Artists
Up to £66,278 /year
Artists create artistic works using appropriate techniques, materials and media; design artwork and illustrations; and restore damaged pieces of art.
Admissions
Entry Requirements
What You'll Need
- 5 GCSEs at Grades 2-3
- A portfolio to show your creative abilities at interview
- A genuine interest in art and design
- Successful interview with our team
If you haven't yet achieved Grade 4 in Maths or English, you'll keep working towards them alongside your course, built into your timetable.
Explore Related Courses
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 1 UAL Level 1 Diploma In Art Design & Media
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Digital Illustration and Animation for Games, Comics and Manga – Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art Design & Communication
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What You'll Learn
Drawing at the Core. Everything Else Around It.
This course is underpinned by drawing and visualisation. From that foundation you’ll work across painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, textiles and photography, using a variety of materials in our specialist studios. You’ll study contextual research (the ideas and history that give creative work its weight) and communication skills (how to talk about your work and why it matters).
You’ll also get out on gallery trips and work with visiting creative practitioners. Our facilities include screen printing studios, a fully equipped 3D workshop, high-spec Mac suites, spacious drawing studios and life drawing. By the end of the year you’ll have a much stronger portfolio and a clearer sense of the direction you want to specialise in at Level 3.
Core Units
- Introduction to materials, processes and skills in design and media
- Introduction to contextual research in art, design and media
- Introduction to drawing skills
- Introduction to communication skills in art, design and media
Practical Projects
- Solving 2D and 3D creative problems
- Art, design and media project
How You're Assessed
Assessment Methods
Coursework
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
No exams — 100% coursework and practical
Career Destinations
Where This Course Takes You
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Your Progression Pathway
- Level 1 or GCSEs
- Level 2 UAL Level 2 Diploma In Art & Design
- University or Work in the Industry
Life on the Course
See What It's Really Like
Our Facilities
Specialist Studios for Every Discipline
Specialist Studios for Every Discipline
Specialist printmaking studios
including screen printing equipment.
Fully equipped 3D workshop
ideal for sculpture and model-making.
High-spec Apple suites
featuring the latest creative software.
Spacious drawing studios
for developing your skills, plus life drawing classes.
5 Specialist Studios · Screen Print · 3D · Mac · Drawing · Life
Student Voice
“
I’ve developed strong time management and creative skills, enjoyed the freedom to explore my ideas, and plan to study graphic design at university after a great year of growth and friendship.
For Parents & Carers
Supporting Your Child's Journey
Qualifications That Count
These are nationally recognised qualifications with real academic weight. Your child will develop practical skills and knowledge that employers and universities genuinely value.
See the full unit listFinancial Support Available
Bursaries are available, and free meals are provided for those who qualify. If cost is a concern, there's help — and it's straightforward to apply.
Financial support infoReal Career Prospects
These qualifications lead to real jobs. Our courses are built around the skills that employers are actually hiring for — locally and nationally.
See career options For Careers Advisers
Quick Reference Guide
Level
Level 2
Duration
1 year full-time
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
UAL
Entry
5 GCSEs Grades 2-3 + portfolio
Assessment
Coursework
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: L2 Diploma → L3 Diploma in Creative Practice → L3 Foundation Diploma → Degree
Ready to Build Your Portfolio?
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk