UAL LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMATEXTILES & SURFACE DESIGN

AWARD

UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication

DURATION

2 Years (Full-Time)

UCAS POINTS

Up to 168 (depending on grade outcome)

CAMPUS

Middlesbrough

COURSE DETAILS

Pattern, print, texture and textiles - discover the creative process behind the surfaces that shape our world. Ideal for makers and designers with an eye for detail and style.

This two-year course is your gateway into the vibrant world of surface design. You’ll explore how textiles, textures and patterns can be used to transform fashion, interiors, accessories, and art — developing both traditional craft skills and contemporary digital techniques.

You will experiment with a wide range of processes, including screen printing, embroidery, repeat pattern design, dyeing, fabric manipulation, embellishment, mixed media and digital textiles. Through creative projects and live briefs, you’ll develop personal responses to themes and build a portfolio of original textile outcomes.

Our experienced tutors and technicians will support you in refining your technical ability, creative confidence, and knowledge of the commercial applications of textile design. You’ll have access to specialist resources including print tables, sewing machines, and digital design tools.

Whether your passion lies in fashion, interiors, illustration, or surface pattern, this course prepares you for university, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles in the creative industries - with a portfolio that shows who you are and where you’re heading.

WHERE COULD IT TAKE YOU?

COURSE INFORMATION

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

  • Work with diverse textile processes: print, stitch and surface embellishment
  • Explore both handcrafted and digital textile techniques
  • Respond to live briefs and produce original, professional outcomes
  • Build a portfolio tailored to fashion, interiors or applied design
  • Learn from practising designers and artists with industry insight

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

  • 4 GCSEs (9-4/A*-C)  – (if you have maths/english at grade D/3 you would be required to work towards grade C/4 for these qualifications alongside your course)
  • 1 portfolio of artwork

LEARNER HOURS

Our Further Education study programmes are designed to meet the guided learner hours as per their funding bodies.

AWARDING BODY

This diploma is validated by the UAL Awarding Body, part of University of the Arts London and the UK’s leading provider of creative qualifications at FE level. The Northern College of Art is an approved centre for UAL Awarding Body qualifications. All students are awarded qualifications under their official UAL Awarding Body titles.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

What’s your favourite thing about The Northern College of Art?

I like the creative culture and environment of the college itself. It has such a welcoming and supportive atmosphere from both staff and other students. Being able to work on live projects with industry, get the opportunity to exhibit our work and go on trips is a lot of fun

Caiden Edgell
Level 3 Textiles & Surface Design

IMAGE GALLERY

OUTSTANDING Student Experience

The Northern College of Art had an exceptional history for its further education when formerly known as The Northern School of Art, and Cleveland College of Art and Design prior to that. The institution previously achieved an Ofsted rating of Outstanding in 2009, and held it consecutively across all inspections until the last inspection under the Education Inspection Framework in 2025. The institution is one of only a handful of colleges to make this achievement.

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