COURSE OVERVIEW
Duration: 1 Year, 2.5 Days per week
UCAS points: Up to 144 (depending on grade outcome)
Campus: Middlesbrough
Access to HE is awarded by Skills & Education Group Access.
Successful completion of this course will provide you with your own individual creative portfolio and the skills you need to progress to a wide range of degrees or a Master’s if you already have a degree in a non-art & design subject.
Ready for a fresh start? This course helps adults unlock their creative potential and progress to university - no matter your background or previous experience.
Why Choose This Course?
• Designed specifically for adult learners aged 19+
• Build creative and academic skills ready for university study
• Work on a portfolio tailored to your future ambitions
• Taught by supportive staff in a friendly, inclusive enviornment
• Access to help with childcare, travel and finance if eligible
SEGA validated by QAA
COURSE DETAILS
This one-year course is designed for adults (19+) who want to study art and design at university but don’t yet have the qualifications or confidence to apply. Whether you’re returning to education, switching careers, or rediscovering a lifelong passion, Access to HE gives you the creative and academic foundation you need to move forward.
You will develop practical skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, digital media and 3D work, alongside learning how to research, reflect and write about your creative process. The course is structured around projects that allow you to explore your personal ideas and interests while building a portfolio strong enough for degree-level entry.
Our experienced tutors - many of whom are practising artists and designers - will support you every step of the way, helping you build confidence, refine your technical skills, and prepare for higher education through UCAS support and progression guidance.
Most students go on to study BA (Hons) degrees in subjects such as Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Animation, Fashion, Textiles or Costume - here at The Northern School of Art or at universities across the UK.
Where Could It Take You?
• Fine Artist
• Illustrator or Animator
• Graphic or Interior Designer
• Photographer or Filmmaker
• Fashion or Textile Designer
• Teacher (with further study)
• Arts Therapist or Community Arts Worker
• Arts Administrator or Curator
How to apply:
Although there are no formal entry requirements, prospective students will be required to provide evidence of their commitment, motivation and life skills to cope with the level of the course by providing such things as drawings, photographs, ideas development, concept art, embroidery, craft items and evidence of written work.
You may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan. Student Finance England will ‘write-off’ any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances you owe for an Access to Higher Education course once you complete a higher education course. This means you do not have to repay it. We would be happy to arrange an informal and friendly discussion with you if you are thinking about applying for this course.
Please contact our student recruitment team on 01642 288888 or email us studentrecruitment@northernart.ac.uk























