Courses

Our Foundation Diploma, validated by University of the Arts London, is a chance for students to discover, experiment and explore across a wide range of disciplines – as well as maximise their chances of gaining a First if they decide to progress on to degree level study. We offer places to students who have an L3 qualification and a GCSE profile of at least 5 A*-C grades (or 9-4 in the grading scheme) including English and Maths and a combination of AS and A-Level qualifications (with one in a creative subject). We also welcome applications from mature students who may not have the qualification profile – but who have other experience and knowledge. All applicants need to show a portfolio of creative work that reflects their passion, enthusiasm and commitment for art, design and media.

The International Baccalaureate Careers Programme (IBCP) is an internationally-recognised framework of career-related education for post-16 students that seeks to develop confident, critical thinkers who are prepared for modern life and equipped with the cross-cultural skills needed to succeed in their future careers, within the UK and across the world. Plymouth College of Art’s new IBCP incorporates our acclaimed creative UAL Level 3 Extended Diplomas into a programme that also includes two International Baccalaureate Diploma subjects. This programme is best suited to students aged 16 to 19 who have completed at least four GCSEs at grade 9 - 4 (A* to C) including English and Maths, and are ready to progress onto an A-Level equivalent course specialising in one of our creative subjects, with plans to go on to a competitive university or ambitious career.

Our Level 3 Extended Diplomas, accredited by UAL, are equivalent to three full A-levels, or a maximum of 168 UCAS points. Students will be supported to progress to Higher Education at Plymouth College of Art, another university or into employment. We normally offer places to students who have at least four GCSEs at grade A* to C including English and preferably with one in a creative subject (or 9-4 in the new grading scheme), and who show commitment and enthusiasm for art and design through examples of creative work.

Alongside one of our creative UAL Level 3 Extended Diplomas in Art & Design, equivalent to three A-Levels, all International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) students will also complete two IB Diploma subjects, each broadly equivalent to either an A-Level or AS-Level depending on whether they are studied at Higher or Standard Level. All IB Diplomas and the Levels that they are taught are subject to demand - for this reason, applicants must list three IB Diplomas on their application, in order of preference.

The UAL Awarding Body Level 2 Award and Diploma in Art & Design course is a fantastic developmental programme supporting learners to access our Extended Diploma programmes. This course is best suited to students who are keen to progress further in art, design and media, but who don’t yet have the qualifications or experience necessary to be successful at Level 3 (including A-Levels or Extended Diplomas in Art & Design).