Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The Foundation Diploma in Art & Design provides a broad exploratory year across core art and design disciplines before you specialise for degree study. Teaching combines practical studio work, contextual studies and project-based learning. Typical areas covered include:

• Drawing and visual communication — observational drawing, life drawing, experimental mark-making and visual literacy.
• Three-dimensional studies — model-making, sculpture, ceramics and spatial design approaches.
• Design and applied practice — basic graphic design, product and furniture design processes, typography and layout.
• Textiles and surface design — fabric manipulation, surface pattern, print and material exploration.
• Digital media and image-making — digital photography, image editing, introductory animation and digital portfolio production.
• Contextual and critical studies — art history, contemporary practice, visual culture and research methods that inform practical work.

Delivery is studio-based with workshops, seminars and crits. Assessment is through a portfolio of project work, a written or visual research project and a final exhibition. The programme emphasises transferable skills: idea development, creative problem solving, time and project management, and presenting work for selection panels.

Structure

The course runs across a full academic year and is typically divided into a series of themed modules or projects that increase in complexity. Early units focus on materials and basic processes; later units encourage personal direction and specialism to build a coherent portfolio for UCAS or direct degree application. You will receive regular tutor tutorials and participate in group critiques and exhibition preparation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have standard secondary qualifications such as GCSEs and/or equivalent qualifications. Typical entry is from candidates without the subject-specific A-levels required for direct degree entry, or those seeking to develop a stronger portfolio. The application normally requires:

• GCSE passes including English at an appropriate level or acceptable equivalent qualifications.
• A portfolio of creative work; if you do not have a large portfolio, colleges will consider sketchbooks, schoolwork and evidence of creative engagement. Some applicants are invited to interview or a practical task.
• Mature applicants are assessed on a combination of prior learning, experience and portfolio evidence.

English language requirements apply for international applicants; details are available from the university. Specific entry conditions can vary, so prospective students should consult Oxford Brookes’ admissions guidance for up-to-date information.

Career prospects

The Foundation Diploma prepares you to progress to undergraduate degrees in a wide range of subjects, including fine art, graphic design, illustration, textiles, product design, architecture-related courses, photography, animation and theatre design. Graduates commonly move into:

• BA/BDes honours programmes at Oxford Brookes or other UK universities.
• Further specialist training such as art and design teacher training, professional apprenticeships or vocational courses.
• Creative and cultural sector roles after degree study, including careers in design studios, galleries, museums, publishing, fashion, advertising, freelance creative practice and digital media.

Employers value the practical portfolio, creative thinking and project experience gained on this course, which support applications for both higher education and entry-level creative positions.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has a well-established arts provision with practical facilities and technical support suited to foundation-level study. The university offers access to well-equipped workshops for ceramics, printmaking, textiles, digital media and model-making, alongside studio spaces for individual and group projects. Teaching is delivered by staff with professional practice and academic experience, and the course includes frequent feedback through tutorials and crits to develop your portfolio.

The city setting provides opportunities to engage with a rich cultural environment, regional creative industries and design networks. The Foundation Diploma has established progression routes into a variety of undergraduate programmes at Oxford Brookes as well as recognised transferability to other institutions, helping students make a considered choice about specialism before committing to degree-level study.