The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design gives you the opportunity to explore your creative potential and specialist area of study. This course is normally a requirement for entry to BA (Hons) degree programmes at prestigious art schools. You will study a broad range of disciplines in the first term then in the second term you will specialise in one of four routes: fine art, images and communication, 3D design, or surface pattern and communication. In the third term you will do a final major project leading up to an exhibition in June. You will visit exhibitions and studios and go on a study trip; recent trips have included Lisbon and Venice.

Key course features

Qualification: BTEC (EdExcel) Foundation Diploma

Level: Level 3-4

Mode: Full-time

Timetable: This is a full time programme of study of 10 hours per week. You will receive your timetable when you enrol.

Start Date: September 2013

Fees:

Home fee for 2012-13 £1260 including tuition and exam fees. Students aged 19+ will pay college registration and materials fees.

The course may be free if you are:

• aged under 19
• aged 19+ and in receipt of an active benefit (eg JSA or ESA)
• aged 19+, unemployed and in receipt of a means-tested benefit (eg income support)
• aged 19+ and don't already have a Level 2 qualification
• aged 19-24 and this course will be your first Level 3 qualification.

Please see our Fees and Concessions page or call 020 8326 2015 for further details.

Who is this course for?

Advanced students who wish to build up a portfolio in order to progress to higher education.

Entry requirements

At least one A Level, BTEC Level 3 or other relevant qualification in art and design with 4 or more GCSEs at grades A*-C. Mature students are encouraged to apply and under-qualified students with exceptional ability may also be considered. You will attend an interview which will give you the opportunity to ask detailed questions about the course and show us a portfolio of your work, demonstrating your skills and interest. If you need advice before you apply, please call 020 8326 2020 or email ciag@west-thames.ac.uk.

About the course

The course includes units such as:

• Researching, recording and responding in art and design
• Media experimentation in art and design
• Preparation and progression in art and design
• Information and interpretation in art and design
• Personal experimental studies in art and design
• Extended media development in art and design.

In the first term you will study art and design subjects through practical and critical exercises, including drawing, painting, printmaking, wood, metal and plastics, textiles, graphics, illustration and contextual studies. You may also study photography, computer aided design and video.

This is followed by a formal assessment to reflect on your achievement and establish a personalised work programme for the second term. Then you will choose to specialise in one of 4 routes:

• Fine art
• Images and communication
• 3D design
• Surface pattern and decoration.

The first two terms will be delivered through assignments. In the third term you will do a final major project leading to an exhibition in June.

A principal feature of this course is its rigorous tutorial system. You will be assigned a personal tutor who will monitor and guide your progress throughout the course.

Many materials are provided, but you will be required to buy some specialist materials. Financial assistance may be available to help with these costs.

Additional opportunities

You will visit exhibitions and studios and go on a study trip. Previous trips have included Cornwall, Venice, Lisbon and Barcelona.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is a continuous process based on a partnership between you, your lecturer and your tutor. You are encouraged to participate in individual action plans to structure your own learning and you will receive guidance for applications to university.

The course concludes with an exhibition in June when you will mount individual exhibitions of work relating to your area of specialisation and submit work for contextual studies. Grades for the diploma are awarded according to personal achievement.

Where next?

BA (Hons) degree at university or art school.

How to apply?

To apply, please click the "Apply Now" button and fill out the online application form. An advisor will be in touch regarding interview dates.