Many UAL pre-degree students aspire to progress onto an undergraduate degree at one of our Colleges and Institutes. We spoke with 4 students about their experience transitioning to undergraduate study and how they were prepared for it.
The progression journey
UAL pre-degree courses are designed to help students explore a range of creative disciplines and identify their preferred ways of working before specialising in a creative course at the university level.
Whilst on their pre-degree course, students are given a clear outline of the progression process including key dates, milestones and a variety of events and talks they can attend to ensure they successfully move onto undergraduate study.
“I felt completely prepared and not nervous at all. My pre-degree course gave me the confidence to step into my BA knowing I was ready.” – Heeya Shewani
Our admissions staff consider academic performance and your portfolio when deciding what course to offer to students. A pre-degree student can be made more than one offer for undergraduate study at UAL.
“I received offers from several courses including BA Product and Industrial Design, Graphic Communication Design, Jewellery Design, Ceramic Design, and Architecture. I felt confident that my foundation year had equipped me with versatile design thinking skills that were applicable across disciplines.” – Syed Murshed
The pre-degree advantage
At the beginning of the following academic year, successful pre-degree students join their undergraduate course, fully prepared and ready to study art and design at university level.
Pre-degree students have the benefit of continuing their relationship with UAL and succeed beyond their pre-degree course. Students are already familiarised with UAL’s teaching methods, buildings and online learning environment which allows them to start their course with confidence.
“When I started my undergraduate course at London College of Communication, I was initially a little nervous. However, I soon realised I was already well-prepared and familiar with the requirements of undergraduate study and the project-making process. I was confident using workshops and accessing facilities, which made my first weeks much smoother.” – Sophia Lyu
Explore your creative interests
A pre-degree course is an exploratory year that allows you to explore your passions and uncover your process, all while building a strong portfolio of work that showcases your creative talent.
One piece of advice our students had for prospective students was to take the time to discover your creative passions and experiment with your craft.
“If you're unsure about your chosen field or want to build a stronger portfolio, a pre-degree course at UAL is a great option. It gives you time to explore your interests in depth and connect with tutors and peers who share your passion. The hands-on experience helped me confirm my love for Architecture and gave me the confidence to pursue it further.” – Zarlakhta Edris
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Thank you to our students (from left to right):
- Sophia Lyu: Certificate in Higher Education: Preparation for Design, Media and Screen (2022-23), now studying a BA (Hons) Illustration and Visual Media at London College of Communication (2023-present)
- Syed Mursh: UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (2020-21), now studying a BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design at Central Saint Martins (2021-present)
- Zarlakhta Edris: UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (2024-25), now studying a BA Architecture (2025-present)
- Heeya Shewani: Level 3 International: Introduction to the Study of Fashion (2022-23), now studying a BA (Hons) Fashion Styling and Production at London College of Fashion (2023-present)