Course Overview

If you already have an understanding of creative practice or want to progress into university then this course is designed for applicants just like you. The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is an exciting and challenging one-year course that encourages you to experience a range of art and design subjects in order to discover your preferred career direction. A key element of the course is building a specialist practice and portfolio that is suitable for entry to university, higher education or employment.

You will have access to our specialist studio spaces at our Bromsgrove campus which include photography studios, Mac suites and ceramic workshops. Throughout the course you will be invited to meet with specialist practitioners and are encouraged to visit galleries, both locally and some of the more acknowledged contemporary galleries within the UK.

Please note that this course is only available on a full-time basis.

At the beginning of the course all students will be expected to pay a studio fee, which will be discussed upon application and interview. This enables all studio to attend a trip to a National Art Gallery, and receive an Art Kit to use on a daily basis.

Entry requirements

1 A-level supported by 3 GCSE grades at 4(C) and above, or a package of AS levels supported by 3 GCSE grades at 4(C), or a BTEC Extended Diploma / UAL Applied General Diploma in Art and Design supported by 3 GCSE grades at 4(C) and above.

For applicants aged 20+ we will look for appropriate experience and motivation plus a portfolio of work that demonstrates that you have achieved a standard which will enable you to benefit from the course.

Course Modules

Unit 1 - Diagnostic Investigation into Creative Practice
Unit 2 - Developing Specialist Practice
Unit 3 - Consolidating Practice

How will I be assessed?

The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is coursework based and consists of 3 units split across 3 stages. You will be assessed at the end of each of stage of the course. The modes of assessment will include portfolio reviews, presentations, written assignments and exhibitions of your creative process, reflection and research. Throughout lessons you will continually be given feedback and guidance from lecturers in order to support the development of your work and creative practice.

Please be aware that you will be required to complete 30 hours of relevant work experience alongside this course. Work experience is compulsory to the successful completion of this qualification. The college has excellent links with local employers in order to launch and facilitate the completion of this work experience.

What can I do next

After the course learners pursue a range of creative careers including (but not limited to): graphic design, illustration, photography, fine art (painting, sculpture, printmaking, video and installation) fashion design (including fashion communication and promotion), product design, visual merchandising, exhibition organiser and art therapy.

We have a range of successful applications for the following Universities: UAL - University of the Arts London (Wimbledon and Camberwell), University of Brighton, UWE Bristol, Falmouth University, Middlesex University London, Bath Spa University, University of Bournemouth, Loughborough University, De Montfort University, Nottingham Trent University, University of Derby, University of Manchester and Birmingham City University.

Importantly we have excellent links to local HE providers, and arrange talks and workshops centered around this as well as with employers.