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UAL Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media

UAL Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media

The UAL Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media is an exciting one-year course designed for students who are interested in developing creative skills and exploring career opportunities within the creative industries. The Media pathway provides a practical introduction to digital media production, helping students develop confidence, creativity and technical skills through a range of hands-on projects.

You will explore media disciplines such as video production, photography, animation, audio production and digital content creation while developing their understanding of the creative process. The course encourages experimentation, problem-solving and independent thinking, preparing learners for further study in creative media and related subjects.

  • Entry Requirements


    4 x GCSE's grade 2 – 9 including English and maths 

    • An interest in Media, Art or Design
    • A willingness to develop English and Maths skills where required
    • Attendance at an interview and/or presentation of creative work or portfolio

    No previous specialist media qualifications are required, although enthusiasm, creativity and commitment are essential.

  • Course Content


    The Media pathway allows students to explore a range of creative media disciplines, including:

    Digital photography Video production and editing Animation techniques Audio recording and sound editing Digital content creation Visual storytelling Research and creative development Creative problem-solving Presentation and communication skills Portfolio building

    Projects are designed to help students understand how media products are planned, created and evaluated, while encouraging experimentation with different technologies and creative approaches.

  • Progression Next Steps


    Successful completion of the course can lead to progression onto:

    UAL Level 2 Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology UAL Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design Level 2 qualifications in Photography, Film, Animation or Digital Media Apprenticeships within the creative industries Entry-level employment opportunities within creative sectors

    The qualification provides a strong foundation for learners wishing to pursue further study and careers in media production, content creation, photography, film, animation and digital communications.

  • Additional Information


    You will have access to industry-standard equipment and software used within the creative media sector. Throughout the year, you will build a portfolio of practical work that demonstrates their creative and technical development.

    The course promotes employability skills including teamwork, communication, organisation, problem-solving and project management.

  • Course Structure


    The qualification is completed over one academic year and consists of seven mandatory units. You will develop their skills through practical projects, workshops, group activities and independent study.

    The programme includes:

    Introduction to materials, processes and skills in art, design and media Contextual research and creative investigation Communication skills for creative practitioners Solving creative problems through practical projects Time-based media projects Final art, design and media project

    The course combines practical studio work with research, reflection and portfolio development.

  • Assessment Details


    Assessment is continuous throughout the course and is based on practical project work rather than final examinations.

    Students are assessed through:

    Practical media projects Digital and physical portfolios Sketchbooks and development work Research and written reflections Presentations and discussions Project outcomes and evaluations

    Assessment focuses on both the creative process and the final outcomes produced by students.

  • Teaching and Learning


    Teaching is delivered through a combination of practical workshops, demonstrations, tutorials, project-based learning and collaborative activities.

    You will:

    Learn through hands-on creative projects Develop technical skills using industry-standard equipment Work independently and as part of a team Receive regular feedback from tutors Participate in discussions, critiques and presentations Research creative practitioners and media industries Build a portfolio showcasing their achievements

    The course emphasises learning by doing, enabling you to develop confidence, creativity and practical skills in a supportive and engaging environment.