Course summary

The aim of the two-year HND Art and Design course is to equip students with art and design skills, knowledge and the understanding, necessary to thrive within the creative industries. With pathways for students to specialise in either Art Practice or 3D, the course fosters both specialist and inter-disciplinary approaches to creative thinking. Through collaborative and individual practical projects, underpinned with critical studies, contextual and art theory studies, and professional development, students gain insight into the diversity of roles within the creative industries. Live briefs, competitions, work placement and exhibition opportunities, will enhance career prospects, with an increasing degree of independence as the course progresses. Both year one and year two of the course culminate in the management of a self-initiated final major project, compiling a portfolio and hanging an exhibition of work. Students benefit from support and encouragement from dedicated teaching team who are practitioners in their specialist fields, as well as access to our superb facilities and excellent technical staff. Leads to: On successful completion of the HND, students have the option to apply to top up to a full Bachelor’s degree at university or enter employment or self-employment. The course has important work-related elements that make use of industry links. Students on the programme have completed work experience for galleries, schools, council-led arts projects and in artists’ and designers’ studios, thus building their CV in preparation for work.