UAL LEVEL 3

EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN CREATIVE PRACTICE

The UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication is equivalent to 3 A‑levels and is delivered over two years of full‑time study.

UAL LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN CREATIVE PRACTICE

WHAT THE COURSE OFFERS

The qualification is comprised of the Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication and an additional year of study that allows students to focus and develop their knowledge and skills in one specialist practice vocation.

The qualification provides an opportunity for students who have ambitions and aspirations of a career in the creative industries and arts to explore and develop their creativity in a cross‑disciplinary qualification structure that is stimulating and demanding. Students will have the opportunity to develop transferable skills, making them versatile and employable individuals as well as developing a rich contextual knowledge and understanding of their developing creative practice.

UAL LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN CREATIVE PRACTICE

course structure

The first year acts as a foundation, introducing students to a cross‑disciplinary approach to Art & Design, including Fine Art, Photography, 3D practices, Architecture, Textiles and Contextual Studies.

The second year focuses on developing a specialism, allowing students to refine their interests and progress towards further study or work through more advanced and specialist skills.

Year 1: The Creative Process
Year 1: Developing Creative Practice
Year 2: Researching a Specialist Industry
Year 2: Specialist Technical Skills
Year 2: Specialist Creative Outcome
Year 1: Responding to a Set Brief

THE DIFFERENCE

A LEVELS VS UAL DIPLOMA

A LEVELS

Applicable into a range of university subjects, not just the arts
Considered an academic subject
Can sit alongside other A levels / interests

UAL DIPLOMA

No essay to write
Advanced skills in chosen specialism
A broad and interdisciplinary approach to teaching Art & Design subject

UAL LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN CREATIVE PRACTICE

COURSE REQUIREMENTS AND ASSESSMENT

Applicants should have a strong interest in creative subjects and a practical approach to learning. A GCSE in a creative subject at Grade 5 or above (such as Art, Design Technology, Textiles, or Photography) is expected, along with motivation, commitment, and a willingness to explore ideas, develop skills, and work independently.

Assessment for the UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice is synoptic and takes place at the end of each academic year. Students are assessed through coursework and creative project work, focusing on both the development process and final outcomes. Grades are awarded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction, and the qualification is UCAS-recognised and transferable for higher education.