Ready to apply to our Extended Diplomas in Creative Practice: Art, Design, and Communication or the Foundation Diploma in Art & Design? Our post-16 Pre-Degree courses will help you build a dynamic portfolio of Art, Design, Craft or Digital Media. Preparing you for success in Higher Education or in industry. Our range of Pre-Degree study options offer something for everyone looking to further their creative practice after leaving school or reaching the age of 16.
Applications for our Pre-Degree courses are made directly to us online. If you’re exploring your post-16 options in Further Education and would like to specialise in a creative subject area within a nurturing studio environment. Whilst also being surrounded by like-minded people and knowledgeable staff, check out our Level 3 qualifications, taught at our Pre-Degree & Sixth Form Campus, just 2 minutes from Plymouth's scenic seafront and harbour.
To make an application to one of our post-GCSE study options, you can apply online through the Arts University Plymouth website by selecting your chosen Extended Diploma specialism within the Pre-Degree course listings. You'll then be invited to attend an Applicant Event where you will have a discussion with a tutor about the course. Please do bring along some of your work to show us as part of the discussion.
The Applicant Event will also be a chance for you to experience our unique learning environment, as well as discussing your options with our tutors.
When you're ready to make an application, click the ‘Apply Now’ button near the top left of your chosen course page.
Applications can be made at any time during the year. We normally offer places to students who have a minimum of four GCSEs (minimum grade 4), including English, preferably with one in a creative subject. Other variations on this entry profile may be considered, for example students with non-traditional backgrounds, particular learning needs or exceptional circumstances that have affected their ability to achieve a minimum grade 4 (grade C) in English. Applicants who apply and do not have the correct entry conditions will be invited to engage with a diagnostic assessment where Pre-Degree leaders will review the applicants capability in engaging with a full study programme over 2 years.
Once we receive your application, we will invite you to book an appointment at the next available Applicant Day. Applicant Days are an opportunity for us to learn about you, your creative potential and why you are interested in studying with us.
It is also a good moment for you to find out what we offer and gain an understanding of the studio experience.
Foundation Diploma in Art & Design, Palace Studios.
You can apply at any time during the year. However, we receive a high number of applications and have a limited number of places for this course, so we recommend that you make your application as early as possible. Our application form asks for details of your previous qualifications and any relevant work experience, as well as a short personal statement where you can tell us about yourself and your interests. At this point, we will invite you for an interview.
As part of our admissions process, you’ll have the opportunity to tell us about any learning difficulties or disabilities you may have so we can offer you appropriate support. The Foundation Diploma in Art & Design requires a full Level 3 qualification and GCSEs, including English and Maths. You can apply for a Foundation course after you've done your A-Levels, which will maximise your UCAS points, getting you ready to apply for degree-level study.
All offers are subject to interview and a portfolio or showreel of creative work that reflects your commitment, enthusiasm and passion for art, design and media.
Students are welcomed on campus for their first day of term.
All students funded through the 16 to 19 funding methodology must be enrolled on a study programme, which typically combines qualifications and other activities, and is tailored to each student’s prior attainment and career goals.
This includes where Applicants do not have English or Maths qualifications at the point of entry. Students are required to study English and or Maths until the age of 18 if they have not yet achieved a grade 4 - 9 (A-C). Attendance in English and Maths qualifications for those who study within Pre-Degree is of an equal importance to attendance within the Extended or Foundation Diploma.
For more information on your application please read our Admissions Policy linked below as a PDF.
For a personal discussion or to request an alternative format please email admissions@aup.ac.uk, call +44 (0)1752 203402 or WhatsApp us on 07722744184.
- For a place on our UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma you need to achieve four GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language or Literature)
- For a place on our UAL Foundation Diploma in Art & Design you need to achieve at least five grade 9 to 4 GCSEs (or A* to C in the old grading scheme), including English and Maths, as well as a full Level 3 qualification; this can be two A-Levels, at grade E or above (preferably with one in a creative subject).
We are also registered with the Office for Students. That means we meet their requirements for course quality, academic standards, student support, student protection and more. For more information see www.officeforstudents.org.uk/the-register.
For more information and to gain personalised advice on your application, please contact our Admissions Team.
- Call: +44 (0)1752 203400
- Email: admissions@aup.ac.uk
