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Where will this course lead?

A diploma in art and design foundation studies is a practical, hands-on course that aims to develop your technical, creative and conceptual skills in a studio environment. By completing this course, you can progress onto a Higher Education programme, such as an HNC/D, Foundation Degree or Degree. Alternatively, you may choose an apprenticeship or employment in the creative industries.

What will i study

What will I study?

The course is delivered in three stages over three terms, in one academic year. Stage 1 - Learning Skills and Context will see you explore a range of media, materials and approaches in relation to our Fashion, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography and 3D pathways. For Stage 2 - Development and Presentation, you will select your chosen specialist pathway and produce an Art & Design portfolio for an area of Higher Education, apprenticeship or employment that is related to your career aspirations. The diploma in art and design foundation studies will culminate with Stage 3 - Proposal & Realisation, for which you will undertake a self-negotiated Final Major Project. This will see you produce a body of work that showcases your creative identity and skills, and will be displayed at an end-of-year exhibition. Stages 1 and 2 will be supported by specialist workshops and demonstrations, and all three Stages will encourage students to develop their critical thinking and independence.

Frequently asked questions

You must be 18 years old or over and will normally possess five GCSEs (Grade 4 or above), and either a minimum of one A Level or a Level 3 Extended Diploma in a creative subject such as Art & Design to take a diploma in art and design foundation studies. However, applications from mature students without these qualifications are welcomed.

You will study up to a maximum of 20 hours per week over a maximum of four days per week. Timetables will be given to all students during enrolment and induction week. There are seven units across the year of study, which are all internally assessed. Six units are delivered through projects and workshops in Stages 1 and 2, and the final unit is delivered through a Final Major Project in Stage 3. Lessons, workshops and critiques will be delivered by lecturers who are experienced educators and practitioners, and hold qualifications in the areas in which they teach.

You will achieve a UAL Level 4 Diploma in Art & Design Foundation Studies.

The first two stages of a diploma in art and design foundation studies will be marked at Level 3 with Pass or Fail being awarded. Stage 3 will be marked at Level 4 and will result in a final grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction being awarded.

You will attend an interview at Stratford-upon-Avon College with a member of the course team. You will need to bring a portfolio of recent art work and a reference from your current or most recent school or college. You will then be invited to a Workshop Day to meet the course team and other students who will be attending the course in September.

Most diploma in art and design foundation studies students progress onto an Art & Design course at Higher Education, as well as apprenticeships and employment. This could lead to careers in fashion and textiles, fine art, graphic design, illustration, 3D design, photography, museums and galleries, and education.

You will be expected to attend College equipped with a range of Art & Design materials. Many general items can be purchased at the College, though you may also need to purchase equipment that is specific to your chosen specialist pathway. You will be advised by members of the course team on the most appropriate art materials and tools to purchase. The West Midlands are blessed with a large number of museums and art galleries. You are strongly encouraged to visit these in independent study time in order to develop your knowledge of contemporary and historical art and design practice. In addition, college educational trips will be arranged at a reasonable cost to students.

*Free of charge if you are aged 18 at the start of the course. If not, a fee of £4,200 will apply.

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