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
- A suitable portfolio to present at interview
- Aged 17 or over
- A clear direction of interest (or a willingness to find it in the first term)
- Successful interview with our team
The Foundation Diploma is portfolio-first. Where students are still working on GCSE Maths or English, we can build that in alongside your studies.
Explore Related Courses
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art Design & Communication
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Level 3 UAL Level 3 Applied General Diploma in Art & Design – Photography
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Digital Illustration and Animation for Games, Comics and Manga – Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication
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What You'll Learn
University Preparation, in Three Terms
The first third of the year (September to November) introduces workshops across drawing, design and specialisms including Fashion, Interior Design, Graphic Design, Fine Art and Illustration. This gives you the work for up to half of the portfolio you’ll need for your university applications.
From November to February you choose your specialism, work in it, and make your university applications. The specialist work you produce here makes up the rest of the portfolio, targeted at the university courses you’re applying to. Then from February to June you engage in a Final Major Project at Level 4 where you write your own brief and work towards the end of year exhibition, where a selection of the work goes on public display.
The Year, in Three Parts
- Unit 1 — Try a range of subject disciplines to build the core skills you’ll need for this industry
- Unit 2 — Choose your specialism, produce more focused work for your portfolio and university applications
- Unit 4 — Final Major Project at Level 4. You propose and manage the project. A selection is exhibited at the end of the year.
How You're Assessed
Assessment Methods
Coursework
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Practical Assessment
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Presentations
Individual and group presentations to build your confidence and communication skills.
Portfolio
Build a portfolio of evidence showcasing your skills and achievements throughout the course.
Career Destinations
Where This Course Takes You
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Your Progression Pathway
- Level 2, Level 3 or Work Experience
- Level 3 UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
- University or Employment
Life on the Course
See What It's Really Like
Our Facilities
Specialist Studios and Your Own Space
Foundation Diploma students work across our specialist studios and get a base room with individual student spaces. Everything is set up to support intensive, portfolio-focused work.
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.
Base room with individual student spaces
Base room with individual student spaces
5 Specialist Studios · Your Own Studio Space · End of Year Exhibition
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
Financial 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 infoQualifications 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 listReal 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 3
Duration
1 year full-time
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
UAL
Entry
Portfolio at interview, aged 17+
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment + Presentations + Portfolio
Age
17+
Progression Routes
Route A: L3 Foundation Diploma → BA (Hons) in specialism
Ready for University Preparation?
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk