16-18 Courses, 16-18: Vocational

Art and Design: Art and Design Pathway (Level 3 Extended Diploma)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

GCSE Average Points Score: 3.50, Grade 4 English Language GCSE, Grade 4 Maths GCSE, 5 GCSEs at Grade 4

Course information

If you're creative, curious, and ready to explore, this course is your launchpad. You'll dive into areas such as fine art, 3D design, fashion/textiles, photography, print and graphics, working with both traditional tools and digital tech. Discover what kind of artist or designer you want to be—and build the skills to make it happen.

You’ll work in awesome studio spaces packed with everything from printmaking to photography and Apple Macs. You’ll be supported by tutors who know the industry and will help you build your portfolio and find your creative voice.

Highlights:

  • No exams! All coursework, all creative.
  • Equivalent to 3 A-levels (or 1.5 if you take just Year 1).
  • End each year with your own Final Major Project (FMP).
  • Only 4 units across 2 years – simple and focused.
  • Exclusive access to workshops, masterclasses, work experience and mentoring opportunities thanks to our links with our industry partners Full access to our Adobe Creative Cloud apps—including Photoshop, Lightroom, Illustrator, After Effects and more—at college and at home, so you can keep creating anytime, anywhere.

You’ll grow core creative skills in:

  • Developing and exploring ideas Solving design problems
  • Using technical tools & techniques
  • Professional practice
  • Communicating your vision

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

Higher Education

  • Progress to university to study Fine Art, Architecture/Interior Design, Fashion/Textiles, Photography, Graphic Design, Marketing
  • Get into top creative arts universities like Central St Martins, London School of Fashion, Camberwell College of Arts, Chelsea College of Arts, and Ravensbourne University.
  • Use your portfolio to impress in competitive degree and foundation applications

Industry & Creative Careers

  • Entry-level roles in galleries, studios, or creative organisations
  • Freelance opportunities as an artist or maker
  • Launch your own business selling art, prints, or handmade goods
  • Explore creative apprenticeships in visual arts, design, or craft-based industries
  • Creative skills like idea generation, critical thinking, and project management are transferable and highly valuable in a broad range of sectors

Life At NCC

Discover what life is like at the largest college in East London today!

Facilities for Students

At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.

Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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