Art & Design Foundation Diploma
Our Foundation Diploma (Pathways to HE) gives students the opportunity to explore a wide range of art and design disciplines while building a strong portfolio for progression onto undergraduate study.
Where creativity meets career potential
Popular with both A Level students and mature learners returning to education, the course provides an ideal bridge into higher education and the creative industries through a nationally recognised qualification.
By encouraging an experimental and creative approach to learning, we help students develop their individual style and discover their future direction as an artist or designer. Over three terms, students have the opportunity to specialise in areas including Creative Fashion and Textiles, Fine Art, Creative Digital Graphic Design, Photography, and Media Make-up.
International opportunities
Students may also benefit from a range of UK and international study trips, with previous visits including London, New York, Los Angeles, Malaysia, Berlin, and Paris.
The Foundation Diploma in Art & Design carries UCAS points and provides an excellent pathway into degree-level study or employment. Combined with a high-quality professional portfolio, the course prepares students to progress onto university courses at UCS or elsewhere, and is also a popular route into Higher Education for mature learners returning to study.
About UCS
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Learning Resource Centres
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Finance
From government-funded tuition and maintenance loans to our own targeted bursaries and grants, there are numerous ways to fund your studies.
Support
Everyone’s journey is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health. We get that College can sometimes be challenging. That’s why we offer a wide range of support services that you can access throughout your time with us.
Term Dates
Planning ahead? Our academic calendar includes key term dates, bank holidays,
scheduled breaks, and Somerset school holiday alignment, so you can stay informed and
organised throughout the year.
🎓 University-level study on your doorstep
Attend our upcoming Open Events to discuss our courses, chat with academic staff, and get your questions answered. Explore our comprehensive range of Degrees, Higher Apprenticeships, and professional programmes.
“This course has helped me decide which direction to go in next. I have a better understanding of what my art means to me and how I can use it in the industry going forward. I want to go into Comic design and I am looking forward to the future.”
Jaz, Art & Design Foundation Diploma graduate
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