Art and Design Foundation Studies at Loughborough is a fast-paced, creative, and engaging year that allows students to develop and explore their artistic abilities before choosing an undergraduate degree.
Successful completion of the course leads to a UAL (University of the Arts London) Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design Foundation Studies, meeting the entry requirements for progression to undergraduate courses in art and design.
The Foundation year is a transitional course that teaches a broad range of skills. It is an ideal choice for those who are unsure which degree course to pursue, or whether university is the right path for them. It enables students to experience four key disciplines—Textiles and Fashion, Visual Communication, Fine Art, and 3D Design—helping them make more informed decisions about specialisms and career directions. The course is also suitable for applicants who do not yet meet the entry requirements for an undergraduate art and design programme.
The course is structured in three parts:
- Diagnostic Investigation into Creative Practice (9 weeks) – Students rotate across the key disciplines.
- Developing Specialist Practice (12 weeks) – Students select and focus on their chosen specialism.
- Consolidating Practice (9 weeks) – Students undertake a final major project.