Integrated Foundation - Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Art and Design

The Art and Design Foundation Year is designed to support progression onto a range of undergraduate art and design degree programmes by helping students strengthen and expand their creative skills. It is particularly suited to those returning to education, transitioning from non-art backgrounds, or who do not yet meet the entry requirements for degree-level study.

Delivered in a dynamic and supportive environment, the course encourages creative exploration, practical skill development, and conceptual thinking, underpinned by critical understanding, academic writing, and emerging theoretical knowledge. Students engage in both individual and collaborative projects, with guidance from teaching staff across a variety of art and design disciplines, helping to prepare them for progression onto their chosen degree.

Throughout the year, students are challenged to experiment with different methods, materials, and approaches, while reflecting on their work in relation to historical, contemporary, and future contexts. Learning is supported through tutorials and small group discussions, enabling the development of both academic confidence and independent thinking.

The programme is structured to gradually build skills and autonomy, with early modules focusing on core creative principles, research, and study skills, and later modules encouraging greater independence, integration of research and practice, and informed decision-making in preparation for undergraduate study.