The number of jobs in the UK's creative industries rose by 5% in 2016, compared to the 1.2% increase in the wider UK workforce. According to the Creative Industries Council, almost 2m people are now employed in the UK's creative organisations.
This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an artist or designer. It will provide an exciting opportunity to build on previous experience and develop new skills in a full range of subjects such as; drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, textiles, photography and digital media, alongside studying historical and contemporary artists and designers. You will develop your understanding of debates about the nature of art: how it can be evaluated, what it might represent, and the meanings it might convey. From this, you will form an appreciation and enjoyment of fine art that will last a lifetime.
The pass rate over the last five years is 93%. The majority of learners achieve a merit or distinction.
'' What a fun and supportive place; lots of interesting projects and people I have loads in common with''
"Now I've seen degree shows, I know what the competition is and what I need to do to get a university place. My tutor has helped me shape a really strong portfolio."
"When I started the course, I didn't know what I wanted to do or was any good at; I now know that Product Design is right for me (with photography as a hobby)."
Career Destinations
There are a diverse range of job opportunities in the creative arts for example; Illustrator, Art Therapist, Fine Artist, Costume Designer, Games Designer, Community Arts Work, Teacher, Product Designer, Make-up Artist or Architect. We will support you with your options for further study, an apprenticeship or work.
What can I do next?
After successfully completing a UAL Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design-Fine Art you can progress to a second and final year of specialist study with a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design-Fine Art. After the Extended Diploma in Art and Design, the majority of our students progress to the Foundation Diploma in Art and Design or to Higher Education.
What will I be doing?
A studio based course that will include drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, textiles, photography and digital media and art history. Over the course of the year you will;
- Learn about the breadth of possible careers in the Creative Industries and work with experienced professionals who have a history of success helping students achieve high grades
- Develop confidence in working independently, developing communication and presentation skills and the ability to analyse and evaluate your own and others' work
- Produce assignment based work to encourage experimentation and exploration of media and techniques, to help you develop potential in specific subject areas
- Engage in diverse ways of making creative and innovative artwork including; live briefs, individual and team projects and showcases of exhibited work
- Develop appropriate skills/qualifications in English, Maths and software applications
- Visit exciting exhibitions and museums to support your studies
Added Extras
- The opportunity to specialise in one area for a Final Major Project after gaining experience in a wide selection of areas in the visual arts.
- Provide a good overall level of skills, particularly the ability to draw and visualise ideas.
- Participate in an exciting and diverse range of enrichment activities, such as visits to degree shows across the south of England and London galleries and exhibitions linked to project work
- Complete live industry briefs, competitions and instigate a digital presence
- Develop a portfolio of work for direct progression to Higher Education or employment
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is continuous through working on practical assignments and producing a range of products culminating in a final major project. Key and functional skills are assessed through your portfolio and online.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C, one of which must be English, or a Level 2 Art and Design Diploma at merit grade and English GCSE grade 4/C.
Applicants are asked to provide examples of art and design work at interview.
What do I need to bring?
You will be required to purchase a course kit at approximately £110, a kit list will be provided, this will give you everything you need for the first term at college but you should expect to replace paints, sketchbooks and some materials as you progress on the course. £90 is payable on enrolment as a contribution towards the cost of study trips and additional specialist materials.
Students at HRC who meet the eligibility criteria can apply to the Bursary Fund for support towards essential kit, visit and material costs. Please note - bursary funding is not guaranteed and is subject to availability at the time of application. For further information contact the Information Centre on 01992 411411 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Fee Information
Free to Home students under 19 on 31st August 2023.
If you are a Home student aged 19 or over on the 31st August 2023, you may be liable to pay approximately £2,500 tuition fee for a Level 2 qualification and approximately £5,000 for a Level 3 qualification (these were the tuition fees for 2022/2023 and could be subject to change for 2023/2024).
If you are aged 19-23 you may also be entitled to free tuition if the course you choose is on a government-approved list and the qualification is your first full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.
If you are aged over 24 and you have not achieved a full Level 3 qualification you may be entitled to free tuition if the qualification is listed on the Government Free courses for jobs list. Similarly, if you already hold a Level 3 qualification (or above) and meet the Adult Education Budgets definition of unemployed or are in receipt of low wage, you may also be entitled to free tuition.
You may also be required to pay an administration fee, exam fees, kit fee and an Awarding Body Registration fee if applicable.
These fees are indicative of the 2024-25 costs and may be subject to change
