Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

This transformative course develops your creative practice and critical independence needed to progress in the creative sector. It challenges preconceptions, expands your practice through problem-solving, idea generation, and critical thinking. Originally developed at the University in the 1950s, this course is a respected and nationally recognised qualification, with an ever growing number of notable alumni.The course encourages students to take creative risks, exploring a variety of ideas, media and techniques to develop their own creative style. Learning through playful experimentation will develop lateral-thinking strategies that allow students to approach problems from new perspectives.Based at the University’s Vernon Street site in central Leeds, the Foundation Diploma has three stages guiding students to identify or confirm their specialist practice. Your tutors will guide you on the development of an individual portfolio to help you progress within the creative sector. You will be taught by staff with experience across a range of disciplines, and have access to specialist workshops, library, and a variety of online resources.The course helps you make informed decisions and gain a broader understanding of the career opportunities within the specialist pathway areas. You will have insights from Higher Education tutors, industry professionals and alumni, and access an independent careers advice service. Our students’ diverse experience and innovative portfolios often lead to a range of prestigious, highly competitive degree courses, including those at Leeds Arts University.