The University Centre Somerset Foundation Diploma in Art and Design gives you the chance to experiment with a wide range of art and design disciplines. Over the course of a year, you will develop your skills and build a creative portfolio. The qualification is the perfect preparation for higher education or a more responsible role in the industry, providing you with a nationally recognised qualification.
The Diploma is open to all, whether you are an adult returning to education or have just completed A levels/a vocational course (note: this course is free for under 19s). Study takes place on our Taunton Campus in The Arts House, home to a variety of fantastic facilities.
By encouraging you to adopt an experimental approach to your learning, we help you to develop your individual skills and determine your future direction as an artist or designer. This is a gradual process, over three terms, during which you will have a chance to specialise in areas such as:
The curriculum is delivered through a blend of projects and workshops, designed to help you develop the skills that most interest you, in an environment that is professional and focused on achieving success. You will have your own workspace, and will be encouraged to work independently on campus and at home, with input and support from our specialist staff. You will also be expected to take part in a work placement.
We offer opportunities for residential trips in the UK and abroad as well as a variety of day trips. Previous cohorts have taken opportunities to embark on study visits to London, New York, Berlin and Paris among others.
This UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design carries 80-112 UCAS points, meaning you can count it towards entry on a degree-level programme. Added to the high-quality portfolio of work you will have developed during your time with us, you will be perfectly placed to progress to a degree course, either at the College or further afield, or try to find employment. Either way, we will give you all the help you need to pursue your ambitions.
Our specialist lecturers work closely with you throughout the year. The course is studio-based and involves continuous assessment and external moderation, and your progress is monitored by tutorials and group critiques. The curriculum is delivered through a blend of projects and specialist workshops, designed to help you develop the skills that most interest you, in an environment that is professional and focused on achieving success. You will have your own workspace, and will be encouraged to work independently in College and at home, with input and support from our specialist staff. You will also be expected to take part in a work placement.
You need a minimum of:
The outcome of prior experiential learning can be demonstrated to be equivalent to formal qualifications otherwise required in certain circumstances.
You will be asked to present a portfolio of work at interview. The portfolio must demonstrate your creative skills, subject knowledge and enthusiasm for study through 12 to 15 pieces of recent work and two sketchbooks.
This Level 3 course will take place on Taunton Campus over the duration of 1 year, full-time. To apply, go to the Art and Design Foundation Diploma page on Bridgwater & Taunton College website.
This course is designed to increase your chances of securing a place on your chosen degree course. The majority of our students progress to study a degree and many choose to stay on at University Centre Somerset in order to make continued use of our newly refurbished, first-rate facilities. See some of our progression options below!