Access to HE Art and Design Course in Abingdon

CostFREE
Duration2 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start10 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyGateway Qualifications awarding body

About this course

Access to HE Art and Design Course in Abingdon. Evening classes run at Abingdon and Witney College Abingdon Campus. This course is for learners aged 19 or over. Fees may apply, though some learners may be eligible for funding support.

The course covers a wide range of art and design disciplines, from drawing and colour theory to contextual studies and critical writing. You'll build a portfolio and develop the academic skills universities expect. The course runs over two weeks of intensive evening study.

You'll finish with the Access to HE Diploma (Art and Design), awarded by Gateway Qualifications and recognised by UK universities.

Who this course is for

This exciting course for adults (19+) will enable you to cover a wide range of art and design disciplines to develop your skills for entry to Higher Education in the field of Art & Design.

Entry requirements

This course is available to 19+ learners only.

We will invite you to an interview to meet a tutor from the Art & Design team. You will need to show your commitment and creativity and bring a portfolio of recent art and design work. During the meeting you will receive information advice and guidance about the course you have applied for and discuss your previous qualifications and ability to complete the academic written aspects of the course. This will be an opportunity

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a range of art and design disciplines, including drawing, colour, and mixed media.
  • You'll develop your creative practice through practical studio work.
  • You'll build a portfolio of art and design work to a higher education standard.
  • You'll study contextual and art history topics to support your critical thinking.
  • You'll write academically, developing the essay and research skills universities require.
  • You'll reflect on your own creative process and artistic development.

How you will learn

You'll learn through evening studio sessions and tutor-led classes. Assessment is through a combination of coursework, a portfolio of practical work, and written assignments. There are no exams. You'll attend an interview before the course starts, bringing a portfolio of recent work to discuss with a tutor from the Art and Design team.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to bring a portfolio of recent art and design work to your interview. Abingdon and Witney College Abingdon Campus will confirm any materials you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Visual artist, creates and exhibits original artwork professionally.
  • Graphic designer, produces visual content for brands and media.
  • Illustrator, creates images for publishing, advertising, and digital media.
  • Art technician, supports studios and workshops in colleges or galleries.
  • Gallery assistant, helps manage exhibitions and visitor engagement.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, the natural next step for learners wanting to develop a creative practice at degree level.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, for those drawn to commercial and digital design.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration, a specialist degree for image-makers.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, a one-year course some learners take before a degree to build their portfolio further.

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