Program Overview

FASHION & TEXTILES: UAL LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN CREATIVE PRACTICE

Course Duration

• 2 years; full-time

Overview

This course is crafted for those interested in the fashion, textiles, costume, fashion promotion, or interiors industry. Students will gain a wide range of practical skills and experiences, preparing them for progression into either the workplace or higher education. The Level 3 Extended Diploma serves as a practical route equivalent to A-levels, with assessments focused on coursework rather than examinations.

Students completing this program and achieving a pass or higher will be guaranteed a place in a three or four-year undergraduate degree at Arts University Plymouth.

What Will I Do?

• Extensive sampling across various techniques and processes
• Development of an innovative approach to fashion and textile design
• Projects covering:
  • Fashion design
  • Garment construction
  • Costume design
  • Printed textiles
  • Interior design
  • Fashion photography
  • Styling
  • Fashion promotion
• Exploration of individual strengths and guidance in defining future career paths
• Opportunities to collaborate with peers and work on live industry briefs
• Showcase work during the annual Summer Show, including live runway presentations
• Access to industry-standard facilities including sewing machines, textile printing, photography equipment, and Adobe creative software
• Engagement in live projects with industry professionals
• Participation in the Royal Opera House Design Challenge for practical experience
• Workshops and lectures with established artists and designers
• Development of a comprehensive portfolio for future career pursuits

Where Can This Take Me?

• Successful completion earns a Level 3 Extended Diploma, equivalent to three A-levels or a maximum of 168 UCAS points
• Enables progression to BA (Hons) courses such as:
  • Fashion Design
  • Fashion Media & Marketing
  • Textile Design
  • Interior Design
  • Costume Production
  • Craft & Material Practices
• Direct employment opportunities as exemplified by graduates securing placements in notable PR offices
• Continuous advice and support from the course team
• Access to a specialist careers service for informed decision-making

What Qualification Will I Get?

The full title of the qualification awarded is UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication. This program supports innovative approaches and allows students to pursue one of five creative pathways, including Fashion & Textiles.

Entry Requirements

• At least four GCSEs at grade 9 to 4 (A* to C) including English and Maths, preferably with one in a creative subject.
• Commitment and enthusiasm for art and design, demonstrated through a portfolio of creative work.

Guaranteed Progression

Students who achieve a pass or higher in their final assessment, alongside meeting additional entry criteria, will be guaranteed a place in a BA (Hons) program at Arts University Plymouth.

Testimonials

"I've only been here a few weeks but already I feel I belong – much more than I did in secondary school. There's so much more freedom – and the staff care about you."
— Joslin Rashleigh, Pre-Degree Student

Additional Information

The Pre-Degree program has received commendations from Ofsted, highlighting the significant benefits for pupils linked closely to an arts university. Pre-Degree students are also afforded opportunities to showcase their work, enhancing their exposure to industry and academia alike.