The Course

Course Overview

The HND Fine Art (Art, Design & Photography) builds upon the skills, knowledge and creative confidence developed at HNC level, offering students the opportunity to work at a more advanced and professional level within their chosen area of visual arts.

Students undertake research-driven, independent projects that encourage critical thinking, refined technical application, and the professional realisation of creative concepts. The course places strong emphasis on preparing students for the creative industries, higher level study, or freelance careers through ambitious, portfolio-driven work.

Throughout the course, students are supported in developing a distinctive creative voice, ready to respond to the evolving demands of the modern art, design, and photographic industries.

Learning Approach

· Independent, project-based learning focused on personal and professional development

· Critical reflection, audience awareness and contextual research integrated into practice

· Engagement with live briefs, exhibitions and professional opportunities

· Emphasis on professional presentation, marketing and communication skills

· Development of a major creative portfolio

Specialist Facilities

Students continue to benefit from full access to HE facilities and resources, including:

· HE Design Studio (N.209) with Apple Macs, creative software and technical equipment

· Specialist photography studio and traditional darkroom

· Dedicated screen printing, surface pattern, and textiles workshop spaces

· DSLR cameras, studio flash kits, and advanced post-production equipment

· Exhibition and gallery spaces for public-facing projects

Modules

· B1: Professional Creative Practice Focused on responding to professional creative briefs, developing a substantial body of work aligned to industry expectations, and applying critical, technical and project management skills.

· B2: Applied Research and Specialist Project A major, research-led independent project culminating in a professional body of creative work, demonstrating mastery of technique, originality, and critical contextual understanding.