National Diploma Art & Design
Course
In Leeds
Description
-
Type
Course
-
Location
Leeds
-
Duration
2 Years
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
About this course
It is normally expected that you will hold at least four GCSEs at grade C or above, or a BTEC First Diploma at a merit or above. You will be asked to present a portfolio showing your interest and ability in art, design and/or technology.
Reviews
Course programme
What it's all about?
Over the two years, you'll develop a wide range of skills and gain a better understanding of the requirements of the art and design creative industries, this course enables you to study a wide range of art and design subjects, in order to discover where your strengths lie, and you'll build up a portfolio of work enabling you to apply to a Higher Education course in your chosen specialist area.
Course content
First year
This is an introduction to the many aspects of art and design. You'll develop your general art and design skills by working through a range of assignments, including photography, print-making, model-making, drawing/painting, sculpture, textiles and graphics.
Throughout the course, you'll study the work of other artists, designers and craftspeople, developing an understanding of the historical and cultural context of art and design. Towards the end of the first year, you'll work on a final project, which will help you to confirm your specialist area for the remainder of the course.
Second year
This will be spent studying your selected specialist area, from one of the following:
Graphic Design: You'll extend your knowledge of materials and processes, and gain a greater insight into the role of graphic design in our society. Projects will include publishing and product packaging. You'll use a range of techniques, including desktop publishing on an Apple Mac using state-of-the-art software, photography and traditional media (for example, print-making). Potential careers include graphic designer, illustrator, creative director, advertising, typographer or photographer.
3D Design: You'll develop your knowledge of 3D materials and processes through a range of projects which include product and interior design, incorporating a range of materials including wood, plaster, metal and plastics. You'll also use drawing and model-making to develop your ideas. Potential careers include product designer, interior designer, set designer, model-maker and furniture designer.
Fine Art: Developing your own practice as a fine artist, you'll be encouraged to take an exploratory and open-minded approach to ideas and processes. You'll explore a wide range of media and techniques including print-making, photography, drawing, painting, mixed media and 3D. You'll also study the concepts underlying contemporary and past artists' work. Potential careers include illustrator, painter, sculptor, photographer, printmaker, teacher and lecturer.
Textiles/Fashion: You'll extend your knowledge of materials, techniques and processes across a wide range of textile/fashion contexts. Various assignments will develop your ideas through extensive visual research, using drawing, painting, colour and mixed media. Potential careers include textile designer, furnishing fabric designer, fashion designer, craftsperson, fashion illustrator and stylist.
Assessment
Your work will be assessed by a combination of continual internal assessment which is subject to external moderation.
Live briefs
Live briefs will take place during your second year, giving you the opportunity to understand the working practices of a variety of art and design roles.
Resources
You will make full use of the resources at the College, including art and design studios and well-equipped workshops in print-making, textile print, photography, 3D and computers.
Study visits
Day-study visits take place in both years of the course, at a variety of national art galleries and exhibitions.
Progression & career opportunities
Most students decide to progress to BA (Hons) degrees, foundation degrees or HNDs in their chosen specialist area of art or design. Full guidance is given to help you make appropriate choices.
Additional information
National Diploma Art & Design