Creative Arts (Contemporary Art & Design Practice) BA (Hons) top-up

BA (Hons)
Study Area: Higher Education
Duration: 1 Year
Attendance: Full Time

Course Overview

This one-year top-up degree programme based at our Dean Clough Studios is designed to develop the skills, creativity, and commitment necessary to establish a successful career in your chosen creative specialism.

You can focus on areas such as fine art, painting, surface pattern, drawing, installation and digital media or adopt a multi-disciplinary approach to build a diverse portfolio. The curriculum and studio practice encourage production and analysis of your work while gaining essential skills.

You will have opportunities to network, engage in freelance projects and exhibit your degree work in the prestigious Crossley Gallery in your end of year show. Core modules will address key issues in art and design, while focusing on individual career development. Supported by expert tutors with both educational and industry experience, you will receive comprehensive guidance to explore your full potential and develop a unique creative voice.

The modules of study on this course include:

  • Creative Focus
  • Professional Practice and Employability
  • Major Project OR
  • Final Major Project Teaching/ Professional Practice

Important Links:

  • Click HERE for the programme specification.
  • For a full list of the University Centre’s regulations and policies please click HERE.
  • Click HERE for The Open University Regulations for Validated Awards.

Start Date

September 2025

Face-to-face or online delivery.

Delivery organisation: University Centre Calderdale College.

Entry Requirements & Interview Process

Applicants must possess a HND or Foundation Degree FdA (240 Credits) in a subject area commensurate with the programme. Equivalent accreditation (240 Credits) from attending an Art & Design related course e.g., successful completion of a Level 5 at degree including evidence of achievement in historical and critical study comparable to Merit grade at HND or FD.

The University Centre actively supports claims for Recognition of Prior Learning. You must show how the learning you have already completed matches the learning that is required on the programme you are applying for.

All applicants will be interviewed with a portfolio of relevant work and will be expected to demonstrate enthusiasm and commitment.

Progression

A range of postgraduate study options are available dependent on grades via the UCAS Website. A PGCE Postgraduate Certificate in Education is offered by Calderdale College in association with Huddersfield University.

Career Opportunities
Fine Artist, Community Artist, Teacher, Curator, Designer, Illustrator.

Assessment Methods

All modules and learning outcomes are assessed by the submission of coursework assignments and/or practical work at the end of semester 1 and 2.

Your assessed work will go through a rigorous 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.

Additional information on fees and funding.

Awarding Body

This award is validated by The Open University.

Creative Arts (Contemporary Art & Design Practice) BA (Hons) top-up

Study Area: Higher Education
Duration: 1 Year
Attendance: Full Time
Unsure of which course to pick?

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.

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