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This Foundation Art, Design and Media Practice diploma can enable you to explore and experiment across a range of creative disciplines.
Year of entry
2026-27
Location
Coventry University (Coventry)
Study mode
Full-time
Duration
1 year full-time
Course code
AHF001
Start date
September 2026
The foundation diploma is a one-year, full-time preparatory course to prepare you for studio-based undergraduate higher education programmes.
We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.
The foundation year is focused on applied learning through a blend of lectures, tutorials and online learning. There are no end-of-year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework, which is more reflective of a working environment. This qualification is designed to provide the knowledge, skills and understanding to prepare you for further study or training. You will study one mandatory module that covers six areas of learning:
A diverse approach to teaching, learning and practice of the content is encouraged to support inclusion, deep understanding, experimental development and differentiation.
The course has a single-module structure and you will work on a series of projects that address the six learning outcomes.
A decision of Pass, Merit or Distinction will be made for each criterion. In order to be awarded a qualification, you must complete all criteria at Pass or above.
Whatever your aspirations are in art, design and media, tutors and lecturers are here to guide you towards achieving your individual goals. Critical studies work and practical projects have been designed to introduce a wide range of issues concerned with visual understanding, media, material handling, careers, art and design history, skill acquisition, knowledge and independent learning. With the help of tutors and subject specialists, you will be supported to develop your own personal interests. The foundation course curriculum focuses on individual, group and co-operative ways of working.
Spencer Whiting, Course Director, 2024
Typical entry requirements:
Student | Full-time | Part-time |
---|---|---|
UK | Free* per year | Not available |
International | 2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £16,800 per year |
Not available |
*Typically, if you are a UK student and 18 years of age on 31 August prior to the start of the course, payment of tuition fees will not be required. More information on eligibility is available here. Applicants should check our website for the latest information regarding fees before applying or accepting offers.
Should these terms change, we would inform all applicants and students as soon as possible.
For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.
We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.
Staff will advise you on the materials and equipment you will need for specific projects during this course. You will be expected to ensure you have the required materials throughout that relate to your own particular focus. In general, we would expect all students to have a basic materials kit and a list will be provided with suggestions to get you started. You will be required to purchase materials and equipment yourself as it is not included within your tuition fees.
The Delia Derbyshire building lies at the heart of our Coventry city campus. This multi-million pound investment in the arts is home to the School of Arts and Creative Industries and the School of Social Sciences and Humanities. First opened to students in 2023, the spaces enable you to mix with like-minded students, getting hands-on with cross-disciplinary projects or immersing yourself in the studios with cutting-edge virtual reality and mixed-reality technologies. Our aim is to bring you sector-leading facilities helping you explore your way to your future career.4
Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.
When you’ve successfully completed your foundation diploma, you will have a broad portfolio demonstrating a range of skills.
You will have carefully explored your progression options, which will help you to make an informed decision about undergraduate study. You should be more confident and able to work independently in a professional manner in your chosen pathway.
Many of our students take advantage of the internal progression routes and apply for courses within the School of Arts and Creative Industries.
Typically, our students have progressed to degree level courses in the following subjects: Fashion; Fine Art, Fine Art and Illustration, Illustration and Animation, Interior Design, Product Design, Automotive Design, Photography, Games Art, Graphics and Architecture. Many of these courses offer the opportunity to complete placement years in industry, providing valuable real-life experience.2