BTEC Higher National Certificate in Fine Art

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Stockport College

Location

Stockport College

Further Details

Age

University Level

Department

Art & Design

Course Start Date

Monday 15th September 2025

Course Duration

Full-time, 1 Year

Course Time

Course Fee

£ 0.00

Course Code

SFQ-HT4H-1100

Course Overview

The University Centre at Stockport College possess a distinctive and inspiring atmosphere, in which fine art students collectively exchange ideas, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances their artistic development.

The college features specialised facilities for diverse printmaking techniques, installation, both two-dimensional and three-dimensional processes, photography, and time-based media. The tutors, who are industry experienced and practising artists, provide an expansive platform for artistic exploration and education. In addition to subject knowledge, tutors nurture talent and offer a bespoke study programme, where small group seminars and projects are based around student interest and aiding their chosen pathways.

The programme emphasizes the importance of studio critiques, tutorials, and practice-led seminars. It encourages an open-minded investigative approach to considering work in relation to current developments in the subject area. The programme also offers unique opportunities for students to engage with professionals in fine art and related fields through projects, and research activities.

Extensive workshop provision, academic and technical expertise, and access to the cultural sector in the North West of England and beyond provided to all our students. Students can further engage in the contemporary art world through regular study trips and exhibitions in Europe.

Course Requirements

Whilst applications are considered on an individual basis, they are usually based on a requirement to have:

64 UCAS points from either:

– A level 3 vocational qualification
– GCE A Levels
– An Access to Higher Education Diploma

Applicants should have GCSE English Language and Maths at grade C/4 or above.

Mature students with relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications are welcome to apply, and may be invited to interview.

What you will Learn

On this Higher National Certificate, you will study three units. The primary focus is on practical application through workshops, experimentation and skills building, but this will be grounded in theoretical understanding. The main aim of this diploma is to allow you to explore different disciplines until you refine your specialism and identity within the arts.

Assessment

Assessment is continuous and comprises presentations, essays, live observations, exhibitions and portfolios.

Progression

You may wish to continue your study on the 1 year Level 5 HND Fine Art, after which you may progress to a Level 6 top up degree programme.

Career Options

Graduates have a wide range of career prospects, both within the art world and beyond. They are equipped with a range of transferable skills that are highly valued by employers in a variety of sectors. Greater Manchester and Stockport have historical roots in art as well as a developing investment in the arts, playing an integral part in its growth and cultural capital. This creates opportunities that many graduates can exploit. They can pursue careers as artists, completing residencies and commissions in a global context. They may also work in art-related professions such as teaching, art education in community settings, work in galleries and other art organizations, and jobs in the wider creative industries. They can equally pursue careers as artists, completing residencies and commissions in a global context. Some graduates choose to pursue postgraduate study, further developing their skills and knowledge in a specialised area of interest.

Mandatory Units

At Level 4 you will study:

Art Fundamentals
– Painting, Drawing & Mark-making
– Life drawing
– Installation and Conceptual Art
– Photography, Projection & Image Manipulation
– Screen printing
– Relief & Intaglio print
– Mixed Media

Art History
– Milestone movements, styles and trends (Modernism & Post-Modernism).
– Social and political influences
– Ethics, Culture and Identity (Feminism, Queer Theory, Fluid Identities and subcultures).

Creative Project
– Employability for the Arts & Project Management skills
– Professional Project-Industry Client (e.g. Brief for a Gallery, Studio, Media Institution, or an Art commission).

Contact Details

Extra Costs Involved

No

Exam Validation Body

Pearson Education Ltd

Hours Per Week

12 hours per week

How Long To Complete

1 year

Programme Structure

You will gain 120 credits over the duration of the programme.

Contact Details

For further information please email HEenquiries@tcg.ac.uk

Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.
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