Art and Design

If you’re completely new to art and design but would like to get stuck in straight away, this introductory, Level 1 Diploma is the ideal place to begin. It’s designed to develop a foundation of practical skills and knowledge in art and design, helping you to progress onto higher levels of study.

You’ll get to work on a diverse range of creative assignments, covering areas such as animation, print, fashion, photography and mixed media. Some projects will include live briefs, giving you the chance to work directly with employers and develop first hand experience.

As part of the course, you’ll also develop a host of essential study skills that will help you through any subject or future employment, including how to research effectively, how to think creatively, how to manage your time, and how to work well in a team. As with nearly all of our creative qualifications, this Diploma is awarded by University of the Arts London Awarding Body - the only specialist creative arts awarding body in the UK.

Please Click Here to view the specific entry requirements for our 16-18 Study Programmes.

Work Experience is a vital part of the course and you will be supported in finding a work placement relevant to your study.

For this Level 1 Diploma, you’ll be assessed through a series of integrated art & design projects. All assessment briefs are designed to combine your practical skills and creative thinking. You may also take part in some presentations, group discussions and computer workshops.

After completing this Level 1 Diploma in Art & Design, the ideal next step is to progress onto our Level 2 course here at The Manchester College. You’ll be able to advance your creative abilities and develop your expertise further with more independent and challenging projects.

You’ll also continue to learn the essential skills that will help you succeed in any career in the design & visual arts industry.

Most equipment for this course will be provided, but you’re expected to buy your own materials for the Final Major Project. Any trips or visits are usually funded by yourself, but can be subsidised by the college at times.

You’ll find that there’s lots of different support available to help you pay for College and finance your education, including tuition fee loans, special grants and bursaries, and a number of extra funding opportunities, depending on your circumstances. You can find out everything you need to know on our dedicated Fees, Finance and Funding page.

Our course enquiries team is on-hand to answer any questions you might have about this qualification, the application process, enrolment, or anything else about life at The Manchester College.