Level 5 HND Fine Art in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time over two years. This hnd fine art course covers drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, installation, digital media and critical theory. You'll work across studio practice, critique sessions and industry-informed projects, building a professional portfolio as you develop your creative voice. Entry requires a minimum of 80 UCAS points from A-Levels, Level 3 qualifications or an Access to HE qualification, plus a portfolio demonstrating artistic ability. Mature applicants with relevant experience are considered individually.
Who this course is for
This programme offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of contemporary fine art practice, combining theoretical study with sustained practical skills development. Through research, independent and directed study, and industry-informed project work, you will engage with a wide range of artistic disciplines including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, installation, digital media and critical theory. You will be encouraged to experiment across materials and processes, refine your personal creative voice, and build a coherent and professional portfolio. Studio practice is supported by workshops, critique sessions, technical demonstrations and engagement with professional arts environments, helping you develop the confidence, conceptual understanding and creative autonomy expected of an emerging artist.
Entry requirements
Applicants should hold a minimum of 80 UCAS points from A-Levels, Level 3 Diplomas or Certificates, or an Access to HE qualification; plus a portfolio demonstrating artistic ability; equivalent international qualifications will also be considered. Applications from mature students with relevant life or employment experience will also be considered individually.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills across drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture and installation.
You'll explore digital media and apply it to contemporary fine art practice.
You'll engage with critical theory and contextual studies to inform your creative work.
You'll build and refine a coherent, professional portfolio across the two years.
You'll complete a Pearson-set individual project, demonstrating independent creative thinking.
You'll work collaboratively on projects and develop professional practice skills.
You'll experiment with a range of materials and processes to find your own artistic voice.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in studio sessions, workshops, critique sessions and technical demonstrations. You'll complete projects and assignments that combine practical work with written theory. Assessment is through coursework, portfolio submissions and project work, including a Pearson-set individual project. Units cover professional development, contextual studies, techniques and practices, media and material practices, art and craft production, applied practice, collaborative projects and advanced art practice studies.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to bring art materials relevant to your personal project, plus A3 and A4 work books. Bishop Auckland College will confirm the specific materials you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Freelance artist, working independently across exhibitions and commissions.
Art technician, supporting studios, galleries or educational settings.
Community arts worker, delivering creative projects in public or community settings.
Gallery assistant, supporting exhibitions and public engagement programmes.
Arts administrator, coordinating projects and programmes in the cultural sector.
Art teacher or teaching assistant, supporting creative education (further study required for qualified teacher status).
Illustrator or visual designer, applying fine art skills in commercial contexts.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Fine Art: a Level 6 degree that builds directly on the HND. Many universities accept HND holders into the second or final year, shortening the time to a full honours degree.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Art and Design: for those who want to teach art in secondary schools, once a degree is in place.
MA Fine Art: for those wanting to develop specialist practice and research at postgraduate level.
