Foundation in Art and Design

Learning Methods

You will discover and explore a range of thematic ideas and processes through the application of both 2D & 3D processes and develop outputs through Fine Art or Design contexts. Our studio-based practice is at the heart of all our learning within Gray’s where you are taught using both traditional and digital technologies and techniques.

The first-year cohort occupies two large open plan studios, with dedicated student workspaces. This creates a vibrant learning environment and community through shared learning experiences and opportunities and levels of student support that are consistently rated as excellent. Our studio culture is also enriched though our lecture and seminar programme of theory-based study exploring critical and contextual thinking. 

Activity Summary

• Lectures - Approximately 160 students per group, 2 hours per week
• Seminars - 25 students per group, 2 hours per semester
• Tutorial - one-to-one, 2 hours per semester
• Demonstration - 15 students per group, 4 hours per semester
• Practical class or workshop - 15 students per group, 6 hours per semester
• Supervised time in studio / workshop - 80 students per group, 15 hours per week
• Independent Study - 4 hours per week
• External Visits - 35 students per group, 8 hours per semester

Group sizes and dedicated hours are indicative only, subject to change and may vary within each module.

How long is a BA (Hons) Foundation in Art and Design course?

A BA (Hons) Foundation in Art and Design degree can be completed over:

• 1 year + 3 years of your specialism course

Independent Study

First year students are introduced to the skills and discipline of independent study and supported through the initial acquisition of this through specific project related tasks and reflective writing. At this foundation level independent study is aligned to staff directed studio-based activities and therefore supported by subsequent staff input.

Staff Delivering on This Course

The dedicated academic and technical staff on this course have a wide variety of Fine Art and Design backgrounds and their knowledge and experience will provide you with a deeper understanding of the building blocks of a creative practice. They will support your first-year learning journey towards a specialism of your choice.

Industry experts contribute to the school as Professional Associates, and through the Guest@Grays lecture programme, which invites national and international practitioners to speak about their work and professional experiences. The course works closely with the University’s Library, Study Skills and Careers staff.

Assessment

• 1 Written Assignment, including essay
• 3 Portfolios

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.

What is needed for a BA (Hons) Foundation in Art and Design course?

Standard Entry Requirements

Year 1 entry

• SQA Higher: BCC to include Art & Design (or a creative design and/or media subject e.g. Graphic Communication, Media Studies) and English (or a written subject requiring the use of English)
• GCE A Level: CC to include Art & Design (or a creative design and/or media subject e.g. Media Studies) and English (or a written subject requiring the use of English e.g. History).
• Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H3H3H4 to include Art (or a creative design and/or technology subject e.g. Graphic Communication, Media Studies) and English (or a written subject requiring the use of English)
• IB Diploma: 24 to include Higher Level Visual Arts and English (or a written subject requiring the use of English).

All applicants with the appropriate qualifications (or due to sit appropriate qualifications) will be invited to attend a portfolio review/interview and participate in a selection process.

Minimum Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:

Year 1 entry

• SQA Higher: CCC to include Art / Design (or a creative design and/or media subject such as Graphic Communication, Media Studies) and English or a written subject requiring the use of English

Alternative Qualifications

Those who may not hold the standard qualifications listed are encouraged to apply if they can evidence other appropriate/relevant creative work, qualifications and/or life experiences. Such candidates are advised to contact the Student Admissions Service for further advice and guidance.

A portfolio review/interview is still a requirement for this category of candidate.

International Students 

International students who do not meet our direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through our International College at Robert Gordon University.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.

Additional Costs

• Studio fund - £90 Year 1
• £50 - £150 Materials 
• £300 Camera (optional)
• £1,000 Laptop (optional)