BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
Art and Design Foundation Year - BA (Hons)
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Birmingham School of ArtStudy Location
- Experimentation FocusCreative Approach
- Diverse Progression OptionsDegree Pathways
- State-of-the-Art FacilitiesResources
- Supportive StaffLearning Environment
This foundation year course at Birmingham City University is designed to prepare students for successful progression to a range of Art and Design degree programs. It is particularly suitable for those returning to formal study, coming from non-arts backgrounds, or who haven't yet met direct degree entry requirements. Students will develop creative skills, expand practical knowledge, and explore conceptual development in a dynamic learning environment. The program encourages experimentation across various art and design disciplines, fostering critical understanding and academic confidence. It provides opportunities for collaborative projects, developing employability skills, and preparing students for the rigors of undergraduate study with support from experienced BA teaching staff. Successful completion allows progression to degree courses such as Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, and Digital Animation.
Curriculum
The course challenges students with projects that broaden technical and critical understanding, encouraging analysis of methods and materials, and questioning creative positions within historical and contemporary contexts. Practical and written research is supported through tutorials and discussion groups.
- Foundation Year
- Experimental and Broad Module
- Core Principles of Creative Practice (Technical confidence, research, study skills, productivity)
- Self-Directed Project (Autonomy, research-practice integration, decision making, technical competency)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Art and Design Foundation Year?
- You will need 80 UCAS Tariff points. This can be achieved through qualifications such as A Levels (CDD or equivalent), BTEC, T Level, or an Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at level 3 (grade C or above).
- How do I apply for this programme?
- Applications are made through UCAS. You will need to register, complete your application, provide referee details, and pay the application fee.
- What are the application deadlines?
- The on-time application closing date is around October 1st in the year prior to entry. Late applications may be accepted subject to availability until the end of August annually.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International tuition fees are not specified here and can be found on the 'Fees and How to Apply' tab on the course page.
- What is the duration of the Art and Design Foundation Year?
- This programme is a one-year foundation course designed to prepare you for a BA (Hons) degree.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Foundation Year?
- Upon successful completion, you will be well-prepared to progress to specialist BA (Hons) degree courses in Art and Design, leading to careers in the creative industries.
Entry requirements
UCAS Tariff points80 UCAS Tariff points
A Level / AS LevelA Level: 80 UCAS Tariff points / CDD (or equivalent); AS Level must be in a different subject to A Levels; A maximum of four subjects considered
Pearson BTEC (Diploma / Extended Diploma/ Extended Certificate)80 UCAS Tariff points. Diploma accepted with one A Level or equivalent; Extended Certificate accepted with two A Levels or equivalent.
T LevelPass overall (C or above on the core). All subjects accepted, Craft and Design preferred.
Access to HE DiplomaPass with 60 credits, 45 credits at level 3. Arts, Media and Publishing subjects preferred but others considered.
OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications80 UCAS Tariff points
NCFE CACHE Level 3 qualifications80 UCAS Tariff points
WJEC Level 3 qualifications80 UCAS Tariff points. Considered with two A Levels or equivalent.
Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers)Minimum of 80 UCAS Tariff points, achieved in five Higher level subjects.
Scottish Higher / Advanced Higher80 UCAS Tariff points from three Advanced Highers (DDD) or two Advanced Highers (DD) plus two Highers (DD).
Welsh Baccalaureate80 UCAS Tariff points. Considered with three A Levels or equivalent.
This course does not require evidence of GCSE qualifications.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the 'Fees and How to Apply' tab on the course page for specific international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the 'Fees and How to Apply' tab on the course page for specific home tuition fees.
LivingAs part of your Student Visa application, you will need to demonstrate sufficient funds for your first year of study. Birmingham City University provides guidance on managing finances and estimated living costs for the UK.
Annual tuition fees cover everyday tuition, examination costs, and Students’ Union membership. They do not cover textbooks or other course materials. Your fee status (home or overseas) will determine the tuition rate. You can complete a Fee Status Questionnaire if you believe you qualify for home fees.
How to apply
1. 1. Register with UCASGo to the UCAS Conservatoires website to register. You will need to enter your personal details (name, date of birth, address). A username will be generated, and you will choose a password. Make sure to record these details.
2. 2. Login and Complete Your ApplicationLogin to the UCAS site with your username and password to continue. You can save and return to your application at any time. The application must be completed in English. If you are a UK applicant, select 'Royal Birmingham Conservatoire' as the assessment method (Note: This instruction appears on a Music course application page, but may apply more generally for UCAS applications).
3. 3. Provide Referee Contact DetailsNominate one referee who can comment on your academic and/or creative ability. Your referee should know you well enough to assess your suitability for higher education. References from family, relatives, or friends are not accepted by UCAS. The university will contact your referee directly if a reference is required.
4. 4. Pay Application FeesThere is a one-off application fee payable to UCAS upon submission. For 2025 entry onwards, an additional non-refundable audition fee is payable to the Conservatoire through the UCAS system. Payments can be made online via credit or debit card (with cardholder consent if not your own) or by alternative methods like cheque or bank transfer.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Art and Design Foundation Year?
+
You will need 80 UCAS Tariff points. This can be achieved through qualifications such as A Levels (CDD or equivalent), BTEC, T Level, or an Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at level 3 (grade C or above).
How do I apply for this programme?
+
Applications are made through UCAS. You will need to register, complete your application, provide referee details, and pay the application fee.
What are the application deadlines?
+
The on-time application closing date is around October 1st in the year prior to entry. Late applications may be accepted subject to availability until the end of August annually.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International tuition fees are not specified here and can be found on the 'Fees and How to Apply' tab on the course page.
What is the duration of the Art and Design Foundation Year?
+
This programme is a one-year foundation course designed to prepare you for a BA (Hons) degree.
What are the career prospects after completing the Foundation Year?
+
Upon successful completion, you will be well-prepared to progress to specialist BA (Hons) degree courses in Art and Design, leading to careers in the creative industries.