UAL Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design (Two Year)

This two-year programme provides additional time to achieve a Level 2 in English and/or Maths, with additional trips, activities, employer engagement opportunities.

This pathway gives you time to develop skills in your chosen area and improve your English and maths to a grade 4 or equivalent. Reaching this level will help you have more opportunities in the future, like getting a skilled job, an apprenticeship, or moving on to a Level 3 course.

To join this programme, you’ll need the equivalent of 4 GCSEs at grades 2 to 1, including English and maths at Level 1 or higher.

You will also be asked to show some examples of your work when you apply. This could include drawings, sketches, paintings or photography that demonstrates your creativity and potential.

You’ll build a portfolio of your work throughout the course, developing your skills across practical projects and creative assignments. Each project helps you experiment, improve and grow in confidence.

At the end of the course, you’ll complete a Final Major Project. You’ll bring together everything you’ve learned to create a final piece that showcases the artistic style you’ve developed throughout the year.

This is a highly supportive course, designed to guide your progress with clear, practical advice so you can continue building your skills and confidence.

This course is designed to prepare you for your next step.

After completing Level 2, you can progress onto a Level 3 course in Art and Design or a specialist creative subject, where you’ll develop more advanced skills and begin shaping your career direction.

You could also go on to explore specialisms in areas such as:
• Fine Art
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Photography
• 3D Design
• Digital media

You may also decide to step straight into an entry-level job or freelance in the creative sector. Entry-level roles could include studio assistant, photographer or junior designer.

There are no fees for this course if you are under 18.

If you are aged 19 or above, please contact us for more information about fees and funding.

You will have the chance to take part in lots of exciting trips and projects. From visiting museums, art exhibitions and art studios, there’s always opportunities for you to continue learning outside of the classroom.

Gain behind-the-scenes knowledge of how professional artists work as you take part in exciting industry trips and projects throughout the year. You’ll have the opportunity to work collaboratively with local creatives as you build confidence and your own artistic style. And gain a front row seat to a range of exciting expert talks, where you will meet people from the industry who can help you grow your skillset and your network.

Watch on with pride as your work is displayed across a variety of exhibitions and art shows throughout the year, including the highly anticipated end-of-year art show, and gain a unique insight into the creative industry as you work on live briefs and projects in collaboration with local artists and organisations.

You will also be encouraged to show off your design talents during exciting skills competitions where your artwork will be seen and judged by top industry professionals.

Additional Work Experience projects will be supported by our Industry Liaison Officer, who will find exciting opportunities that are right for you and your interests.

Students will be required to purchase an art pack, or the materials which come included in the pack. Prices vary and this can be discussed during interview.

You must also be prepared to undertake some additional independent study, due to the nature of the units and projects.

English and Maths are an important part of the course. If you do not yet have a grade 4/C in GCSE English and Maths, you’ll be supported to study these subjects alongside your main course.