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Art and Design - Level 2

Summary

This Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design will provide you with the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to progress to Level 3 which in turn will give you the opportunity to study visual arts at degree-level.

The course provides an opportunity for those with an interest in this subject area to explore, develop and test creativity, and provides a supportive atmosphere in which to learn the key techniques that form the foundation for further study.

You will produce a portfolio of work exploring different media and art practices to help you begin to develop your own artistic style.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
29 Jan 2025
University Centre
18 Weeks
29 Jan 2026
University Centre
18 Weeks

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

The majority of learners progress onto our Level 3 Diploma in Art in Design which then allows them to progress to degree-level study in a number of different artistic disciplines.

Learners may also apply for Level 3 Creative Apprenticeships to gain further qualifications in the workplace.

The North West has a burgeoning creative industry supported by significant investment in recent projects including Media City, Salford.

Key information

Qualification obtained

Diploma in Art and Design

Fees and funding

Some courses are fully funded for adult learners and, for those that aren't, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

You may also be eligible for financial support which can include help with childcare. To check if you're eligible and to apply for financial help, please visit our page on Fees and Finance for Adult Learners.

Extra costs and equipment

Learners will have access to industry standard equipment from the beginning of the course.

All learners will have available to them a supply of basic materials at the start of the course.

Learners are encouraged to purchase their own materials to support their studies.

Learners will also have access to industry standard software such as Photoshop, Illustration and 'Solid Works'. Access to laser cutting and 3D printing is also available to learners on this course. We have large fully equipped traditional print room that is used to support learner's projects.

Essential materials such as sketch books are supplied initially as well as access to specialist and industry standard equipment. Learners thereafter, are expected to cover the costs of their art materials and an indicative list of materials is supplied at the start of the course.

Regulation and Accreditation

Accrediting Institution: N/A

Awarding Body: UAL

Terms and conditions

Read our full terms and conditions for more information.

What will I learn?

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

The course encourages learners to attend research trips organised by Blackpool School of Arts.

Previous research trips have taken students to Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Tate Liverpool, The Walker Art Gallery, Royal Academy, National Gallery, Tate Modern and Tate Britain.

Research trips play an important role on the course and learner projects.

You will be working on practical assignments where you will be producing art and design work, with a wide variety of techniques, materials, and methods.

In addition you will be given the opportunity to investigate experimental approaches to your work, combining traditional and digital methods. You will be expected to research, plan, explore, develop, produce and then evaluate and reflect on your ideas.

The primary teaching method is specialist workshop based demonstration and experimentation which is supported by individual and group-based projects and briefs.

How will I learn?

You will be working on practical assignments where you will be producing art and design work, with a wide variety of techniques, materials and methods.

In addition you will be given the opportunity to investigate experimental approaches to your work, combining traditional and digital methods. You will be expected to research, plan, explore, develop, produce and then evaluate and reflect on your ideas.

The primary teaching method is specialist workshop based demonstration and experimentation which is supported by individual and group based projects and briefs.

Expert tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of adult education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.

The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

Through this course you will:

  • Have a critical and contextual awareness of different perspectives and approaches within art, design or related subjects of study or work
  • Research, analyse and evaluate relevant information and ideas in order to develop creative solutions
  • Understand, adapt and safely use appropriate and practical methods and skills for creative production
  • Solve complex problems through the application of art, design or related practical, theoretical and technical understanding
  • Critically review the effectiveness and appropriateness of methods, actions and results
  • Use evaluative and reflective skills in order to take responsibility for own learning, development and decision-making
  • Take responsibility for the research, planning, time management and actions to access progression opportuniities
  • Effectively present yourself and your work to appropriate audiences