Pembrokeshire College, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1SZ

Art and Design

UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design | UAL Level 4 Consolidating Practice Unit

Mode: Full-time

Level: Level 3 - Advanced, Level 4 - Higher

Additional information

Level:

,

Mode:

Duration:

Areas:
Course ID: 1446

If you are a creative, motivated learner with ambitions to pursue a career in art or design, this course will bring you together with like-minded individuals in an inspiring environment where you can challenge yourself, develop your skills and explore new ideas.

Close up of painting with artist in background.

Is this course right for me?

This course will build on your existing skills, challenge you to explore new ideas and encourage you to develop independence through a range of creative projects. You will gain the knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed to progress to Higher Education or pursue a career in the creative industries.

With a strong focus on hands-on, experimental learning, you will be encouraged to explore, take creative risks and learn through making. By experimenting with different materials and techniques, embracing unexpected outcomes and refining your work, you will develop a deeper understanding of the principles and unique characteristics of different art and design disciplines.

  • Level 3 Art/Design at grade C or above (either A-level or vocational qualification)
  • Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh
  • A portfolio/examples of work will be required for this course
  • Each application is considered on individual merit
  • Entry is subject to attending a course meeting or informal interview

If you completed your GCSEs before summer 2027, please contact Admissions to discuss entry requirements.

If you have gained your qualifications outside of the UK we will use ECCTIS to check their equivalence to UK qualifications. Please upload proof of your qualifications as part of the application process.
  • Level 3 Art/Design at grade C or above (either A-level or vocational qualification)
  • Successful decision from progression board meeting

Units to be studied to include:

  • Exploratory stage – investigation of the fundamentals of visual language, through an intensive examination of drawing, colour and a range of basic 2D and 3D visual languages and processes
  • Pathway stage – specialise in a range of disciplines for example, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Fashion/Textiles, 3D
  • Confirmatory stage – work on a major personal project based on your chosen area of specialisation leading to an individual exhibition at the end of the year

Skills learnt:

  • Understanding and application of the creative process
  • Creative skills to a high level in favourited specialist area
  • Presentation techniques
  • Time management and self initiated study and motivation

You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:

  • the course you are taking at College
  • what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language

Below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College.

Work-based, progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty – you will study Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications.

Jobs Growth Wales (JGW+) programme – will be timetabled into literacy and numeracy sessions. To discuss the opportunity of attending a GCSE resit programme, in addition to their JGW+ timetable, please contact skills@pembrokeshire.ac.uk

Life Skills Academy programmes – you will have opportunities to upskill in English and Maths through Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) / Century or attending Essential Skills classes.

All other courses and those who have progressed through the internal progression route:

Upskilling Destination Programme – an hour and half session a week developing essential research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing techniques, supporting literacy, numeracy, digital literacy and employability skills

A one year GCSE Resit Programme in GCSE Mathematics Intermediate Tier (Welsh or English medium) / GCSE English Language

A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s – The priority of this programme (Foundation Maths for Mathematics pathway) is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression onto the one-year, intermediate tier resit programme.

A one year pre-GCSE upskilling course in mathematics – The priority of this programme is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression to the Foundation Maths programme.

You have the option to complete course assessment/assignments or elements of the course through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.

  • Continuous assessment during the course
  • Portfolio of evidence
  • Completion of a final major project

This course has an excellent reputation of preparing learners for study in Higher Education throughout the UK. Many students choose to progress on to degree courses and can progress into professional positions in all areas of Art and Design including fine art, graphic design, media, 3D design, fashion and teaching.

Thinking about studying at degree level following this course? Please visit the university websites or UCAS (University Central Admissions Service) www.ucas.com to check any entry requirements.

  • Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
  • It would be beneficial, but not essential, to bring your own device/laptop to support your studies
  • Art materials - you will be told about any specific items during or before you start the course
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

  • No tuition fee
  • You will need to pay a £70 art workshop fee each year before you start the course
  • You can rent a locker for £10 per year this will be refunded if the locker remains undamaged and keys are returned
  • There may be trips/expeditions required or optional as part of this course
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

Latest Brochures:

Last updated: 10/11/2026
Disclaimer:
The College takes all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and courses as described above. Details are correct at the time of editing but may be subject to change without prior notice. Courses will not run if student numbers are insufficient. The College has the right to refuse individuals entry to courses in certain circumstances. Prospective students may be advised of more suitable alternatives, if appropriate. The entry requirements stated are those that are normally required to undertake the programme of study.
Shopping cart close