UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

Attendance: Full Time
Location: City Learning Quarter

Course code: CP4067

Start dates:

07/09/2026

Age:

Is this course right for me?

This intensive course is ideal if you want to progress from school or a Level 3 programme into higher‑level art and design study. You’ll explore a broad range of practical media, technical methods and creative concepts, helping you build on your existing experience while developing new skills and confidence in your own practice.

You’ll work across key disciplines such as 3D design, visual studies, textiles, illustration, printmaking and graphic design. Each term includes project briefs and opportunities to exhibit your work, culminating in a final exhibition in the city centre.

Learning takes place through practical workshops, lectures, debates, gallery visits and independent research, supported by experienced tutors and guest speakers.

You’ll also complete 30 hours of work experience to apply your skills in a real-world setting. While you are expected to find your own placement, staff will offer guidance, and opportunities are available for over-18s, including placements in Florence through the Turing Scheme and at Walsall Art Gallery.

The City of Wolverhampton College is an approved centre for the UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.

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Course details

Entry Requirements:

For external applicants:
To access this course, you are required to:

  • Have five or more GCSEs at grade C 4 or above
  • A full Level 3 qualification. For example, this could be A Levels or a Level 3 UAL/BTEC qualification (not necessarily in art)*
  • Attend an interview with one of the college’s admissions tutors
  • Present a portfolio of recent art and design work which demonstrates your interest, enthusiasm and commitment to undertaking a course at this level
  • Demonstrate how you have previously had good attendance and punctuality and a good attitude to learning

We also consider applicants without formal qualifications, such as adult learners. In these instances we would require a portfolio of artwork to assess suitability for the course

For internal progression learners (already studying with us):
Learners must be able to demonstrate that they:

  • Have successfully completed a relevant course that naturally progresses onto this programme, achieving a good standard*
  • Have improved their English and maths grades since enrolment
  • Have maintained good attendance and punctuality
  • Show a consistently positive attitude to learning

*This course is not for school leavers and you would need to be aged 17+ at the start of the course and have completed a Level 3 qualification.

What will I learn?

During this course you will study:

  • Fine art
  • Visual communication
  • Graphic design
  • 3D design
  • Textiles/Fashion
  • Photography

What skills will I gain?

By studying this course you will:

  • Be part of a programme of study that has excellent pass rates
  • Be taught by our enthusiastic, experienced and talented art and design lecturing team
  • Learn in a range of dedicated studios including graphics, 3D, fashion and print making
  • Have the opportunity to use a wide range of artist and studio equipment, software and cameras
  • Understand how all of the skills you are learning can be applied in the industry
  • Improve your knowledge of what art and design industry opportunities are available
  • Gain valuable team working and communication skills
  • Improve your employability skills
  • Learn in a creative arts department awarded ‘Arts Mark Gold’ by Arts Council England for the level and quality of our education provision in creative industries

How will I be assessed?

This course is project/assignment based and assessment is continuous throughout the year both in lessons, set work and through observations. Each unit will be assessed and awarded with a final grade of pass, merit or distinction. Some units may be subject to external assessment.

What can I do next?

The skills you will learn from this course will enable you to

  • Pursue a career as a graphic designer, illustrator, architect, fine artist, interior designer, product designer, fashion
    designer and stylist, sculptor or concept artist
  • Progress on to university
  • Gain employment in a relevant field

 

Please note: City of Wolverhampton College reserves the right to close or not run courses if enrolment numbers are not educationally or economically viable. If this course is unable to run, you will be notified as soon as possible. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

 

UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

Course code: CP4067

Full Time
City Learning Quarter

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