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Access to Higher Education

The course contains 9 main projects. You will follow a programme of personal development, giving you all the skills needed to progress into university and the next level in your career development goals.

You will learn study skills, in areas of research, essay writing, speaking and listening, responding to a brief, art history elements, preparing for higher education, as well as specialist areas in Art and Design, with access to ceramics, 3D, printmaking, photographic studios and creative digital software to support your chosen specialism.

  • Entry requirements

    You will need GCSEs grade C/4 or above in English Language and Maths, or a Level 2 Functional Skills English and Maths qualification.

    You will need to present a portfolio of work at your interview, which demonstrates your artistic skills and a proven interest in Art and Design.

  • Who is the course for?

    Access to Higher Education programmes are designed for students who are aged 18 and over as of 31 August, with an interest in progressing to university in a specialist area in Creative Arts, such as Architecture, Graphics, Jewellery Design, Interior Design, Fine Art, Fashion, Furniture Design, Tattoo Design this list is non-exhaustive.

    For students who don't already have an A Level or Level 3 equivalent.

  • Study methods

    You will learn about your subjects through practical projects, which will expand both your technical and creative skills. You will be encouraged to develop your study skills including research, analysis and presentation of your creative thinking process. You will have access to practical workshops and art studios but also classroom-based activities and computer rooms. Each unit is assessed throughout the programme, helping to form your final grade for the year.

  • How is the course assessed?

    There are no examinations on this course. You will be assessed for each unit through assignments and coursework. The grading on the course is either level 2 (GCSE equivalent) or level 3 (GCE Advanced level). Unit work is graded at Pass, Merit and Distinction from the first project. Completing coursework by the submission deadline is an important grading factor.

  • More information

    This course is taught over 4 afternoons/evenings per week, Monday-Thursday. Mondays and Thursdays will be taught virtually 5-8pm and Tuesdays and Wednesdays will be in college from 2.30-8pm.

    This is an intense one year course, designed for mature students with no previous Level 3 qualification, it requires projects to be continued at home, which includes weekly homework tasks being set as well as independent study.

    This course gives you everything you need to progress into university, As part of your course you will also be required to attend trips and industry talks.

  • Where Next – Job Opportunities

    Career opportunities in the Creative Arts include:

    • Interior Design
    • Visual Communication
    • Design in Digital Media
    • Fashion (including Marketing and Styling)
    • Multimedia
    • Photographic Practice
    • Design Management
    • Costume
    • Print
    • Advertising
    • Branding
    • Product Design
    • Furniture Design
    • Photojournalism
    • Film/ Theatre Sets
    • Costume Design
    • Architecture
    • Graphic Design
    • Marketing
    • Arts Education.
  • Where Next – Further Studies

    An Access qualification is recognised by universities and other institutions providing higher education courses as an entry requirement. The successful completion of the course will enable you to apply to higher education to study for a degree or professional qualifications within Creative Arts. You will be supported through the UCAS process and guided towards selecting the appropriate course.

  • How to apply

    To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

    OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
    When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.

Course starting Sep 2024

Starts 16 September 2024

Duration 33 Week(s)

Location Richmond upon Thames Campus