OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of the Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art & Design) is to educate students to make informed decisions facilitating necessary progression to appropriate higher education in art and design.

The Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art & Design) builds on the students' prior experience, linking skills already acquired with ideas and challenges which will extend students' critical independence and enable them to demonstrate a full understanding of the application of art and design, relevant to progression opportunities and career choice

The integrated nature of the programme is essential in the context of the present complexities within the higher education sector where specialist provision sits alongside modular schemes.

PROGRAMME

The Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art & Design) comprises nine units, all of which are mandatory. These units are designed to form three stages. This staged structure supports the progressive development of the student and the incremental increase towards independent and self-reliant learning.

The following illustrates the unit structure of the course:

1. Exploratory Stage

• Unit 1 Information & Research
• Unit 2 Recording & Responding
• Unit3 Media Experimentation

2. Pathway Stage

• Unit 4 Information & Interpretation
• Unit 5 Combined Experimental Studies
• Unit 6 Media Development
• Unit 7 Preparation & Progression

3. Confirmatory Stage

• Unit 8 Integrated Studies
• Unit 9 Personal Confirmatory Study

AWARD

• Diploma Certificate in Foundation (Art & Design)