Key Facts

UAL Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design

This is a course that develops your skills and knowledge within the core principles of art and design, with a strong focus on creativity, experimentation and problem solving. You will explore a range of processes, such as drawing, painting conceptual character design, printmaking, photography, digital media and 3D design. You will complete artist/designer research and develop your skills for responding to ideas visually, along with improving confidence when talking about your own work and that of others.

The course is a great introduction to art and design and it will help build your skills ready for future study or work. The majority of students use this course as a stepping stone to a UAL Level 3 Art, Media or Games Design Course

  • Entry Requirements


    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other. This is to ensure we can support you to be able to achieve well on the course.

    4 x GCSE's at D/3 or above, or a Level 1 Diploma in a relevant subject.

    Your GCSE profile must include either maths and / or English, or a Functional Skills qualification in maths and / or English.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish. Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to help take you to the next level.

  • Course Content


    Units studied will provide you with an introduction to a range of materials, processes and technical skills necessary to support creative activity in art and design. They will also provide you with an awareness of the broader context within which art and design is positioned.

    Projects vary in focus but will include the following practical themes: Drawing and painting Concept art Printmaking Animation Digital media Artist research 3D design

    As a student on this course you will have access to excellent, industry standard facilities which include: Drawing, painting and printmaking studios. 3D design facilities.
    Access to the mac suites and photography studio

    Where possible there will be visits to galleries and museums

  • Progression Next Steps


    The majority of students progress on to a UAL Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design, Media or Games Design Course.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you across the South Thames Colleges Group and in the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors to help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    Art materials and equipment are provided but we do encourage students to buy some of their own art materials and an A1 portfolio.

  • Course Structure


    The diploma is run across the academic year and consists of 8 units delivered within a range of projects. Each project has a different focus so, for example, one may be concerned with drawing and another may involve using animation or printmaking . This means that you will produce a large body of work that incorporates many different creative problem solving opportunities that reflect a really broad range of visual arts pathways. Projects typically last for 6 weeks each with the final project lasting around 10 weeks. You can then choose a specialism for the final project of the year which may inform your future level 3 plans within the creative industries.

  • Assessment Details


    Projects are assessed halfway through (formative) and at the end (summative). There will be frequent 1:1 support from teachers to help develop your skills and work, along with group activities and class demonstrations of new skills. The practical tasks are mapped against the UAL awarding body criteria and will help to develop a very wide range of skills and knowledge. The final project of the course is longer as it forms the overall grade for the whole year which will be either a Pass, Merit or Distinction.