NCUK launches new International Art & Design Foundation programme
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NCUK formally announces the launch of the International Art & Design Foundation, a new programme designed to prepare students for undergraduate degrees in art, design, and creative disciplines. Launching for delivery in the 2025/26 academic year, the International Art & Design Foundation marks an exciting addition to NCUK’s global portfolio of university pathway programmes.
Developed in response to the growing global demand for creative arts education, the International Art & Design Foundation provides students with the essential academic, creative, and language skills needed to succeed in competitive art and design fields. Students will build strong foundations in areas such as visual communication, portfolio development, design principles, and academic English, ensuring they are fully equipped for the transition to university level study.
The launch of the International Art & Design Foundation marks an important milestone in NCUK’s mission to broaden access to world-class higher education. This new programme opens exciting opportunities for students to explore their creative passions while developing the academic and practical skills needed to thrive at university and beyond. As global demand for creative industries continues to rise, we are delighted to provide a strong foundation for students to confidently take the next step toward a degree in the field of Art and Design.
Andy Straughan, Business Development Director, NCUK
With progression opportunities to a wide range of degrees including Architecture, Fashion, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Media, and Photography, the International Art & Design Foundation offers a trusted route to a variety of Art & Design-related subjects, empowering students to explore their creativity while achieving academic excellence.
Students completing the International Art & Design Foundation can progress to a wide range of leading NCUK University Partners recognised globally for their excellence in creative disciplines. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Art & Design, NCUK University Partners that accept this programme, Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK and NABA – Nuova Accademia di Bell Arti in Italy, are both ranked within the top 100 worldwide. This highlights that students choosing this pathway programme have options to progress to world-class creative education.
The addition of this programme is also a valuable opportunity for NCUK Study Centres that are looking to expand their portfolio and attract a diverse range of ambitious students. We are excited to work with current and prospective partners to highlight the strengths and impact that the International Art & Design Foundation can bring to their institutions.
The International Art & Design Foundation reflects NCUK’s commitment to broadening access to world-class higher education and supporting students in achieving their creative ambitions.