Access to HE Creative Arts Course in Wakefield

Cost£3,928 Students who were under 24 as at the 31st August who do not already hold a Level 3 qualification may not have to pay fees, this is dependent on your postcode. All other students can apply for the Advanced Learner Loan to cover the fees.
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCAVA

About this course

Access to HE Creative Arts Course in Wakefield. Classes run at Wakefield College, full-time during the day.

The course is for students aged 19 or over who want to progress to degree-level study in art and design. You'll study for one year, covering drawing, design, photography, illustration, and other creative disciplines. You'll need a GCSE grade 4 or above in English and Maths, or Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects, to join.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma in Creative Arts, recognised by UK universities as a route into degree programmes.

Who this course is for

This course is open to all students who are over 19, with particular emphasis on those with an interest in Art and Design and who wish to study within this area at degree course level.

This is a one-year course with excellent progression opportunities at both local and national universities and internally to the College’s own degree programmes. Although the course offers no specific placement opportunities, we have links with alternate creative organisations allowing opportunity to participate in live exhibitions throughout the year.

An ideal candidate will possess a passion for Art and Design acquired through their personal interests or commercial activities in this field.

You will learn through formal tutor led sessions within an art studio environment, group discussions and critiques, individual practical work and extensive research activities outside of the classroom to include gallery visits.

Entry requirements

GCSE Grade 9-4 in English and Maths

OR

Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths

What you will learn

  • You'll develop drawing and observational skills across a range of media.
  • You'll explore graphic design principles and visual communication.
  • You'll practise photography and learn to use images creatively.
  • You'll study illustration techniques and develop a personal style.
  • You'll build a portfolio of work to support university applications.
  • You'll research and write critically about art and design practice.
  • You'll learn how to plan and present creative projects.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based sessions, practical projects, and written assignments. Assessment is through coursework and a portfolio of creative work rather than formal exams. You'll attend classes in person at Wakefield College during the day.

What you will need to bring

Wakefield College will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Art and design assistant, supports creative projects in a studio or agency.
  • Graphic designer, creates visual content for print and digital media, though many roles prefer a degree.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing and media, a degree strengthens your prospects.
  • Photographer, shoots and edits images for clients or publications.
  • Creative arts technician, supports artists and designers in a studio or gallery setting.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Fine Art or Graphic Design, a Level 6 bachelor's degree and the most common next step after this Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) in Photography or Illustration, another Level 6 route for learners focused on a specific discipline.
  • Foundation Degree in Creative Arts, a Level 5 option if you prefer a shorter higher education programme.
  • HND in Art and Design, a Level 5 qualification available at some colleges as an alternative to a full degree.

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