Pre-degree & Foundation
Courses for 2020 entry
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One and two year courses to prepare you for a degree
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You’ll get the best start to your creative career
You’ll belong to a caring, creative community
You’ll fulfil your creative potential with our specialist facilities
You’ll be inspired by our beautiful campus locations
You’ll be taught by our team of experts
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Welcome to UCA
Sarah Clark Head of School, Further Education
If you’re passionate about a future in art and design or creative business, you’ve come to the right place. We have a range of further education courses here at UCA which are designed to help you realise your creative potential and prepare you for a career in the creative industries. At UCA, all of our campuses are devoted to creative courses and our pre-degree students are an integral part of university life, working with the same industry quality equipment as our undergraduate and postgraduate students. You’ll be part of a community where creative ideas and passions are shared on a daily basis, where students of all levels inspire one another to create extraordinary work. Our pre-degree (further education) courses offer you the opportunity to explore the wide range of art, craft, design and media subject areas we offer – before choosing a specialism for undergraduate study. You can discover your artistic strengths and expand your portfolio by exploring a wide range of subjects, including creative business, fashion, textiles, graphic design, art and design, animation and media.
Studying with us at pre-degree level will provide excellent opportunities for progression. Due to the quality of our programmes and learning environment, we are able to guarantee your progression onto one of our prestigious degree programmes, following the successful completion of your course. We’ll help you to develop as a creative professional and truly build a foundation for your future career. You’ll learn in a university environment with access to industry-standard equipment, and be taught by dedicated teaching staff – most of whom are practising artists and designers. You’ll enjoy our art and design studios, and benefit from using extensive facilities that you won’t find at most schools or colleges, along with exceptional library and learning centres.
“ Our aim is to help you identify your passions and prepare you for the next stage of your creative arts education.”
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Modern University of the Year Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019
96.9%
96.9% of our graduates in employment or further study six months after graduating Destinations of Leavers in Higher Education (DLHE) survey, July 2018
Top 35 Top 35 of all UK universities Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019
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No.1 No.1 Specialist Arts Institution in the UK Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019
Top 10 Amongst the top 10 in the UK for teaching quality National Student Survey 2018
Top 30 Top 30 in the UK for student experience Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019
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Choosing the right journey for you
In the arts, most universities will assess whether a student is ready to study on a degree programme by examining a portfolio of their creative work. This is very different from other subject areas where academic qualifications are the main deciding factor. Pre-degree courses give you the opportunity to build your portfolio, whilst exploring a range of disciplines and developing yourself as creative individual. Where are you now and where do you want to go?
What are your strengths and weaknesses? Is there a subject or a specialism that really appeals to you? And what future career can you see yourself pursuing? It’s always worth remembering that you’re more likely to do well studying a course that you really enjoy and that you know will help you to fulfil your ambitions. So, ask yourself what subject you feel the most passionate about as a creative individual. How do you want to get there?
The diagram opposite shows you the different further and higher education routes that are available to you here at UCA. There are a number of routes you can take, depending on where you are in your journey, and where you want to go. If you have GCSEs, but not A-Levels…
You can come straight to UCA aged 16, after completing your GCSEs. Our Extended Diploma courses are an alternative to AS and A-Levels, developing your creativity and skills in a university setting.
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You’ll earn the same amount of UCAS tariff points as if you’d studied AS or A-Levels and you’ll also develop a portfolio that will help secure you a place on a degree programme. We’ll also offer you support on our Diploma 2 Degree scheme when you’re ready to progress to a degree course – see page 8 for more details. If you’ve completed your A-Levels…
Our Diploma in Art & Design – Foundation Studies is globally recognised as bridging the gap between A-Levels and a creative degree course. It’ll give you the chance to explore specialist subjects that aren’t covered by A-Levels, such as crafts, fashion, graphic design, animation and fine art. After receiving a grounding across a range of subject areas, you’ll work with our Programme Directors and Specialist Lecturers to build an impressive portfolio of work in your main area of interest. If you’re returning to education…
Our Access to Higher Education Diploma is offered on a part-time basis and is designed to prepare those returning to education for a degree course. Question? Get in touch!
For more information, come to one of our Open Days – see the inside front cover or visit: uca.ac.uk/opendays
Or ask us a question online: uca.ac.uk/ask-uca
Pathways to undergraduate study & postgraduate study
GCSE, Diploma or equivalent* Get Creative
UCA workshops for 13–18-year-olds
Two years Extended Diploma
Pre-degree
Two years A-Level, Scottish Highers, BTEC Nationals, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent*
One year Access to Higher Education Diploma – Art & Design
Three or four years
BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons) Degree
MA, MArch, MBA, MFA, Graduate Diploma or MPhil/PhD
Undergraduate
One year International Foundation
Postgraduate
One year Diploma in Art & Design – Foundation Studies
Employment
*Not offered at UCA
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Diploma 2 Degree
We’re confident that our pre-degree courses will give you the technical skills, creative eye and hard work ethic needed to succeed in an undergraduate degree. Diploma 2 Degree is our progression scheme which guarantees you a place on a UCA degree course if you pass your pre-degree course and meet the entry requirements for undergraduate study. The process is simple and stress-free, and it means no lengthy application process, no applicant interviews for your degree, and no UCAS fees. You can choose from any of the four UCA campuses – Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham and Rochester – and while you’re on your pre-degree course we’ll take you on visits to the other campuses to have a look around and meet students and tutors. Our tutors on your pre-degree course will also discuss with you the course options available that fit the subjects you’re interested in, and provide some helpful advice on which courses and campuses might be best suited to your future career. For more information, visit: uca.ac.uk/diploma2degree
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Jamie Backshall Diploma in Art & Design – Foundation Studies, UCA Epsom BA (Hons) Fashion Design, UCA Epsom Accessories Designer at Dr Martens
“I’ve always been into clothes – they were the way I could express myself. I couldn’t go straight onto a BA course from college because I knew I didn’t have the skills or the knowledge of what I wanted to do. “When I started the Foundation course at Epsom it was wicked – you get to do a little bit of everything which really helped. It was a nice insight because certain things I’d never done before, like fine art, I’d never seen myself doing but when I was getting stuck into it I found it really interesting. “When we got to the textiles bit [of the course] it was all very new but the tutors really helped. I actually had an amazing relationship with the whole course team, they helped me through everything, even getting me my first internship. It was so nice for me to hear that when I hadn’t experienced anything like that before. “The Foundation course really put me in good stead – it put me at a level where I felt ready to tackle my BA. I couldn’t thank the Foundation staff enough – they were amazing – and it was really enjoyable as well. “The course works through set briefs, but then the tutors say ‘there you go, do whatever you want – take it, interpret it’, which is really cool. Going from A-Levels where everything’s so fixed, coming to the Foundation year where everything was ‘do what you want’ was really nice. Foundation was wicked, and it really helped me.”
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Easter & Summer Schools If you’re considering studying creative arts at college or university, our Easter and Summer Schools are the perfect way to open up the world of your creative arts education.
Easter School
Summer School
Our Easter School is the place to be if you’re studying, or have an interest in, creative subjects and would like to develop your skills and portfolio. The Easter School runs for four days during the Easter break and is a nonresidential course.
During July, we offer students aged 14–17 the opportunity to enter our exciting Summer Schools. With the choice of residential or nonresidential courses, you’ll get the chance to experience living and learning like a university student.
The Easter Schools are free to join. To apply, you need to be aged 14–17 and be able to attend the whole four-day programme.
With courses available at all of our campuses and free admission, you can rest assured that you’ll have a fantastic creative learning journey, led by experienced practitioners and industry professionals. You’ll get the chance to try your hand at a variety of subject areas including Photography, Architecture, Fashion Textiles, Fashion Business, Animation, Illustration, Graphics and Ceramics.
During the course, you’ll be taken through a range of concepts, working on drawing, painting and mark-making. And, at the end of an actionpacked four days, we close with an exhibition for family and friends to come along and see your finished masterpieces. Find out more and register your interest: uca.ac.uk/easter-schools
During the three-day course, you’ll be able to express your ideas, explore your creativity and add to your portfolio. You’ll then have the opportunity to exhibit your work and learn how to set up a gallery space. Find out more about the different subjects we offer at our four campuses and register your interest: uca.ac.uk/summer-schools
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Our campus community Living and studying at our Epsom campus, you’ll be part of a close-knit creative community - it’s the perfect place for you to meet other like-minded designers and makers, and explore your talents. You’ll be encouraged to collaborate with other individuals from across our portfolio of disciplines, so you’ll learn much more than you ever imagined. Students from our Epsom campus have access to influential professionals, job prospects and potential employers. Our fashion courses have industry connections including Ted Baker, Topman, Red or Dead, Adidas, Puma, Givenchy, Ralph Lauren, French Connection and L’Oreal to name only a few. Our Epsom campus is also home to the Business School for the Creative Industries, the first of its kind in the UK.
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Taught in a modern collection of studios and facilities set in a picturesque town within easy reach of London, the vibrant campus community is the lifeblood of UCA Epsom. Step through the doors and you’ll find an impressive array of high-spec equipment and resources at your fingertips, enabling you to have a truly enriching learning experience. Our campus is a ten-minute walk from the train station, which will transport you to London in just half an hour. There are also local bus and train routes connecting Epsom to surrounding towns including Wimbledon, Kingston, Croydon, Sutton, Dorking and Leatherhead.
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Accommodation Many of our pre-degree students live close to our campuses and opt to live at home, but for those of you coming from further afield, we have a range of accommodation options.
Your home-from-home Starting a new course can feel a little strange at first, particularly if you’re moving away from home for the first time, but we’ll do everything we can to make you feel right at home. From the moment you arrive here, you’ll be part of a diverse and tight-knit creative community. Safe & accessible We want you and your family to know that you and your belongings are in safe hands in our halls of residence. And, if you do have an emergency, our halls have trained Student Wardens on duty overnight and during weekends and holidays. We provide basic contents insurance for all residents living in our halls through Endsleigh Insurance – we’ll give you the details of the policy during your online induction. You can pay more for enhanced cover at any time. Each campus has a number of bedrooms that are wheelchair accessible and we’ll make reasonable adjustments to modify accommodation to suit particular needs. We operate a no-smoking policy in all our residences and buildings.
Halls of residence Our halls of residence are all self-catering, and in most cases, you’ll have your own study bedroom with a bed, desk, chair, wardrobe, and blinds or curtains. Bring your own personal possessions to help make the place feel more like home. All bedrooms and shared areas are heated, and each house or flat has a shared kitchen/dining area. You’ll need to bring your own pots, pans, cutlery, crockery, kitchen utensils, tea towels, towels, sheets, pillows, and a duvet (and cover) or blankets. All internal shared areas are cleaned once a week, although you’re responsible for cleaning your own room and en-suite bathroom (if you have one). We provide internet access in all bedrooms and shared areas – the cost is included in your residence fees. Crossways House, East Street is our new, off-site accommodation about a 10-minute walk from campus. Housing up to 99 students across 14 flats, each flat has up to eight en-suite bedrooms. Ashley Road is located in the town centre only a five-minute walk from campus. There are six flats of up to seven students – accommodating 28 students in total. Wilberforce Court is based on campus and houses up to 70 students. The building has 12 self-contained flats over three floors, with between four and seven bedrooms in each flat. Worple Road is on campus and is made up of three blocks of flats, with each containing between five and eight en-suite bedrooms. In total, the site can accommodate up to 58 students.
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How to apply We offer rooms to as many new full-time students who want to live in university accommodation as we can. From the March of your starting year, if you’ve firmly accepted an offer from us, you can apply for UCA accommodation through our Applicant Portal. It’s best to apply for accommodation as soon as possible, rather than waiting for your exam results in August. This will give you the best chance of getting the type of accommodation you’d like. The first allocation of university accommodation happens in May (you’ll need to apply by May 2020), and on a rolling basis after that – we’ll let you know by email as soon as possible. If you’ve been successful in your application, you’ll be able to view and accept your Accommodation Agreement through our online system. Visit our website for more details: uca.ac.uk/accommodation If you still can't find what you're looking for, or you’d prefer to contact us in person, please get in touch with our dedicated accommodation team. They are here to help make your move as smooth, comfortable and enjoyable as possible, so you can focus on getting settled into student life. Contact us +44 (0) 1372 202 448 epsomaccommodation@uca.ac.uk
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Your local town A welcoming and sociable market town in Surrey and only a stone’s throw away from London, Epsom is an attractive and inspirational place to live, work and study.
The art scene Epsom has an established and vibrant arts scene, boosted by exhibitions and activities organised by Surrey Arts, Surrey Contemporary Arts and Surrey Artists. With a long tradition in the local youth services for performance and creative arts, the town has a strong arts presence and works hard to promote new talent, often seeing students’ work showcased in many venues across the town. The Epsom Playhouse is a must if you’re in the mood for theatre, offering opera, dance, drama, comedy, light entertainment, variety, popular shows and more. As well as its famous horse races, the Epsom Downs Racecourse also plays host to regular antique fairs, summer concerts, nights out and family fun days.
Explore the town Previously voted one of the top ten most desirable places to live, Epsom has a friendly, communityfocused feel. Popular with professionals, students and families alike, Epsom is located at the edge of the Surrey Hills, only 30 minutes from London by train. With a wide variety of bars and restaurants, great shopping, a multiplex cinema, nightclubs and much more, the town has bags of entertainment appeal. Eating out With a wide choice of restaurants and pubs to choose from, many of them offering student deals, you can enjoy a night out that won’t break your budget. Decide between big-name food chains or one-off speciality restaurants.
Getting here Nearest airports: –– London Heathrow –– London Gatwick By rail: –– 30 minutes from London Waterloo Nearby towns –– 10 minutes to the picturesque town of Leatherhead –– 40 minutes to Kingston, a favourite for shopping and entertainment.
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Epsom
UCA Epsom
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Leatherhead
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Stop Bus Closest bus stop to UCA Epsom: Heathcote Road
Walking Route Approx. 10mins from Epsom Train Station.
Train Station Closest train station to UCA Epsom: Epsom Station
UCA Epsom
Food and Drink Hotel Cinema
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Mounthill Gardens
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Trips and visits Throughout your time at UCA, you’ll have the opportunity to broaden your creative learning experiences with exciting trips and visits.
Our pre-degree courses offer a selection of educational outings to enrich your studies, from local galleries and museums, to European excursions and everything in-between. Previously, our students have visited cities including London and Oxford, as well as the south coast of England. European expeditions have included a trip to the Netherlands’ creative capital, Amsterdam, where our students had the chance to immerse themselves in one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world and home to an inspiring creative environment. You’ll get the chance to get out of the classroom and into a new environment in order to inspire and enhance your ideas, whilst fuelling your creativity and ambition. It’s something our students always enjoy here at UCA, which is why we always ensure we have a strong programme of trips and visits available to you. In most cases, students will be required to cover the costs of overseas visits, but they aren’t mandatory. Field trips inside the UK are sometimes free, but it’s likely you’ll need to cover the travel costs. If you decide to stay on to study an undergraduate degree at UCA, the opportunities to explore the creative industries beyond the classroom expand even further. Many of our students go on to visit inspiring locations including Rome, Berlin, Paris and New York, as well as interesting industry events across the UK.
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Meet your Programme Director & specialist lecturer
Elle Reynolds When it comes to teaching, Elle encourages a collaborative, engaged, inquisitive and questioning approach that is responsive to current students’ needs and acknowledges issues within art, design and society. Elle has 30 years’ experience of teaching and management in specialist Art and Design colleges and universities. She has been School of Art Programmes Manager for undergraduate and postgraduate courses at Bradford College of Art, was Course Director for the FdA Fine Art Skills & Practices and Diploma in Professional Practice courses at Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, and Head of Centre at Istituto Marangoni London. “We teach to encourage everyone to have an individual voice and make a difference. To have an awareness that everything around us is designed and created by someone.”
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Elle is an academic, practicebased researcher. She has a BA in 3D Design from Manchester Metropolitan University and MA in Art from the University of Reading. She is currently working towards a PhD from Nottingham Trent University, examining autonomous art schools and alternative models of fine art education.
Our courses
ccess to Higher Education A Diploma in Art & Design iploma in Art & Design D – Foundation Studies Extended Diploma in Art & Design Extended Diploma in Fashion Business & Retail
Accessing Higher Education through Year 0
“ Creative education increases awareness and understanding of society, our place in it and ways that we can engage and improve to make a positive impact. I’m passionate about art education and how it has the ability to develop confidence, knowledge, collaborations and just thinking differently.” Elle Reynolds UCA Epsom
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Access to Higher Education Diploma in Art & Design UCA Epsom
Catherine Ben Ayed
Barbara Antinoro
If you’re returning to education and looking for a part-time art and design course, the Access to Higher Education course at UCA Epsom is the perfect springboard to a degree, career change or progression in your existing profession.
Throughout your studies at our Epsom campus, you’ll have your own dedicated studio space, as well as access to the same facilities as an undergraduate or postgraduate student.
Open to anyone over 19 years of age, you’ll study with us for two days a week, normally experimenting in five disciplines – fine art, fashion and textiles, 3D design, fashion promotion and visual communication. Specifically tailored to those entering education after a break, our Access Diploma gives you the chance to explore a range of art and design subjects, whilst balancing other work or family commitments. On this course, you’ll develop or rediscover the skills and confidence needed for the art and design world. Supported through one to one tutorials, educational visits, a range of specialist lectures, and opportunities to take part in live briefs and competitions this forms a dynamic programme of study. As the year progresses, you’ll have more freedom to specialise. This will help you to grow as an artist and determines the creative direction of your academic path and future career.
Duration: one year part-time
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All staff members teaching this course are active practitioners or involved in research in their specialist fields, offering you a great opportunity to build relationships and learn directly from experts. Our Access Diploma is fully integrated with the other pre-degree and foundation courses at UCA Epsom – so you’ll be working within a wider creative community where you can share ideas, techniques and project concepts. You’ll also acquire the verbal and written skills needed to present your ideas effectively and to engage in critical debate, peer review and group presentations. Your creative and personal development will be realised by undertaking a final major project of your own choosing, culminating in a final exhibition. On completion of this course, you will be awarded the Level 3 Access to HE Diploma in Art & Design.
Entry requirements: No formal qualifications are required. Entry is by interview and evidence of ability and commitment, in the form of a body of work or non-traditional portfolio.
Diploma in Art & Design – Foundation Studies UCA Epsom
Naomi Williams
Wiktoria Barglik
If you’re preparing to progress onto an undergraduate degree after your A-Levels, our Diploma in Art & Design – Foundation Studies course provides you with an additional year to build up experience, develop your skills further and establish a varied portfolio.
Working amongst our undergraduate and postgraduate students as part of our uniquely creative community, you will be immersed in university life from the beginning. Surrounded by plenty of inspiration and collaborating with creative students across a variety of disciplines, you will be able to observe first-hand the range of degree options available to you.
You’ll spend the year exploring a range of creative subjects, giving you the time and creative inspiration to decide which area of art and design you’d like to specialise in when you come to choose your undergraduate degree. The first part of your course will be spent identifying your strengths and personal interests to help you determine the subject you wish to explore further. As the year progresses, you’ll have more freedom to specialise. At the end of the year, you’ll bring together all your newly developed skills to plan and fulfil a major project, resulting in an exhibition of your work and a unique portfolio, ready for your undergraduate degree. You’ll have access to the facilities at UCA Epsom and will be supported by teams of subject specialist lecturers – all lecturers are active within their own fields as professional designers, artists and researchers.
Duration: one year full-time
On successful completion of the course, you’ll have a direct entry route onto the full range of our undergraduate degree programmes at UCA via our Diploma 2 Degree scheme. (You’ll need a Pass for most courses, or a Merit if you wish to progress onto BA (Hons) Architecture.) We’ll arrange visits to all our campuses and give you the opportunity to undertake workshops in several different areas so you can make an informed decision that’s right for you. We’ll also help you with your application – there’s no need to apply through UCAS and there will be no selection interview for progression onto your chosen degree. Once you finish, you will be awarded the UAL Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design – Foundation Studies.
Entry requirements: 32 UCAS points from one A-Level or a BTEC/UAL Extended Diploma, Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma preferably including art, design, media, photography, design technology or related creative subject AND a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade A*–C and/or grade 9–4, including English language and preferably mathematics.
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Extended Diploma in Art & Design UCA Epsom
Ella Price
Christabel Robinson
If you have a passion for art, our Extended Diploma in Art & Design at UCA Epsom offers you a unique opportunity to study on a practical art and design course within a university environment from the age of 16.
Towards the end of the course, you will undertake a final major project and participate in your diploma exhibition – you may also take part in a live project, giving you an insight into the creative industries and the chance to work with studios or galleries in the area or in London.
Equivalent to three A-Levels, this is a two-year course which allows you to try out a wide range of art and design subjects or specialise directly before choosing a degree. You will explore a variety of media, expand your skills and find your focus in a selection of subjects, including fine art, fashion and textiles, 3D design, lens-based media (photography and film) and visual communication. After exploring each area in detail, in the second year you will be able to make an informed choice of one of the five main areas to specialise in, allowing you to focus on developing specific skills in your chosen area.
Duration: two years full-time
You will build a fundamental skillset for a future in art, including drawing, photography, constructions and making, typography, animation, interactive design and moving imagery with sound. At our Epsom campus, you will have access to the same facilities and workshops as all our undergraduate and postgraduate students. Don’t worry if you still need to get your mathematics GCSE – we’re committed to getting you ready for an undergraduate degree and your future career, so we hold classes in the subject. On completion of this course, you will be awarded the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design.
Entry requirements: Entry requirements: Normally five GCSE passes at grade A*–C and/or grade 9–4 including English Language and preferably including mathematics and either: art, design, media, photography, design technology or a related creative subject. UK/EU students aged 16–18 without a grade C/4 or above in GCSE maths may still receive an offer but will be required to study GCSE maths as a mandatory part of the course.
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Extended Diploma in Fashion Business & Retail UCA Epsom
Ellie Symonds
Rusheika Reid
From global supply chains to merchandising and media marketing, this two year course is designed to be taken after your GCSEs and will provide you with an introduction to the business of fashion. You will learn about fashion trends, visual merchandising and targeted marketing and fashion management.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore and experiment with the different aspects of the fashion industry, developing business skills and acumen which will help to inform your choice of undergraduate degree and future career in the industry.
Contextual studies will give you an overview of artist influences on fashion together with current debates and themes within the retail environment. You’ll learn skills such as how to time manage, solve complex problems, and take responsibility for development of a project. Located in our vibrant Creative Business hub with access to our high-quality facilities, you’ll explore the dynamic fashion retail world and learn about the industry through practical and theoretical projects, supporting your personal progression and helping you develop your skills.
During your second year, you’ll specialise in an area that interests you. You’ll have the freedom to develop ideas and discover your personal strengths and abilities to present concepts confidently. You’ll also gain a thorough understanding of retail spaces, range planning and supply chains, as well as considering the concept of sustainability and ethics in business. You’ll have opportunities collaborate with other students on end-of-year shows, supported by professionally trained academics and technicians with backgrounds in business, retail, fashion and design industries.
In the first year, you’ll study the business of fashion and how technology, marketing and the retail process come together. You’ll gain valuable knowledge through visits, collaborative projects and individual study and will learn how to convey information to audiences using original ideas and digital tools including social media.
Duration: two years full-time
Entry requirements: Normally five GCSE passes at grade A*–C and/or grade 9–4 including English Language and preferably including mathematics and either: art, design, media, photography, design technology or a related creative subject. UK/EU students aged 16–18 without a grade C/4 or above in GCSE maths may still receive an offer but will be required to study GCSE maths as a mandatory part of the course.
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Year 0 undergraduate course UCA Epsom
If you’ve finished your A-Levels and you’re considering a degree in the creative arts, but you haven’t had a chance to study your chosen subject before, you might want to consider one of our four-year undergraduate courses. These courses are available at each of our campuses in a variety of subjects from fashion to animation. The first year, Year 0, is an alternative option to a Foundation degree, designed to help build your confidence and your portfolio, before jumping head first into the rest of the degree. The additional year of study will help you to explore your creative ideas and ways of thinking that are essential to undergraduate success. Year 0 is the first year of the four year courses, where you will gain the fundamental understanding and practical skills needed to help you transition onto the rest of the degree. You will have access to all the facilities and studio spaces available at UCA, and you’ll start to develop your own creative style. Depending on the subject, you will be introduced to basic practical skills as well as new learning and research techniques. From drawing to photography to observational skills, you’ll finish Year 0 fully prepared to embrace and succeed in your chosen creative degree.
Leonie Harsant
You might decide to study a four year course instead of a Foundation degree. This would be a good option if you are sure you know what subject you want to study and you want to get a head start on your degree. However, if you want to try your hand at a variety of creative disciplines before you make your undergraduate decision, one of our alternative further education courses might be better for you. Courses available at UCA Epsom: –– Fashion
Rachel Simpson
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Pre-degree graduation shows
Every summer, we welcome hundreds of visitors to the Graduation Shows at UCA Epsom, featuring work from our graduating pre-degree and degree students. Students on each of our pre-degree courses participate in these impressive exhibitions, displaying their work to family, friends and professional industry contacts. These showcase events are open to the public and are a great opportunity to view the extraordinary breadth of work our students create. Everyone is welcome to attend for a chance to spot the creative talent of the future. Find out more about when these shows take place: uca.ac.uk/graduationshows
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Preparing your portfolio
Depending on the course you’re looking to study, you may be asked to present a portfolio alongside your exam results as part of your application. A portfolio is a great way for you to present your creative ideas, showcasing the techniques you’ve used, the choices you’ve made and your personal style. Your portfolio should represent a selection of your work – it could include short films you’ve made, photography, paintings, illustrations or sketches. It’ll demonstrate your artistic skillset and capabilities which we’ll use to assess your creative potential. Most portfolios are made up of 16 to 20 pieces of work and should be well presented with a simple and organised layout. No doubt you’ll have a lot of work that you could include, but cutting it down to those 16 to 20 pieces of work is really essential.
Think about how you might put your ideas together, and how your work might flow through the portfolio. How you document and develop those ideas are the elements we really want to see. The areas that you’re interested in should come across in your portfolio – aim to show us your individuality. It’s important to make sure that your work is concise and consistent to show us that you’ve taken the time to consider what you want to display. A good way of doing this is to choose a theme that will run throughout your portfolio, helping to show the creative journey that you’ve been on so far. Depending on the course you apply for, a portfolio may not be required, but we’d love to see your creative work if you have it. You can either bring a physical portfolio to your Applicant Day or upload a digital portfolio via our Online Portfolio system. Check out our library of portfolio videos for further information on how to prepare: uca.ac.uk/study/portfolio-advice
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Applicant Days
What is an Applicant Day?
Your one-to-one meeting and portfolio
Applicant Days are your chance to see exactly where you’ll be based, meet course tutors, and speak to other applicants and even current students who have gone before you.
As part of the Applicant Day, you’ll have a oneto-one meeting with a member of your course team where you can ask questions and learn more about your suitability for the course. They’ll want to look at your portfolio of work, so please remember to bring this with you.
It’s a great opportunity to showcase your talent in a relaxed environment and to ask us any questions you might have before your course starts. The day usually involves a welcome from your Course Leader, a tour of the campus and facilities and a one-to-one meeting with a member of the course team to review your portfolio. Depending on our students’ availability when you visit, we’ll also try to show you students working in the pre-degree studios. The day is a friendly and informal event, so wear whatever you feel comfortable in. The Applicant Day takes about three hours, but you can take as long as you like to look around campus. You’re welcome to bring guests along, but please be aware that they won’t be able to attend some parts of the day with you, such as your one-toone meeting.
Applicant Day info
We’ll email you all the information about your Applicant Day once it has been scheduled. When you receive this email, please log into the Applicant Portal to access your Applicant Day Guide. This will give you full details of the day, including a schedule of events, tips on what to bring with you, what to expect and how to prepare. If you aren’t able to attend an Applicant Day, there are still plenty of opportunities to come and visit us to get a taste of the UCA experience, such as Open Days and exhibitions. Find out more on our website: uca.ac.uk/events
“ Our Applicant Days have been especially designed to help you discover more about the course, campus and student experience.” Sarah Simms Head of Admissions
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Fees & finance Although there are many costs associated with studying at university, don’t forget that, if you are a UK or EU student under 19 years old, you don’t have to pay a penny towards your predegree tuition fees.
Pre-degree tuition fees
This information applies to UK and EU students only. If you are an international student, please visit our international fees and finance web pages for information: uca.ac.uk/international/fees
Tuition fees for Year 1, 2019 entry Course
Age group
Course fee
Extended Diploma in Art & Design
16–18 19+**
£0 £4,290
Extended Diploma in Fashion Business & Retail
16–18 19+**
£0 £3,300
Foundation Diploma in Art & Design
16–18 19+**
£0 £5,420
Access to Higher Education Diploma: Art & Design
19+**
£3,928
All fees shown are correct at the time of printing.
* Course subject to validation.
Fees for the 2020/21 academic year will be released in June 2019. These may be subject to change as a result of changes in inflation, government policy on tuition fees, entitlement to fee reductions and tax or benefit rules. Please check for the latest information before you enrol.
** If you’re a UK or EU student aged between 19 and 23 on 31 August before the start of your course – and you haven’t already got a full Level 3 qualification – you also won’t be charged tuition fees.
If you’re a UK or EU student and under 19 years of age on 31 August before the start of your course, you don’t have to pay any tuition fees.
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How do I pay my fees?
Are there any other charges?
The first step to pay your tuition fees is to complete the online enrolment process. We will send you more information about enrolment in the August before you start your course.
If you’re under 19, you’ll need to pay an annual materials charge at the start of the course. This is currently £130 for full-time students and £100 for part-time students.
We’ll then email you your tuition-fee invoice within 24 hours of completing your online enrolment. You can pay using our online payment system.
If you’re 19 or over, the materials charge is included in the course fee – except if it’s your first Level 3 qualification, where an additional materials charge will apply.
You must pay your tuition fees and any material charges before starting your course with us, or you’ll be unable to attend classes.
We review our fee levels annually. For the most up-to-date information, visit: uca.ac.uk/fees
Financial support
16-18 Bursary Fund
Care to Learn
Available from the government, this fund helps young people aged 16–18 who face the greatest barriers to continuing in education after the age of 16.
If you’re a young parent under the age of 20, Care to Learn can help with the cost of your childcare while you’re studying. For more details, visit:
Awards are means tested and can help towards your course costs and travel expenses where a clear need for support is evident. There are also a limited number of residential bursaries available.
gov.uk/care-to-learn
Advanced Learner Loan
If you’re aged 19 or older, you can apply for a loan to help cover the tuition fees for pre-degree courses. For more details, visit:
More information
Our website is packed with helpful information. You can find out everything you need to know to plan your student finances including tuition fees, grants and scholarships. There are also plenty of hints and tips for staying on top of your finances, so that you really enjoy your time at UCA. Visit: uca.ac.uk/fees
gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan Adult Learner Support Fund
The Adult Learner Support Fund is designed to help adult learners with a specific financial need which could prevent them from participating in learning. Awards are means tested and can help towards your course, travel and childcare costs. 31
Frequently asked questions Q. What are the benefits of choosing to study further education in a higher education environment? A. Studying in a higher education setting gives you a different learning experience than a school. It offers a more relaxed environment, and one where you’re encouraged to take more responsibility for your education. And, with students coming to university at all stages of life, and from around the world, you’ll be exposed to a rich diversity of new people and experiences.
A. The University is a vibrant community of highly skilled practitioners and researchers. All the staff continue to practice creatively in some capacity as artists or designers, fostering networks with the local, regional and national creative communities. Some have significant research profiles in their subject. We have a very high staff-to-student ratio, meaning that you’ll benefit from a high level of contact time and support from your course leaders and other staff.
Q. Why should I choose UCA?
Q. What are my options after I finish my studies?
A. UCA has the highest employment rate for a specialist creative university at 96.9% (DLHE survey July 2018). By taking a pre-degree course with us, you’ll be able to explore the subjects that you have a real passion for, which will then help you choose a degree that builds on your talents and artistic strengths, and a career that you love.
A. Student progression at UCA is outstanding. Year-on-year over 80% of our students progress onto higher education programmes both within and externally to the university. We also offer a Diploma 2 Degree scheme, making it much easier for you to progress onto one of our own degree courses.
Q. What are the facilities at UCA like? A. Studying one of our further education courses, you’ll benefit from exceptionally well-resourced facilities including studios, workshops, galleries, media rooms and comprehensive libraries, which are all fitting for a university environment and experience.
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Q. What are the teaching staff at UCA like?
Contact us If you have any other questions about studying a further education course at UCA, please get in touch. +44 (0) 1252 892883 enquiries@uca.ac.uk
How to apply
We would be thrilled if you applied to study at UCA. Please apply directly to us using the individual online application form for your chosen pre-degree course. You’ll find this on the specific course information page on our website. When to apply If you’re looking to start a course with us in September, we encourage you to apply between December and March, as this is when most of our Applicant Days take place. Applying by the end of March will also give you plenty of time to prepare for your studies. We will still accept applications for consideration after the 31 March deadline.
Contact us If you have any questions about applying, please get in touch with our friendly Admissions Team who will be happy to help you. UK/EU admissions: +44 (0) 1252 892 960 admissions@uca.ac.uk International admissions: +44 (0) 1252 892 785 internationaladmissions@uca.ac.uk
What happens next? When we get your application, we’ll send you an email with your login details for the online Applicant Portal. This is where you’ll access all the information you’ll need throughout your applicant journey. uca.ac.uk
Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this prospectus, which is believed to be correct at the time of publication (May 2019). The University reserves the right to introduce changes to the information given, including the addition, withdrawal, relocation or restructuring of any programmes. The information in this prospectus is subject to change and does not form part of any contract between UCA and the student and his/her sponsor. For up-to-date and more detailed information on any of our courses and studying at UCA, please visit uca.ac.uk 1050-0319
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