OCAD Foundation Diploma
DEGREE PATHWAY – Foundation Diploma Illustration
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The OCAD Foundation Diploma in Illustration is designed as a direct progression pathway to BA (Hons) Illustration (Online) at Falmouth University.
This Level 3 Foundation Diploma bridges the gap between school-level study and university-level creative degrees, helping you develop a strong, degree-ready illustration portfolio while building the skills, confidence, and creative thinking required for undergraduate study.
This pathway forms part of OCAD’s signed progression agreement with Falmouth University, meaning your progression is recognised, supported, and structured from the moment you apply.
Across the Foundation Diploma year, you’ll explore illustration-focused practice including visual storytelling, concept development, image-making, and personal style development — all mapped to university expectations.
All eligible OCAD students receive enhanced admissions support, including:
“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to nurturing emerging talent and widening access to arts education, ensuring students transition seamlessly from foundation to degree-level study.”
— Falmouth University
Across this pathway, students will:
Your foundation year is designed to prepare you for undergraduate-level creative study — not just assessment.
OCAD supports you throughout the process, from preparation to submission.
The course is delivered across three distinct stages:
Exploratory Stage
The first stage introduces you to art and design practice at a deeper level. You’ll explore a range of disciplines and develop core creative skills that underpin illustration, helping you experiment, build confidence, and identify your creative strengths.
Pathway Stage
This stage allows you to focus more deeply on illustration. Working closely with subject specialist tutors, you’ll develop your knowledge, technical skills, and conceptual thinking within illustration practice.
Confirmatory Stage
The final stage of the Foundation Diploma — and the only stage that determines your final grade. With tutor support, you’ll write a statement of intent outlining your final major project. Your final project is practical and can take any form that best represents your illustration practice.
Eligible international students progressing to Falmouth University may qualify for the Falmouth Pathway Award, which offers:
This award recognises progression to Falmouth University through an approved academic partner.
Terms and conditions apply. See full details here:
£4,999 GBP
5,800 EUR
6,300 USD
(approximate exchange rate)
£5,000 + VAT per annum (in addition to standard course fees)
Designed for schools, local authorities, and organisations supporting learners with SEND, this package provides enhanced, structured support beyond standard reasonable adjustments.
Your pathway to BA (Hons) Illustration (Online) begins the moment you enrol at OCAD.
“By aligning high-quality online learning with Falmouth’s creative vision and academic standards, this partnership ensures students transition seamlessly from foundation to degree-level study.”
— Falmouth University
Apply now to start a foundation course designed to lead directly into university, with clearer routes, stronger support, and less uncertainty.
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