Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design)

Will I be supported to develop a portfolio?

Yes, throughout the course you will be asked to complete different projects that will help you to get started and improve your practice. These projects will help you to develop your own portfolio which is a vital element when applying to university or trying to find a job as a freelance artist/designer. You are not expected to have any prior experience and our tutors will help you throughout the different steps. 

What does an Art Portfolio look like working online?

Work is photographed and shared on documents. Powerpoints can give scope for good presentation, but we also offer online website portfolios. That way students can build their online portfolio and can be easily shared in the future.

Our specialists are from a range of fields so can best advise depending on the type of art you are producing.

Can I get directly into university after completing the course?

Yes, many universities accept Level 3 Access courses to get direclty onto their degree programs.

Some universities may require you to join their Foundation course before getting enrolled into the actual degree so it is worth checking their website and see what the specific requirements.

Our tutors will help you during the application process through UCAS.

When are university interviews for art subjects?

Students are usually expected to apply December/January time through UCAS and most interviews take place from February to April. It is possible to get accepted into a course at a later stage (e.g., June) but it may involve going through clearing which means that potentially one may not get accepted in the desired course as places might have been filled already. Our tutors will provide advice and support during the application process

What is the process for art students to apply for university?

From 2024, you won't be expected to write a personal statement but you will be expected to have a portfolio and be ready for interview. A portfolio is a selection of your best work and should demonstrate your knowledge, creativity, and the potential to experiment and be open to different techniques and processes. This should be curated carefully and our tutors can help you with this. Porfolios can be requested to be submitted digitally or brought in physical form to the interview. 

What do they look for in university art subject interviews?

The interview is conducted by a member of the art department and is focused on your motivation to complete the course, your interest in the specific subject, and some questions about your work (portfolio) and aspirations.

Will you help me prepare for my art interview?

Yes, our tutors will help you to get you ready for that stage. 

When should I decide which area I want to study at university?

Once you have completed the initial compulsory modules you will be expected to select an area that you would like to focus on. This will be an important step as this will help you to specialise and narrow down your portfolio in an area you may want to study at university. Our tutors can help you when making a decision based on your interests and aspirations. It is not a decision you need to make before you join the course.

Will I learn about different art and design areas before choosing a specialism?

Yes, the course is designed so that you can experiment with graphics, photography, fine art, before committing to a particular area. This will give you the opportunity to try different disciplines and decide which one you like best.

How will I be assessed in the course?

You will be asked to produce work that may involve drawing, painting, using graphics, or taking photographs. In addition, you will be expected to do a bit of research on different topics (e.g., colour theory) so that you can explain it and then apply it to your own practice. There are no exams and the evaluation is 100% coursework. 

Do I need to purchase specific materials/equipment?

You won't be asked to purchase particular equipment to complete the course but you will be expected to use some materials for some of the projects (e.g., paint, brushes, pencils, textiles,...). Depending on the project the particular materials can be negotiated with the tutors. 

Will I be able to complete the course in one year?

You will be able to do that if you follow the study plan and meet the deadlines.

What if I fall behind?

Much of the course is working one on one with the tutor. The deadlines, tutorials etc. will be arranged and, if needed, adjusted according to your schedule. So even if you fall behind, we will come up with a ‘rescue’ plan.

Can I complete the course while working?

Yes, all our students work part-time or full-time. Our main goal is to support working students and help them in their goal of getting the qualifications they need to be able to go to university

How will I attend?

A live lesson will take place every week online. This lesson will be recorded. If you can’t attend our live lessons, you will be able to watch the recordings. To allow for flexible study, attendance is not monitored in terms of live lesson attendance. Learners are expected to participate through submission of assignments and regular communication. Discussion of progress will determine that learners are following their agreed study plan and, therefore, the pace of study.

Who are my Tutors?

Alberto is a highly qualified and experienced online art tutor. With an MA in Fine Art, many published works and art exhibitions on his CV (including Vogue Italia!), Alberto has extensive experience and knowledge in the area of Photography and Fine Art.

Kieran is a Fine Artist who trained in Florence and can provide the highest level of coaching in painting/drawing skill and technique. His portfolio includes many awards and appearing on Sky Arts as a contestant! Kieran has taught online for a number of years.

Martine is a Fashion and Textiles tutor. With an impressive portfolio in Education, Martine comes from a creative background and has written content for many awarding bodies and been an assessor for over 10 years. Building fashion portfolios and giving 1:1 teaching for a range of creative courses, Martine will support those going into Fashion and Textile Degree programmes.

I have little to no experience in art academically, although I am passionate about it and want to learn more. Can you help me from such little exposure to such learning?

Absolutely! This is what this course is designed for. You do not need ANY prior qualifications in art and deserve the opportunity to now fulfil your potential in your creative field.