The Diploma qualification is for students seeking to undertake a broad and then a specialist programme of study in art and design. It focuses on developing students’ understanding and application of the creative process to enable them to develop creative ideas and produce outcomes in a creative discipline, such as fine art, architecture, graphics, interior design, photography, illustration and many more.

This qualification is ideal for those who have not decided what discipline and subject area within art and design they wish to use to develop their practice.

The Diploma is a precursor of the Extended Diploma. Therefore, those choosing to do the Extended Diploma will cover the same knowledge as those doing the Diploma, but in more complex tasks and will also learn to apply their knowledge of the creative process to their personal practice, for example, architecture, interior design, graphics, photography, illustration, textiles etc.

Outcomes: The course is divided into two separate years. In your first year, you will study to complete a Diploma and in your second year the Extended Diploma which is equivalent to 3 A levels and the maximum UCAS point. The Art and Design course will prepare you for entrance into the relevant degree courses or employment. You will receive help to develop a successful portfolio for your interviews as well as helping you to manage your UCAS application process. The structure of the 1st year level 3 Diploma introduces you to the underpinning principles of creative practice in art and design whilst enabling you to explore a range of alternative disciplines. These disciplines will allow you to develop practical skills and theoretical understanding within specialist practice.

You will learn and explore areas of: 2D Fine Art street and graffiti art by creating mural paintings 2D practical skills of Printmaking through Photoshop and traditional printmaking by creating designs to be printed on clothing. 3D Architecture and Interior Design through architectural drawings and model making 4D through computer, drawing tablets and animation design

A significant part of the course is the Final Project of the year where you are supported in your personal interest and outcomes of art and design. The FMP is for you to explore your personal interests, pathway and future university or career options with the support of your lecturers. In this assignment, you choose topics that you would like to develop in 2D, 3D, time-based or a combination of them.

Your 2nd year is the Extended Diploma which is more specialist learning experience and you’re given the opportunity to work more independently on your chosen pathways in art and design with support from your lecturers and peers. This qualification is equivalent to 3 A levels and the maximum UCAS point.

You will learn how to master professional skills in 2D, 3D and time-based project outcomes by learning and using digital skills and programs such as laser cutters and 3D printing through Abode Illustrator, Photoshop and Apps. There are strong emphasis on practical and critical activities through history and contemporary practice of art and design with a number of exhibition visits and workshops.