Interior Design Foundation Course | Study Online

Progress To Falmouth University

The OCAD Foundation Diploma in Interior Design is designed as a direct progression pathway to BA (Hons) Interior Design 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 interior design 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.

Work Produced On This Course

How This Degree Pathway Works

You study online with OCAD and work towards a Distinction-level Foundation Diploma

OCAD confirms your predicted grade through the standard admissions process

If you’re on track for Distinction, Falmouth may issue a conditional offer, without interview or portfolio stages.

Across the Foundation Diploma year, you’ll explore interior design-focused practice including spatial design, interiors, materials, user-focused design, and concept development — all mapped to university expectations.

Admissions Support

All eligible OCAD students receive enhanced admissions support, including:

Tailored guidance aligned to degree outcomes

Direct conversations with Falmouth University academics through partner sessions

Portfolio and interview preparation (where applicable)

Dedicated OCAD tutor support throughout the application process.

“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

Course Overview

Entry Requirements: 16 years or over, 5 GCSEs / IGCSEs including Maths, English and an Art or Photography-related subject linked to an appropriate portfolio (or equivalent international qualifications). Mature students require no exam qualifications, but some ability to draw and paint and a desire to succeed are required. Send an example of your work if unsure of your level.

Part-time programmes (2 years): available all year around – enroling now

Full-time programmes (1 year): start December to January and September to October. Exceptions may apply.

Requirements: Computer with broadband connection / basic art materials

Progression: BA Honours Degree

Accreditation: SEG ABC Awards

OFQUAL Regulated: Yes (Ofqual number 500/8476/8)

UCAS Tariff: up to 112 points – equivalent to two A Levels at A* grade in terms of points – university entry generally requires 80 -100 UCAS points

Distinction = 112

Merit = 96

Pass = 80

UCAS application supported: Yes

Portfolio support: Yes

Tuition: Face to face, one to one – unlimited

Structure Of The Course

Across this pathway, students will:

Build a strong, degree-ready interior design portfolio

Develop creative confidence across visual and spatial disciplines

Learn how to respond to briefs, present ideas, and reflect on practice

Be supported by tutors who understand university admissions standards.

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 interior design, helping you experiment, build confidence, and identify your creative strengths.

Pathway Stage

This stage allows you to focus more deeply on interior design. Working closely with subject specialist tutors, you’ll develop your knowledge, technical skills, and conceptual thinking within interior design 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 interior design practice.

Falmouth University Pathway Award

Eligible international students progressing to Falmouth University may qualify for the Falmouth Pathway Award, which offers:

£2,000 tuition fee discount for any undergraduate degree at Falmouth University
Automatically applied as credit towards tuition fees at Falmouth University, once eligibility is confirmed
No separate scholarship application required.

This award recognises progression to Falmouth University through an approved academic partner.

Terms and conditions apply. See full details here:

https://www.falmouth.ac.uk/study/student-funding/scholarships-international-students/falmouth-pathway-awards.

Fees

UK fee

Outside UK

£4,999 GBP

5,800 EUR

6,300 USD

(approximate exchange rate)

SEND Support Package

£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.

Apply Now

Your pathway to BA (Hons) Interior Design (Online) begins the moment you enrol at OCAD.

Learn online with expert creative tutors

Build a portfolio with degree progression in mind

Gain a recognised pathway into university study

Access additional guidance, tasters, and partner tutor sessions

Distinction students can unlock a streamlined admissions route.

“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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