About the course

This Foundation course offers a diverse exploration of Art and Design disciplines, providing hands-on experience with various materials and methods to build a dynamic portfolio. Upon successful completion, you're assured progression to our Undergraduate Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Art & Design. The course aims to cultivate you into a proficient creative practitioner, equipping you with transferable skills applicable not only in creative industries but also in broader professional contexts.

In the Bachelor's program, you'll engage with diverse modules. Whether your interest lies in Graphic Communication, Photography, Fine Art, or 3D and Textiles, our program facilitates a nuanced exploration of each discipline. Experienced instructors, including practicing creatives with expertise in various disciplines, ensure a comprehensive learning experience, preparing you for a successful career in the dynamic field of art and design.

In the first year of your Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Degree course, you'll tailor your educational journey by selecting subject specialisms aligned with your artistic interests. These areas include but not limited to Graphic Communication, Photography, Fine Art, Sculpture, and Textiles. This curated approach ensures a foundational understanding of the broader artistic landscape while delving deeply into specific disciplines that resonate with your creative aspirations.

This structured flexibility empowers you to hone your skills and develop a profound understanding of your chosen specialization, laying the groundwork for a well-rounded and tailored education in the captivating realm of Art and Design.

Start Date/s

15/09/2025

Cost Information

Years 1 and 2 (delivered at Burnley College): The standard full time tuition fee rate per year for this course in 2023/24 for UK students is £9000

Entry Requirements

Foundation Entry ( Year 0): 48 UCAS points. BA (Hons) Art and Design Entry ( Year 1) : 96 UCAS points Your level 3 subjects should include a relevant subject; i.e. A-level or BTEC Extended Diploma in Art and Design .You should also have five GCSEs at grade C ( 4) or above (or equivalent) including English .All students are interviewed with portfolio. We select students on their ability to benefit from the course. We do offer some flexibility for entry with consideration given to applicants with alternative qualifications who have a strong portfolio to present at interview.

Modules

Foundation: Creative Responses Information and Interpretation Preparation and Progression Specialist Project Yr 1: Applied Creativity :3D Physical Processes :Fundamentals and Theories of Studio Practice :2D Art – Principles and Processes :Digital Imaging :Thinking Photography :Reading Through The Lens :Visual Thinking :Contextual Studies in Graphic Design :Introduction to Studio Practice in Graphic Design :Visual Storytelling :Introduction to Animation and Illustration :Contextual Studies in Animation and Illustration :Material Practices 1 :Material Practices 2 :Design Studies 1 :Surface Pattern: Principles and Processes Yr 2: Employability and Enterprise :Past Present and Futures: Theory into Context :Advanced 3D Physical Processes :Fine Art - Themes, Theories and Practice :Advanced 2D - Principles and Processes :Advanced Photo Media The Creative Studio :Location, Light, Camera, Context :Research and Context in Photography :The Photo Story :Design Practice :Motion Graphics Principles of Animation Principles of Illustration :Open Study :Advanced Studio Practice :The Surface Designer: Digital Textile Design and Print :The Designer Maker: Research and Ideas Development :The Surface Designer: Studio and Freelance Practice for 2D and 3D :The Designer Maker: Making for Exhibition or Sale Yr 3: Professional Practice and Self-Promotion :Research in Context :Major Project :Advanced Practice and Theories in Context :Public Art in Contemporary Practice :Self Negotiated Photographic Project :Professional Practice Applied Critical Thinking in Photography :Advanced Design Practice Advanced Visualisation for Graphic Design Visual Style Character Design :Advanced Textile and Studio Practice Advanced Techniques and Processes

Assessment

We use a blended approach to teaching and learning which means you’ll have face-to- face sessions as well as participating in online learning. You can expect to learn through a mix of seminars, lectures and tutorials, practical workshop demonstrations, our visiting speaker programme, critiques, study visits, self-directed study, IT sessions, library and guided study. Module-based design briefs help to give you an insight into the professional environment. These involve simulated design briefs, client-led live briefs and competition briefs. Group tutorials and critiques, one-to-one tutor feedback, and regular feedback from clients and collaborators combine to support your learning during this process.

Careers & Progression

The diversity a degree in Art and Design enables students to progress into a wide variety of creative sectors. The skills gains during your art and design degree are transferable to a range of sectors, including specialised art related careers and other more general roles. You will learn a range of art and design skills, such as thinking creatively , analysing form, communicating visually, mastering the use of colour, space and line, as well as transferable skills such as analytical and research skills, solving problems, planning and managing time and resources, and collaborating with others. Taking part in events and exhibitions will also improve your confidence and self awareness. A career in art and design can cover a plethora of different areas such as Painting, Sculpture, Illustration, Graphic Design, Photography , Animation, Textiles, Set Design, Community Art. Many graduates set up their own small businesses or work as freelancers.

Additional Details

Information About Fees

The Foundation course fee is £6000 and lasts for 1 academic year. The Degree fees are £9000 per academic year. Further information about funding can be accessed through Student Services.