Access to HE Art and Design Course in Keighley

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodySEGA

About this course

Access to HE Art and Design Course in Keighley. Evening classes run at Keighley College, full-time over one year. This level 3 access to HE art and design qualification is designed for adults aged 19 or over who hold a full Level 2 qualification and GCSE or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and maths. Fees may apply, though a Learner Loan may be available to cover costs. You'll build a portfolio of creative work and develop the specialist knowledge universities look for in art and design applicants.

Who this course is 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 a full Level 2 qualification (equivalent to 5 GCSE's). You will also need to have 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.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop a portfolio of creative work to support a university application.
  • You'll explore a range of art and design disciplines to find your specialism.
  • You'll study the theory and context behind contemporary and historical art and design.
  • You'll practise practical techniques across drawing, mixed media, and design processes.
  • You'll develop critical thinking and analytical skills applied to creative work.
  • You'll learn how to present and evaluate your own creative practice.

How you will learn

Classes are delivered in the evening at Keighley College. You'll learn through studio-based practical work, projects, and critical study. Assessment is through coursework and a portfolio of work you build across the year. There are no written exams. Your tutors will give feedback throughout to help you develop your ideas and refine your specialism.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Keighley College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer: create visual content for brands and media
  • Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital platforms
  • Art director: lead visual creative decisions in agencies or studios
  • Textile designer: design patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors
  • Animator: create moving image content for film, TV, or games
  • Set designer: design environments for theatre, film, or TV production
  • Visual merchandiser: plan and create retail display and brand environments

What you could study next

This Diploma is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for creative degree courses. You could go on to study:

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or a related creative subject at university
  • BA (Hons) Architecture or Interior Design, where this Diploma meets foundation entry requirements
  • A foundation degree in a creative discipline, if you want a shorter higher education route first

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