Course summary

The Higher National Diploma in Creative Visual Arts at The College Merthyr Tydfil is a full-time, two-year course at levels 4 and 5, awarded by the University of South Wales. Students are encouraged to complete a final year at the Atrium, University of South Wales or other institution of their choice to study at Level 6 and achieve a full honours degree BA (Hons) Top-up. Students who study at The College Merthyr Tydfil will have access to the University of South Wales’ facilities, including the library and student union, and they will be able to attend guest speaker talks, allowing an overall integrated experience. This course will give students a wide range of creative and technical artistic skills through stimulating assignments including: traditional and digital painting, drawing, photography, as well as ceramics, print-making, installation, conceptual and performance art. The course includes the development of professional skills through work placement, external exhibitions, and field trips to Cardiff, London, European cities, and Japan. Regular visits are made to museums and galleries to inspire students and to ensure they are examining the way in which various contemporary and historical artists work. This is a creative and practical course underpinned by visual culture, contextual elements, and the history of art. We work with organisations and mentors to ensure that students gain the right skills, experience, confidence, and networks, to apply for relevant jobs within the creative industries and/or understand how to apply these skills to their own business on completion of the course. The Higher National Diploma in Creative Visual Arts aims to provide students with a high-quality learning experience. This includes subject specialist lecturers with industry links and experience that is relevant to creative industries for contemporary practice.