Art and Design

Art and Design
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design
This level 3 UAL Diploma (University of the Arts, London) in Art and Design recognises the importance of the creative industries as a source of amazing career and learning opportunities for young people today, and in the future. It offers a unique opportunity for those passionate about visual arts to explore and develop their creativity in a challenging yet supportive environment.
Is this course right for me?
During this exciting and engaging full-time art and design course, you will acquire and develop the knowledge, skills, behaviours and attributes needed to progress and succeed in higher education and employment/training opportunities within the arts sector. You will have the opportunity to study at an advanced level for 2 years, and develop an industry-appropriate portfolio of work to support your progression to level 4 courses, university or the workplace.
In the first year you will explore a range of art, design and making disciplines and processes and develop a better understanding of the design process. You will be challenged with a variety of project briefs that will encourage you to explore your creativity and develop your confidence in communicating ideas. You will experience a range of disciplines. You will be encouraged to focus on areas that will inform your choice of specialism in the second year. Learners will prepare a portfolio showcasing their best work and prepare for the next stage of their career in the creative industries – whether a BA degree at university, an apprenticeship, employment, or as a self-employed artist, designer or maker.
In all sessions, you will be taught by specialists with industry experience in excellent, purpose-built studios and workshops to help you realise your full creative potential. Delivered under the prestigious awarding body University Arts London, this Level 3 Extended Diploma offers the same UCAS points as three A-levels and although challenging and academically demanding, there are no exams – progress is assessed through project and portfolio work.
What are the entry requirements?
- Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy at grade D or above
- 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 information session or informal interview
Current student - what are the entry requirements?
- Successful completion of relevant Level 2 programme with a merit grade or above in addition to a successful decision from progression board meeting
- GCSE English Language/First Language Welsh at grade C or above
- GCSE Mathematics/Numeracy at grade D or above
What will I learn?
You could work on themed, competition or live projects related to drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture and photography. Alternatively assignments may be linked to a particular specialist pathway such as:
- Graphic Design and Illustration: – graphic image making, branding, typography, narrative image making, graphic novel design, animation, etc.
- Fashion and Textiles – textiles print for fashion and interior, fashion design and construction, fashion illustration and marketing, costume design, etc.
- 3D Design/Craft – product and furniture design, Interior and spatial design, architecture, jewellery, ceramics, contemporary crafts, etc.
Units studied will include:
Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design (Year 1)
- Introduction to visual language
- Introduction to research skills
- Introduction to critical and contextual awareness
- Introduction to materials, processes and technical skills
- An integrated approach to 2D problem solving
- An integrated approach to 3D problem solving
- An integrated approach to time‑based problem solving
- Developing an art and design project
- Opportunities for progression
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design (Year 2)
- Characteristics and contexts
- Preparation for progression
- Engaging with an audience
- Project proposal and realisation
During the second year learners study the WJEC Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) – graded like an AS level it can provide additional UCAS points.
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
- the course you are taking at College
- what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
If you are studying a construction/trade course (brickwork, carpentry, electrical or plumbing):
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications
All other courses:
- Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) in upskilling / Lessons in Financial Education
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course
- A one year GCSE START upskilling course
Can I do this course in Welsh?
Learners 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.
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Portfolio of evidence
What can I do next?
- Successful completion of this course can be a stepping stone to a large number of different opportunities. See the Careers Wales website for information: https://careerswales.gov.wales/job-information/subjects/art-and-design
- If you are 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.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- You will need to bring your own device/laptop for this course, click here to find out more
- Art materials - you will be told about any specific items during or before you start the course
- A memory stick/a small portable USB hard drive
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Are there any additional costs?
- No tuition fee
- We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2025/26
- 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.
Additional information
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Online Learning Elements? | Yes |
Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.