Level 2
Art and Design, UAL Diploma
Level 2
Art and Design, UAL Diploma
Develop your creative skills, explore exciting art and design disciplines, and build a professional portfolio. This practical UAL Diploma prepares you for higher-level study and a future in the creative industries.
Course Overview
This hands-on UAL Diploma gives you the opportunity to explore a wide range of creative disciplines, including drawing, painting, 3D design, photography, graphic design, and digital media. Through practical workshops, creative projects, and industry-style briefs, you'll develop your technical skills while discovering your own artistic style.
Based at Knightstone Campus, you'll learn in specialist studios and digital suites using industry-standard equipment and software. Guided by experienced creative practitioners, you'll work through every stage of the design process, from research and idea generation to experimentation, refinement, and final outcomes. As part of our Creative Arts Career Excellence Hub, you'll also benefit from employer projects, work experience, industry workshops, and valuable insight into careers across the creative sector.
What will I study?
You'll complete a series of practical projects covering topics such as:
• Exploring 2D and 3D visual communication
• Drawing, painting, and mixed-media techniques
• Photography and digital image editing
• Graphic design and visual communication
• Materials, processes, and creative experimentation
• Design development and problem solving
• Creative project planning and presentation
• Producing a final major project
• Portfolio development for progression
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is entirely coursework based and includes:
• Sketchbooks and idea development
• Practical creative projects
• Written reflections and evaluations
• Research tasks
• Final creative outcomes
• A final major project assessed by UAL
Additional Information
Throughout your course, you'll benefit from:
• Guest artists and designer talks
• Creative industry workshops
• Gallery and museum visits
• Specialist art and design studios and facilities
• Access to professional creative software
• Opportunities to respond to live and simulated industry briefs
• Portfolio development support
• Work experience opportunities
Entry Requirements
• A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9–2, including at least two at grade 4 and English and maths at grade 3, or a relevant Level 1 qualification
• A passion for art and design, supported by a creative portfolio
What can I do after this course?
Successful completion could lead to:
• Art & Design UAL Extended Diploma Level 3
• Art, Design & Communication UAL Extended Diploma
• Graphic Design & Digital Arts UAL Extended Diploma
• Creative apprenticeships
Career pathways include:
• Illustrator
• Graphic Designer
• Fashion or Textiles Designer
• Animator
• Games Artist
• Photographer
• Interior Designer
• Product Designer
• Creative Media roles
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you'll be taken through to our application portal.
Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next Open Event.
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.