This course provides a comprehensive foundation in developing your creative practice, focusing on practical work and the refinement of both artistic and entrepreneurial skills.
You will enhance your creative and technical abilities while building a professional network on site at our Dean Clough studio and establish industry connections. The course uses a combination of directed and personal briefs which will develop your core skills, enabling you to identify and refine specialist skills and knowledge across digital and traditional approaches.
Year 2 modules have been designed to create a more individualised learning experience that allows you to explore your creative talent and specialist pathway. You’ll benefit from mentorship by industry professionals and gain hands-on experience working on live, work-based projects.
Additionally, collaborative opportunities and an in-depth understanding of the creative industries will support you to progress to the BA (Hons) Creative Arts (Contemporary Art and Design Practice) top-up year or into employment.
During this course you will become well equipped in all aspects of:
Level 4 Modules
Level 5 Modules
Important Links:
Start Date
September 2026
Mix of face-to-face and online delivery.
Delivery organisation: University Centre Calderdale College (at Dean Clough Studio).
Entry Requirements & Interview Process
This course will be a natural progression from the BTEC Level 3 Diploma / Extended Diploma in Art and Design, Foundation Diploma Art & Design, Access to HE or A Levels in a related subject.
Applications from mature students are welcome. All applicants will be interviewed with a portfolio of relevant work and will be expected to demonstrate enthusiasm and commitment.
Progression
On successful completion of the Foundation Degree students will have the opportunity to progress to our BA (Hons) Creative Arts (Contemporary Art and Design Practice) top-up year, to gain a full honours degree.
Career Opportunities
Artist, Freelance Creative, Community Artist, Teacher, Illustrator, Curator.
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed throughout the course by completing a portfolio of digital and traditional work, with written evaluations and sketchbooks.
Your assessed work will go through a process of internal moderation and then will be checked by an externally appointed examiner. At each stage this means that marking and grading is checked and may be adjusted.
Course Fees
£7950 per year
All higher education students must apply to Student Finance England for assistance towards fees. For help or advice with this please contact our Guidance Team on 01422 399367.
The University Centre has a HE Hardship Fund which students may access if they are facing financial difficulties.
Awarding Body
This award is validated by The Open University.
Calderdale College has a set of standard entry requirements. Apply for the course you want to study and we will help you get there.
There are a lot of courses available – work focused, practical and academic so it is important to think about the future and whether you want to proceed to university, move onto another course or get a job. We offer BTECs, Apprenticeships, T Levels, NVQs, VRQs, Degree Level Courses and more.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry, just speak to a member of our advice and guidance team who will advise you.
