BTEC Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

Who is the course for?

This course is for anyone who would like to become a professional artist or designer, and those who want to study art and design at university.

Do I need any formal qualifications?

You will need to have five GCSEs at grade C or above, or 3 GCSEs at grade C or above plus one A Level. You will normally need to be at least 18 by 31 December of the year you join the course.

What will I study on the course?

You will study the course in three stages: Stage 1: The Exploratory Phase, where you have the opportunity to study the many and varied aspects of art and design including fine art (painting, sculpture, print making, photography studies), fashion and textiles, graphic design and computer imaging and 3D design. Stage 2: The Pathways Stage, during which you select one of the above areas to study in. Stage 3: The Confirmatory Stage, this consists of the final major project. This work will represent a culmination of the knowledge you have acquired so far and is graded either Refer Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction.

How is the course organised

This is a one year course if studied full time or a two year course if studied part time. As well as studio work there are several educational and gallery visits to Rome, Edinburgh, London and other field trips related to projects. On this course there is a high level of contact with lecturers who are all experienced professionals in their field. You will be given practical help in portfolio presentation and the expert advice that will enable you to make an informed decision about your future academic or career opportunities.

How will my progress be assessed?

Your progress will be assessed by experienced lecturers. This course provides an intensive learning experience in a creative, user-friendly environment. Through the study of a wide range of art and design disciplines, you will have the opportunity to explore your practical skills and to learn how to develop and analyse ideas. Drawing underpins all these activities, and the study of the history of art provides a theoretical base.

What final qualification will I get if I am successful?

EDEXCEL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (QCF) Level 3

Can I receive any financial support whilst I am studying?

Many of our learners study for free with a "Fee Waiver" when they are in receipt of qualifying benefits or studying a first full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification and meet age restrictions or are aged between 16-18. If you are not entitled to a "Fee Waiver" you may be entitled to receive Learner Support Funds to help with paying your course fees, or if you are aged over 23 and planning to study at Level 3 or 4 you will be able to apply for a 24+ Loan that cover all of your course costs. Higher Education learners are entitled to apply for HE Loans that cover the cost of tuition. In addition, depending on your chosen course of study and individual circumstances, you may be entitled to a maintenance loan.

Please note, from September 2016, anyone over 19 years of age can apply for a loan to cover all course fees for qualifying courses.

All learners can also apply for help with the cost of travel to college and the college may be able to help with the costs of childcare, travel, books, equipment and meals.

Please note for full cost courses funding may not be available.

For more information our Help Hub team is available on 01670 841 200 or email advice.centre@northland.ac.uk

How can I apply for this course?

Apply online by clicking here, alternatively please contact our Help Hub on 01670 330 660, email advice.centre@northland.ac.uk or drop in to one of our open events – dates are listed here http://www.northumberland.ac.uk/events/

Alternatively, if this is the course for you please click Book and Enrol Now – please note this option is only available to certain courses.

Where can I get any further information about the course?

You may find further information within this website including within case studies and our media gallery. You may also come along to an open event – dates of college events are listed here http://www.northumberland.ac.uk/events/

Download/Print Course Details Northumberland College has two main campuses at Ashington and Kirkley Hall and centres at Hexham and Berwick. We offer hundreds of full-time and part-time courses, work with students aged 14-18, mature students, higher education students and employers from numerous industry sectors.Our Ashington campus was opened in 1957 and is home to a wide range of subjects - all housed in specialist facilities including those for art and design, construction, engineering, sport, hospitality and beauty therapy. Our Kirkley Hall campus, in Ponteland, has a long established history as the main provider of land-based education and training in the region, stretching back more than 50 years. So if you want to study animal care, agriculture or horticulture, this campus will provide the perfect environment for you. Life at Northumberland College is about more than just studying; it's about meeting new people, enjoying new experiences, developing new skills and spending time with friends.