Course Overview
The University Foundation Programme (UFP) Architecture, Art & Design Foundation Pathway is an intensive one year foundation course, which will prepare you for a wide range of Architecture, Art and Design bachelor degrees.
The UFP Architecture, Art & Design Foundation Course enables you to build a strong portfolio. This is essential for your application to architecture, art and design degree courses at leading UK universities. Our foundation programme gives you experience in a wide range of art and design disciplines. This helps you identify your skills and interests so that you can make a well-informed decision about which subject to study at university.
The course enables you to acquire the skills, understanding, independence and confidence necessary to make a smooth and successful transition to university studies.
Art and design education in the UK is unique and internationally respected because of its focus on creativity, experimentation and originality. Our foundation course will support you in developing these qualities in your own work.
The Architecture, Art & Design foundation course runs only at David Game College, London.
Course Modules
The foundation course is divided into 3 stages offering a gradual transition from tutor-directed learning to independent student projects. This encourages students to develop the confidence necessary for successful university study.
Term One: Learning Skills & Context.
During Term One, students take the following subjects and are introduced to the fundamental skills, processes, and ideas of these disciplines:
Spatial Design (including Architecture, Interior Design and Product Design)
Fine Art
Graphic Design
Photography
Term One enables students to recognise where their strengths lie and to decide which subject they want to study at university.
Term Two: Specialist Pathway & Progression
Students choose a major and a minor module reflecting their chosen pathway and complete their portfolio.
Term Three: Independent Project
Students propose and undertake a single project reflecting their personal interests, skills, and chosen university subject. This project provides students with an opportunity to develop the level of independence required for successful university level studies.
Teaching & Facilities
The Architecture, Art & Design foundation course is taught by artists and designers with a wide range of expertise. Over the course of the year, students build a strong portfolio from the course syllabus, which encourages creative thinking and independent learning.
Our facilities include a large suite of Apple iMac computers, professional colour printers, a photography studio including photographic lighting and backdrops, and a dedicated fashion, art and design studio equipped with all the necessary tools and materials to create a wide range of 2D and 3D work.
Exams & Assesment
Students will be assessed through a combination of coursework, projects, presentations, and written examinations. Regular assignments and mock tests will help track progress and prepare students for final assessments. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical understanding and practical application to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of each student’s abilities. Feedback will be provided throughout the course to support continuous improvement and academic success.
Course Terms & Date
The University Foundation Programme (UFP) offers two start dates—September and January.
For both timelines, students complete their foundation year course and progress to university in September, joining the new academic year.
Start in September or January
We have two start dates for our foundation courses
– September and January.
Depending on when prospective students finish their senior school studies, they have the option of beginning their course sooner or slightly later. Both complete in time for a September start at university the following year.
Holidays
Holidays vary depending on when students start the course.
Those starting the University Foundation Programme in September, will have a 3-week holiday over Christmas, and a 2-week holiday over Easter.
Those starting in January will have a 2-week holiday over Easter.
Degree Course Subjects
Our foundation course offers progression to almost all Architecture and Art & Design university degree courses including:
- Animation
- Architecture
- Design Technology
- Interior Architecture
- Fashion Photography
- Interior Design
- Product Design
- Garden Design
- Graphic Design
- History of Art
- Fine Art
- Furniture Design
- Photography
- Illustration
- Interactive Media
- Interior Design
- Jewellery Design
- Film and Theatre Set Design
- Filmmaking
- Fashion Styling
- Model Making
- Multimedia Design
- Games Design
- Landscape Architecture
- Painting
- Photojournalism
- Print Making
- Product Design
- Sculpture
- Special Effects
Our top Destinations
Our students go on to study at some of the top universities in the UK, making the University Foundation Programme (UFP) a trusted pathway to outstanding higher education destinations.
Over 50% of our Architecture, Art & Design students achieve offers from University of the Arts London (UAL) and Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA) which are some of the leading art & design universities in the UK.
Tuition Fees
The fee for the one-year foundation course on Architecture, Art & Design is £28,500, which includes registration, examination, and art material fees.
To find the complete tuition fees breakdown, click here.
Entry Requirements
Age Requirement
All students must be 16 years 6 months old or more to be eligible to apply for a foundation programme.
Academic Requirements
All students need to have completed up to the GCSE equivalent level.
Minimum of 5 A*-C grades, including Mathematics
English Language Requirements
| Academic IELTS for UKVI | Pearson PTE Academic UKVI |
|---|---|
| Minimum 5.5 overall, no less than 5.0 in any component | Minimum 46 overall, no less than 43 in any component |
To find the complete English Language requirement, click here.
Testimonials
What stood out to me about UFP was the flexibility of the pathway—it allowed me to apply to multiple majors, from engineering to computer science. This versatility gave me the freedom to explore and keep my options open.
Maan
Mechanical Engineering | University of Bristol
Maan
Mechanical Engineering | University of Bristol
Coming from a different education system, applying to top UK universities felt overwhelming—until I discovered UFP. It allowed me to complete the equivalent of two years of A-Levels in just one year, making it the ideal pathway for starting my university journey in the UK.
Sabrina
Accounting and Finance | Durham University
Sabrina
Accounting and Finance | Durham University
Our teachers were highly qualified specialists who were both knowledgeable and supportive. They made complex concepts easy to understand, and their passion for teaching motivated me to work harder and aim higher.
Donya
Business Management | City, University of London
Donya
Business Management | City, University of London
UFP is one of the best foundation programs for securing a direct path to top universities. Its central London location offers great convenience, and the diverse community and range of extracurricular activities make the experience even more rewarding.
Khaled
Computer Science | Kings College London
Khaled
Computer Science | Kings College London
It’s amazing that in just one year at UFP, you can achieve the same level of preparation as A-Level students and compete for places at top UK universities like the University of Edinburgh.
Mohammed
Chemical Engineering | University of Edinburgh
Mohammed
Chemical Engineering | University of Edinburgh
The tutors at UFP were incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely committed to our success. Their one-on-one support and constant feedback helped me grow academically. They were always approachable, making my learning experience both enriching and enjoyable.
Maryam
Medicine | University of Debrecen
Maryam
Medicine | University of Debrecen
I chose UFP for its strong track record of university placements, especially in pharmacy, and its one-year pathway that keeps pace with A-Level and IB programs. The central London location, inclusive environment, and thoughtful amenities—like halal food and prayer rooms—made me feel welcomed and supported as an international student.
Nyna
Pharmacy | King’s College
Nyna
Pharmacy | King’s College
The student support at UFP was exceptional—available throughout the day and always ready to help. I received both academic and emotional guidance during challenging times, which made a real difference in my experience. Their understanding of student needs was truly impressive.
Roberto
Economics & Finance | University of Sheffield
Roberto
Economics & Finance | University of Sheffield
I chose UFP at David Game College for its strong academic reputation and high university placement success. The rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and supportive environment provided the personalized guidance I needed. Being in central London added a rich cultural dimension to my learning.
Aseel
Pharmaceutical Science | Kingston University
Aseel
Pharmaceutical Science | Kingston University
I chose UFP for its unique pathway to UK universities and strong focus on student success. The diverse courses, one-on-one time with experienced instructors, and supportive community made it an ideal environment for growth. As an international student, I found UFP to be the perfect fit.
Diaman
Medicine | RCSI Bahrain
Diaman
Medicine | RCSI Bahrain
I had heard fantastic feedback about UFP from friends who studied there and went on to top universities in London—and my own experience exceeded expectations. The quality of education at UFP is exceptional. Learning from outstanding teachers with deep expertise in both teaching and their professional fields had a major impact on my academic journey.
Mahta
AAD | University of the Arts London
Mahta
AAD | University of the Arts London
My experience at UFP was truly top-tier. The close-knit nature of the administration meant I had direct communication lines with both teachers and faculty members, making it incredibly easy to address doubts and concerns quickly. I always had the option for one-on-one time with my teachers and counselors, which provided invaluable clarity whenever I needed it.
Hussain
Artificial Intelligence | King's College London
Hussain
Artificial Intelligence | King's College London
The one-year pathway to university is incredibly valuable. It helped me improve my English language skills and, most importantly, bridge the knowledge gap between high school and university. I felt fully prepared to start my university journey.
Aminata
Mechatronic Engineering | University of Southampton
Aminata
Mechatronic Engineering | University of Southampton
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