What will I study?
This extended Diploma in Creative Practice, Art and Design recognises the importance of the creative industries as careers and creative opportunities for young people in 21st century creative practice. With 3 distinctive pathways in: Graphic Design and Illustration, Fashion and Textiles and 3D Design Craft, you will have the opportunity to study at a specialist level for 2 years, and develop an industry level portfolio of work to support your progression to university or the workplace.
After a broad exciting introductory diagnostic period in the first term of year 1 (if undecided) you will discover which areas of art and design best suit your skills and abilities. You then can examine your chosen subject through the dedicated pathways of study:
Graphic Design and Illustration: Graphic image making, branding, typography, narrative image making, graphic novel design, animation etc.
Fashion and Textiles: textiles print for fashion and interior, fashion design and construction, fashion illustration and marketing, costume design etc.
3D Design Craft: Product and furniture design, Interior and spatial design, architecture, jewellery, ceramics, contemporary crafts etc.
In all areas you will be taught by specialists with industry experience in amazing, purpose-built studios and workshops to help you realise your full creative potential.
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What previous qualifications or experience do I need?
Minimum five grade 4-9 at GCSE or successful completion of the Level 2 course, and English or maths at grade 4. A portfolio of work will be required.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is regular and ongoing. It is entirely based on coursework (there is no exam with UAL), and so you need to be well organised and good at meeting deadlines. You should also enjoy working independently.
What qualification will I achieve?
Year 1 leads to the UAL L3 Diploma in Art and Design Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication(equivalent to 3 AS levels or 1.5 A Levels) Year 2 leads to the UAL L3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design Ext. Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication(equivalent to 3 full A Levels) To achieve this qualification you will be graded between 'Distinction*' and 'Pass'.
What can I do after completing this course?
Most students progress to undergraduate study, and our students go to some of the best university courses in the country. Some progress to apprenticeships, and some, to employment and internships.
Are there any extra costs?
As well as a materials fee which covers studio based materials etc., you will need to purchase materials throughout your course. It is very difficult to predict how much this amounts to, because different specialisms attract very different costs.
Additional Info
Please visit www.eastbournecreative.com to see galleries of diploma shows over the past five years. This will give you a feel for the quality, diversity and nature of the work that you could be making at college
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Humans of ESC 'The Student Portrait Series - Olivia
Level 3 Art & Design student Olivia Hensler at East Sussex College has been surrounded by creativity from a young age, inspired by her family, her grandfather, and everyday life. Drawing on influences from design, film, music, and contemporary artists, Olivia explores simplicity and originality in her work. Through her studies, she’s developing her skills and discovering her passion for graphic design and filmmaking, preparing for a future in the creative industries.
Art & Design Students Awarded Honorary Fellowships Following Textile Project at East Sussex College
Level 3 Art & Design students at East Sussex College’s Lewes campus have been awarded Honorary Fellowships of the West India Committee for their powerful textile project exploring the British West Indies Regiment’s role in the Great War. As part of the Festival of Futures, students researched, designed, and created large-scale banners, gaining new skills and giving recognition to underrepresented histories. The banners will be publicly displayed, linking creativity with real-world impact.
Students Honoured at Royal Ballet & Opera House Design Challenge Awards Ceremony
Five East Sussex College students were nationally recognised at the Royal Ballet & Opera Design Challenge 2025, held at the Royal Opera House. Winners Indigo-Pacha Reynolds (Costume Design) and Jaina Chandler (Marketing Strategy), along with commended students Maia Poole-Wilson, Viola Doncheva, and Summer Baker, impressed with their creative work inspired by The Winter’s Tale. The awards offered hands-on industry experience, backstage access, and a chance to showcase their talent at one of the UK’s most iconic performance venues.