.

Progression and careers

Many of our students go on to study at some of the UK’s leading arts universities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exam board do you use?

The qualification is awarded by the UAL Awarding Body, part of the University of the Arts London. UAL specialises in creative qualifications and is the UK’s largest provider of the Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. Exeter School of Art is proud to be a UAL Partner College, delivering a nationally recognised qualification that is closely connected to contemporary art, design and creative industries practice.

What pathways can I choose?

The course begins with opportunities to explore a broad range of creative disciplines before progressing into a specialist pathway. Current pathways include:

  • Fine Art
  • Applied Art
  • Illustration
  • Photography & Film
  • Graphic Design
  • 3D Design
  • Fashion & Textiles

Students also regularly progress into Architecture, Animation, Interior Design, Advertising, Games Design, Media Makeup, and other creative disciplines

Is there an exam?

No. The Foundation Diploma is assessed entirely through coursework and portfolio development. There are no written examinations.

Assessment takes place throughout the year through practical projects, sketchbooks, written assignments, presentations, research, and final outcomes. Your final grade is awarded through a self-directed major project in your chosen specialist area, which is assessed by the college and externally moderated by UAL

What facilities will I have access to?

The Foundation Diploma is based at Exeter School of Art’s dedicated post-18 Art and Design centre at Victoria Yard. Students have access to specialist facilities including:

  • Printmaking Workshop
  • Ceramics Workshop
  • 3D Workshop
  • Fashion & Textile Studios
  • Photographic Darkrooms
  • PC Suites with Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Laser Cutter
  • 3D Printer

  • Have a question?

    Need help your application?

    Speak to us today on: 01392 400500
    Message us via our contact form


    Ready to find out more?

    Why not come along to one of our open events, a chance to explore our facilities, ask questions about our courses and find out more about being a student at Exeter College.

    View our Open Events

  • How to apply

    Ready to start your journey?

    Applying is straightforward:

    1) Complete our online application form

    2) Submit your GCSE results or predicted grades

    3) Attend an interview

    4) Receive your offer and enrol

    Apply Now