UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Fine Art Study Mode: Full Time   |    Course Level: Level 3

Where will this course lead?

Studying UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Fine Art can open the door to a wide range of creative and professional opportunities. The course helps students develop artistic skills, creativity, critical thinking, and an understanding of different art forms and techniques. After completing the qualification, students may progress to university courses in fine art, illustration, interior design, gaming and concept art, graphic design, animation, photography, fashion, or architecture.  By building a professional portfolio and gaining practical industry skills, Level 3 Fine Art prepares students for a successful and creative career. 

What will I study?

On the UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Fine Art course, you will explore a wide range of artistic techniques, materials, and processes while developing your own creative style and ideas. You will study areas such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, installation, mixed media, and digital art, alongside researching the work of historical and contemporary artists. The course encourages experimentation, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving, helping you to develop technical skills and confidence in expressing your ideas visually. You will also learn how to plan, document, evaluate, and present your work professionally, building a portfolio that can support progression to higher education or a career within the creative industries. 

How will this course be delivered?

The UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Fine Art course is delivered across 2 years through a combination of practical studio-based workshops, creative projects, independent study, group critiques, and one-to-one tutorials. You will learn through hands-on experimentation with a variety of materials, techniques, and processes, while exploring the work of historical and contemporary artists to inform your own practice. Lessons are designed to encourage creative thinking, research, and problem-solving, with regular opportunities to develop and refine your ideas through feedback from tutors and peers. Throughout the course, you will document your progress in sketchbooks and portfolios, culminating in the production and exhibition of final outcomes that showcase your artistic development and achievements. 

This two-year programme involves up to 24 hours of study per week over a maximum of four days. Alongside taught sessions, you will be expected to undertake independent study to support your practical projects, research, and reflective practice. Teaching typically takes place between 9:00am and 4:15pm; however, schedules may vary depending on the programme. 

Timetables will be given to all students during induction week. 

What qualifications will I get?

You will achieve a UAL Diploma or Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication specialising in Fine Art at pass, merit or distinction. The Extended Diploma is equivalent to 3 A levels and is a valid qualification to progress to higher education. 

How will I be assessed?

You are assessed on your understanding and ability of working through the creative process.  You will complete 3 units in year 1 and 3 in year 2.  The course is completely assessed on coursework with no external exams, unless retaking GCSE Maths. 

Each unit is delivered in an approximate 10-week project.   

Units 1 and 2 in the first year (Diploma) are assessed on a pass-only basis. Unit 3 is the graded unit, where learners can achieve a Pass, Merit, or Distinction. 

In the second year (Extended Diploma), Units 4 and 5 are also assessed on a pass-only basis, while Unit 6 is the graded unit, allowing learners to achieve a Pass, Merit, or Distinction.   

You will receive feedback after each assessment and will learn what grade you are working at and how to challenge and improve your work. 

All work is assessed internally by a portfolio of practical and written/verbal evidence and are subject to UAL Awarding body's external quality assurance. 

How do I get a place on the course?

You must complete an application form. Once your application has been registered you will be invited to attend an interview to determine your suitability for the subject and level. 

Places on the course are offered following a successful interview where you must present a portfolio of your work and produce a positive reference. 

Portfolios can be physical or digital sketchbooks, presentations or work photographed on your phone, but we are unable to offer places without a valid portfolio. 

You will also be invited to attend a welcome day in late June, where you will have the opportunity to view an exhibition of current students work, meet the teaching team and other students who will be beginning the course in September. 

What are the entry requirements?

At least 4 GCSE 's at grade C/4 or above, two of these must be in Art or a creative subject and English language, or a Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design at a merit grade or above. 

What else do I need to know?

Trips to galleries and various locations take place, which will be an additional cost. This should be paid upfront during induction weeks. There is an expectation to visit galleries independently and to work independently on your practical work and to keep up to date with research and reflection. 

There is financial support available on the college website that can support with travel, equipment, food and trips. Please complete this as soon as possible upon gaining a place. 

We provide materials for workshops and a wide range of other resources, but any specific and specialist materials will need to be purchased by students. You will also need to provide any additional stationery which is required for your coursework. 

Good levels of English and Maths are important for success on your course, your chosen vocation and life. English and Maths skills are embedded throughout your specialist pathway. 

If you have not achieved a A*/9 - C/4 grade in Maths at GCSE, you will be working towards achieving that qualification alongside your fine art course. 

If you have a learning difficulty or disability, or anything that impacts your learning please let us know when you apply. You will be offered support in your interview. If you need help completing your application, we assist with this too. 

What can I do after this course?

After completing the qualification, students may progress to university courses in fine art, illustration, interior design, gaming and concept art, graphic design, animation, photography, fashion, or architecture.  By building a professional portfolio and gaining practical industry skills, Level 3 Fine Art prepares students for a successful and creative career.