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Short Courses

Portfolio preparation courses

Build a standout portfolio

A strong portfolio is essential for success in the creative industries. We offer a range of practical portfolio preparation courses to help you develop and present your best work.

Who these courses are for

Anyone can apply to join one of our portfolio preparation courses. Previous students have developed portfolios to go on to:

  • the Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
  • BA and MA courses at UAL and other top institutions
  • industry employment
  • set up their own design studios or freelance art practice

What you’ll learn

UAL tutors, alumni, and practicing professionals will give you expert advice about application and interview processes. They’ll help you develop your work so that it represents your unique voice and sets your portfolio above others.

You’ll build a stronger portfolio by:

  • exploring your potential within a range of art and design disciplines
  • expanding your design skills and personal practice
  • experimenting with new ideas
Portfolio preparation short courses | UAL Short Courses
Image: Sketchbook of Courtney Burnan, Case Study | UAL

Portfolio preparation short courses

Portfolio preparation courses for teenagers

Find your path

Prepare for your next step with:

  • personalised feedback: practical one-to-one advice on how to refine your portfolio
  • hands-on learning: develop your skills at UAL’s inspiring studios and workspaces
  • strong progression routes: portfolio preparation students have a high success rate of entering their first choice College

Fashion Folio: student voices

Fashion Folio taught me how to put together a portfolio, how to build a project and a collection. As well as think about research, design, development, experimentation – all the things you need to make a collection.

— Sarnya Umanshaka, Short Course Student

Portfolio preparation stories

  • Student portfolio, Fashion Folio UAL
    Student portfolio, Fashion Folio UAL

    What is Fashion Folio at Central Saint Martins?

    Discover what to expect from Fashion Folio, an intensive course designed to help you build a professional portfolio for further study or career progression. Hear from past students and find out how to apply.

  • Photograph by Ushio Kageyama
    Image: Photograph by Ushio Kageyama

    How to become a professional photographer

    Do you want to become a professional photographer? We caught up with professional photographer and tutor, Daniel Keys, to find out how you can make your dream a reality.

  • UAL International Summer School | On campus
    Image: UAL International Summer School 2025 | UAL Short Courses

    Discover International Summer School through the eyes of our students

    We chat to students from this year's International Summer School for 16 to 18 year olds Short Course to hear about their experiences at UAL.

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