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 Grade 2 or below
- A portfolio to show your creative abilities at interview
- A genuine interest in art, design or media as a profession
- Successful interview with our team
5 GCSEs at Grade 2 or below A portfolio to show your creative abilities at interview A genuine interest in art, design or media as a profession Successful interview with our team
What You'll Learn
Try Everything. Find Your Direction.
This is a year of exploring across mediums. You’ll start with the fundamentals — materials, processes and skills in design and media — then work through contextual research, communication skills, and solving 2D, 3D and time-based creative problems. It’s not about picking your specialism on day one. It’s about trying enough to work out where your interest actually sits.
You’ll work in our specialist studios: printmaking with screen printing kit, a fully equipped 3D workshop, high-spec Mac suites with the latest creative software, spacious drawing studios, and life drawing. By the end of the year you’ll have a real first portfolio and a much clearer idea of whether you’re heading into fashion, graphic design, animation, photography or somewhere else entirely.
Core Skills
- Introduction to materials, processes and skills in design and media
- Introduction to contextual research in art, design and media
- Introduction to communication skills in art, design and media
Practical Projects
- Solving 2D and 3D creative problems
- Solving time based 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 UAL Level 1 Diploma In Art Design & Media
- Level 3
Life on the Course
See What It's Really Like
Our Facilities
Specialist Studios, Real Kit
Fully equipped workshops and studios designed to support your creative journey, from screen printing to sculpture to digital.
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 1
Duration
1 year full-time
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
University of the Arts London (UAL)
Entry
5 GCSEs Grade 2 or below + portfolio
Assessment
Coursework
Progression Routes
Route A: L1 Diploma → L2 Diploma → L3 Diploma in Creative Practice → L3 Foundation Diploma → Degree
Ready to Start Exploring?
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk