Level 1 Art and Design

Course Overview

Are you passionate about art and design but don’t yet have a formal qualification? Would you like to develop and expand your knowledge and skills across a variety of specialist areas?

If so, this course is perfect for you! Through practical, hands-on learning, you will build a strong foundation using both traditional and digital art and design materials, techniques, and processes.

Entry Requirements

GCSE English and Maths at Grade 2 or above. It is not a requirement to have previously studied Art and Design or a related subject (such as Textiles, Graphic Design, or Photography) at GCSE level – just an interest in the subject.*

As part of the ‘Meet the Tutor’ session, you will be required to bring a portfolio, which might include GCSE sketchbooks, a digital presentation, or artwork completed in your own time.

*The College reserves the right to request a school reference if necessary.

What the course covers

The UAL Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media is a one-year qualification with no exams, consisting of seven units. Throughout the year, you’ll complete a series of projects across various specialist areas, including printmaking, textiles, sculpture, and graphic design.

Teaching is delivered by subject specialists through workshops, one-to-one tutorials, lectures, and group work. You will be taught in dedicated art studios, including the print room, sculpture studio, digital suite, and spacious, well-lit studios.

Throughout the course, you will explore key principles of art and design, such as researching artists, idea development, creative thinking, and self-reflection. These will help you build creative and practical skills, along with confidence in communication and problem-solving. You will be encouraged to experiment in a supportive environment, developing your self-confidence and foundational skills for higher study in Art and Design. Both traditional and digital sketchbooks will document your ideas, practical work, and written content.

At the end of the course, you will complete a final major project within your specialist area, culminating in a public exhibition.

Programme of Study

Your main course is part of an individually tailored study programme, which includes taught sessions, studio time, and tutorials. As part of your course, you will also gain work experience through a live project brief and the end-of-year exhibition. If you have not yet achieved a Grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths at Level 2, these subjects will also be incorporated into your study programme.

Assessment

Assessment is by coursework for each unit.

Fees and funding

Students aged 16 to 18, or those aged 16 to 24 with a valid EHCP, who are studying Further Education courses are not charged course fees.

For more information about financial support, please visit our Student Finance and Bursaries page. Click here for the Student Finance and Bursaries page