Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Hereford. Classes run full-time at Hereford College of Arts, five days a week during the day. The course runs over two years. In the first year you explore a wide range of disciplines, including printmaking, ceramics, photography, textiles, 3D work, and digital media. In the second year you specialise in the area that suits you best. You work on projects using professional studio and workshop facilities, with feedback from tutors and working creative professionals. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, or a merit at BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design, plus an interview and portfolio.
Who this course is for
The Art, Design & Media industries include an incredibly wide variety of different subjects and opportunities for employment. Due to this diversity it can be very difficult to identify what course might suit you, where you will flourish and where you will be happy. The majority of our students who come to us after Year 11 have a good knowledge of art and/or media, but are not sure of how to apply or widen their skills. Our specialist status and resources mean we can really help you to look at a wide variety of art and design and encourage you to take on new ways of being creative, as well as allowing you to develop your preferred subjects.
Entry requirements
Minimum 5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 (previously A*-C). To ensure that you qualify it is highly desirable that you achieve at least a grade 4/C or above in English and maths), or on achieving a merit at BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design, interview and portfolio
What you will learn
You'll explore a broad range of art and design disciplines in your first year, including printmaking, ceramics, photography, textiles, 3D, small metals, and digital media.
You'll develop technical skills using industry-standard equipment and studio facilities.
You'll specialise in a chosen discipline during your second year.
You'll build a body of work through real-world projects and creative briefs.
You'll receive structured feedback from tutors and working creative professionals to develop your practice.
You'll strengthen transferable skills such as critical thinking, research, and presentation of creative work.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio and workshop-based projects, supported by feedback from tutors, technical demonstrators, and practising creative professionals. The curriculum is student-centred and adapts to your developing interests. Assessment is ongoing through your portfolio of work and project outcomes. In your second year, you focus your practice in a specialist area, building toward a final body of work.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide access to professional studio and workshop facilities. Hereford College of Arts will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: create visual content for print and digital media
Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, and editorial work
Textile designer: design patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors
Photographer: work in commercial, editorial, or fine art photography
Ceramicist or craft maker: produce work for galleries, studios, or retail
Art technician: support studio and workshop operations in education or industry
Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and in-store environments
What you could study next
This level 3 art and design qualification is recognised for entry to higher education art and design programmes. Many students go on to study at institutions such as Goldsmiths or Central Saint Martins.
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography, or Textiles at a UK university
BA (Hons) in Fashion Design or Textile Design
Foundation Degree in Creative Arts (if you prefer a shorter higher education route)
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design at Level 5
