Program Overview

UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

Overview

The UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design course introduces you to a wide range of creative practices. You will experience a broad range of projects to help you prepare for further study or employment. You will develop your independent creative thinking and learn to apply this across a range of disciplines. You will gain a broad understanding of the creative industries and the career paths across the sector. You will be supported to develop a portfolio of work, ready for applications to undergraduate courses or creative roles.

Key Facts

• UCAS code: N/A
• Start dates: September 2025 / September 2026
• Location: Headington
• Course length: Full time: 1 year
• School(s): School of Arts
• UCAS Tariff Points: 32

How to Apply

• Standard offer: UCAS Tariff Points: 32
• A Level: N/A
• IB Points: N/A
• BTEC: PP
• Further offer details: We welcome applications from candidates with equivalent alternative qualifications, and from mature students.
• Entry requirements:
  • Specific entry requirements: GCSE: GCSE Maths and English grade 4/C
  • Selection process: Portfolio guidelines
    • What we are looking for:
      • Research and idea development
      • Range of materials, media and approaches
      • Include inspiration, references and research
      • Creativity and problem solving
• Application process: Applications are now open for Home and International students for September 2024 and September 2025. Please apply directly to the University using our online application system. You cannot apply for this course through UCAS.

Tuition Fees

• 2025 / 26:
  • Home (UK) full time: £5,580; FREE (if aged 18 or under on 31 Aug 2025)
  • International full time: £16,750
• 2026 / 27:
  • International full time: £19,700

Funding Your Studies

• Financial support and scholarships: Advanced Learner Loans, 16–19 Art and Design Foundation Bursary, 19+ Advanced Learner Loan Bursary
• All financial support and scholarships: View all funding opportunities for this course

Learning and Assessment

• Course structure: The course is divided into 3 units:
  1. Diagnostic Investigation
  2. Developing Specialist Practice
  3. Consolidating Practice
• Learning and teaching: Teaching includes studio-based projects, one-to-one tutorials, lectures, seminars, practical field trips, skills workshops and demonstrations.
• Field trips: Field trips also form part of the course. Recent destinations have included the Eden Project in Cornwall, Copenhagen, Tallinn, Berlin and Venice.
• Assessment: The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design award is based on passing all three parts of the course, and on completion of 120 credits. Each part should be passed.

Our Staff

• Dr Alexandra Trott: Alexandra teaches topics on art theory and practice, covering Modern, Postmodern, and Contemporary art.