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Level 3 Diploma in Architecture, Interior and Urban Design

EKC Folkestone College

Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2TZ

National Certificate (BTEC / NCFE)
Level 3
Construction, Planning and the Built Environment

Available start dates

Available start dates

Thursday, 02 September 2027
Folkestone College
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Application Instructions

Applications Open - Monday 2 November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply - Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide.

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Folkestone College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

  • EKC Ashford College
  • EKC Broadstairs College*
  • EKC Canterbury College*
  • EKC Dover College
  • EKC Folkestone College*
  • EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Course Summary

Do you notice buildings, spaces and places wherever you go? If you’ve ever wondered how cities are designed, or how architecture can change the way we live, this could be the perfect for you. Step into the world of architecture, interior and urban design and start building the skills to shape the spaces around you. You’ll explore how creative ideas develop into real environments, from individual interiors to wider urban spaces. As the demand for thoughtful, sustainable and innovative design continues to grow, this two-year course is your starting point into a career where creativity meets real-world impact.

Course Details

Start thinking like a designer from day one. You’ll explore how spaces are imagined, planned and brought to life, developing your creative ideas through research, sketching and design development. Explore the world around you and use it as inspiration, from iconic buildings and architectural styles to the way cities are shaped and experienced. You’ll begin to understand how design influences how people live, work and interact with spaces. Work with modern design tools and technologies, including 3D printing and digital design software, bringing your ideas off the page. As you progress, you’ll develop a strong understanding of both the creative and technical sides of the industry. Areas you will study include: • Job roles and career routes • Visual language • Architecture movements • Styles of architecture • Sustainable planning You’ll also begin to build a portfolio that reflects your ideas and growing understanding of the design world, helping you to prepare for higher education and future careers in the industry.

How will it be delivered and assessed?

This course will be assessed with multiple projects that will build your skills in several areas. Throughout the year you will complete regular assessments, providing you with detailed feedback to help you improve your skills and knowledge. This is a highly supportive course, designed to guide your progress with clear, practical advice so you can continue building your skills and confidence.

Entry requirements

To study at Level 3, you will need an average entry score of 5.0 from your best 6 GCSE subjects, ideally including English and Maths. You will also be required to show a portfolio of work when you apply. This could include drawings, sketches, models or creative projects that demonstrate your interest and potential. In instances where little or no portfolio and/or performance experience is shown, we will guide you towards the best course to help you build your portfolio and develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed at higher levels. This study programme is designed to help you move quickly toward advanced jobs, higher education, or apprenticeship opportunities if you know what you want to do next and meet the entry requirements needed for success.

Your next steps...

By the end of your course, you’ll be ready to take your next step into higher education or the creative industries. This course opens the door to a range of career paths, including: • Architecture • Interior design • Urban design and planning • Spatial design • Set and exhibition design • 3D design You can progress onto university, specialist design courses or apprenticeships, using the portfolio you’ve built to stand out and move forward with confidence. You will also be able to apply for entry level roles within the industry.

For more courses like this, check our courses page.