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 4 or above, including English and Maths
- A relevant portfolio to show your creative abilities at interview
- A genuine interest in developing your own creative practice
- Successful interview with our team
Level 3 assumes you already have your key GCSEs. If you need to top up Maths or English, we can build that in alongside your course.
Explore Related Courses
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 1 UAL Level 1 Diploma In Art Design & Media
Level 2 UAL Level 2 Diploma In Art & 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 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
View all Art and Design courses →
What You'll Learn
Develop Your Own Creative Practice
At Level 3 the focus shifts to your own creative practice. Theory and practical sessions run side by side to develop and test your ideas, all underpinned by strong drawing and visualisation skills. You’ll cover visual language, research skills, critical and contextual awareness, and material processes and technical skills in art and design.
You’ll work across our specialist studios: screen printing, 3D workshop, Mac suites, drawing studios and life drawing. You’ll finish the year with a Level 3 portfolio and the option to move directly into industry, onto the Foundation Diploma, or into Higher Education. The Opportunities for Progression unit is designed to help you decide which.
Core Units
- Visual language in art and design
- Research skills in art and design
- Critical and contextual awareness in art and design
Practical and Progression
- Material processes and technical skills in art and design
- Opportunities for progression in art, design and media
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 2 or GCSEs
- Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art Design & Communication
- University or Work
Life on the Course
See What It's Really Like
Our Facilities
Specialist Studios for a Growing Practice
Level 3 uses the full range of our art and design facilities. You'll work across studios as you build the range and depth your practice needs.
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
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
Real 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 optionsQualifications 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 listMental Health & Wellbeing
College is a big change. Our wellbeing team is here for every student — whether they need someone to talk to, help managing stress, or ongoing support. No referral needed.
Wellbeing support For Careers Advisers
Quick Reference Guide
Level
Level 3
Duration
1 Year
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
UAL
Entry
5 GCSEs Grade 4+ (including English and Maths) + portfolio
Assessment
Coursework
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: L3 Diploma → L3 Foundation Diploma → Degree
Ready to Develop Your Practice?
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk