UAL Diploma in Art & Design

Gain a unique creative qualification to make your university application stand out

UAL Diploma in Art & Design Overview

At CATS Boston, you will have the unique opportunity to study the University of the Arts London (UAL) Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design. This 1-year course is fundamental if you want to progress to university or college to study an art or design-based course. Through this program, you will be given the opportunity to explore a wide range of creative disciplines, unlocking a world of opportunity. You will have the freedom to experiment, providing a highly inspirational method of learning that nurtures, educates and encourages you. Students will be guided through the course to learn all the techniques needed to produce a unique, high-quality portfolio to achieve success in art school or with university applications.

Ages:
17+

Join in Grades:
12

Course Length:
1 year

Course Length:
1 Year

Eligibility:
Must have taken part in the Arts Academy in Grade 11

Start Dates:
September

Benefits:

Study a course accredited by UAL, one of the world's leading creative universities
Explore a wide range of creative disciplines
Undertake personal project work, as well as collaborate with fellow students
Learn all the techniques required to curate a personal portfolio
Develop the ability to discuss and present your work
Be taught by UAL trained instructors
Grow your confidence as a creative

What is the structure of the UAL Diploma in Art & Design?

The University of Arts London (UAL) is one of the world’s leading specialist creative universities and we, at CATS Boston, are proud to be an approved UAL center in the United States. UAL is ranked second in the world for Art and Design courses* with a focus on arts, design, fashion and media.

Accredited by the University of the Arts London Awarding Body, you can take this 1-year Diploma program while you are studying Grade 12 at CATS Academy Boston. The UAL Diploma in Art & Design is designed to prepare you for progressing onto most visual art and design related degrees.

This exciting program is delivered and assessed by instructors trained and following the guidance of UAL’s evaluators. Through the program, you will undertake three units of work which include some collaborative projects, as well as individual projects. The first unit of work is designed to broaden your skills and develop versatility. You will build confidence in discussing and presenting your work to you tutor and to others and document your creative process.

In the second unit of work, you will apply the skills gained in your first term to several projects and live briefs. You will also explore a variety of themes relevant to environmental, social, and political issues as you develop your critical and contextual skills and learn the skills necessary for university or college interviews. 

In the third unit of work, you will consolidate your practice through an agreed proposal and self-directed project. All learning takes place in person in dedicated and equipped specialist studios.

Taking this course prepares you for future study in:

Fashion
Menswear
Womenswear
Pattern Cutting
Fashion Product Design
Fashion Styling
Fashion Atelier & Tailoring

Visual Arts
Fine Arts
Photography
Fashion Photography
History of Art
Visual Arts
Sculpture
Painting
3D Arts

Graphics & Illustration
Publishing & Editorial Design
Book Illustration
Graphic Design
Visual Communication
Comic Book Illustration & Design

Student Success

“I wanted to attend an Ivy league school and CATS Academy Boston has made it possible. I have been constantly supported by my college counsellors. The environment in CATS Boston has provided me with an opportunity to excel.”

Karolina from UkraineProgressed to Brown University (#9 Best National University Ranking 2024) 

“I think CATS provides a wide array of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities. I am a Prefect for my dorm and captain of the Ultimate Frisbee team. In the U.S, they take a lot of your activities into consideration. It’s part of their holistic review process so they will not only look at your academics but also your activities or the extra experiences you’ve had outside of school.” 

David from MexicoProgressed to University of Washington (#40 Best National University Ranking 2024)

“I really enjoy the culture at CATS Boston and the atmosphere in this highly dynamic boarding school. I believe that being immersed in the environment that has over 35 nationalities is a huge benefit for students to learn about different cultures and traditions. This place has really changed not only my academic experience, but also the way that I react to the surrounding world, and really changed my perspective.” 

DoHa from VietnamDoHa received 21 college acceptances, including Columbia University, and went on to study at Georgetown University (#22 Best National University Ranking 2024)

“I would say if a student is seeking to get more opportunities and develop anything they’re passionate about, come to CATS Boston. If you want to start learning guitar or want to develop your art skills or want to debate, you can just go for it. You have the resources and everything here. You have open doors in front of you, just step in and do what you want to do.” 

Jude from Bahrain 

“My favourite thing about CATS Boston is that it offers me so many opportunities. Especially when you’re in an area like this, around Boston, around schools like Harvard, MIT, Boston College, Boston University. We take part in competitions and visits to these places which really motivates me.” 

Mia from Vietnam 

+44 122 334 1300 admissions@catsboston.com

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CATS Academy Boston
2024 - 2025

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UAL Diploma in Art & Design