Course Overview
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Art & Design is a fast-paced, creative programme designed for adult learners who are ready to return to education and progress to university. This one-year course provides an inspiring route into higher education for those with a passion for the visual arts but without traditional Level 3 qualifications.
You’ll explore a wide range of creative techniques and materials while developing your academic, research, and study skills. Through studio-based projects, specialist workshops, and contextual studies, you’ll gain the confidence and experience needed to thrive in higher-level creative study.
Through a mix of practical studio work, research, and academic development, you’ll build the confidence, skills, and portfolio needed to take your next step into higher education. You’ll explore a range of creative disciplines, refine your technical and conceptual abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of the art and design industry.
The course encourages you to take risks, explore new ideas, and build an individual creative voice. You’ll also receive tailored support in preparing your UCAS application, personal statement, and portfolio, ensuring you’re fully equipped for your next step into university or art school.
Entry Requirements:
Completion of Level 2 Subject Specialist Qualification
Course Highlights
Course Units
• Media & Materials Development
• Realisation of Ideas for a Brief
• Art & Design Project Development & Delivery
• History of Art & Design
• Drawing
• Portfolio Building in Art & Design
• Preparation for Self-Directed Practice
• Major Project
• Colour Theory in Art & Design
• Printmaking Workshop
• Personal Project in Art & Design
• Final Major Project: Presentation and Exhibition
• 3D Methods and Materials Workshop
• Digital Media Workshop
Course Breakdown
Course Structure
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Art & Design is structured to help you build confidence, refine your creative skills, and develop independence as an artist or designer. The course begins with guided projects focused on skills development and creative exploration, and gradually progresses toward self-directed, independent practice as you prepare for higher education.
Throughout the year, you’ll complete a series of themed projects designed to challenge your creativity, strengthen your technical ability, and develop your personal style.
Project Titles
1. Still Life and Everything Else
Begin by exploring fundamental drawing, painting, and observational techniques. You’ll experiment with composition, tone, and form, developing the core visual skills that underpin all creative disciplines.
2. Digital Development
Discover digital tools and media techniques used in contemporary art and design. You’ll work with photography, image manipulation, and digital illustration to extend your creative vocabulary.
3. Series, Sequence, Serial
Investigate how meaning and narrative can be built through repetition and variation. This project encourages creative experimentation across media and introduces structured approaches to visual storytelling.
4. Sense of Place
Explore the relationship between creativity and environment. You’ll develop personal responses to space, location, and identity through a range of creative practices, linking ideas with contextual research.
5. Final Major Project
Your final self-directed brief allows you to consolidate everything you’ve learned. You’ll plan, produce, and present a substantial body of work that reflects your interests, creative voice, and readiness for university-level study.
Progression & Next Steps
This structured approach ensures a smooth transition from supported skill-building to independent, confident creative practice, equipping you with the knowledge, portfolio, and academic grounding to progress successfully to higher education.