Level 2
Art and Design, UAL Diploma
Level 2
Art and Design, UAL Diploma
If you’re passionate about creativity and want to develop your artistic skills for future study or a career in the creative industries, this UAL Diploma is the perfect next step. You’ll explore a wide range of art and design disciplines, build an impressive portfolio, and gain the confidence and technical ability needed to progress in this exciting sector.
Course Overview
This hands-on, immersive programme gives you the chance to experiment with a variety of creative practices such as drawing, painting, 3D design, photography, graphics, and digital media. You’ll learn through practical workshops, creative briefs, and structured projects that help you understand your strengths and develop your personal style.
You’ll study at Knightstone Campus, where you’ll work in specialist studios and digital suites using industry-standard equipment and materials. Our industry-experienced lecturers will guide you through each stage of the creative process – from idea generation and research to experimentation, refinement, and final outcomes.
As part of our Creative Arts Career Excellence Hub, you will work on real or simulated industry briefs, build industry-relevant skills, and gain valuable insight into careers within the creative sector through work experience in the industry.
What will I study?
You will complete a series of engaging and practical units 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 experimentation
- Design development and problem solving
- Creative project planning and presentation
- Producing a final major project
- Portfolio building for progression
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is based entirely on coursework, including:
- Sketchbooks and idea development
- Practical design projects
- Written reflections
- Research tasks
- Final creative outcomes
- A final major project assessed by UAL
Additional Information
Throughout your course, you will benefit from:
- Guest artists and designer talks
- Creative industry workshops
- Gallery and museum trips
- Specialist art and design facilities
- Access to professional creative software
- Opportunities to respond to live or simulated briefs
- Support with building a high-quality portfolio
- Work experience opportunities
Entry Requirements
- A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9–2, with at least two at grade 4, including English and maths at grade 3, or a qualifying Level 1 qualification
- A passion for art and a creative portfolio of work
What can I do after this course?
You can progress onto:
- Art & Design, UAL Extended Diploma Level 3
- Art, Design & Communication, UAL Extended Diploma
- Graphic Design & Digital Arts, UAL Extended Diploma
- Creative Apprenticeships
Your future career options could 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.
What 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.
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