General Art and Design (Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma) — Full-time
Course outline
This course is perfect if you want to develop your interest in art and design in all its forms and pursue a future in the creative industries, but haven’t yet chosen an area of specialism.
In Year 2, you will further develop an area of specialism within 2D & 3D Art & Design, 2D Graphic Design & Illustration and 3D Design & Architecture. The focus on the second year is to support student progression, exploring different options and build professional practice knowledge through guest speakers, visits to universities, live briefs and industry insights.
Projects will be tailored into specialist pathways which will help students to produce a portfolio of work that can be used in applying for university, apprenticeship and employment. The course will culminate in a final major project and exhibition to the public.
You’ll learn by exploring 2D and 3D material and processes, developing ideas and concepts, solving problems and completing wide-ranging research of artists, designers, cultures and crafts.
You will take part in workshops on:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Textiles
- 3D design
- Ceramics
- Print-making
- Graphic media
- Photography
You will explore ideas and concepts through moving image, performance art and installation art and develop areas of specialist interest and study, building your confidence.
In Year 1 all BTEC Level 3 students on General Art and Design, 3D Design and Architecture and Graphic Design and Illustration will experience a broad diagnostic Term 1 and be enrolled onto a General Art and Design programme, that will provide students with grounding skills and knowledge in:
- Creative mark-making
- Research skills
- Digital recording and presentation
- Analysis and evaluation and contextual awareness
- All students will undertake practical workshops in 3D Design and Architecture, Graphic Design, Illustration and Fine Art, which will allow students to make improved informed choices about an area of specialism.
In Year 1 Term 2, students will select an area of specialism, with tutor assessment and guidance and will continue in this area into their Final Major Project in Year 1.
In Year 2, students will be enrolled directly into a specialist area of study:
- General Art and Design
- Graphic Design and Illustration
- 3D Design and Architecture
This allows in-depth development and relevant progression. You’ll create a portfolio to help secure a university place, apprenticeship or employment.
How to apply for this course
Apply online to start in 2025/26.
Want to find out more first?
Get in touch by hitting the button below and filling out our enquiry form.
Download a guide Browse careers Get in touch
Location:
25 Stoney Street
Nottingham NG1 1LP |
Date:Start: Monday 1st September 2025 |
|
Course code: C027202 / Q027204 |
|
| Qualification | Pearson BTEC Extended Diploma in Art and Design: Creative Practice |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years |
| Level | Level 3 |
| Entry requirements | You’ll need 5 GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C), including English Language and Maths – both of these must be grades 9–4 (A*–C) or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and maths, or a relevant Level 2 vocational qualification with English and Maths GCSE grades 9–4 (A*–C). You will require a GCSE Grade 9-4 in Art/Photography/Textiles/Design Technology. You will be invited to an informal interview at College with an Art and Design Tutor. You will need to bring a portfolio/folder of artwork from your GCSE Art/Design and examples of drawing completed in your own time. This will help tutors guide you onto the right course and level. |
| Teaching & assessment | All assessment is based on coursework/projects. There are 2 Assessed Units in Year 1 and 2 Assessed Units in Year 2. Students will receive on-going formative feedback throughout each project. The Final Major Project in Year 2 is weighted at 50% of the whole qualification. |
| Progression | Choose to follow with a relevant degree course, an apprenticeship or employment. We offer foundation degrees in Fine Art Practice, Graphic Design, and a top-up degree in Art and Design. There are loads of future career paths to pursue, including:
|
| Additional information | Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees. If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more! If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information. You will need to bring a portfolio/folder of art work to your interview. It important you bring work that shows drawing skill, which can be in a sketchbook. You can also bring photographs of work completed in school, 3D work and work including; fashion, textiles, ceramics, digital design. |
| Related courses |
Creative Arts at 25 Stoney Street
At 25 Stoney Street you will find facilities, classrooms and workspaces suitable to let your creative spirit and work be nurtured. We have technicians and experienced staff on hand to help you fulfil your creative potential