This qualification is the perfect step to an Art and Design or other creative degree at university.
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Overview
You must be aged 19 years or over by 31 August in the year the course starts.
The diploma is a 12-month full-time intensive programme which is recognised by universities as an alternative to A levels for entry to many degree courses.
The course is structured with design workshops, theory and practical sessions to support learning, which will be delivered in our new creative space at Keighley College.
Funding for Access to HE courses is available via student loans. For those of you who progress to university and pass your degree, the loan cost of the Access HE Diploma will be written off. Further information on this can be provided at the interview.
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Who is this course for?
This diploma is the ideal choice for learners who are interested in a career within the creative industries. This is a pathway which provides you with the knowledge, experience, and portfolio of work required to study a creative degree. Your abilities will be nurtured and developed to help you find your chosen specialism. -
Entry Requirements
You must be 19 years of age by 31 August in the year the course starts.
It is essential that you will have attained GCSE in English and maths or Functional skills Level 2, prior to entry on the Access course as these subjects are often required for degree-level courses. If necessary, you may be able to study one GCSE or a level 2 qualification alongside your diploma.
Some universities will accept an alternative to GCSE (you must check this with your choices). Professional qualifications will also be considered.
We are welcoming students who are seeking to change their career, progress into creative industries or those who are wanting to return to education. We expect that students have some experience of art and design skills, which can be applied to creative practices. However, At Keighley College, we are built around community and offer this course to many people from diverse backgrounds. If you are interested in joining but not sure if you meet the requirements, please contact us for advice.
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Assessment Types
Your professional practice will be developed through project-based activities within a studio setting and online learning. At the end of your course, you will complete a final project, which will be exhibited professionally.
- Assessment types:
- Portfolio
- Essays
- Set projects
- Self directed projects
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Units/Modules
This course prepares students who are interested in pursuing a degree at university. Through guided teaching from subject specialists tutors, you will develop your knowledge and skills in creative practices. You will broaden your understanding of critical thinking and apply this to your chosen artistic medium.
Your course will combine a range of activities that provide you with opportunities to develop as a creative practitioner. Through a combination of set and self directed activities, you will enhance your understanding of the design process, you will gain experience in working towards briefs and critically engaging with historical culture to help form your ideas.
You will have the opportunity to explore a range of specialist art and design workshops including life-drawing, painting, printmaking, textiles, photography, and art history.
The course also aims to help students make the right decision when choosing and applying for a degree in the creative arts.
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Benefits/Skills
You will develop your creative practice, academic skills, knowledge and understanding to enable you to progress to university and pursue a professional career of your choice. -
Careers/Progression
- Artist Journalist
- Animator
- Digital Designer
- Fashion Designer
- Graphic Designer
- Textile Designer
- Education
- Museum and Gallery curator
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Success Stories
Ambers’ Journey
I have always wanted to study a creative career but I left school and went into employment and had a family. It was only when my children got older that I decided I wanted to go back to education and learn skills that would help me progress.
I decided to apply for the Access to HE: Art and Design course at Keighley College. I was really nervous on my first day as I was worried that everyone would be younger and more knowledgeable about what they wanted to do. However, I quickly realised that everyone was feeling the same. It was great to be surrounded by a diverse group of people who brought their own experiences. Everyone was so supportive of each other and I felt so proud when we held our end of year exhibition.
I’m so glad I studied this course because my tutors nurtured my skills but also gave me the freedom to explore my own practice. I was given support throughout the course and I was guided to make the best decisions for my next steps.
I have completed a Fine Art degree and I will soon be studying a PGCE in Art and Design, as I want to inspire others to achieve their dreams. I have been delivering some painting workshops to schools and I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to provide children with access to creative sessions.