About the course

The UAL Foundation Diploma at Bristol School of Art is an intensive one-year diagnostic course designed to prepare students for undergraduate study. For many students Foundation Diploma provides an effective bridge between school education and specialist undergraduate study in the Creative Industries. We help students to develop an individual creative practice informed by specialist processes and multidisciplinary approaches.

Initially, students are introduced to our four subject areas, Materials + Making, Visual Communication, Fashion + Textiles, and Contemporary Art Practice. Towards the end of the first semester, students chose their specialist pathway. Our pathways are broad and allow for the development of interdisciplinary practice – essential for all careers within the Creative Industries. As the course progresses, students become increasingly confident writing and responding to briefs. To develop strong critical and analytical skills, students have lectures, seminars and drawing workshops on a Monday. This leads to a greater understanding of the symbiotic relationship between theory and practice. A highlight of the year is the Summer Exhibition where we showcase our students’ self-directed projects.

Our Queens Road campus at Bristol School of Art is situated in the historic art school wing of the Royal West of England Academy. This city-centre location provides a wealth of inspiration for our students. We have a range of studio spaces including specialist workshops for sculpture, small-metalwork, woodwork, ceramics, print, fashion + textiles, and drawing.