Course Content

Course Content

You will be encouraged to work in traditional, digital and innovative forms and techniques, preparing you for a career in the contemporary world of illustration.

After completing the course, you will be able to use a variety of tools, techniques, and processes for Illustration. You will be able to create a unique visual language, generate ideas, and solve problems for industry-standard briefs. You will learn to present your work professionally and apply your skills to initiate, plan and develop creative visual solutions.

Teaching Method

Teaching Method

We use a variety of teaching methods, including: 

• practical and creative studio-based workshops
• discussions
• lectures/seminars
• tutorials
• small group study
• self-directed study
• study trips

Key Features

Key Features

• Study across various media, processes and disciplines, including graphic design, illustration and animation.
• Work across various briefs, covering children’s books, editorials, advertising, packaging, and posters to build your professional portfolio.
• Taught by practising tutors, including an award-winning children’s illustrator.
• Collaborative learning opportunities with other students in the creative arts

Year One

Year One

During the first year, you will engage with a range of software and drawing techniques including life drawing, to develop a firm foundation to build your practice. In addition, you will be encouraged to develop your skills using 2D to 3D modelling and to use a range of digital technology and software applications.
You will be encouraged to apply your skills, knowledge and experience through the production of several independent projects, during the first year, and informed by the development of their research skills and ability to contextualise your ideas and practice.

• Unit 1: The Creative Process
• Unit 2: Cultural and Contextual Studies
• Unit 3: Materials and Methods
• Unit 4: Digital Design
• Unit 5: Applied Illustration
• Unit 6: Minor Project

Year Two

Year Two

The second year focuses on the development of professional skills through working on industry-led client briefs and the support and encouragement of an individual style and direction. Creative abilities are combined with the experience of working with clients to ensure you are prepared for working in the design industry, with the opportunity to create an independent project response for your end-of-year project.

• Unit 7: Professional Practice 1
• Unit 8: Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies
• Unit 9: Professional Practice 2
• Unit 10: Business Practice
• Unit 11: Independent Project

Year Three

Year Three

In your third year, the program empowers you to specialize in illustration areas that ignite your passion. You'll develop a unique blend of intellectual, innovative, and practical skills specifically tailored to your chosen path. The journey doesn't stop at theory - you'll gain invaluable real-world experience by tackling "live" projects. This experience will not only strengthen your skills but also help you hone your entrepreneurial spirit as you build your independent practice. The year culminates in the creation of a major piece – a professional-standard artwork that becomes the launchpad for your captivating portfolio, ready to propel you into your illustration career.

• Unit 12: Portfolio Studies
• Unit 13: Creative and Critical Research Project (Dissertation)
• Unit 14: Final Major Project

Course Content

Course Content

This practice-led course immerses you in the dynamic world of Graphic Design, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to thrive.  We blend industry-standard practices with a strong focus on creative development, empowering you to cultivate your unique design voice.

Gain real-world experience through projects, develop teamwork and communication skills, and hone critical thinking for market success. Craft a standout portfolio showcasing your creative vision and marketability.  By graduation, you'll be a well-rounded graphic designer with the skills and confidence to excel in the industry.

Teaching Method

Teaching Method

We use a variety of teaching methods, including: 

• practical and creative studio-based workshops
• discussions
• lectures/seminars
• tutorials
• small group study
• self-directed study
• study trips

Key Features

Key Features

• Collaborate and develop your abilities with cross-media experimentation and fulfilment of live briefs from within the department and professional external studios.
• Delivered by expert tutors with industry experience
• Access to a dedicated computer suite, print room, photography studios and a 3D workshop.
• Study across various media, processes and disciplines, including graphic design, illustration and animation.

Year One

Year One

The first year centres on building your design foundation. You'll learn the creative process, explore core techniques like typography and software like Adobe Creative Suite, and develop a critical eye for design's impact within a historical and contemporary context. A self-directed project lets you showcase your skills and delve into design areas that excite you. This program equips you for future design specialization.

• Unit 1: The Creative Process
• Unit 2: Cultural and Contextual Studies
• Unit 3: Materials and Methods
• Unit 4: Digital Design
• Unit 5: Applied Graphic Design
• Unit 6: Minor Project

Year Two

Year Two

The second year of the program transforms students into industry-ready graphic designers. They'll gain practical experience through real-world industry briefs, honing their creative and self-management skills throughout the entire design process. This includes research, development, presentations, and even client interaction.

Running alongside these projects is a focus on theoretical and research skills. Through critical analysis, discussions, and academic writing, students will develop a strong foundation in Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies.

The program doesn't stop at design skills – it equips students with the business savvy needed to succeed. A dedicated module tackles essential topics like portfolio creation, marketing strategies, copyright, and financial management.

Finally, students take centre stage in their learning with an Independent Project. This self-directed project allows them to explore their design interests, refine their skills, and create a significant piece for their portfolio.

• Unit 7: Professional Practice 1
• Unit 8: Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies
• Unit 9 Professional Practice 2
• Unit 10: Business Practice
• Unit 11: Independent Project

Year Three

Year Three

The final year program fosters creative and critical thinking through a blend of coursework and a culminating major project. The program begins by equipping you with expertise in analysing design briefs and mastering project management skills. You'll then tackle a research project, guided from topic selection to a polished final presentation. Subsequently, you'll have the opportunity to deep dive into a specific area of graphic design that interests you, culminating in a major project that showcases your specialization. Finally, the program prepares you for the professional world by teaching you the essential skills of self-promotion and running a freelance business.

• Unit 12: Portfolio Studies
• Unit 13: Creative and Critical Research Project (Dissertation)
• Unit 14: Final Major Project
• Unit 15: Self-Promotion

Course Content

Course content

This comprehensive course offers conceptual and practical experiences, allowing students to explore various photographic genres and develop essential photographic and visual communication skills.

Our state-of-the-art facilities include three professional studios: the infinity studio, the black portrait studio, and the TV studio. The TV studio is equipped with a product table for capturing professional shots. Our camera inventory features full-frame digital cameras and a diverse range of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto. Additionally, we provide a darkroom suite, cutting-edge digital post-production facilities, and professional-grade lighting and effects equipment.

We regularly host guest speakers to provide networking opportunities and help you prepare for your future career.

Teaching Method

Teaching Method

We use a variety of teaching methods, including: 

• practical and creative studio-based workshops
• discussions
• lectures/seminars
• tutorials
• small group study
• self-directed study
• study trips

Key Features

Key Features

• Be part of a close-knit community of creatives through cross-collaborative work with other arts students.
• Excellent connections with the industry allow you to build your professional network.
• Client-based projects provide an opportunity for you to work with top professionals

Year One

Year One

The first year equips you with the technical skills, critical thinking, and creative exploration needed to build a strong foundation for your journey in photography.
The program starts by equipping you with the fundamentals: camera operation, lighting, composition, studio and outdoor environments, and darkroom practices. You'll also learn to analyse photographs and critically evaluate your work.
You will refine your skills while exploring genres and analysing photographs. You will discover your artistic voice and understand the photographer's role across genres.
The program delves into the theory behind photography, exploring its cultural, historical, and social contexts. You'll develop your research and critical thinking skills through discussions, research, and projects, and you'll learn to communicate your ideas effectively.
You'll then gain hands-on experience in editorial photography, producing work across various genres and formats. You'll also cover ethical considerations, legal issues, and digital manipulation techniques.
Your culminating project lets you explore a topic of your choice with program support. You'll present your proposal and receive guidance throughout its development.

• Unit 1: Fundamentals of Photography
• Unit 2: Establishing Practice
• Unit 3: Cultural and Contextual Studies
• Unit 4: Digital Editorial
• Unit 5: Minor Project

Year Two

Year Two

The second year of BA in Photography empowers you to develop your artistic vision and professional capabilities.
Workshops and independent projects will challenge you to experiment and refine your artistic voice. You'll delve deeper into using photography to express your ideas and engage with contemporary issues.
Alongside artistic development, the program strengthens your theoretical foundation through in-depth studies. You'll learn to contextualize your work within the broader cultural and historical landscape, fostering a deeper understanding of photography's role.
The program also equips you with the skills to thrive in the professional photography industry. You'll gain experience working with real-world client briefs, honing skills like pitching, project management, and collaboration. This practical experience prepares you to navigate the professional world confidently.

• Unit 6: The Photographic Manifesto
• Unit 7: Advanced Cultural and Contextual Studies
• Unit 8: Professional Practice
• Unit 9: Independent Project

Year Three

Year Three

The third year, jumpstart your creative and technical development through a series of fast-paced, weekly challenges designed to spark new ideas and responses. You'll then have the opportunity to propose and participate in workshops tailored specifically to your photographic interests, allowing you to refine your skills in a targeted way. Throughout this process, you'll receive individual guidance and feedback to help you hone your specialist photographic practice.
You'll develop teamwork and collaboration skills through various group projects, culminating in a real-world project for an external client. Throughout these projects, you'll have the opportunity to experiment with different collaborative approaches and reflect on how your contribution impacts the overall project. This will give you a well-rounded understanding of how to work effectively in a team setting.
You'll conduct a self-directed research project on a chosen photographic topic, culminating in a final presentation that critiques your research and offers your unique perspective.
You'll propose a self-initiated photographic project for your portfolio. You'll refine it based on feedback from a panel. This final, negotiated project will highlight your graduate show and portfolio and be ready for internal and external exhibitions.
As you progress through the program, you'll be responsible for creating your timetable, ensuring you have the necessary workshops, lectures, feedback sessions, and tutorials to support your chosen direction. Finally, the program equips you with high-level professional skills in production and curatorial practices, ensuring your final photographic outcome is presented in the best possible light.

• Unit 10: Specialist Practice
• Unit 11: Collaborative Project
• Unit 12: Creative and Critical Research Project (Dissertation)
• Unit 13: Exit Portfolio

Course Content

Course Content:

The course fosters a dynamic learning environment that goes beyond individual exploration. Workshops, critical reviews, and seminars provide opportunities to discuss your work with peers and faculty. You'll exchange ideas, engage in lively debate, and receive valuable critical feedback on your creations through these interactions. This collaborative approach will help you evolve as an artist.

Through talks, discussions, gallery visits, and research, immerse yourself in art history. This will give you the knowledge to evaluate your work and the art world critically.

Teaching Method

Teaching Method:

We use a variety of teaching methods, including: 

• practical and creative studio-based workshops
• discussions
• lectures/seminars
• tutorials
• small group study
• self-directed study
• study trips

Key Features

Key Features:

• Taught by practising artists with industry experience.
• Build your profile as a fine artist with opportunities to exhibit your work within the College and in public spaces.
• Spacious studios and facilities including printmaking workshop, life room, 3D crafts workshop, ceramics studio and darkrooms

Year One

Year One

The 1st year of the BA (Hons) in Fine Art equips you for artistic creation, building a foundation in core techniques and exploring creative methods.

The program moves beyond technical skills, emphasizing how visual research informs your studio practice and artistic concepts.

To develop your artistic identity, you'll undertake project-based learning. This involves establishing and exploring a focused theme through experimentation with various drawing and research techniques. Throughout the program, critical evaluation reinforces the link between artistic theory, ideas, and practical application, equipping you with the confidence to work independently.

Through workshops and discussions, you'll delve into art theory, history, and cultural contexts, developing your ability to analyze and discuss art.

The program also prepares you for a career in the arts, introducing you to different art professions and equipping you with professional skills.

• Unit 1: Introducing Fine Art
• Unit 2: Developing Visual Research
• Unit 3: Thematic Project
• Unit 4: Cultural and Contextual Studies
• Unit 5: Fine Art Opportunities

Year Two

Year Two

The second year focuses on developing your artistic practice and preparing you for a career in the arts. You'll explore two chosen fine-art areas: diverse materials, techniques, and drawing practices. You'll learn to integrate visual research and theoretical concepts into your creative process, fostering critical thinking and self-directed learning. Workshops will provide additional support to bring your ideas to life.

Building on the foundation of year one, you'll deepen your understanding of contemporary and historical art practices as they relate to your studio work. Through ongoing reflection and self-directed study, you'll refine your research and artistic direction.

This expands your knowledge of theoretical frameworks, cultural contexts, art history, and social issues within the arts. You'll actively participate in discussions, hone academic and research skills, and conduct independent research, culminating in a formally presented response.

This looks towards your future career in the arts. You'll explore areas of professional interest, research and analyse contemporary exhibitions, and identify relevant professional contexts that align with your development. You'll gain essential technical skills for promoting and managing your artistic practice while refining your visual and oral communication skills. This connects your creative research with professional practice, preparing you for a successful career path.

• Unit 6: Exploratory & Interdisciplinary Practice
• Unit 7: Confirmatory Project
• Unit 8: Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies
• Unit 9: Potential Prospects

Year Three

Year Three

This year builds on your existing skills and prepares you for your final exhibition. The first stage involves defining your artistic direction with individual support and exploring advanced techniques in workshops. This springboard project will pave the way for your final piece.

You'll refine your ideas further, delve deeper into research, and confidently use advanced techniques to create a focused body of work for the final exhibition. This is your chance to work independently and truly showcase your artistic vision.

You'll also conduct a self-directed research project, exploring a chosen topic in-depth and presenting your findings in a dissertation, report, or other academic format.

Finally, the course equips you for your artistic career. You'll refine your digital skills for professional presentation, develop strong communication skills, and explore professional contexts relevant to your artistic practice.

• Unit 10: Minor Project
• Unit 11: Major Project & Degree Show
• Unit 12: Creative and Critical Research Project (Dissertation)
• Unit 13: Self Promotion