Why choose this programme?

The Diploma in Foundation Studies in Art and Design offers ideal preparation for students wishing to progress onto Higher Education and study a degree level qualification. The diploma provides an invaluable opportunity to study a range of art and design disciplines while developing your skills and creative thinking further.

Summary of programme

The course is lively, stimulating and designed to introduce people to art and design practice with a series of studio projects, lectures and visits – all of which encourage creative production and self-reliant learning. You will build upon your previous experience drawing new ideas and work through three stages of the course – the exploratory stage encourages you to develop your basic art and design skills while the pathway and confirmatory stages allow you to work within your chosen specialist area. This could be 3D design, fine art, graphic design, fashion and textiles, photography or art and design history – all broad areas covering the diverse number of Higher Education courses available. The third stage will see you undertake a major project in your chosen specialist area that results in a summer exhibition.

You will be continually assessed on written and practical projects and given regular feedback from tutors as well as submitting work to the Edexcel Foundation Examiner. Students are encouraged to explore their skills and interests in a wide range of art and design disciplines which include: fine art, fashion, textiles, photography, graphic design and 3D design. Students are expected to work independently on project work away from the college. They will receive regular tutorials to support their studies, in addition to group tutorials, tutor-led demonstrations and presentations.

Entry requirements

An A Level at grade C or above, preferably in art

Or
Two AS Levels at grade C or above, preferably to include art Or Successful completion of BTEC National Diploma in Art and Design

Or

Successful completion of a GNVQ Level 3 qualification

You should also have five GCSEs at grade C or above, including art and English or maths as well as a portfolio of art, design and/or craft work.

Applicants without formal qualifications but who possess a more varied portfolio of evidence and experience may be considered via interview. Your portfolio will usually include your A Level, college and personal work and will form the basis of your interview.

What you can progress to

Upon successful completion of the programme, you will have a number of opportunities for progression:
Into employment within the creative industry or further study by progressing onto the Foundation Degrees on offer at the College or one of the Sheffield Hallam University honours degree programmes.