Creative Arts & Design

Build the foundations for a degree in art, design and the creative industries.

If you love turning ideas into images, objects, spaces or stories, or you’re curious about how great design shapes the way people live, shop and connect, you’re in the right place.

The NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence to progress to an undergraduate degree in the fields of business, management, marketing and more.

Find a Study Centre

One trusted programme, endless possibilities

The NCUK International Foundation Year is a university preparation programme for international students who want to progress to undergraduate study. It helps you bridge the gap between school and university. You’ll build academic subject knowledge, academic English and the study skills you’ll rely on throughout your degree.

Students study one recognised programme, made up of:

Three academic subject modules, chosen to reflect your interests and future degree ambitions
One English language module, to develop the academic English you need for university
Skills for Success module, to build independent learning, research and critical thinking

By studying the IFY, you can choose modules that reflect your goals. Our Pathways to Creative Arts & Design guidance helps you see how those choices can support your future goals.

IFY modules usually required:

Art & Design
A math module (Integrated Maths or Technical Maths) may also be needed for degrees such as Architecture or Design Engineering

IFY modules that might be useful to support progression include:

Business Studies
Global Studies
Sociology

Check before you choose

Entry requirements vary by degree and university. Use the NCUK University Course Finder to check:

Required subject modules
Entry grades
Any course-specific requirements

Then speak to your Study Centre about the modules available locally.

View our full list of progression options which showcase NCUK University Partners in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA and more.

*Data compiled from NCUK University Partners ranked in the Art & Design rankings (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)

View our NCUK University Partners

Explore a range of undergraduate degrees

The creative industries are among the fastest-moving and most exciting fields in the world. A creative degree can lead to careers in design studios, agencies, galleries, fashion houses, architecture practices, gaming and digital media.

Students exploring this area often progress to undergraduate degrees such as:

BA (Hons) Fine Art
BA (Hons) Graphic Design
BA (Hons) Fashion Design
BA (Hons) Architecture
BA (Hons) Interior Design

Want to see where the IFY could take you? The NCUK University Course Finder lets you explore degree options and check the exact entry requirements for the universities and courses you’re interested in. It’s the smartest way to plan your module choices with confidence.

University entry requirements vary by course and institution. Always check the NCUK University Course Finder before making your module choices.

Explore the NCUK University Course Finder

Your future, your choice

Here’s the important part: you’re not signing up to a separate programme. You study the NCUK International Foundation Year and choose the three subject modules that suit you. Our Pathways to Creative Arts & Design guidance is here to support your thinking, not to limit it.

If your ambitions shift along the way, that’s completely fine. Maybe you’ll discover a passion for digital media, marketing or something new entirely. The IFY is flexible enough to change with you, and your options stay open as you discover what you love most.

I completed the NCUK International Foundation Year at a university near my home in Lima. It gave me the skills, knowledge and grades I needed to succeed on my course and prepared me for the UK education system. I’m so glad I trusted my instinct and followed my dream.

Victoria, BA (Hons) Music Production, Leeds Beckett University

Prepare with confidence

When you succeed on the NCUK International Foundation Year, you benefit from NCUK’s university progression guarantee. It gives you access to a university place through NCUK’s university network, so you can take your next step knowing a real opportunity is waiting for you.

NCUK’s university progression guarantee applies to eligible students who successfully complete the IFY and meet the terms of the guarantee. It does not guarantee entry to a specific course, subject area, university or regulated profession. (ncuk.ac.uk/guarantee)

You’re never on your own

Choosing your future can feel like a big step, so we make sure you’re supported at every stage.

Alongside the IFY, you’ll get guidance on university options, applications, progression requirements and the practical side of moving to university. Your Study Centre, NCUK and our university network are all there to help you prepare, apply and progress with confidence.

FAQs

Do I enrol onto a Creative Arts & Design pathway?

No. You enrol onto the NCUK International Foundation Year. Our subject-led guidance simply helps you choose modules that may support your interest in creative arts and design.

How long does the IFY take?

The IFY is delivered over two semesters. Speak to your Study Centre about the start dates and study options available to you.

What are the entry requirements?

You’ll normally need a recognised upper-secondary school qualification and English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5. You’ll also usually be around 17 years old at the start. Requirements can vary by country, so speak to your Study Centre for details. For university entry requirements, check the NCUK University Course Finder.

Can I still choose my own modules?

Absolutely. The guidance supports your choices but never limits them. You choose the three subject modules that feel right for you. Speak to your chosen Study Centre to confirm which modules are available to you.

Do I need to have studied art or design before?

Not necessarily. Some students arrive with a strong creative background, while others are just discovering their style. The IFY’s Art & Design module is designed to build your skills step by step, so you can grow your confidence and creative practice. Some university courses may ask for previous creative work, so check the NCUK University Course Finder for details.

Will I need a portfolio for university?

Many creative degrees ask for a portfolio or an interview as part of the application. Studying Art & Design on the IFY gives you the chance to develop your work, and your Study Centre can help you understand what your chosen universities expect.

Start your journey towards Creative Arts & Design

Your creativity deserves a strong foundation. Explore the modules that inspire you, check your options in the University Course Finder, and speak to your local Study Centre to get started.

Subject availability depends on the modules offered by each Study Centre. Speak to your local Study Centre to see which modules are available.

Find a Study Centre

Locate a Study Centre locally or overseas.