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Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

at Leeds Arts University, Leeds · university

Level 3Applied and BTECDiploma1 yearFull time£5,421

What the college says

Originally developed at the University in the 1950s, the Foundation Diploma is a well-respected and nationally recognised qualification. This intensive one-year course challenges your preconceptions and stretches your art and design practices through problem-solving, idea generation, and critical thinking. This course will push you outside your usual comfort zone and ask you to take creative risks. You will learn through playful experimentation and develop lateral-thinking strategies to approach problems from new perspectives. The course gradually moves from wide-ranging staff-led projects to a position of independence, culminating in a significant individual project in the final stage. The ability to draw is one of an artist and designer’s most valuable tools— that is why drawing, in its many forms, underpins all course elements. Within this intensively creative environment, you’ll be helped to become more inventive and experimental. You will develop your understanding of the work of contemporary artists and designers, and the work developed by your peers. You will be based at the University’s Vernon Street site and taught by experienced staff, including practising artists and designers, who have experience across a breadth of art and design disciplines. They will support you through the UCAS application process and help you find the most appropriate degree course. Our students’ diverse experience and innovative portfolios lead to a range of prestigious, highly competitive d

What you need to get on

You are required to have a minimum of 72 UCAS points, which are typically achieved through: • Pass for UAL Extended Diploma • MMP for BTEC National Diploma • A minimum of two A levels or three A levels with minimum grades DDD • Pass at T Level All home applicants must have GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/Grade C or above. You will be required to submit a maximum of six examples of your work which show your interest and ability in art, design and/or technology.

How you are assessed

One subject in depth, assessed largely through coursework and projects.

What this level means

The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.

Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?

Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.

Where it runs

  • VERNON STREET BUILDING

    Vernon Street, Leeds, LS2 8PH

    DaytimeClassroom based
    Check the journey

Start dates

  • 1 September 2026 · Leeds

Who else teaches this exact qualification

Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.