Foundation Degree Arts - Metalwork

Entry requirements

• UCAS tariff points: 120 - Completion of level 3 qualifications, for example: A-Levels, BTEC or Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.
• Applicants can be considered if they can provide evidence of prior learning and provide a digital portfolio.
• E portfolio of work related to application (optional at point of application. A portfolio will be requested if shortlisted for an interview) The portfolio should evidence commitment to the discipline. It could include sketchbooks, technical and material exploration, design work, project development from start to finish, detailed images of finished work. Where possible, applicants are encouraged to include a video of working on a practical exercise as part of the portfolio, of which the College can provide guidance if required (see below). If applicants cannot provide a portfolio, the College will provide a practical exercise that can be done remotely to asses mental agility and dexterity and suitability for this skills based programme.
• International students must provide evidence of English language ability to Level B2 (IELTS 6.0), as well as equivalent level 3 qualifications.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The Foundation Degree (FdA) Metalwork at West Dean is a technical and design skills-building programme, which will introduce you to the creation of the widest range of hand-crafted and small scale batch produced metal artefacts; from silversmithing to blacksmithing, from jewellery to bronze-casting, from bike frames to light fittings and from door handles to padlocks. Ranging massively in scale and context these objects are all linked by the common skillset that you will develop, covering making, designing and problem-solving. Through professional practice modules, you will enhance your prospects as an independent designer maker. Projects will become increasingly challenging, and more self-led as the course progresses. You will be encouraged to understand the history of craft practice as well as the concerns of the contemporary craft sector, in order to place your own work in a broader context. You will take part in a number of national competitions and gain a keen understanding of the time and effort needed to create a piece of work in a creative, workshop and studio environment.

On successful completion of this course graduates can advance into the workplace or set up as freelance makers. If however, you wish to progress further in higher education, then those who are interested in making are able to undertake an additional year to achieve a BA (Hons) Craft Practices, and potentially progress on to our MFA Crafts Practices, which has a ceramics pathway. For those interested in pursuing a career in conservation they can advance onto the Graduate Diploma and MA in Conservation Studies.

Fees and funding

Scholarships and Bursaries are available based on individual need.