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Access to HE Art and Design Course in Leeds – Leeds City College Quarry Hill Campus

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodySEGA

Free for 16 to 18 year olds. £3,928 for adults. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Luminate Education Group for more info.

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About this course

Access to HE Art and Design Course in Leeds. Classes run at Leeds City College Quarry Hill Campus, full-time during the day. If you're 16 to 18 years old, there is no fee. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though a student loan may be available to help cover costs. This two-year level 3 access to HE art and design qualification is recognised by UK universities as a route into degree-level study. You'll focus on graphic design or illustration, building a portfolio and developing the critical and practical skills universities expect. You don't need a formal art qualification to apply. You'll show your creative skills through a portfolio at interview.

Who this course is for

The course is for students over 19 years old who are passionate about the art and design industry, and who would specifically like to develop their skills and experience in graphic design or illustration. The course is ideal for those who have experience at any level and who would like to go to university to study their subject in more depth. It is also suitable for those who are thinking of changing their career or have left education with no qualifications.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be 19 or older. You do not need a prior formal academic qualification in the arts to be accepted onto the course. Through a portfolio shown at the interview, you must demonstrate your creative skills, curiosity for the subject, and a commitment to your study.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills in graphic design or illustration through studio-based projects.
  • You'll build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your creative range and development.
  • You'll study the history and context of art and design to support your practice.
  • You'll develop critical thinking and analytical skills through written and visual work.
  • You'll learn to present and communicate your ideas clearly to an audience.
  • You'll explore specialist techniques relevant to your chosen pathway.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio sessions, projects, and tutorials at Leeds City College Quarry Hill Campus. Assessment is through coursework, portfolio submissions, and written assignments. There are no formal written exams. You'll build your portfolio throughout the two years, with feedback from tutors at regular points. An initial assessment and portfolio interview take place before you start, so the course can be planned around your experience and goals.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Leeds City College Quarry Hill Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer: create visual content for brands, print, and digital media.
  • Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, and editorial clients.
  • Art director: lead visual direction on creative projects.
  • Visual merchandiser: design in-store displays and retail environments.
  • Animator: produce moving image and digital illustration.
  • Surface pattern designer: create designs for textiles, wallpaper, and packaging.
  • UX/UI designer: design digital interfaces and user experiences.

What you could study next

This qualification is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for degree-level study. You could progress to a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design, Illustration, Fine Art, or a related creative subject. Some universities also offer Foundation Degrees in art and design if you want a shorter higher education route. If you want to teach art and design in further education, a degree followed by a teaching qualification would be the next step.

Apply on leedscitycollege.ac.uk →
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