Course Entry Requirements

A Level Grade C in an Art and Design / Technology subject or UAL Extended Diploma Merit or equivalent.

Introduction

This course is for students aged 18+ who have completed A levels / Extended Diploma or other Level 3 qualifications. This is an exciting, creative and innovative course studied in an inclusive, supportive environment celebrating difference and imagination. The one year course leads to a Level 3 or Level 4 qualification. You will develop a portfolio and become a competitive candidate for the world’s leading HE Creative courses!

What you will study

DIAGNOSTIC INVESTIGATION INTO CREATIVE PRACTICE (Unit 1)
• Experiment within art, design and media • Develop interdisciplinary and research skills
• Workshops including life drawing
• Trips, live briefs and opportunities to work with artists and designers.

DEVELOPING SPECIALIST PRACTICE (Unit 2 for Level 3/ Unit 3 for Level 4)
• Specialise in an area of study
• Develop a portfolio working with a specialist tutor
• Specialisms include Graphic Design, UX, Illustration and Animation, Fine Art, Fashion/ Textiles, Fashion Communication, Photography, 3D Design, Costume and Set Design, Architecture and Interior Design. (Specialisms are reactive to student ambitions)

CONSOLIDATING PRACTICE (Unit 4)
• Initiate, research, complete and evaluate a project within your chosen professional area
• Showcase your work in a public exhibition

Assessments

You must pass all three mandatory units to be awarded the qualification. Your final grade will be determined by the level of achievement awarded in Unit 4; Pass, Merit or Distinction.

Course Support

  • Support and challenge from day one
  • Be treated as an artist or designer with high expectations
  • Assessments and tutorials
  • Supportive peer network and group critiques
  • Tailored careers advice and specialist portfolio preparation sessions

Enrichment Activities

  • Organise charity events such as fashion shows & pop up shops
  • Competitions, live briefs and external exhibitions
  • Workshops from UAL colleges
  • Work experience opportunities with our alumni and industry partners

Progression

Further study or a career in the creative industries. Former Carmel students are now working at Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Liverpool FC, Factory Create, In The Style, Ann Demeulemeester, Fromental, Wonderland Magazine and Solomen Cordwell Buenz.

Further Information

UAL Art Foundation Course Leaflet

Exam board specification

 

What Our Students Say

“Art foundation has been the most influential year for me at Carmel; it has been challenging but extremely rewarding. You are pushed out of your comfort zone but it’s so worth it. The support is huge from all the tutors, but it is great having a specialist who really works to improve your skills and reach your goals. The standard of work is very high and you are given lots more independence to guide your own work which prepares you for university. I am so glad that I was able to do the course and would recommend it to anybody interested in the field of Art and Design!"

Amelia Glynn

Photo of a female student wearing a black t shirt. Plain background