BATH SPA UNiversity Undergraduate prospectus 2016
Different thinking Bath Spa University is a leading university in creativity, culture and enterprise. Our students – whether studying arts, humanities, sciences or social sciences – work in an environment where creativity in its broadest sense is valued and nurtured.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
Contents
Welcome 04 10 reasons why 07 The campuses 09 Caring for the environment 10 Where would I live? 14 Life in Bath 18 Students’ Union 20 Boost your career 22 Study facilities 23 Student support 24 International students 25 Studying abroad 26 Returning to learning 27 Which course is right for me? 28 Fees and finances 30 Do I qualify? 32 How do I apply?
School of Art and Design 35 Creative Arts 36 Art 36 Ceramics and Sculpture 37 Mixed Media Textiles 37 Graphic Arts 38 Fine Art 39 Contemporary Arts Practice 40 Three Dimensional Design: Idea Material Object 41 Fashion Design 42 Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors 44 Graphic Communication 45 Photography 46 History of Art and Design
School of Education 49 Education (Primary Teaching Pathway) 50 Education Studies: Education, International Education, Early Years Education, Youth and Community Studies
School of Humanities and Cultural Industries 53 Creative Media Practice 54 Creative Computing 55 Creative Writing 56 English Literature 57 Film, Television and Digital Production 58 Film and Screen Studies 59 Heritage 60 History 61 Media Communications 62 Publishing 63 Religions, Philosophies and Ethics 64 Philosophy and Ethics 65 Study of Religions
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Welcome
School of Music and Performing Arts 67 Acting 68 Commercial Music 69 Creative Music Technology 70 Dance 71 Drama 72 Music 73 Theatre Production
School of Society, Enterprise and Environment 75 Criminology 76 Biology 78 Business and Management 80 Environmental Science 81 Food With Nutrition 82 Geography 83 Global Development and Sustainability 84 Human Nutrition 85 Psychology 86 Sociology
Foundation degrees With Our Partners In Education 90 Contemporary Art and Professional Studies 90 Contemporary Circus and Physical Performance 91 Early Childhood Studies 91 Early Years 92 Education Studies for Teaching Assistants 92 Fashion and Textile Design Skills 93 Graphic Design 93 Music Production / Music Production and Artist Development 94 Musical Theatre 94 Performing Arts 95 Popular Music
Information 98 Courses and combinations 100 Visit us 101 Index 101 More information
From the Vice-Chancellor Professor Christina Slade —
From the President of the Students’ Union BRUCE GallivEr —
“Bath Spa University prides itself “My name’s Bruce and I’m the current on providing a caring, friendly Students’ Union President here at environment where particular Bath Spa. Whether you’re just having emphasis is placed on teaching a look or already have your heart set excellence. This is a relatively small on coming, I hope you’ve at least had university of some 8,000 students, a chance to walk around the beautiful and you will find that staff will pay campuses that the University great attention to your overall operates. As a former student myself, experience as a student here. who only graduated in 2014, I can We want you to be challenged and honestly say that I had a fantastic fulfilled academically, to have the experience here, and I know that this best possible preparation for your is echoed by the vast majority of the future career, but also to develop student body. The fact that the as an individual by taking advantage University is relatively small means of the many wider opportunities that there’s a real community feel available to you – whether through about it and you tend to bump into volunteering or sporting activities, people you know every day. or through travel and study overseas. There’s lots to do outside of your If you have the opportunity to course that the Students’ Union visit us on one of our Open Days, facilitates, like clubs and societies, please do so – you would be made trips, volunteering opportunities, most welcome. You will, I am sure, events and socials and loads of other be impressed by the beauty of the campuses and the impressive facilities stuff that is open to you to shape and mould as you see fit! The Union is available to you including recent also able to support and represent world class developments at the you on any issue related to your Newton Park campus. experience as a student, you may Bath Spa University is a vibrant even end up in a representative and diverse community of talented position yourself helping out your staff and students who value fellow ‘spartans’! Bath itself is also a creativity and culture in its broadest wonderful place to live. The city has sense, and who are enterprising in a wide variety of activities and their approach. Bath Spa graduates opportunities whatever you’re are global citizens, ready to make interested in, not to mention that it’s a difference – we hope that one one of the safest student cities in the day you will join in their success.” UK. University life really gives you the chance to be an independent, creative and autonomous person and wherever you go, I hope that you’re able to realise your potential. Good luck, and maybe see you next year!
Cover by Bath Spa graduate, Andrew Joyce www.doodlesandstuff.co.uk
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
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10 REASONS why 1
Excellent reputation We can trace our history back over 160 years to the original Bath School of Art, so our reputation is built on tradition and success. Our applications have risen significantly in recent years, and we’re a popular choice. So we’re modern and progressive too. Our course mix and structure is unique, and the quality of our teaching is excellent, which reflects our commitment to our students.
2 Top quality teaching
3 Flexible courses
Our teaching is of a very high standard, but don’t just take our word for it. We scored 89% in the 2014 National Student Survey (NSS). Our teachers are engaged in the research and development of innovative and creative teaching techniques, and ensure they make themselves available to students to offer help and guidance.
We offer a full range of creative, cultural and humanities-based courses, with an enterprise focus. Our courses are modular and flexible, and students can explore different study options. All of this is underpinned by state-of-the-art facilities, collaborative learning spaces, learning tutorials, and professional advice and guidance. So we deliver everything needed to realise your potential.
4 Exciting career prospects
5 Strong caring ethos
Our support and partnerships connect our students to a wide range of career pathways and employment opportunities. Our graduates enjoy prospects above the national average with 95% of graduates in work or further study after six months.
Our caring ethos runs through everything we do. Our students rate their tutors and lecturers for the support and accessibility they deliver. Our student services offer advice on anything from finances to homesickness, as well as offering disability support and so much more. Yet it doesn’t end there. Our Green Focus environmental policies care for our campus, and we’re ranked 33rd out of 145 universities in the People and Planet Green League 2013 in the ‘First Class’ award category.
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6 Rewarding experience Our student satisfaction rates are exceptional: we scored 89% overall satisfaction in the latest National Student Survey (NSS), and 87% of our students will complete their programme of study compared with just 78% in the UK as a whole. In Which? University 2014 Bath Spa was ranked as one of the top six creative universities.
9 Internationally connected
10 Safe and secure
Our international partnerships are spreading across the globe. Our links with an array of businesses, organisations and institutions contribute significantly to the knowledge economy at home and abroad. So our graduates leave us as global citizens with ambition, drive and focus.
We provide an environment that allows our students to concentrate on what matters most. So not only are we financially secure, we also have on-going capital investment plans. The city of Bath itself is renowned internationally, and it enjoys an enviable reputation for being enjoyable and safe to live in; it’s ranked as one of the top ‘safe student cities’. There’s an intimate and vibrant sense of community apparent across its many coffee bars, restaurants, galleries and theatres.
7 Happy community
8 Historic campuses
Our community values creativity, culture and enterprise. It’s reinforced by all the services you might expect and more: our network of student support services, our library and learning facilities; our welcoming and supportive approach; our promotion of accessibility; our teachers who can be called on for help, guidance and support. And our wide range of extra-curricular courses, clubs, activities and work-based opportunities and volunteering, make our community fulfilling, rewarding – and successful.
Our campuses are renowned and some are exceptional and historically significant. We take great care to ensure they provide an inspirational setting today and we invest in our campuses to make sure they meet the needs of future generations of students. Our modern facilities, including our stunning new development at Newton Park campus, are designed to blend sympathetically into the environment, and our students tell us it’s a great environment in which to succeed.
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The campuses
ain House, Newton Park campus M (Photographed by Wayne Tucker) 02–04 Commons building 01
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Undergraduate students are based at two main campuses in and near Bath. Each of the campuses has its own unique beauty whether that is architecture, landscape or space; they provide a striking, enriching and inspiring location for study. Newton Park This is the largest of the campuses, where all undergraduate courses and subjects except Art and Design are located. It is a mix of history and modernity set in stunning parkland leased from the Duchy of Cornwall. It is a busy campus in an idyllic rural setting, only four miles from the city centre of Bath. A major redevelopment of the Newton Park campus in recent years has seen the facilities for students grow and improve. A magnificent, large and ultra-modern academic building ‘Commons’ was completed in 2014. This houses superb new teaching facilities, over 1,000 square meters of Learning Commons including open-access, technologyenabled study space, social learning space, bookable group working rooms, a café and outdoor amphitheatre. It also offers the best specialist digital and studio resources for teaching in the South West – equal to anything found in the best commercial organisations and broadcast companies. The new building sits alongside an award-winning University Theatre and purpose-built concert hall, the Michael Tippett Centre, which both offer music and performing arts teaching, rehearsal and exhibition space. The historic buildings on the campus are also used for teaching and study space. You might find
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yourself studying in the 14th century Castle tower (the oldest building on the campus and a scheduled ancient monument) or in the Creative Writing Centre in the Castle Gatehouse, another scheduled ancient monument, but equipped with the latest computers and audio visual equipment. New en-suite accommodation for over 560 students is also available at Newton Park campus. Individual houses for up to ten students include a shared kitchen and living space and en-suite bedrooms fitted to a very high standard. They are situated in an attractive courtyard setting at the top of the campus near to the Students’ Union. To top it all off, Newton Park boasts a nature reserve, a lake, woods, historic listed buildings, and rolling fields. The grounds were designed by the well-known landscape architect Capability Brown in the 18th century,
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and many of the original features remain. The transformation of the Walled Garden near the new student residences is a recent example of how the original estate has been adapted to provide truly unique facilities and outdoor space for students to relax and socialise. Sports and social facilities The Students’ Union is based at the Newton Park campus and forms the hub of social activity on campus. The SU has a 30 station fitness gym, and there are sports pitches on-site for rugby, football and hockey and there is a new netball court in the Walled Garden. Many of the University’s sports clubs are affiliated with local clubs in the community (a good way of getting to know the locals). Sports clubs are open to all students and there are 12 teams competing regularly.
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01 S ion Hill campus main entrance 02 Corsham Court Postgraduate Centre
Sion Hill Sion Hill campus is the main base for the Bath School of Art and Design. Sion Hill is in a stunning setting and grounds, in the Lansdown district of Bath – a residential area of the city renowned for its architecture, and within walking distance of the city centre. Sion Hill has specialist facilities and resources for art and design students including well-equipped studios and workshops: graphic communication studios, electronic media workshops, studios for art, photography, textiles and sculpture, workshops for wood, etching, lithography and silkscreen. You’ll also enjoy the friendly community atmosphere at Sion Hill. It’s in a very peaceful setting (despite its closeness to the city centre), and is surrounded by its own attractively landscaped gardens; the site originally belonged to a 19th century mansion house, and although the house was destroyed in the war, the ornamental grounds remain. In June each year the site becomes a showpiece of student talent as the School of Art and Design hosts its annual degree show – an event that always draws a large audience from near and far. The School of Art and Design also has a separate teaching centre at The Circus, Bath, and this is where Fashion students are based. In addition, there are workshop spaces and facilities at Dartmouth Avenue in the Oldfield Park area of Bath, where much of the Creative Arts programme is based. Other teaching sites The University also has a number of additional sites used for specialist undergraduate teaching. Burdall’s Yard is an exciting arts centre for the School of Music and Performing Arts in Bath city centre. The centre is used as a teaching, rehearsal and performance space and also hosts a number of hugely successful arts events. A Theatre Production Centre is located between the Newton Park Campus and Bath city centre at Ashman’s Yard. Students undertake practical work on the BA (Hons) Theatre Production course here in the specialist workshops.
Corsham Court Corsham Court in Wiltshire is a specialist centre for the University’s postgraduate teaching and research. The Court was built in 1582 and students enjoy a tranquil environment in a stunning setting and grounds. It has various workshops, studios, study rooms, a library, common room and art gallery as well as specialist facilities for music, photography, film and textiles. Bath Spa University has a long history with Corsham Court and the Methuen family who own it. Bath Academy of Art moved to the Court in 1946 and provided higher education in specialist art and design, teacher training, performing arts and combined arts. Bath Academy of Art became Bath School of Art and Design which is now part of the University.
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Caring for the environment 01
01 The leafy surroundings of Newton Park 02–03 Various flora and fauna on campus
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As you might expect at a university that takes such pride in its beautiful campuses, students and staff share a strong environmental ethos.
–T here’s a Carbon Reduction Management Plan in place to enable us to achieve 50% reduction in our carbon emissions by 2020, and we’re making great progress towards this.
We take our responsibilities to protect the environment very seriously, and students are expected to observe good environmental practices and are encouraged to get involved. This might be by making best use of public transport, cycling and car-sharing; recycling as much waste as possible; reducing CO2 emissions through energy saving; or reducing water use.
–W e are a Fairtrade accredited university – we believe equity and fairness in trade contributes to sustainable development.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE Bath Spa University has an excellent record of environmental performance and improvement. –T he University was awarded ‘First Class Honours’ in the national People and Planet Green League 2013, ranked 33 out of 145 UK universities for its environmental policy and performance in areas such as carbon emissions, waste recycling, energy efficiency and water consumption. –W e’ve also achieved a Platinum award under the national EcoCampus scheme, along with the international environmental management system ISO 14001.
–W e offer an innovative ‘Education for Sustainable Development’ open module to all students regardless of what subject they are studying because of the importance of environmental issues to us all. –W e make no use of animals in our teaching and research other than the observation and monitoring of mammals and birds in their natural habitats for conservation purposes. Why not like us on Facebook and stay up-to-date with environment news at BSU www.facebook.com/bsu. green.focus
Bath Spa University has an excellent record of environmental performance and improvement.
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Where would i live?
There are several things to consider when choosing where to live – your chosen course may determine the location, you may wish to consider whether you want to live in the city, you may wish to bring a car, and of course you need to consider how much you can afford.
Halls of residence Many of our first year students live in halls of residence. Basic facilities such as cookers, microwaves, fridges and freezers are provided in all halls. Halls of residence are self catered, have WiFi internet access and student possessions insurance provided.
What are the options? There are several options available – halls of residence on or off campus, one of our pre-inspected, secured houses known as Independent Housing in the private rented sector or homestay. Students based at Newton Park can apply to live in halls on campus; one of our off campus halls, Waterside Court or Charlton Court (conveniently located between the campus and the city centre on a good bus route); one of our secured independent houses in the private rented sector or homestay. Students based at Sion Hill campus (Bath School of Art and Design) can apply to live in halls at Bankside House which is only a ten minute walk away or at Waterside Court or Charlton Court. They can also choose one of our secured independent houses in the private rented sector or homestay.
New halls of residence As part of the exciting development of Newton Park campus, we have new self-catering halls of residence called the ‘Gardens’. These halls of residence house up to 561 students and have been built in an attractive courtyard design, with individual ‘houses’ for up to ten students sharing a kitchen/ communal space. All study bedrooms have an en-suite, with double beds and have been finished to a very high standard. There are also 14 self-contained studio apartments, plus a 1 bedroom flat with fully accessible facilities. The new halls of residence are located near to the social facilities of the Students’ Union, and are a popular choice for students seeking an excellent campus community living experience, amidst beautiful countryside. Please note that we are not able to house all first year students in halls on campus – however we have a variety of alternative accommodation options available.
Key Facts – Living in Halls – Resident Tutors live on campus at Newton Park and Bankside House to support residents outside of office hours. – There is 24 hour security assistance for all halls of residence. – There is no smoking in halls of residence. – Students living in halls of residence are not permitted to bring cars. – Licence fee or rent is paid in instalments. – You will be required to pay a deposit which is returnable at the end of your stay (subject to damage of room and shared communal areas). – You do not have to vacate your rooms during Christmas or Easter holiday periods. – You will receive information on what to bring such as kitchen equipment, bedding and how to purchase a TV licence, before you arrive. Independent Housing This is a popular option for students who prefer to live independently and in smaller groups. This is also the option for students who wish to bring their car to Bath. We secure a number of houses and flats in the private rented sector specifically for first year students. We group students together and allocate a specific house or flat, and students have the opportunity
to meet each other and view the property before signing a contract. They are rented through experienced, local student letting agents who manage the properties and who work closely with the University. Key Facts – Living in Independent Housing – Properties are located, wherever possible, in the popular student areas of Bath. – The University will group students together and allocate a specific property. – Smoking is not permitted in Independent Houses. – Students are permitted to bring cars (may be subject to local council parking permit dependent on location, also subject to parking regulations on campus). – Rent is paid in instalments. – You will be required to pay Agency Fees (non-refundable) and a deposit which is returnable at the end of your stay (subject to damage of room and shared communal areas). – You do not have to vacate your room during Christmas or Easter holiday periods. – You will receive information on what to bring such as kitchen equipment, bedding and how to purchase a TV licence, before you arrive.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
– Properties are managed through local experienced letting agents. Homestay Homestay is a popular, rewarding and affordable accommodation option. It offers students the opportunity to live in a local home while studying at Bath Spa University. Our homestay hosts are local people who have a spare room in their home and enjoy having students staying with them. Our hosts vary in terms of age, family situation and living arrangements; some hosts are traditional families with children, while others are single individuals or couples. All our homestay hosts and homes are personally inspected by the Student Housing Team. Key Facts – Living in Homestay – A safe, clean and comfortable home close to local amenities and transport links to the University. – Fully furnished, private study bedroom with a bed, storage facilities, desk and chair. Some rooms have access to an en-suite or private bathroom. – Use of the communal areas of the home (bathroom, lounge, dining room, garden, etc.) – Access to laundry facilities (including a washing machine, an iron and an ironing board).
– Bed linen and towels provided by the host once a week. – Access to kitchen facilities and utensils. – Breakfast and evening meals can be provided daily by your host, along with snack lunches at weekends. – Homestay fees for 2014 are £130 per week for catered homestay, and £110 per week for self-catered homestay. – Home fees are fully inclusive of all utility bills and internet access. – Flexible lengths of stay can be arranged. Applying for accommodation Students who choose Bath Spa University as their firm choice via UCAS and who live over 30 miles away will be eligible to apply for accommodation. Following their confirmation to UCAS, students will receive information from the Student Housing Team via email regarding accommodation options and the process for applying for accommodation. – Students can apply for accommodation via the Student Housing Website https://housing.bathspa.ac.uk – We make reasonable adjustments for disabled students and those with certain medical issues.
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– Full time International (non- EU) students are given priority housing for their first year of study at Bath Spa University. – Every effort is made to offer students their first choice of accommodation, although it is not always possible. – When accepting an offer of a halls of residence room from Bath Spa University you will be required to pay a deposit to secure the room offered to you. – A student rejecting an initial offer of accommodation will only receive another offer when offers have been made to all other unallocated students. In years of exceptional demand this may mean that no subsequent offers are possible. – We can offer accommodation in halls, independent housing or homestay to eligible students studying a Foundation Degree course based at City of Bath College. (If you stayed in University accommodation during your Foundation Year you will not be eligible for accommodation as a first year undergraduate). – If you’re based at one of our other partner FE colleges we won’t be able to offer you accommodation in Bath, however we can assist by providing you with contact details of people who can help at the college where you will be studying.
NEW FOR 2016 New high quality residential accommodation in the centre of Bath is planned to be available in 2016. The development will consist of 461 new student homes alongside a new cafe, gym and common facilities. Details of the new development, known as Green Park House, will be posted on www.bathspa.ac.uk
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
If you’re moving away from home for the first time you have a number of options available to you.
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Newton Park halls of residence On campus — Students sign a Licence Agreement with Bath Spa University for all types of halls of residence rooms. A standard level of student room insurance is included, along with all utility bills and WiFi internet access. All halls of residence are self catered, there are 868 students housed on Newton Park campus between the Gardens residence and the Commons residences.
En-suite rooms There are 55 en-suite rooms in the Commons residences. They all have a WC, hand wash basin, individual shower cubicle with glazed screen and vanity mirror. All rooms have single beds. En-suite rooms are located in cluster flats of 10–12 rooms all sharing a communal kitchen / living space. Licence Agreement charges are £137 per week for academic year 2014/15 (subject to annual increases).
COMMONS RESIDENCES
Garden RESIDENCES
Single rooms There are 246 single rooms with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities. Cluster flats of eight-nine rooms share a communal kitchen / living space. There are shared shower room / bathroom and separate WCs on each floor. The ratio of shared WCs and shared shower rooms / bathrooms to students is 1:4. The majority of single rooms have individual hand wash basins. Licence Agreement charges for academic year 2014/15 are £113 per week (subject to annual increases). There are three large single rooms available, charges for academic year 2014/15 are £128 per week (subject to annual increases).
En-suite rooms There are 546 en-suite rooms in the Gardens residences. They all have a WC, hand wash basin, individual shower cubicle with glazed screen and vanity mirror. All rooms have double beds. There are 8-10 rooms per townhouse, sharing a kitchen/ communal area. Licence Agreement charges are £140 & £145 (larger room) per week for academic year 2014/15. (Subject to annual increases).
Shared rooms There are 12 spaces in six single, same sex shared (twin) rooms. Shared rooms have one hand wash basin, two single beds and two sets of furniture in them. Shared rooms are located in cluster flats of eight-nine rooms sharing a communal kitchen / living space. There are shared shower room / bathroom and separate WCs on each floor. The ratio of shared WCs and shared shower rooms / bathrooms to students is 1:4. Licence Agreement charges for academic year 2014/15 are £93 per week (subject to annual increases).
Studios AND Flat In the Gardens residences there are 14 self-contained studio flats. The studios have an open plan bedroom and kitchen, with en-suite bathroom facilities. In addition there is one fully accessible, one-bedroom flat, which has a separate lounge, bedroom and bathroom. Prices for the studios are £160 per week for academic year 2014/15 and £165 per week for the flat. (Subject to annual increases). Accessible en-suite bedrooms, studio and flat There are a number of adapted bedrooms, kitchens, studios and flats for use by students who may have restricted mobility or specific medical needs. Students who require an accessible room will be asked to declare any specific housing need on their housing application form. (Subject to annual increases).
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Independent Housing Off campus —
Waterside Court Off campus —
Charlton Court Off campus —
Each year, the University inspects and secures a number of private sector properties, rented through student letting agents. These houses are made available for first year students. The houses are wherever possible in popular student areas of Bath and are on or near good bus routes. This is also the best option for students who wish to bring their cars since students living in Halls of Residence are not permitted to bring cars with them. The Student Housing Team assists in grouping students together by identifying four to six first year students to live together. We consider personal interests, hobbies and ages to try and maximize compatibility and students are given the opportunity to contact each other before moving in. The Student Housing Team has long-standing links with landlords in the private rented sector who are typically charging rents of around £90-£95 per person, per week to live in a student shared house (academic year 2014/15). There will be additional costs for bills such as electricity and gas of approximately £15–£20 per person, per week (academic year 2014/15). You will also be required to pay agency fees (non refundable) and a deposit at the time of signing the contract. Contracts are for 48 weeks and start from 1 September.
Managed by The UNITE Group plc, a large organisation which specialises in student accommodation. Waterside Court has 316 en-suite study bedrooms, all are of a high standard and are arranged in cluster flats of five, six and seven rooms. Each flat has a fully furnished kitchen and spacious lounge area and there is a common room, laundry facilities and a bike store on site. WiFi internet access is available with an additional charge. Security is very good as Unite operate a swipe card entry system, CCTV and a 24 hour security service. Waterside Court is located approximately three miles from Newton Park campus and one mile from the city centre. Resident students are not permitted to bring cars, however a very good bus service runs from Waterside Court to the Newton Park campus. Students can apply to live at Waterside Court via the University Student Housing website. Rents for academic year 2014/15 – en-suite single £108.08 per week (subject to annual increases). Students sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement for 40 weeks directly with UNITE. Standard level of student room insurance included.
This building is next door to Waterside Court and is owned and managed by The UNITE Group plc, a large organisation which specialises in student accommodation. It has 295 en-suite study bedrooms. All rooms are of a very high standard and are arranged in cluster flats of three, four five and six rooms. Each flat has a fully furnished kitchen and spacious lounge area; there is a large common room area, laundry facilities and a bike store on site. The studios are self-contained open plan units with a fully-equipped bathroom, kitchen with breakfast bar and seating area. A WiFi service is provided at no extra cost, upgrades are available at an extra cost. Security is very good as Unite operate a swipe card entry system, CCTV and a 24 hour security service. Charlton Court is located approximately three miles from Newton Park campus and one mile from the city centre. Resident students are not permitted to bring cars, however a very good bus service runs from Charlton Court to the Newton Park campus. Students can apply to live at Charlton Court via the University Student Housing website. Rents for academic year 2013/14 – en-suite classic room £137.25 per week, en-suite premium rooms £142.73–£149.31 per week (subject to annual increases). Students sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement for 48 weeks directly with UNITE. Standard level of student room insurance included.
Bankside House Off campus and for Sion Hill students only — This building is available to students studying at the Bath School of Art and Design and is just ten minutes walk from the Sion Hill campus, The Circus and at other venues used in the city centre. The 40 rooms are arranged in a flat cluster of four study bedrooms, each study bedroom has its own shower cubicle and wash basin. Each flat has a fully fitted kitchen, breakfast bar and communal sitting area. In addition to the en-suite shower cubicle, each flat has a shared bathroom fitted with a bath, basin and toilet, and there is an additional second, shared toilet. Facilities include WiFi internet, a laundry room and a bike store. Rent for academic year 2014/15 – single room with own shower and washbasin – £137 per week (subject to annual increases). Students sign a 45 week Licence Agreement with Bath Spa University. Standard level of student possessions insurance included. In addition there are 2 en-suite studio flats incorporated within the building which provide a fully fitted kitchen, a separate dining area and a bathroom with shower, washbasin and toilet. Facilities include internet, a laundry room and a bike store. Rent for academic year 2014/15 for the studio flats is £157 per week (subject to annual increases). Students sign a 45 week Licence Agreement with Bath Spa University. Standard level of student room insurance included.
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Life in Bath
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A great place to live, work, learn, play and do business. Bath is well known as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site (England’s only qualifying city) with stunning architectural sites such as the Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, Circus, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey. Alongside award-winning restaurants and quaint tea rooms you’ll find plenty of ‘student’ pubs, many featuring regularly in the Good Pub Guide. Nightlife in Bath is good, with nightclubs, cinemas, the famous Theatre Royal, and a great comedy scene. There’s also an exciting live music scene including regular sessions, day and night, at many of the pubs, bars and clubs – with plenty of involvement from Bath Spa students! It’s a great student city. The compact city centre has both grand Georgian streets and picturesque passageways, packed with small independent shops and stylish boutiques as well as familiar big name stores. Bath is well known as a city of festivals and the arts, with something for all tastes from Shakespeare to Jane Austen and books to boules! Bath Spa students play a key role in many of the festivals (both mainstream and
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fringe) including the International Music Festival, Bath Film Festival, and Bath Literature Festival. For sports enthusiasts there’s the famous Bath Rugby Club as well as Bath City Football Club and Bath Races. Bath is well positioned with easy access to Bristol – also popular for nights out. London is an easy hour and a half train journey. Bath: A beautifully inventive future Alongside Bath’s traditional reputation as a leading visitor destination and spa, and its national status as a centre of shopping, culture and sport, Bath is home to a world-class creative, design and technology sector. The inspiring environment of Bath continues to attract highly-skilled and globally talented people including creatives, inventors, artisans, entrepreneurs and future-thinkers. Bath is internationally renowned as a beautifully inventive and entrepreneurial 21st century city with a strong social purpose and a spirit of wellbeing, where everyone is invited to think big – a city ready to create an extraordinary legacy for future generations. Contemporary Bath is a hot spring of innovation and enterprise as well as a proven magnet for global talent (www.visitbath.com).
Bath is ranked as one of the top safest student cities by The Complete University Guide.
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P ulteney Bridge with its independent shops Thermae Bath Spa The Little Theatre Cinema Parade Gardens
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StudentS’ union your opinions on anything related to your course. Our Liberation Reps campaign for equality. They represent the underrepresented. We also run campaigns and help you campaign on issues that you’re passionate about – from public transport to world peace. Advice and Support We are here as your first port of call with any problems you might have – and we have the first-hand experience to be able to help. Whether this is your first time away from home or you have been living by yourself for years, your time at University can be daunting. Whatever problem you’re facing, the Students’ Union is here to help you!
The Students’ Union is run by students, for students – you automatically become a member for free. We are a charity with over 8,000 members. We’re independent of the University and exist to help you get involved, make friends, have fun and have your voice heard. The Union is run by elected students – three sabbatical officers and five part-time officers – who are supported by volunteers and staff. We are always on hand to help you out so come along to the office and introduce yourself! Your first contact with the Students’ Union will be during Freshers’ Week when we invite you all to take full advantage of the entertainment, support and activities we have provided for you. Facilities We’re famous for our facilities, which are run on a not-for-profit basis with any income being put back into the Union to make it better for you! – our newly refurbished bar and kitchen provide great, wallet-friendly food in the day (look out for our Sunday roasts!) and awesome events at night. We also host the prestigious Summer Ball. – Bath Spa Gym is a fitness suite on campus with top of the range equipment and a programme of exercise classes. It’s also the cheapest gym you’ll find locally. – The Union Shop is the only shop on campus; it stocks all the student essentials and groceries to keep you going, as well as the popular Bath Spa hoody.
Societies The Students’ Union has many Societies to offer. They’ll continue to grow this year and you should certainly be a part of it! They’re all run by students and are the best way to make a whole group of new friends overnight. Whether you are interested in Dance, Dungeons and Dragons, Frisbee, Knitting or Films, we will have something for you. If none of the societies on offer take your fancy, you can always start up you own – just find ten like-minded people to join you and you are pretty much ready to go. Check out the Union website for more information. Sports Here at Bath Spa we have nearly 20 active sports societies and a further 12 teams competing in the BUCS (British University and College Sport) league. The sports we offer include football, rugby, hockey, badminton, netball, American football and more. No matter what your standard, you will always be able to join in with any of our sports teams. Trips We put on trips to European cities – this year we’re going to Berlin and Amsterdam. It’s a cost-effective way to experience a bit of European culture in the company of loads of other Bath Spa students. Media SpaLife is the Union’s student led media hub. It includes a TV station, a podcast radio show and a termly magazine.
We cover a mix of news, reviews, and home-grown talent so we’re always totally relevant to student life at Bath Spa. Union staff and officers provide training and support for SpaLife and every element is run by the students including editing, production, presenting, promoting and producing the content. Raising and Giving (RAG) Bath Spa University Raising and Giving (RAG) aims to raise money for charities by organising brilliant events throughout the year. You can get involved by coming along to the events or if you want to get some experience you can join our team of RAG ambassadors and organise some events yourself. Previous events have included: – The Three Peaks Challenge – Children in Need – Splat a Sabb – Bath Spa’s very own Take Me Out! – Bath Half Marathon – Naked calendar. Representation Just because you’re students, it doesn’t mean you don’t need to be represented – and that’s what we do. We make sure that our members (that’s you) are getting a fair deal, whether from the University, your employer or even your landlord. We are led by students, from course reps to liberation reps to the Students’ Union President. Our Student Reps will voice
Volunteering ‘Just V’ Many Bath Spa students volunteer whilst at the University, giving their time, energy and skills to help out local, national and international voluntary organisations. Our students take part in environmental projects; work with young people; tutor in local schools; volunteer in the arts; work with disabled people; help the elderly; help with sports coaching; contribute to the work of animal charities and fundraise for local charities. There’s bound to be something that suits you and the time you’re able to give – from one-off activities to more regular, weekly commitments. Volunteering is very rewarding, great fun and provides you with real life experience and a fantastic means to meet other students and members of the local community. What’s more, you’ll be able to develop your skills and strengths through the provision of a range of internal and external training opportunities and if you so choose, work towards the University’s ‘Certificate in Volunteering Achievement’. Volunteering will give you an edge with future employers who are looking for well-rounded individuals, people who are motivated and who use their initiative and skills to give something back. Investing a little time now could result in big paybacks later. Further information www.bathspasu.co.uk email: bathspasu@bathspa.ac.uk
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The Students’ Union runs a whole range of clubs and societies – from Debating to Magic; Samba Drumming to Snow Sports; Hip Hop Dance to Photography.
GRADUATE PROFILE Nina Davis BA (Hons) Creative Arts and Textile Design, graduated 2010 — “During my final year I volunteered to run textiles and art workshops for children at a local museum and devised a series of art workshops for vulnerable young adults in Bath. Initially I volunteered to gain experience in my career field but I was happy to continue after the first project as I’d thoroughly enjoyed meeting new people. Also I realised that volunteering can introduce you to lots of people who can help you out in the future. The feedback I got from the workshop participants was positive, and everyone had a lot of fun, so I believe that my efforts made a difference to people’s lives. Personally, the experiences have given me confidence in approaching new and challenging situations and I’ve gained a lot of life experience. I’ve also met new people and had a lot of fun! Volunteering has been instrumental in helping me secure my first graduate paid role – artist in residence at a local independent girls’ school. My voluntary experiences helped my CV to stand out and provided great talking points in interview situations.”
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Boost your career Industry-informed degree programmes coupled with a range of personal and professional development opportunities enrich your university experience and help improve your career prospects. As a student graduating from Bath Spa University, you’ll leave with much more than a degree in a specific area of study. Throughout your course you’ll acquire and develop a whole range of transferable skills, practical experience and industry insights that will make you highly attractive to employers. We aim to enhance the employability of all our graduates by ensuring that as a Bath Spa graduate you are well positioned and fully equipped to identify – and set foot on – the right career path for you. We’ll encourage you to start thinking about making the most of your future right from the start of your university life by accessing the professional support and wide ranging resources available to you throughout the year – and even after you graduate. Careers professionals and industry experts work in partnership with lecturers and tutors to help develop key employability skills throughout your degree. They also work closely with employers and other industry partners to maximise both opportunities for students and awareness of our graduates’ talents and achievements. Excellent careers and enterprise support Our team of experienced careers consultants is available to guide you in the right direction and suggest ways to help you make informed career decisions. Help with everything from CVs and job search strategies to assessment centres and even module choice is available throughout the year, with a range of one-to-one sessions, small group workshops, mock interviews, presentations and e-guidance options available to give you the right kind of support, how you want it and when you want it. Recent workshops, delivered by a range of staff from within and outside the University, have included communication skills, IT skills, gaining work experience, marketing yourself and effective networking. Our employability team was commended on its “strong performance” in achieving the Matrix Standard – the nationally recognised quality mark awarded to providers of high quality information, advice and guidance. And we were the first university to be
awarded the Employability Chartermark for Education in recognition of our overall approach to employability. First to hear about industry opportunities A variety of resources helps you keep up-to-date with news of the latest vacancies, recruitment schemes and other opportunities. Recent developments in specific degreerelated and employment sectors are available to you, as are the psychometric assessment tools, as used by major graduate recruiters. Our dynamic online careers portal is a rich source of information useful before, during and after your period of study. Network with employers You’ll be introduced to graduate recruiters, local, regional and national employers and business experts through a range of industry events on campus. Through careers events and industry mentors to employer presentations and networking evenings, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the likes of Apple, Hilton Hotels, Endsleigh, Civil Service, Dyson, Aardman Animations, Future Publishing and Thatchers Cider, enabling you to find out about the many options open to you when you graduate. With more than half of our graduates gaining employment in the South West of England, and a quarter working in London and the South East, we work closely with employers across the country to source and create the best professional and managerial jobs, placements and internships for our students.
Earn while you learn Bath Spa University Job Shop is a completely free in-house recruitment service exclusively for students, which helps you find good quality, well-paid, part-time employment (15 hours or less per week) during your time at university. This year we advertised over 3,000 part-time and vacation jobs and more than 20,000 hours of paid employment on our campuses alone. Specialist staff will guide you through the application process and help you realise the invaluable skills you’ll be gaining through these employment opportunities – both on campus and in the Bath area – which will help your future career prospects. Gain essential work Experience Many subjects have placements or industry projects as part of their degree programmes, which can help you develop a range of skills and experiences to support your career development. Flexible placements opportunities are also available through specially designed “open modules” and on an extra-curricular basis, both during term-time and vacation periods. Our careers and enterprise support teams broker opportunities with businesses in the region, offering a wide range of opportunities for learning in a professional setting.
Work with an industry mentor A growing team of business experts and successful Bath Spa graduates are on hand to work with you as a mentor or industry “buddy”, providing you with the opportunity to be supported by a trained professional working in a field of your interest including the creative and cultural, health, science and heritage sectors. Supporting student enterprise and Developing graduate entrepreneurs As well as a host of possibilities within your degree to develop creative, innovative and enterprising ideas, many opportunities exist elsewhere at Bath Spa to unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. The University’s business plan competition inspires and rewards excellent new concepts and business start-up proposals from students. Throughout the year students may attend a series of business planning workshops to acquire the essential commercial know-how to establish a successful freelance career or business start-up. The Student Enterprise Society is also a great opportunity to meet like-minded students and collectively turn business ideas into reality. The Bath Spa Award. Recognising your achievements. The Bath Spa Award is designed to recognise your skills, experiences and achievements outside of your degree programme. It aims to increase your self-awareness of your ability in the key areas graduate employers look for. It also provides an opportunity
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for you to focus on areas you would like to improve. The Bath Spa Award is here to help you: – develop new skills – create a professional CV – enhance your employability – undertake work or voluntary experience – Improve your digital skills – network with employers – attend an interview that mirrors the process many employers will use. Your degree will, of course, set you apart from those who have not been to university and will be a key part of the package you’ll offer employers. However, with over 500,000 graduates leaving university each year, quite simply, a degree alone is often not enough to secure a good job. Employers will look at what else you have to offer, and the Bath Spa Award recognises your other achievements above and beyond your qualification. You’ll develop many employability skills throughout the course of your degree programme. The Bath Spa Award is here to help you realise and develop these, as well as fill any gaps you feel you may have. Beyond the timetable, the Bath Spa Award has brought together key areas of the University to design a programme of interactive workshops, seminars and presentations along with a host of volunteering, work experience and networking opportunities to develop your “know-how” and expand your “know-who”. Open Modules Open Modules are a new kind of module and unique to Bath Spa University, that do what they say – they’re open to all students within the modular scheme, regardless of the degree programme you’re on (subject to some restrictions). Over 300 students took one of our ten Open Modules in 2013/14,delivered by experts from across the University and each designed to give you a great range of sought-after skills and experiences. And all as part of your degree. 2013/14 Open Modules included: – Work Placement – Leadership and Management – Sustainability in Life and Work – Successful Freelancing – Digital Natives – Discovering Science
Student feedback on Open Modules reveals that it has been a fantastic opportunity for them to meet and work with students from other courses across the university whilst widening their horizons and enhancing their employability prospects. Supporting the creative community, Developing the local economy Students and recent graduates benefit from a range of innovative partnerships with local companies and organisations. You could be; –W orking behind the scenes at Bath Festivals or The Holburne Museum. –N etworking with leading businesses at The Guild in Bath, or The Engine Shed in Bristol. –B eing trained as a Stop Smoking Counsellor by Sirona and running a clinic on campus for students and staff. –A ccessing exclusive placements, expertise and even free tickets not available to anyone else.
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BATH SPA GRADUATES
95%
73%
Bath Spa graduates are going places. In 2014 over 95% of Bath Spa first degree graduates were in employment or further study six months after graduation. This compares to the national average of just under 91%.
73% of those jobs were in professional or managerial roles.
Bath Spa graduates are more likely to be their own boss compared to graduates nationally (8% v 5.8%).
Great jobs secured in 2014 included Each of the course pages in this Prospectus gives an idea of the sort of careers open to graduates from the course with even more information online.
You will have access to industrystandard facilities and employer inspired projects. Bath Spa University is expanding its presence at the heart of the local and regional creative, cultural and enterprise communities.
Student Profile Clare rhymer Year 3, English literature — “Through attending the various career workshops and talks that Bath Spa offer I have gained a clearer understanding of the careers that are available to Literature students and have been amazed to find that I could apply to most jobs and succeed there due to the thoroughness and employability of Bath Spa’s English Literature degree.”
8%
And they were employed by some great employers :
– Film Producer – Digital Creative Producer – Sponsorship Executive – Artist in Residence – Head of Design – Garment Technologist – PR Account Executive
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STUDY FACILITIES As a university that emphasises high quality teaching we put a lot of effort into helping you get the most from your studies. You’ll expect first rate lecturers, but you’ll also get modern, well-equipped libraries and IT suites; innovative teaching methods; the chance to study abroad – and much more! LIBRARIES Each campus has a library with stock that reflects the courses that are taught there. At Newton Park the impressive new academic building, Commons, has outstanding facilities. There are over 1,000 square metres of Learning Commons and 400 study seats including open-access, technology-enabled study space, two large quiet study rooms on the ground floor, social learning space and bookable group working rooms and pods – as well as a café to relax in. The Learning Commons is open 24/7 in term time and complements the campus library where you will find a course focused collection of books, journals, CDs and DVDs, covering the wide range of subjects we teach. If you’re an Education student, there is a separate collection of resources to use when you are on teaching placements in schools. As well as traditional library materials, there’s also a wealth of electronic resources such as electronic journals, electronic books and online services to help you access high quality information for your university work. The Bath School of Art and Design at Sion Hill has a well equipped library facility. Here you can seek creative inspiration from a wide range of specialist books and journals as well as collections of exhibition catalogues, images and DVDs. We also have a small library at Corsham Court which supports the needs of staff and postgraduate students based there. Students may use any of the University libraries and a regular book transport service runs between them. STUDY AREAS There are separate areas in the Libraries for different kinds of study. If you really need to concentrate, you can work in silent study areas where we ask people not to talk at all or use equipment that might disturb others. However, at other times, you’ll need to work on group projects, so we’ve set aside areas where you can talk, use mobiles, eat and drink. The foyer of Newton Park Library provides collaborative learning space and
laptop docking points as well as a modern and welcoming reception area and library information point. ONLINE LEARNING As a teaching-led university we make sure we’re right up to date with the most advanced teaching methods, and all students have access to our online virtual learning environment, Minerva. This allows your lecturers to send course materials to you via the web – and makes these easy for you to find. Minerva also includes links to reading lists and digitised material from the library collections as well as a direct Library search facility. It also provides various other features such as discussion boards which allow you to have online conversations with others from your course, and lets you submit coursework electronically. WRITING AND LEARNING CENTRE The Writing and Learning Centre helps students in all subjects and years make the move from ‘student’ to ‘scholar’ by offering guidance on academic writing, research, independent learning, referencing, and a range of other topics, including digital literacy. Students can drop in, book a 1:1 appointment, access information online, or simply email us a quick question. Our trained professional and peer tutors have a wide range of academic backgrounds and are ready to help students rise to the challenges of studying at degree and/or postgraduate level. GETTING HELP Professionally qualified librarians run sessions that teach you how to find and use information – helping you to produce good quality work but saving you time as well. Each academic School has a dedicated subject librarian. We also offer one-to-one tutorials, an electronic enquiry service and advice as and when you need it. If you’re a disabled student, you’ll get help on an individual basis to make sure we best meet your library and information needs. Why not take a look at our web-site at www.bathspa.ac.uk/ services/library for more information and for guest access to our catalogue. COMPUTER FACILITIES There are several hundred networked computers for students to use, many in open access rooms which are available in the evenings and at weekends as well during the day. You can use these computers for word-processing, spreadsheets, database work, email and Internet
access. And you’ll find user-friendly online help pages covering all aspects of IT at the University. There are also specialised computer facilities across the campuses for subjects such as music, art and design, and media production. We have both PCs and Apple Macs as well as wireless connections for laptops. PERSONAL COMPUTING DEVICES At Bath Spa we are equipped with the latest industry standard technology to help you complete your course and prepare you for the world of work. Open access computer suites and a range of software are available. However, many students
prefer to work on their own laptops and tablets and the University provides a wireless network supporting these personal computing devices. There is a minimum specification students should follow when purchasing their own devices to ensure they will work on the University wireless network. Courses taught in the Bath School of Art and Design and the School of Music and Performing Arts have additional specifications, so please check our website for details. The specification for personal computing devices and further information is available on our website www.bathspa.ac.uk/byod
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STUDENT SUPPORT
You’ll want your time at university to be enjoyable, worthwhile, and full of new challenges and experiences. We have a range of specialist services to help you achieve your goals. What’s on offer? Advice, guidance, information and ideas on a range of issues, provided by specialist staff who are happy to work with you, sharing their expertise, bouncing ideas around and guiding you (when you need guidance) through the enormous range of activities and issues that you will encounter. It makes no difference whether you’re a full or part-time student, UK, EU or international, coming from A-levels or returning to study – you’ll find a professional team of people with information, guidance and advice to hand. Student Support Most students find themselves needing a bit of help at times as they juggle different priorities and demands. Common concerns include balancing study, work and social life, personal issues, being away from home, friends and relationship difficulties, health or loneliness. We won’t make decisions for you – but we’ll help you to make them for yourself. Money Advice We can guide you through the intricacies of student finance and give advice on student loans and other forms of student funding, on budgeting and how to handle and negotiate debt. We also administer loans and grants which are available
in special circumstances to students suffering particular financial hardship. For more information email: studentsupport@bathspa.ac.uk Peer Mentor Scheme Peer Mentors are current students who are trained by Student Support professionals to provide informal support and guidance to other students. All new students are paired with a Peer Mentor before they start at Bath Spa and they are an excellent source of information about what it’s really like being a student and great tips on how to manage. Medical service Our Medical Service is provided by a local GP practice and provides the full range of medical services from dealing with illness and injury to providing services such as contraception, vaccination, repeat prescriptions and general health checks. We encourage all students to register. You can attend one of the surgeries on campus or make appointments at the practice health centre in town at other times. Either way you’ll have a choice of doctor or nurse appointment: medicalappointments@bathspa.ac.uk Faith services In a multi-faith environment we welcome students of all faiths – and none. Members of the University Chaplaincy team visit the campus each week for a drop-in session and from time to time events may be organised to coincide with specific seasons.
Childcare If you’re a parent of children under five you can arrange for them to be looked after at Oak Tree Day Nursery at our Newton Park campus. Children of staff and the local community use the Nursery too, and there’s a happy, secure and stimulating environment. The Nursery is in two adjoining houses, arranged for children of different ages (six months to two years, and two to five years). The services and activities provided are tailored to the needs of the babies and children, enabling them to explore and learn through play. The standards of care and nursery education are high – this was confirmed by an Ofsted inspection in 2009. The report comments: ‘Children are happy and confident in a well managed, stimulating care and learning environment’. You can book morning, afternoon or full day sessions, with student rates ranging from £22 to £46 depending on the age of the child and the session you require. Full details can be found at www.bathspa.ac.uk/universitylife/ childcare or call the Day Nursery Manager on 01225 875590. Disabled students The Student Support team will work with you and other university staff to make reasonable adjustments to help you get the most out of your studies and to meet your learning support requirements. Contact us to discuss your needs as soon as possible, so that we can make sure that we are doing everything we can to help you enjoy
your life and studies at Bath Spa. You don’t need to wait till you get here – speak to us at Open Days or contact us for an individual appointment. Students with dyslexia We provide an opportunity for all students to undertake an initial dyslexia screening; some students will come already knowing they have a specific learning difficulty; for others this provides an opportunity to find out if they can benefit from tailored dyslexia study support. In both cases we will provide professional guidance. You may be eligible for a Disabled Students’ Allowance, in which case we’ll help you to apply for and obtain your full support package. We organise an early induction programme, BSU Headstart which takes place just before registration, for disabled students coming to Bath Spa. This will give you the opportunity to get to know the campus and staff and to meet up with other students already on courses. For more information email: studentsupport@bathspa.ac.uk
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INternational Students
Welcome to our international students Jeremy White, Director of International Relations — “ Leaving your country to study in the UK can be both an exciting and challenging process. To help you adjust to your new surroundings and feel settled we have a dedicated International Relations Team which will be there from the very start of your application to help, support and guide you during your time with us. Our office has an open door policy that enables you to come in at any time to ask questions which we will be only too happy to assist you with. We are sure that coming to Bath Spa and being part of our International community will be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience in both your academic studies and student experience. We look forward to welcoming you to Bath Spa and being part of your journey to a successful future.” Studying in the UK British education has a long tradition of quality and excellence and is renowned for being the most outstanding across the globe. Academic quality and rigour are at the heart of UK degrees and UK graduates are highly valued throughout the rest of the world. Independent thought, self-discipline, critical thinking, time and project management and written and oral communications are just some of the skills you will gain whilst on a degree. These are highly valued by employers and therefore crucial to
success in what has become a highly competitive job market. We want our graduates to not only be ‘global citizens’ but also join and feel part of an alumni base of creative thinkers, influencers, business gurus who have truly changed the world. Student Life International students come from over 81 different countries throughout the world including the Far East, America, South America and Europe. As part of a small, close knit community, students enjoy the friendly, caring, vibrant, environment Bath Spa offers in which opportunities are vast but never overwhelming. In addition to the opportunities provided by our Students’ Union and its dedicated International Student Reps, the International Relations Team also offers an exciting social programme. This begins at Introduction Week and in the past has included trips to London, movie nights, sporting events and many more opportunities that we encourage all students to get involved in. TUITION FEES For the 2015/16 cycle tuition fees for International students are £11,300 per year. European students pay £9,000 a year and are entitled to tuition fees support from Student Finance England. We advise you to visit our dedicated webpages www.bathspa.ac.uk/ study-with-us/undergraduate/ fees-and-finance to find out more, including information on both bursaries and scholarships. Entry Requirements Bath Spa University accepts a range of international qualifications and requirements for your country can be
found by visiting www.bathspa.ac.uk/ international-students/entryrequirements-for-your-country. Each application is considered individually and international qualifications must be shown to be equivalent to the University’s general entry requirements. Some subjects may require a subject specific entry requirement reflecting the specialist nature. Each course page on our website should be checked carefully. English Language Requirements Applicants whose first language is not English must have a recognised English language qualification to the required standard: – IELTS - 6.0 (including a minimum of 5.5 in all bands) – Pearsons Test of English Academic - Level B2 (including a minimum 51 in all bands) –O ther recognised English language qualifications of an equivalent standard. Pre-Sessional Students who score less than the English language requirements will be offered the opportunity to join Bath Spa’s bespoke English language course. If you have an IELTS 5.0 or equivalent you can attend a 12 weeks programme prior to your degree. This enables you to be eligible for a scholarship worth up to £500 for entrance to a Bachelor’s degree. If you have an IELTS 5.5 or equivalent you will be invited to our 6 week pre-sessional course. The school of Business AND Entrepreneurship In conjunction with our American partners, the University has developed an innovative international first year
programme for school leavers that enables them to progress on to the second year of an undergraduate degree from either the School of Science, Enterprise and Environment, Humanities and Creative Industries or the School of Business and Entrepreneurship. The School of Business and Entrepreneurship helps students to develop the skills they need to create and build a business in a globally connected world. Progression onto the Batchelor in Business Administration (BBA) programme inspires entrepreneurial minds from all over the world to pursue their interests in one of four distinct concentrations. Enterprise Innovation, Design Management, Social Entrepreneurship and Emerging Technology. Further details can be found at www.bathspaglobal.com Study abroad – International students If you can’t study with us for a full degree, you can still spend a semester or a full academic year with us on our ‘Study abroad’ programme. We offer a diverse range of modules with a focus on creativity, culture and enterprise and you can select modules that relate to your major, minor or general education. We may already have an agreement with your home institution, so you can apply through your academic advisor or study abroad office officer. If any agreement isn’t already in place you can apply directly to our International office. Summer schools To make use of your summer break and to experience what life is like at Bath Spa we offer a series of summer schools throughout July-September. A social programme in addition to subject teaching is included and housing and food are also part of the package. Further information Please visit our international pages on our website for further information. www.bathspa.ac.uk/international or email international@bathspa.ac.uk The International Office is here to help you every step of the way and we look forward to welcoming you.
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Studying abroad as part of your degree UK STUDENTS Understanding international issues and gaining first-hand experience overseas will help add to your employability. Studying abroad as part of your degree is a wonderful opportunity to live and experience education in a different country, gain a new prospective on your subject and broaden your horizons about different cultures. Bath Spa University has developed partnerships with universities and colleges throughout the world www.bathspa.ac.uk/about-us/ partnership-and-collaboration including Australia, China and the USA where you may want to study for a semester. For more information please contact international@bathspa.ac.uk who will happily advise you of your options available within your subject area.
Certificate in Global Citizenship A new Global Citizenship Award is available that formally recognises the global perspective of your undergraduate studies and your time studying abroad. This Award is studied alongside your degree programme, and involves the study of a module in Global Citizenship, a subject-based module with a global perspective, an overseas placement, and attendance at international and global seminar sessions or conferences.
Studying in Europe Through the Erasmus programme, which is supported by the European Commission, you can apply for a study placement at one of our European partners during your second year for a semester. Spaces are limited, so you are advised to express an interest early and you may be eligible for a grant towards the cost of your placement (subject to EU funding). Further details can be obtained by emailing Erasmus@bathspa.ac.uk
At Bath Spa University you will find opportunities to become a global citizen, ready to make a difference in an international context.
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RETURNING TO LEARNING Are you thinking of joining us as a mature student (by which we mean someone who is returning to education after a break from studying)? If so you’ll be in good company – around a quarter of our undergraduate students are mature students. You may feel anxious about returning to study but a lot of help is on hand and our experience suggests you will surprise yourself (but not us) with how well you will do. You will bring a wealth of experience and diverse skills to your studies that will be invaluable. Do I qualify? You don’t have to have traditional qualifications such as A-levels to be a student at Bath Spa. A good number of students come to us after they have completed an Access to Higher Education Diploma programme, which provides an excellent route to university. We will also take your working life, your general educational background and your experiences into account by assessing what is known as ‘prior learning’ (APL) and ‘prior experiential learning’ (APEL) as a foundation for study in higher education. Pre-entry guidance You can talk to us before you apply. There will be advisors at our general Open Days (see page 100). We also have a dedicated first point of contact for general enquiries from mature student and Access learners. To find out more, including the support available, please contact the Widening Participation and Access Manager on 01225 876223 or email your enquiry to s.griffin@bathspa.ac.uk If you would like specific advice about your qualifications or have a query about your application, please email your enquiry directly to our Admissions Service at: admissions@bathspa.ac.uk When you arrive As a mature student you will be invited to attend a non-residential Return to Learning programme over two days in the September before you start your first year. At the beginning of the academic year, before teaching starts, all new students attend Welcome Week. During this initial orientation period you will meet your personal tutor, whose role is to provide you with academic and pastoral advice, and the tutors, staff and fellow students in your Academic School. This is also the time when you confirm your module
selections, your timetable for the year is finalised and when you are able to find out more about the full range of advice and support – on both academic and non-academic matters – that you will be able to access during your time with us. At Bath Spa we have always attracted mature students, so we have a lot of experience in dealing with any issues or problems you may have. What else should I think about? Like most students you will probably be worried about how you will manage your finances and how you will juggle study and home commitments, and you will certainly need the support of friends and family in your new venture. But think too about the benefits you will gain: you will gain knowledge and skills that you haven’t even thought about; your career prospects will be improved; you will meet a whole new set of people and you will find it hugely satisfying to fulfil what may have been a long-held ambition.
Student Profile Education Studies: Early Years Samantha-Jayne Moore — “I have two young children meaning that I have had to balance being a parent and a student for the past 3+ years. This in itself has brought varying challenges and inspiring moments; in particular when my little girl told me ‘I am so proud of you Mummy for passing all your homework, does that mean you get to wear a square hat now?’. It is moments like this that make all the hard work and commitment worthwhile.”
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WHICH COURSE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
It’s important that you’re happy with the course you plan to study, because you’re much more likely to succeed with your studies if you have a real interest in the subject and want to explore it in depth. You will see from this prospectus that there are lots of courses to choose from, and each course will have an element of choice within it, so that you can focus on those aspects of the subject that interest you most. Types of courses You can select to study at different levels, depending on your educational qualifications, the length of time you want to study, where you want to study, and how much work-based learning you want. Honours degree courses – The majority of our students are following honours degree courses. – These involve three years of full-time study, or five to six years part-time study. – Most of our degree courses are based at our main Newton Park or Sion Hill campuses for all three years. – Entry requirements are in the region of 260–340 UCAS tariff points, or equivalent. – Degree courses can be in a single subject (Single or Specialised Awards) or in two subjects (Combined Awards or Creative Arts). – Your qualification when you graduate would be either BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons), depending on whether your course was arts-based or science-based. Foundation degrees (FD) – Provides a combination of academic training and work-related skills. – Two years full-time study, although for some FDs this involves just one day of formal academic tuition per week, with the rest of the time spent studying vocationally in the workplace. – FDs are taught in our partner colleges. – Entry requirements vary: most require an academic qualification at Level 3 (A-Level or NVQ Level 3, for example) of around 180 to 220
UCAS Tariff points (e.g. A-level grades BC; or A-level grades CD + AS level grade C), but some also place considerable emphasis on relevant work experience (and as such, may not be suitable for school leavers). – There is potential to progress to a compatible honours degree at the end of the two years (88 % of our Foundation Degree students enrolled onto Year 3 of an honours degree course last year after successfully completing the FD), subject to places being available. – On some courses you may also progress to a work-based learning honours programme when you successfully complete your FD. These programmes enable you to study your chosen subject at honours level but develop research and project management skills by undertaking a work-based project, and acquire management skills necessary for career progression in the workplace. The work-based learning honours programmes are currently based at Weston College. The flexible choice There is a good level of choice built into most of our courses, so that you can build up a programme of study to suit your particular interests and career aspirations. Modular courses Most courses are part of a Modular Scheme, and all are modular in structure. Modules are self-standing units of study, and you earn credit when you successfully complete them; modules are worth either 20 or 40 credits. If you are a full-time student you will normally take 120 credits each year. Part-time students take between 40 and 80 credits each year. All courses have a compulsory core module worth 40 credits in each year of study. You can choose from a range of optional modules to make up the required credit total. You can find a course handbook explaining how each course is structured on the course pages of our website: www.bathspa.ac.uk Courses fall into three broad categories: Single Awards, Specialised Awards and Combined Awards.
We also offer some Integrated Masters courses. Single Awards – Your degree will be in a single subject, for example BA (Hons) History. – You will study 80 credits in your main subject (40 from a core module, and 40 from other modules on offer) along with 40 credits from a selection of other modules related to your subject. – In Years 2 and 3 you concentrate on your chosen Single Hons subject. Specialised Awards – Your degree will be in one subject – for example, BA (Hons) Music. – Your choice of modules will more restricted because of the specialised nature of the award. Each year you will take 120 credits from a prescribed range of modules. – Art and Design courses follow a slightly different structure (see pages 35–46). – Foundation Degrees follow the same pattern as Specialised Awards in that each year you will take 120 credits from a prescribed range of modules (though they differ in that they are often work-based and are taught in our partner colleges). Combined Awards Combined awards are a very popular choice for many students, allowing flexibility and breadth of study. – Your degree will be in two subjects. – You will start by studying both subjects in equal depth, choosing a core 40 credit module in each of your subjects, along with 40 credits from a selection of modules in each of your two subjects or from modules related to your subjects. – From Year 2 onwards you can choose whether to follow a joint route or a Major / Minor route (depending on whether or not you want to concentrate more on one subject). – Your final award when you graduate will reflect the weighting you have given to your subjects. For example, a joint combination of Creative Writing and English Literature will give you a BA (Hons) Creative Writing and English Literature; a Major / Minor combination of
Geography and Sociology will give you a BSc (Hons) Geography with Sociology. – You can’t study Foundation Degrees as part of a Combined Award. Integrated Masters These are four year courses incorporating an undergraduate degree leading directly to a Masters qualification. They’re an attractive option because of the additional benefits a postgraduate qualification offers to students. The Masters programme provides a depth of specialist knowledge at Masters level which is highly valued by employers. The advantages of following this study pattern are: – Students are eligible for a fee loan and maintenance loan for all four years of study. – Students are guaranteed study at Masters level (many postgraduate programmes are competitive to get onto). – The fourth year of the course (the Masters year) is an intensive placement-based year making students highly employable when they graduate. Integrated Masters courses are currently offered in Commercial Music and Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
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Fees and finances
It’s important to stress that having a degree is a good investment – it will improve your chance of getting a job and you will earn more than non-graduates in years to come. Student Finance information for 2016/17 has not yet been announced at the time of publication. The following information is correct for university entry in 2015/16. You are advised to check the Government website for the most up-to-date information: www.gov.uk/browse/education The following information is relevant to students living in England beginning their first undergraduate degree. If you are from other countries within the UK please go to the appropriate Student Finance webpage: Wales: www.studentfinancewales.co.uk Scotland: www.saas.gov.uk Northern Ireland: www.studentfinanceni.co.uk
What do I have to pay for? There are two main financial elements to being a student: tuition fees and living costs. Tuition fees In 2015/16 Bath Spa University tuition fees are £9,000 for full time undergraduate courses and between £7,500 and £9,000 for foundation courses. The tuition fee does not have to be paid up-front or whilst you are studying – you can (if you wish to) take out a ‘Tuition Fee Loan’ from the Student Loan Company to cover your tuition fees. You will only start repaying this loan once you have left university and earning over £21,000 a year (2015 levels). If you take out a tuition fee loan it will be paid direct to Bath Spa University on your behalf. The tuition fee loan is different to some of the other financial support available in that it is not means-tested on household income. Living costs and other expenses For many students – particularly those living away from home – the biggest expense will be accommodation costs. However you will also need money for your day-to-day living expenses, such as food, laundry, travel, books, clothes and socialising. The amount you need will vary with individual circumstances, but you can work on the basis of between £235 and £260 a week for a single student living away from home during term time. Obviously if you live at home while you are studying, your living costs will be adjusted accordingly. There will also be costs attached to your course itself
– items such as books, stationery, photocopying and printing. Certain courses involve additional costs for items such as field trips, art materials and specialist equipment. Some art and design courses are subject to a Material and Study Visits contribution fee, which is compulsory (and not normally refundable) but is subsidised by the University. You will find details of studio fees on the relevant course pages. What support can I get? Student Maintenance Loan (maximum loan outside London is £5,740) A maintenance loan is available to help cover accommodation and other living costs for students normally resident in the UK. This is in addition to the student tuition fee loan described above – although both are paid by the Student Loan Company. Your exact entitlement to the maintenance loan will be calculated by Student Finance. All eligible students can receive 65% of the maximum maintenance loan and how much you will receive of the remaining 35% will be calculated on the basis of your household income. If you live at home while you study, you will be entitled to a smaller maintenance loan. Repaying Student Loans You will start repaying both your Maintenance and Tuition Fee Loans when you have graduated and are earning more than £21,000 (2015 level). You pay back 9% of any earnings above £21,000 a year – for example a graduate earning
£25,000 per year would repay their loan at a rate of £6.92 per week. Higher earners will pay more – so as your earnings increase, so will your contribution. Student Maintenance Grant If you’re from England and doing a full-time higher education course in the UK, you may be able to get additional help with living costs through a Maintenance Grant. The Maintenance Grant does not have to be repaid, and you will be automatically assessed for any entitlement when you apply for your student finance (there is one student finance application). The grant is means-tested, so whether you qualify – and the amount of grant you’ll get – depends on your household income. If your household income is up to £25,000 you’ll be eligible for a grant of up to £3,387 (2015 amount), and those from households with incomes between £25,001 and £42,620 will receive a partial grant (2015 levels). Bath Spa University Bursaries Bath Spa University will be providing 320 cash bursary awards of £3,500 to eligible first year, English/EU students who are new to Higher Education. Students will receive this bursary award (subject to continual eligibility) in instalments of £1,000 in the first and second year of study and £1,500 in the third year. Students are given the option to receive their award as a fee reduction instead of cash. Bursary awards, will be considered for students with household income under £25,000 as assessed by Student Finance as part of their
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
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Money Tips STUDENT FINANCE P lan ahead! Work out a budget in advance and try to stick to it. Make sure you get all the money you’re entitled to – come and talk to Student Support if you’re not sure. Shop around and choose a student bank account from a bank offering good terms such as interest-free overdrafts.
application for tuition fee and maintenance grants. So please remember to “consent to share” your household income details when you make your loan application. However, due to the number of bursaries available, they will be allocated to students within identified priority groups, further details will be published on the University website. Please note that bursaries are subject to review. Previous study – if you have a higher education qualification If you are a UK/EU student and already have a UK honours degree or other higher education qualification you should note that your funding arrangements may differ. You may, for example, be ineligible for the same student loan arrangements as students who are undertaking their first undergraduate degree. Students who are not eligible for statutory support due to previous study are not a priority for assistance from the Access to Learning Fund (see below for more information on the ALF). Full details are on our website www.bathspa.ac.uk, and on the Government website www.gov.uk Part-time students Part-time students who are studying at least 25% of a full-time course will be eligible for a tuition fee loan, payable on a pro-rata basis. This support is administered by student finance. Part-time students will not however be eligible for maintenance loan or grant support.
Other sources of income Interest-free overdrafts As a student you will find that almost all banks offer you a student account. This usually means that you will be entitled to an interest-free overdraft to a prescribed limit. Short-term emergency loans The University may be able to offer emergency short term loans to eligible students who are experiencing a financial crisis, most frequently if a student loan instalment is late. You will be asked to make arrangements for the repayment of this money within 30 days. Access to Learning Fund In previous years Bath Spa University, like all higher education institutions, has received money from the government in the form of an Access to Learning Fund. This can provide additional (non-repayable) financial support for home UK students experiencing financial difficulties. This is a limited discretionary fund and no guarantees can be made that an award will be made. Students with dependants Students with dependants should contact student finance to establish whether or not they will be eligible for additional non-repayable support, such as Adult Dependants Grant, Childcare Grant and the Parent’s Learning Allowance.
Trusts and charities Some trusts and charities offer limited financial support to students, and it may be worth enquiring. The Student Support Office at Bath Spa can give further guidance. Useful sources of information The Student Support Office at Bath Spa University can offer further guidance on financial matters – Tel: (01225) 876543 or email studentsupport@bathspa.ac.uk. For queries about tuition fees, contact the University Finance Office on myfinance@bathspa.ac.uk PLEASE NOTE This information is correct at the time of print. Applicants are advised to visit www.gov.uk/studentfinance in the event of subsequent changes. Managing your finances You’ll need to plan ahead and our advice is to work out a budget to help manage your finances successfully – but remember that the Student Support team is there to provide information and guidance. The key is not to ignore problems when they arise, as this will only make matters worse; don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
Plan for essential expenses first – such as accommodation (the largest you’ll have to pay) and remember bills for heating, lighting and water if you’re renting privately. Buy a bus pass – it works out much cheaper. Think about buying a Student Railcard too. Don’t buy too many ready meals or takeaways. Home cooking is cheaper and better for you. Use your NUS card to get student discounts wherever possible. Make the most of the social events on campus.
Ask about part-time work at the Job Shop (but don’t work more than 15 hours a week), and sort out vacation work (see page 20). Don’t ignore financial difficulties. Come and talk to us before things become a problem. studentsupport@ bathspa.ac.uk
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
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DO I QUALIFY? 5 points in a relevant Higher Level subject; – OR Access to HE Diploma – please see ‘Access to Higher Education Learners’ section below. – OR other qualifications considered equivalent and included in the UCAS tariff (please check with the Admissions Service prior to applying). Art and Design programmes For entry to the BA (Hons) Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors, Fashion Design, Photography, Three Dimensional Design: Idea Material Object and Contemporary Arts Practice programmes we recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, however we will fully consider all applicants applying with level 3 qualifications. There are a number of ways in which you can qualify to come and study at Bath Spa University. We accept students with a wide range of qualifications and educational experiences. Typical offers Each course page of this prospectus includes details of the typical offers you could expect to receive from Bath Spa University. These are usually expressed in terms of UCAS tariff points and you should refer to the table opposite to see what tariff points your qualifications, or predicted qualifications, equate to. Please ensure that you enter all qualifications on your UCAS application, including those you have already passed. Our typical offers are usually structured as follows: 01 A stipulation of the total UCAS tariff points required (from all qualifications that are part of the UCAS tariff scheme. Please see www.ucas.ac.uk/students/ ucas_tariff/qualifications for more information) and this may include qualifications you have already completed 02 A stipulation of the number of UCAS tariff points required from A-level or equivalent 03 A stipulation of the grade or number of UCAS tariff points required from a specific subject Key Skills We will not consider Key Skills qualifications in our tariff offers, since not all candidates are able to offer these qualifications. However,
we recognise the benefits that the skills acquired through these qualifications bring and evidence of Key Skills passes will provide strong support for your application. Unit grade information Please note that we will not use grade information for individual units within A and AS examinations when considering your application and making offers. Offers will be made and confirmed on the basis of overall grades at A and AS level. Candidates are, of course, welcome to highlight unit achievements in their Personal Statement (or to encourage referees to do so in their references). General entry requirements Our ‘typical offers’ are made in the context of our overall general entry requirements. We expect applicants to successfully complete courses on which they are enrolled at the time of application. We will not make offers based on qualifications at the end of Year 12. Degree programmes (Except art and design) Our standard minimum qualifications required are as follows. Particular subject requirements are given with individual course details. – The equivalent of two 4-unit or 6-unit awards – for example, GCE / VCE A-level OR the equivalent of 18-unit qualifications; – OR a BTEC Extended Diploma (18 units); –O R a SCE with passes in two subjects at Advanced Higher grade; – OR International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma with minimum of 25–27 points possibly including
The normal general requirements are: – A-levels plus a Foundation Diploma course in Art and Design – OR a BTEC Extended Diploma in Art and Design or equivalent – OR 260 UCAS tariff points from A-levels, including a minimum of 100 points (grade B) from an art related A-level – OR the Access to HE Diploma in Art and Design – OR other qualifications may be considered (please check with the Admissions Service prior to applying) If you apply to study Art and Design, above all, we will be looking for your creative ability and suitability for your chosen course. For all applicants an offer of a place will be made following a successful portfolio review and interview. Foundation degree programmes The entry requirements for Foundation degrees vary from course to course, but are generally set at a lower level than honours degree courses. You will find details on the individual course pages. Other entry routes From all walks of life While most applicants will be studying or will have passed academic qualifications, we acknowledge that students can succeed if they have the right motivation and ability even if they have missed out on formal study, choosing instead to gain relevant experience. We may therefore be able to take a wider and more flexible view of your potential. For further information about applying without
formal qualifications, but with appropriate experience, please see ‘APEL – Experiential Learning’ in the ‘Non-standard applicants’ section below. Non-standard applicants You may be thinking about returning to education at undergraduate level after a break from studying. We would welcome your application and in looking at it, we would assess prior learning (APL) and experiential learning (APEL) as a foundation for higher education. We consider applicants with non-traditional qualifications and/or relevant experience positively. If you are considering joining Bath Spa University with such a background you will be in very good company as over a third of our student population are over 21. Access to Higher Education learners For many years Bath Spa University has been a popular choice for Access learners and we actively maintain close links with Access to Higher Education programmes at local and regional further education colleges. All courses at the University welcome applications from learners on appropriate QAA-recognised Access to Higher Education programmes. Typical offers for those applying with an Access to Higher Education qualification will be the achievement of the Access to Higher Education Diploma or Access to Higher Education Certificate (60 credits, 45 of which must be at Level 3 on a planned programme of study). For our BA/BSc programmes we will require between 15 and 30 Merit grades at Level 3 and this will be reflected in our offer. For further information about individual course entry requirements, please visit the courses pages on our website at: www.bathspa.ac.uk. Any subsequent queries should be directed to admissions@bathspa.ac.uk As for all who apply for courses in Art and Design, Music, Dance, Drama and Acting, applicants from Access to Higher Education programmes may be required to attend an interview, submit a portfolio or attend an audition and those applying for Creative Writing may also be asked to send in samples of their creative writing. This is as part of the standard selection process for those courses. All applicants for the Education Specialised Award degree programmes leading to Qualified Teacher Status
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
are required to have a GCSE at Grade C or above in English Language, Mathematics and Science. Applicants who began an Access to Higher Education qualification before 2014 may offer GCSE qualifications in these subjects, or alternatively AVAaccredited Access to Higher Education GCSE equivalents in English, Mathematics and Science. If you are offering pre-2014 GCSE equivalents please list all the relevant units on your UCAS form. This is especially important to enable us to assess whether you have the GCSE equivalents required by the The National College for Teaching and Leadership. Direct entry Direct entry to Year 2 or 3 of a degree course may be possible if you have a recent HND, DipHE, Open University credits, credits from another institution of higher education, or other relevant qualifications that have provided you with 120 or 240 HE level credits. The direct application should be made via UCAS, stating point of entry and listing the modules studied within HND, DipHE or Year 1 or 2 studies. Your reference should be written by the tutor for these studies as it is important that a sense of continuation is demonstrated. Please be aware that it is not always possible for us to consider direct entry applications. We will, however, keep you informed regarding your application should you wish to apply and if we are able to consider you, you will be asked to provide your transcripts from your studies. Non-standard qualifications on entry If you are offering what you believe to be a ‘non-standard’ qualification, please visit this website: www.accreditedqualifications.org.uk and then contact the Admissions Service (admissions@bathspa.ac.uk) to check that we would accept that qualification. We would need to know the year it was studied and completed, the length of study, how many hours per week you attended and the name of the school or college and the results as well as any other qualifications you have in addition to this.
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UCAS Tariff Chart GCE / VCE Qualifications
GCE AS / AC VCE
Scottish Qualifications
GCE A-level / AVCE
AVCE Double Award
Adv Higher
Welsh Bacc Core
Higher
BTEC QCF Qualifications
Diploma
A*A*
D*D*
A*A
D*D
AA
DD
Extended Diploma* DDD
360
DDM
320
DMM
280 260
MMM
AB
240 220
BB
DM
MMP
BC
200 180
CC
MM
A*
CD
A
DD
A
B
DE
B
C
EE
C
MPP
160 140
PASS
MP
PPP
120 100
PP
D A
Points
D
80
A
72
B
60
C
48
B
50 D
C
42
E
40
*Please note that we have not included D*D*D*, the highest result for the BTEC Extended Diploma (worth 420 points)
International Baccalaureate Grade
Progression Diploma Tariff points
Grade
Tariff points
29
370
A*
350
28
348
A
300
27
326
B
250
26
304
C
200
25
282
D
150
24
260
E
100
Abridged version – for full table, and for any updates and changes to the UCAS tariff, see: www.ucas.ac.uk/ students/ucas_tariff/tarifftables Changes will also be highlighted on the Bath Spa University website www.bathspa.ac.uk
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
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HOW DO I APPLY?
We will consider each application on its individual merit Full-time students You make your application through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). For all full-time higher education courses at universities and colleges in the UK, students must apply online at www.ucas.com. There are full instructions at www.ucas.com to make it as easy as possible for you to fill in your online application, plus help text where appropriate. UCAS also has a comprehensive guide called Applying Online, which can be downloaded from www.ucas.com. There are three types of applicant:
1
Students at a school or college registered with UCAS All UK schools and colleges (and a small number of establishments overseas) are registered with UCAS to manage their students’ applications. Advice is available from your teacher or a careers adviser at your school or college. You fill in an online application and submit it to a member of staff. After checking your details, and having added the academic reference, your school or college submits the completed application online to UCAS. You pay online using a credit card or debit card. You may also be able to pay through your school or college.
2
Independent applicants in the UK Other UK applicants, who are not at school or college, apply online independently. It is likely that you are a mature applicant, who, unlike school and college students, cannot readily seek advice from your teacher, but can instead consult with various careers organisations. You are responsible for paying the correct application fee, for obtaining and attaching the academic reference and for submitting the completed application online to UCAS.
3
International students (EU and worldwide) Apply online via UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admission Service (www.ucas.com). You are advised to apply as early as possible. You are responsible for paying the correct application fee, for obtaining and attaching the academic reference and for submitting the completed application online to UCAS. Please ensure your application is fully completed and lists all your qualifications, both completed and pending. For courses that require interview, if you are unable to attend, you will be asked to submit examples of your work. Your application decision will be communicated through the UCAS system, or directly to you, depending on how you applied to us. If you are a visa national you will also receive a formal offer letter with advice relating to UK Visas and Immigration guidance and visa issues. For advice in your country, contact your local British Council (www.britishcouncil.org). If you are from outside of the EU and/or have an agent, you may wish to apply to us directly. Please contact international@bathspa.ac.uk for guidance.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / INTRODUCTION
Foundation degrees Applications to full-time Foundation Degrees are made through UCAS in the same way as honours degree programmes. Art and Design courses Applications to art and design courses are made in the same way as applications to other undergraduate courses with an application deadline date of 15 January 2016. Part-time applicants Applications for part-time study are made direct to Bath Spa University. This is the case for all types of course – degree or foundation degree. For further information and an application form please contact: admissions@bathspa.ac.uk Completing your application Bath Spa University’s institution code is BASPA B20. You will find full information on course codes on page 98. You will also find full information on codes and how to complete the application form on the UCAS website (www.ucas.com) along with details of the registration fee which must accompany your UCAS application form. You may apply to up to five institutions / courses (although you are not obliged to use all five choices). The choices are listed in the order in which they appear in the UCAS Listing, rather than in order of preference, so all applications will be treated equally and anonymity between universities applies.
When to apply For all courses your completed form should reach UCAS between 1 September and 15 January – between nine and twelve months prior to entry. You can still apply through UCAS after that date, but you will only be considered for courses that still have vacancies. Considering your application More information on the admissions process at Bath Spa University can be found on our website: www.bathspa.ac.uk Interviews and auditions Candidates for Art and Design subjects: If you are short-listed you will normally be invited for portfolio inspection and interview. Creative Music Technology candidates: If you are shortlisted you will be invited to attend interview at which you will be required to demonstrate both technical skills and creative ability. This will include listening to your audio portfolio. Commercial Music candidates: If you are shortlisted you will be required to submit an audio portfolio which will form our decision as to whether or not you will be invited to attend an interview / audition.
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Music candidates: You will normally be invited for a combined visit and interview during which you will be asked to demonstrate your musical ability. If you are applying for Music as part of a Combined award, or as part of the Creative Arts programme, it is possible that you will not be called for interview.
Foundation degrees at partner colleges / institutions: Candidates for Foundation Degree courses in Art and Design or Performance-based courses will be interviewed or auditioned at the relevant college. Interviews are also carried out at the relevant college for some Education courses.
Dance candidates: Eligible candidates will be invited to audition.
Taking a Gap Year We are happy to consider applications from students who plan to take a year out. If the year is used constructively, it can be a very positive experience. If you want to apply for deferred entry, you should apply in the normal way, but indicate that you are applying for 2017, not 2016. If you decide to take a year off after you have submitted your application, just contact us in good time to let us know your change of plans. Please note, however, that we are not able to consider deferred applications for BA Acting.
Acting candidates: If you are shortlisted you will be invited to a group workshop and to perform a monologue as well as being interviewed. Other candidates: If you are applying for courses other than the above you may still be asked to attend an interview, depending on flexible selection processes and particularly if your application contains aspects that we need to explore further. If you are offered a place you will be invited to attend an organised Applicant Visit Day. These are specifically for candidates who have applied to us (parents and supporters are very welcome to attend too), and enable you to make an informed decision about whether or not to accept any offer you may receive.
Offer letters Our decision on your application will be communicated to you via UCAS. Please therefore make sure that you check UCAS Track on a regular basis. Further information At any stage of your application / enrolment, we may ask you for further information. Please note that failure to provide it can result in our refusal to consider your application, the withdrawal of an offer, the loss of home fee status and a demand for payment of any outstanding fees.
BATH SPA PROSPECTUS UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES / COURSES
BATH SCHOOL OF ART And DESIGN
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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creative arts BA (HONS) UCAS code: See table for the different codes for subject combinations. INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus /Dartmouth Avenue (Bath School of Art and Design) for Art, Ceramics, Mixed Media Textiles and Graphic Arts. Newton Park campus for Creative Writing, Dance, Drama and Music. Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): £50 per module for Art, £100 per Photography module (optional module); £130 per Mixed Media Textiles module (subject to review). The maximum contribution per student will be £230. See page 28. Assessment: Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments.
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points from A-levels, including a minimum 100 points from an art-related A-level
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
OR A-levels plus a foundation studies course in Art and Design OR an appropriate BTEC Extended Diploma or equivalent. For more information see page 30 Preferred subjects: Art / Art and Design / Fine Art / Photography / Textile Design / Dance / English / Music / Theatre Studies / Drama or Visual Arts (depending on subject choice). Art Foundation course is also acceptable. Offers may be based on portfolio of work (depending on subject choice). Candidates may be interviewed.
This programme is ideal for adventurous students who do not wish to be restricted within the boundaries of a single art discipline. Many artists today, while working primarily in one medium, would see their work as informed by other media and traditions. Why choose this course? Creative Arts encourages an entrepreneurial approach to creative practice. It combines the opportunity for original, practical work with the challenges of critical thought and reflection across eight subjects of which you choose two: Art (page 36) Ceramics AND SCULPTURE (page 36) Creative Writing (page 55) Dance (page 70) Drama (page 71) Mixed Media Textiles (page 37) Music (page 72) Graphic Arts (page 37) You will be encouraged to explore and develop your own style and creativity and to be as experimental as possible. There will also be an emphasis on translating this into the world of industry. The programme works from two fundamental principles. The first is that you will work with tutors who
are practising artists: your teachers will be writers, composers, performers, choreographers, painters, sculptors, textile designers and drama practitioners with good profiles of publications, exhibitions, recordings and performances. They will also have knowledge of the industries in which you later may work. Secondly, Creative Arts emphasises the support of practice by theory. We assume that you are artists who are driven by the desire to create in a variety of media, and much of your time will be taken up with making things; theoretical elements are aimed at supporting and enabling your personal practice. About the course This is a joint degree, but through optional and project modules the balance between your two subjects can be flexible. The subjects are mainly delivered autonomously; that is, when you are doing art you are completely involved in that area. However, there are modules where you can explore relationships between disciplines, for example a module where composers and choreographers work together. Cross-subject and collaborative projects are major pieces of independent work in Year 3, and offer opportunities to work across your subjects and to collaborate
with like-minded artists. Examples have included: a music-theatre event, dance with film, a CD of songs to specially written texts, art installation with music or sound design, and film with a music score. Careers Creative Arts students have gone on to become visual artists, dance practitioners, arts administrators, composers, writers, teachers, lecturers, and workshop leaders. Some Creative Arts students have maintained their spread of work across both subjects (for example, film-maker Kathy Hinde has also been active as composer with her music played by pianist Joanna MacGregor). Others see themselves as primarily practitioners in one subject, but with their work informed by their experience in their other area of study. Examples would be the artist who uses skills in sound design acquired in music to work in film or installation, the song-writer whose lyrics are informed by creative writing, or the choreographer who integrates elements of drama into her dance work. Collaborative working, which is encouraged and supported in the programme, has an additional career benefit, in that you have two industries through which your work may reach the public, rather than one.
UCAS Codes CREATIVE WRITING
DANCE
DRAMA
MUSIC
ART CERAMICS CREATIVE WRITING DANCE DRAMA
CERAMICS AND SCULPTURE WW1G – WW28 WW2M WW2L
WW19 WW28 – WW95 WW4Y
WW15 WW2M WW95 – WW5K
WW1L WW2L WW4Y WW5K –
MUSIC TEXTILES Graphic Arts
WW2H W290 W294
WW93 WWX2 WW82
WW53 WW52 WW5F
WW3K WW2K WW42
Graphic Arts
WW13 WW2H WW93 WW53 WW3K
MIXED MEDIA TEXTILES WW12 W290 WWX2 WW52 WW2K
WWCF W294 WW82 WW5F WW42
– WWH2 WW32
WWH2 – W295
WW32 W295 –
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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ART (2D)
CERAMICS & SCULPTURE (3D)
BA (HONS)
BA (HONS)
UCAS code: See page 98
UCAS code: See page 98
INstitution Code: B20
INstitution Code: B20
A varied course, covering print making, painting, drawing, photography, video and other related disciplines. Why choose this course? This is a varied course within the Creative Arts programme, ideal for adventurous students who would like to have a broader experience of artistic practice. Attention is always paid to the interaction of Art with the various subject combinations within Creative Arts. About the course The course is a combination of studio practice, workshop, seminar and lecture programmes – which inform the contextual requirements of the course. You will develop the creative and critical skills needed to articulate your work as an individual artist. You’ll have the option to explore a broad range of approaches to making contemporary art; painting; print making (silk screen, etching, relief printing and lithography); photography; video; animation; digital media (using industry standard programmes involved in image making) in the first year of the course. In Year 2 you will have the opportunity to specialise in one discipline area or keep your investigations as broad as you wish. Facilities are excellent, and there are dedicated workshops within the School of Art and Design to support the above activities. Professional Practice is extremely important and in Year 2 you have the option of organising and participating in a public group exhibition in a gallery in Bath. A series of talks by visiting lecturers and practitioners from the industry supports this module. An important emphasis within the Art subject is on critical theory and research to support studio practice. We assume you are primarily artists
driven by the desire to create and much of your time will be taken up by making. Yet we believe that as contemporary practitioners research and critical skills are vital, informing and supporting your studio practice. You will need energy and commitment in day to day working and versatility moving between different media and teaching styles. You’ll be taught by practising artists and supported by a programme of visiting speakers who talk about their own work and experience working as contemporary artists. Through a programme of lectures and seminars you will also explore contemporary issues within the visual arts and the historical background to these ideas. Assessment is predominantly on practical work although theory and professional practice components are embedded into all modules. You will be required to give presentations, curate exhibitions and work collaboratively at various stages of the course. Contextual research and writing exercises run in parallel to your practice throughout all three years. Careers Typical career opportunities include gallery administration, media, community-based art work, art administration, teaching or selfemployment in the creative industries.
An introduction to a wide range of techniques for developing and realising ideas in Mixed Media Sculpture and Ceramics, with the chance to develop individual specialist interests in the second year of the course. Why choose this course? As part of the Creative Arts programme this course offers students the opportunity to explore the possibilities of Ceramics or Sculpture alongside another subject. The interaction of Ceramics or Sculpture with the various other subjects within Creative Arts opens up possibilities for the subject to function in different ways. This course suits adventurous students who want to use Ceramics or Sculpture as part of a broad engagement with art. About the course There is an emphasis on gaining practical knowledge and skills through the experience of learning to make, alongside skills in developing ideas and evaluating results. The course is taught through practical studio and workshop sessions as well as lectures and seminars. This development of both critical and creative skills enables you to find an individual approach by the end of the course as well as encouraging you to engage with a creative community within the School of Art and Design and beyond. The course is taught by practising artists and you’ll have access to excellent facilities for all methods of making, from decorating, finishing and firing objects in Ceramics, to working with materials like metal, resin, wood, plastic and techniques like casting or 3D modelling in Sculpture. In Year 1 you will work in both ceramics and sculpture, with
opportunities to work in one or both disciplines if appropriate. In Ceramics you will be introduced to handbuilding alongside other construction techniques as well as methods of decorating, glazing and firing, underpinned by drawing and visual research. In sculpture you will be encouraged to be experimental and explorative of materials and material combinations. You will also have a series of lectures introducing you to relevant theoretical and contextual issues. In Year 2 you will learn more advanced techniques in your chosen specialism of Ceramics or Sculpture. As the year goes on you will be encouraged to develop a more individual and self-directed programme of study. The final year gives you the opportunity to explore and realise your ideas through an in depth study of a chosen area, leading to an exhibition of a body of work and focusing on understanding your practice as an artist within the wider creative community. Careers Many different careers are possible: establishing studios as exhibiting artists, working as freelance artists to commission, or teaching at all levels of education. Often some of these roles may be combined. Other graduates may go on to postgraduate study or employment with museums, galleries and ceramics companies.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
39
MIXED MEDIA TEXTILES
GRAPHIC ARTS
BA (HONS)
BA (HONS)
UCAS code: See page 98
UCAS code: See page 98
INstitution Code: B20
INstitution Code: B20
An introduction to a wide range of textile techniques, with the chance to specialise in an area of personal interest in the final part of the course. Why choose this course? As part of the Creative Arts programme Mixed Media Textiles is studied in combination with another subject, and we encourage students who would like to have a broader experience of Textiles to apply for this course. Attention is always paid to the interaction of Textiles with the various subject combinations within Creative Arts, and you are encouraged to develop your creative potential using textiles to express ideas and to solve aesthetic, conceptual and design problems. About the course In Year 1 the modules are workshop based and cover design and textile techniques, fibres, dyestuffs and drawing. You’ll also engage in visual research in support of your technical work, and you’ll understand the inter-dependence of practical, historical, theoretical and intellectual skills. In the second year you’ll continue to develop specialist skills in textiles (printed, woven, knitted, and embroidered) combined with visual research to explore further possibilities. As the year progresses you are encouraged to develop personal ideas and concepts in depth in an individual textile study programme. Your final year allows you to develop your personal ideas and skills in order to prepare a final piece, textile collection and portfolio of work. The focus of the course is Mixed Media Textiles within a broader Art context and students are free to work across disciplines if they wish.
Sample modules include: Introduction to Mixed Media Textiles; Advanced Textile Workshops and Individual Study Programme (choosing from a combination of Printed, Knitted, Embroidered or Woven Textiles, you will work across the disciplines and cross the conventional boundaries of techniques and materials to create mixed media textiles that are innovative and original). Careers The course will prepare you for work as textile artists, designer makers or to work within the textile industry (for example, textile conservation; display; textile prediction and promotion). Students may also go on to set up their own businesses.
Graduate PROFILE Holly SMITH GraduateD 2013 — “ I enjoyed everything about my time at Bath Spa. I feel very lucky to have had such helpful, friendly and inspirational tutors as well as great facilities and a beautiful campus. I feel that my course covered so many of the aspects that are helping me establish my own luxury textiles design for interiors brand and creating new designs.”
A course that will develop your visual and graphic design ability and skills. Why choose this course? As part of the Creative Arts programme you will select another subject to study alongside Graphic Arts, and your other subject will no doubt have a strong influence on your choices within the course. Graphic Arts gives you an insight into graphics, typography, illustration and publishing and can complement other routes by giving you the techniques and abilities to confidently express and communicate your ideas in a visual context. About the course In Year 1 the subject starts with the basics of design related to typography, image and layout. You will be taken through design principles and become familiar with concepts to help you learn how to layout text and graphics with confidence and knowledge. You’ll be shown how to use industry standard layout software in readiness for creating printed publications, such as magazines and books. By the middle of the first year you will be introduced to aspects of web design, including developing personalised blogsites. This will allow you to develop research skills and methods of gathering and interpreting information. Your online presence is also an increasingly vital way of self-marketing and you will develop this over the period of the course. Online publishing is also a rapidly expanding area with the electronic book and website enabling people to self-publish to the world. The first year ends with an introduction to creating both hand bound (bookbinding) and digitally bound printed publications, making you aware of how to create books
and binding techniques (how books are physically put together). You will have gathered content from research to make a publication of your own. Year 2 will allow you to study a subject area of your choice related to Graphic Arts, for example typography, publications, design, illustration and lens based media. An emphasis will be placed on design narratives and you will be guided through your projects. In addition you will study how graphic designers work and how theory influences contemporary design. Year 3 expects you to contextualise your work with increased sophistication. You will have knowledge of contemporary design and be able to apply it to your own study area with independence. Supported by regular tutorials you will develop a body of work, a portfolio in readiness for a professional career, or self-employment. Optional professional studies based modules allow you to increase your awareness of professional practice and improve your chances of gaining the career you want upon graduation. Careers Career areas directly related to Graphic Arts include graphic design, web design, art-worker, publishing, artist, book illustrator. However, combined with your other subject, a wider choice is available allowing you to uniquely position yourself within the jobs market, or develop a successful freelance or selfemployed career.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
40
FINE ART BA (HONS) UCAS code: W101 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
Assessment: Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments.
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): £140 (subject to review). See page 28
A studio-based course covering media, painting and sculpture taught by internationally recognised artists. Why choose this course? The course is designed to support motivated individuals who wish to study with the aim of becoming artists or to practice at a high level in related fields. The course is aimed at the development of studio practice in painting, sculpture, media, performance and installation representing an excellent grounding for further study at MA level and beyond. You will have access to excellent facilities and technical support and be given your own workspace in one of our purpose built studios. From very early in the course you will have the opportunity to direct your own programme of study supported by professional artists, who represent a range of disciplines. The course will require you to be organized, self-motivated and disciplined. Staff will encourage and help guide your exploration enabling you to develop your self-confidence and critical ability in your chosen area. About the course From the beginning of the course you will be allocated a studio space and a personal tutor. This tutor will be your regular point of contact in weekly studio-based meetings. Along with this tutor you will have access to all other academic staff. Teaching is by individual tutorials, group seminars, lectures and workshops. From the outset of the course you will be required to discuss your practice on a one to one basis as well as in groups. You will sign up for tutorials, attend lectures and short workshops by staff and visiting artists and take part in forums and discussions pertinent to your work. Along with artists there will be talks by curators, gallery directors and other arts professionals as part of our
Typical offers: We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 260 points (with a grade B in an Art and Design related subject) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve an overall Merit grade (Merit, Merit, Merit).
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
For more information see page 30. All candidates are interviewed and selected primarily on their creative ability.
aim to enable every student to gain an understanding of their chosen idiom and an awareness of the diverse possibilities that the subject offers. This is supported by regular gallery and studio visits along with international exchange opportunities. A Professional Practice module focuses on the promotion and exhibition of your work. Through taking part in exhibitions you will learn necessary skills in curating, project management, marketing, networking and other promotional opportunities that will maximize your potential after graduation. There will be external projects that have to date included events at Tate Modern, Camden Arts Centre and residencies in Cornwall. Alongside your studio practice are ongoing modules in Historical and Critical Studies which introduce and develop your understanding of the concepts and theories of Fine Art. These are delivered through a series of lectures and seminars resulting in individual essays and group presentations. You will be introduced to a vibrant research environment already established in the School where interdisciplinary research is supported by intensive studio development and you are given a unique opportunity to contribute to this exciting arena. Careers The majority of our graduates go on to become professional practising self-employed artists. Other typical employment opportunities include curating, arts management and administration, interior design, film and TV, teaching (subject to PGCE), art therapy. Alumni include painter and Turner Prize nominee Glenn Brown, Paul Harrison and John Wood whose video work is exhibited throughout the world, Louisa Fairclough, Laura Ford, Nicholas May, Peter Randall- Page, Nigel Rolfe, Michael Stubbs, Graham Dolphin, Clair Woods and Alison Turnbull.
01
Graduate PROFILE EMILY FURNELL YEAR 3 — “For me, Fine Art was the sole option for furthering my education. It has allowed me the freedom to approach multidisciplinary work without the boundaries of formal, set projects. As a selfmotivated person, Fine Art is the perfect choice, especially in terms of crosspollinating various fields of making, as well as integrating specific areas of study. Because my interests and ideas are 01 This image is a work by last years graduating particular, having the time and space to student in Fine Art Kerrie McCormack. The work see them through to a standard I am is made from an acrylic paint skin and wooden contented with has resulted in some support. It is an image taken at the Fine Art BA Degree show by Andrew Southall very successful work. ”
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
41
CONTEMPORARY ARTS PRACTICE BA (HONS) Runs in parallel to the BA (Hons) Creative Arts programme. See page 35 UCAS code: W190 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
Assessment: Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments.
Tuition fee (2015): ÂŁ9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
For more information see page 30. All candidates are interviewed and selected primarily on their creative ability.
Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): ÂŁ135 (subject to review). See page 28
This course enables a fusion of visual art disciplines, attracting students with more than one field of interest. Why choose this course? This course is designed for students wanting a broad educational experience across all aspects of the visual arts. Whilst there is scope to specialise in one particular subject area during the latter stages of the course, you are given the freedom to work in any material or combination of materials and processes for the duration of your study. The course encourages a dynamic mix of creative thinkers across the literary, performing and visual arts, and allows you to benefit from an active cultural exchange programme with numerous academic partners from around the world. About the course The modular programme is tailored to allow the transfer of skills from an academic to a real working environment, with the opportunity to work closely with industry on site-specific artwork, curating, and working to commission. All practice-based modules have contextual studies skills embedded that are specific to the specialist area of study and will require you to participate in cultural visits and projects at home and abroad. In Year 1 you will be encouraged to experiment in a number of disciplines, gaining extensive knowledge and skills as you progress. Specialist strands include: Ceramics and Sculpture, Drawing and Painting, Mixed Media Textiles, Graphic Arts, Printmaking, Photography and Moving Image. Contextual and theoretical components of the course are embedded into all practice-based modules and are supported by lectures and seminars introducing students to contemporary art practice. In Years 2 and 3 you will have the opportunity to specialise in one discipline area, or maintain a broader portfolio through to graduation, taught by expert staff from all aspects
Typical offers: We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 260 points (with a grade B in an Art and Design related subject) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve an overall Merit grade (Merit, Merit, Merit).
of the visual arts. Running in parallel to your study you will take advantage of professional development exercises such as web-design, marketing and project management, gaining the necessary expertise to maximise your potential after graduation. You will also have access to an extensive weekly programme of visiting lectures from practising artists, curators, critics and gallery owners. Graduates of Contemporary Arts Practice will have a broad portfolio of expertise to accompany specialist knowledge in a particular field. Sample modules include: 2D: Introduction to Contemporary Painting and Drawing, 3D: Introduction to Contemporary Ceramics and Sculpture, Introduction to Mixed Media Textiles, Introduction to Graphic Arts (Year 1); Introduction to Print, Introduction to Photography, Introduction to Digital Media (Year 2). Careers The majority of our graduates will progress to art-related employment or self-employment, whether as a studio-based artist, public artist or through employment in the realm of arts management or arts administration. The course also attracts many students wishing to pursue a career in teaching.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
42
Three Dimensional Design: Idea Material Object BA (Hons) UCAS code: WW2R INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
Assessment: Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments.
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): £260 (subject to review). See page 28
Projects undertaken during this experimental Three Dimensional Design course explore design thinking, materials, construction and innovative processes. The course will help you to develop your personal identity in contemporary design. Why choose this course? Our students work in a dedicated studio space where the atmosphere is dynamic and open-minded and a culture of sharing information and perspectives is encouraged. Our interdisciplinary course will give you an opportunity to explore your ideas through craft practice with a focus on the process of design thinking. In your projects, you will design and create original outcomes using a range of digital and analogue techniques. You will use specialist workshops involving processes including wood, plastic, metal, ceramics, textiles, CNC routing, laser cutting and 3D printing. About the course The course will take you on a journey where the goal is to develop your own individual area of design practice. You may ultimately choose to focus on a specific material, or explore a process, or you may continue with a variety of approaches combining multiple materials and techniques. Our students develop a design practice with a wide range of applications, including furniture, jewellery, spaces, experimental design, installations, accessories, set design, lighting design, exhibition design and objects. Throughout the course you will investigate the subject’s contextual framework in the studio and through the school-wide Historical and Critical Studies modules. The programme engages with creative and industry partners to offer opportunities to experience a professional working atmosphere in a safe environment.
Typical offers: We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 260 points (with a grade B in an Art and Design related subject) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve an overall Merit grade (Merit, Merit, Merit).
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
For more information see page 30. All candidates are interviewed and selected primarily on their creative ability.
Our lecturers are research and/or professionally active providing valuable industry perspectives and an insight into contemporary practice. Your study will be augmented by trips to cultural establishments both nationally and internationally and exchange schemes are planned with institutes around the world. In Year 1 you will develop your creative instincts through the exploration of materials, making processes, methods of digital manufacture, drawing, and photography. The first year provides you with a core skills set not only in making but also in thinking, laying the foundation for asking questions that you answer with the objects you create. In Year 2 you will expand your personal making practice and are challenged through engagement with design professionals. In addition, you experience collaborative and live projects with external partners. You will also be introduced to marketing and promotional skills, including building creative narratives in your work and exploring outcomes through photography, publishing, exhibiting and web presence. In Year 3 you will further define your own area of practice, audience and market, perhaps as a specialist maker, or utilising outsourced production and assembly techniques to develop your work. You will be producing a body of physical artefacts alongside a combination of visual and written work. We expect your final project work to be at a professional level, and you will be encouraged and supported to display at national and international design show venues. Careers We expect our graduates to shape their individual career paths as they enter the ever changing future of interdisciplinary design, with some graduates becoming designer-makers, artists, in-house designers, gallery owners, curators, entrepreneurs, critics and equipped to create new
and as yet undefined possibilities. We have strong contacts with both the Crafts Council, Design Council and design professionals working in fields as broad as food design, art direction, product development and small batch production. As well as continuing to exhibit work throughout their studies, our students have also been very successful at the graduate design show New Designers. Staff, students and alumni exhibit at contemporary
galleries such as The Aram Gallery for Emerging and Experimental Design and also have a presence at the best international design and craft shows including 100% Design, Origin, Tent, Dutch Design Week.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
43
FASHION DESIGN BA (Hons) UCAS code: W233 INstitution Code: B20 Location: The Circus, Bath Length: 3 years full-time Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Assessment: Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments.
Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): £160 (subject to review). See page 28
Typical offers: We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 260 points (with a grade B in an Art and Design related subject) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve an overall Merit grade (Merit, Merit, Merit).
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
For more information see page 30. All candidates are interviewed and selected primarily on their creative ability.
STUDENT FASHION SHOW FUND: £155
designing / pattern cutting for manufacturers, styling, buying, fabric / colour research, product developer, studio manager, production, and technical designer. Graduates have been employed at Issa, Erdem, Mulberry, Boudicca, Chinti and Parker, Gieves and Hawkes, Esprit (Germany), French Connection, Nicole Farhi, Jack Wills, Coast, Karen Millen, Pentland Brands, and Roland Mouret, whilst some have progressed to study Masters’ Degrees at Central St Martins and the London College of Fashion.
GRADUATE PROFILE Grace weller, Fashion design GRADUATED 2014
The course has developed a reputation for producing individual and creative designers capable of working at all levels of the market and has a unique partnership with the Fashion Museum. The course offers a comprehensive design education for dedicated and ambitious individuals looking for a career within this highly competitive and creative industry. Why CHOOSE THIS COURSE? Working in a unique intimate environment, the course has a studio philosophy and aims to prepare students for working in this dynamic, fast-paced industry. There is emphasis on personal identity within your work and developing original concepts, combining the ‘technical’ and ‘design’ so both areas become one creative endeavour. Staff with national and international reputations and many years fashion industry experience will teach you. There is also an extensive range of visiting lecturers, and Live industry projects are incorporated into the course.
Students are encouraged to secure work placements or internships between Years 1+2 and 2+3. Work placements have been undertaken at brands such as Erdem, Nicole Farhi, Alexander McQueen, Karen Millen, Boudicca, Vivienne Westwood, Roland Mouret, Warehouse, Ted Baker, Adidas (Germany), Diane Von Furstenberg (New York), and Matthew Williamson. About the course The course covers all aspects of the design process, as well as the business of fashion and its social and cultural context with a focus on combining the ‘technical’ with ‘design’ as we see this as one creative process. In Year 1 you will be encouraged to develop an individual design identity through the translation of personal research into ideas underpinned with strong practical and technical skills, these include design, illustration, pattern cutting, product development, tailoring, and digital skills for fashion. In Year 2 modules include developing drape skills to instigate ideas for the couture market, range building for a commercial brand, external brief, illustration, and Portfolio Presentation.
In the final year you will use skills acquired throughout the course to develop a final collection, generating unique and exclusive design concepts from initial idea through to final realisation, styling, and promotion. You will have the opportunity to showcase your collection in the university end of year exhibition or fashion show, and you may be selected to showcase at Graduate Fashion Week.
— “I learnt so much from my time studying at Bath and have left with a real sense of achievement. The course was very practical and creative and the tutors strive to get the most of the students. I loved both growing as a person and as a designer during my time at Bath Spa. I am currently studying an MA in fashion at Central Saint Martins and the level of work required is of a very high standard. Studying at Bath Spa, which also works to these standards, has prepared me to progress on to the MA and produce the level of work expected.”
STUDENT SUCCESSES Among successful graduates are Grace Weller who won the prestigious Womenswear and Gold Awards at Graduate Fashion Week 2014, Stephanie Kitchen who won the Fashion Awareness Direct competition and the Textiles Institute award in 2013, and Chloe Jones who also won the Womenswear and Gold Awards at Graduate Fashion Week 2012. Careers There are many career destinations open to you including: company / in-house designer, freelance designer, design consultancy, creative pattern cutter, freelance pattern cutter,
01, 02, 03 Work by Grace Weller
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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TEXTILE DESIGN FOR FASHION AND INTERIORS BA (HONS) AND INTEGRATED MASTERS UCAS code: WW27: BA(Hons) W231: Integrated Masters INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus Length: 3 years full-time for the BA (Hons) course; 4 years full-time for the Integrated Masters Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Assessment: Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments. FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
Typical offers: BA (HONS) We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 260 points (with a grade B in an Art and Design related subject) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve an overall Merit grade (Merit, Merit, Merit). For all applicants an offer of a place will be made following a successful portfolio review and interview.
Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): £260 (subject to review). See page 28
reflection and self-evaluation and the capacity to work independently to determine personal future learning needs. The courses are globally aware and enriched by the opportunity to attend international trips. There are visits to specialist studios, trade fairs, exhibitions, museums and student exchanges. Professionals engage with the students setting ‘live’ external briefs, through the visiting lecture programme, and by leading masterclasses or workshop activities. The BA (Hons) students and Integrated Masters students work in parallel sharing modules and parallel learning environments throughout the first two years and up until midway through the third year. At this Year 3 midway point the students on the two awards take different routes: the BA (Hons) students commence their final self-directed project leading to a degree show and the Integrated Masters students work at level 7 alongside other MA programmes. In Level 7 modules students develop the research methods, entrepreneurial abilities and communication skills essential to professional practitioners. Students engage in the complexities of combining research, creative innovation and project management, taking initial ideas through to final
are encouraged and supported by a wide range of thorough contextual underpinning and professional practice, which includes live industry briefs, competitions, forecasting and Why choose this course? external exhibition opportunities. You can apply for one of two exit awards in Textile Design for Fashion and Students demonstrate self-direction in extending networks for creating Interiors. These are the BA (Hons) and work-based learning opportunities and Integrated Masters awards. Both aim gaining internships. The intention is to to provide ambitious students with equip you with the necessary research, a dynamic practical and theoretical design education, supported by industry practical, technical, aesthetic and problem solving skills to develop and networks and directed towards a adapt your emerging practice for your creative career or advanced research future careers, which include team in the textile discipline. The differing working, an appreciation of diversity, exit points provide a wider range of opportunities for students to define their individual direction and professional development for BA (Hons) Graduate Year 1 their future. (Level 4) Graduates exit with a developed textile The courses encourage you to 120 credits design identity and a good understanding develop creativity, within the broad of their career direction. Some graduates and complex field of traditional and further their study through MA and PGCE courses. contemporary textile design, through intellectual enquiry and with aesthetic Year 1 sensibility. The courses are supported by Integrated Masters Graduate drawing workshops and underpinned (Level 4) Graduates exit with a developed strategy with comprehensive knowledge of 120 credits for a professional creative career in textile digital technologies. They have a strong design or proposals for advanced research, studio culture in which students are such as a PhD in the textile discipline. inspired to express their design direction, exercising initiative and personal responsibility. Individually negotiated student-led lines of enquiry This diagram provides an overview snapshot for the awards A dynamic and demanding course, aiming to create the designers and innovators of the future.
Typical offers: INTEGRATED MASTERS We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 320 points (grade ABB) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve grades Distinction, Distinction, Merit. For all applicants an offer of a place will be made following a successful portfolio review and interview.
decisions, and communicating the outcome through marketing, proposals and presentation. About the course In Year 1 you start to cultivate your observation, thinking and drawing skills into your individual style. You begin to explore the field of textile design and its contextual framework. You learn skills in understanding colour, fabric, yarns, materials and dyeing. Supporting textile design, you engage in sewing construction and digital design applications. Taught techniques in embroidery, print, knit and manipulation provide the foundation to your design development. In Year 2 you start to explore your potential focus engaging with modules as a textile designer for either fashion or interiors, and begin committing to areas of textile specialisms. Your facility for thinking, writing and analysing is expanded through professional and contextual studies. To establish an understanding of your style and direction, you tackle a combination of projects looking at advancing textile techniques and understanding your career options, these include competitions, live briefs and exhibitions. In Year 3 as a BA (Hons) or Integrated Masters student you undertake a dissertation and state
Year 2 (Level 5) 120 credits
Year 3 (Level 6) 120 credits
Year 2 (Level 5) 120 credits
Year 3 Year 4 (Level 6) (Level 7) (Level 7) 60 credits 60 credits 120 credits
180 credits
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
your identity as a textile designer through an initial exploratory personal studio module. The professional context module leads all students up to midway through the academic year, and at this point as a BA (Hons) student you undertake the final 60-credit module leading to a degree show and graduation, while as an Integrated Masters student you commence the Masters modules (Level 7) in business management and research methods for your ‘Audience and Context’ to underpin the establishment of a Textile Design practice. Students have graduated and gone on to establish small enterprises such as Badgers of Bohemia, Polly Rowan Textiles and Tabitha Cotterill.com. In Year 4 as an Integrated Masters student you continue to advance your studio practice, while defining your ‘audience’ through market research, entrepreneurship, business development and promotional skills. Your study concludes with a ‘Final Masters Project’ demonstrating the direction of your future practice, enabling you to understand your work in terms of developing as a discipline specialist researcher potentially leading to doctoral study or developing your practice into a business or industry career. Work experience and placement opportunities The professional context modules help to prepare you for a career in the Creative Industries, as part of this learning, we expect our students to be active in gaining work-based experience in addition to the learning opportunities relating to employability throughout the course. Generally, paid-internships are to be undertaken in the final weeks of Level 5 or during the summer academic break between Level 5, 6 and 7. Past opportunities have included the following: Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, Bay & Brown, Michael Angove, Calvin Klein, Ted Baker, Nina Ricci, Paperclip, Tracy Kendall, Sam Pickard, Clarissa Hulse,
Jenny King, Whiston and Wright, Karen Nicol, Milena, Chloé, Nicole Farhi, Jessica Ogden, Zandra Rhodes, Dewhurst, Tent London, and/or solo exhibitions. Careers Textile Design graduates have secured employment in a range of career directions, working for design studios and design companies, setting up their own businesses or they have developed related careers within retail and the broader fashion and interior industries. Our graduates have also continued with their study undertaking MAs, PGCEs or advancing their research through PhDs. Employers of graduates from the BA (Hons) Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors include; Liberty, The White Company, Bay & Brown, Lyle & Scott, Keeler Gordon, Debenhams, G.M Syntex, Relish Clothing, IVO Prints, Selfridges and Boden. Graduates from the existing MA Design programme have either embarked on successful careers; working as designers for high profile brands such as Kenzo, Etro, Balenciaga, John Lewis, Topshop and Wescott Design studio or have established small businesses including Tea-green, Anne Selby, Sam Pickard, Hewitt Studios, Jan Knibbs and Anna Gravelle.
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Graduate PROFILE Hannah Ellicott graduated 2013
STUDENT PROFILE TESSA ALLEN YEAR 3
— — “ I am currently focusing on building my “This course appealed to me because it design profile, through commission work offered a variety of subject areas which and exhibiting in shows such as Designers we were able to explore, this was Block, Tent London and the University especially helpful as I wasn’t sure which led New Designers stand. My three years specialism I wanted to study. The course at Bath Spa gave me the opportunity to is great in the way that the tutors are experiment with many different paths always pushing you to do something new within textiles, progressing from drawing and innovative, which is always exciting! and developing wallpapers to creating 3D The possibilities are endless. You can products and giving me an important delve into other departments such as insight into how to plan my future brand. plastics and woodworks to really make From the exciting to the (sometimes) the most of the facilities. There is strong ever-so-slightly nerve-wracking, the technical support and you are tutors encouraged me every step of the encouraged to develop your skills by way to gain as much knowledge as using the machinery and workshops possible, greatly helping to prepare me available and thinking outside the box. for life in the industry. A thoroughly There is also the opportunity to apply for exciting and creative environment in internships and work placements and the which to learn!” University will help you to gain a real insight into the industry. Along with this, there are lots of visiting lecturers who will give you a realistic expectation of what the industry is really like. The University offers a great deal of support for its students and ensures that the transition into work is seamless. After I graduate I intend to apply for paid internships or a job in the industry and then I would hope to gain a Masters Degree to further push my career and discover more opportunities within Textiles.”
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GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION BA (Hons) UCAS code: W200 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus Length: 3 years full-time: part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): £145 (subject to review). See page 28
Assessment: Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments.
Typical offers: We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 260 points (with a grade B in an Art and Design related subject) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve an overall Merit grade (Merit, Merit, Merit).
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
For more information see page 30. All candidates are interviewed and selected primarily on their creative ability.
A challenging and diverse programme to develop your individual ability to design and communicate visually across disciplines or within a specialist area. Why choose this course? It’s a space for active enquiry, challenging design preconceptions and defining the role of the designer in shaping the world in which we live. The course is well established with carefully structured modules and supportive staff who encourage hands-on, ideas-based and socially engaged design, with an emphasis on developing your individual ability.
“The amount of written and verbal feedback that the students receive is greater than that on any other course I have encountered.” Course External Examiner 2014
About the course Crossover teaching and interdisciplinary projects provide an energetic and flexible learning environment for creative collaboration, whilst specialist areas of study in graphic design, illustration and interactive design are supported and encouraged. You’ll be able to work across a range of media, exploring and expressing your ideas through word, image, concept, media, narrative, and text, taught by a team of full-time and visiting tutors, all active practitioners themselves. Teaching takes place through critiques, debates, tutorials, presentations, lectures, self-directed learning and peer review. We have excellent studio spaces and workshop facilities in specialist craft areas, such as letterpress, photography, silk screen, etching and lithography to complement state of the art digital resources. In your first year you’ll be given a broad introduction to drawing, print making, photography, design methods, typography, moving image and digital media. You’ll be encouraged to think visually and analytically, learn to work as part of a team and independently.
You’ll gain an awareness of the “Students spoke highly of the industry through a Professional opportunity to attend portfolio clinics Contexts module, and a contextual with industry professionals – a model framework through a Historical and of good practice.” Course External Examiner 2014 Critical Studies module. As you move into Year 2 you will 2013 Careers explore interactive media in the The course has an excellent context of image and word. You can employment record. A wide range of focus on graphic design, illustration or careers are open to you, including interactive media, or keep an graphic design, art direction, interdisciplinary approach. You might illustration, animation, interactive choose to spend a semester in Europe, media, advertising, motion graphics, America, Japan or China as part of an photography, and publishing. exchange programme. An optional course trip abroad will INSIGHT INTO show you design studios and working PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE practices in other cultures. In your final year you’ll concentrate Recent visiting lecture programme speakers include: Barnaby Barford, on: independent, self-initiated Greg Burne (Big Active Agency), projects, live projects, competitions Damon Murray, Sheena Calvert, and you’ll be encouraged to find Neil Drabble, Paul Gorman, Paul connections between your studio Gravett, Kate Gibb, Keith Harrison, practice and contextual studies. ‘Live’ Alaistar Humphreys, James Jarvis, briefs provide experience of dealing Henrik Kubel Scott King, Jurg Lehni, with clients and production, preparing Jeremy Leslie, Chris Long, Michael you for employment or further study. Marriot, OK-RM, Marcus Oakley, Stefi Orazi, Hans Dieter Reichert, Paul Sahre, Yuri Suzuki, Matthew Hodson, Matilda Saxow, Nick White.
Graduate PROFILE MIA SHUREY GRADUATED 2014 — “ The course really helped to develop my skills to become a confident graphic designer. I have learnt basic design skills, as well as how to develop an initial concept into a considered piece of design. I also think that work experience is extremely important to do alongside the course as they work hand in hand. Sion Hill is such a beautiful part of the city and is within walking distance of the city centre. I liked the amount of equipment available to the students and the ability to access and use other courses’ facilities and studios such as photography, plastics, ceramics, woodwork and textiles. I’m now freelancing for a small design studio in London 3/4 days a week and for the other two days I am working as a freelance designer from home. Currently, I am working on the branding identity and web design for a new art brokerage company and have also just finished designing the graphics and layout for a new biannual magazine which is being distributed by Antenne Books.”
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PHOTOGRAPHY BA (Hons) UCAS code: WPQ3 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
Assessment Assessment is based on the submission of coursework or negotiated projects, demonstrating the intended learning outcomes. Types of coursework are identified in module handbooks and could include studio practice, presentations or written assignments.
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2014): £135 (subject to review). See page 28
This course is designed for students looking for an experimental, creative and critical environment in which to engage with photography. Why choose this course? This course covers broad contexts of photography including (but not limited to) portraiture, landscape, advertising, architecture and environment, documentary and fashion editorial. You will develop your creative ability and technical skills through a range of set and self-directed projects, and you will explore potential directions in which technological change impacts upon photography. About the course Year 1 looks at fundamental photographic principles and practice, and you will develop an awareness of photographic practice within the creative industries. You will gain practical and technical skills to enable you to apply tools and methods to a defined problem. You will learn to research visually and analytically and evaluate your work with tutor guidance. Modules cover darkroom,
Typical offers: We recommend that applicants undertake a pre-degree foundation diploma in Art and Design. However if applying with A-Levels only, a total of 260 points (with a grade B in an Art and Design related subject) is expected, supported by a high quality portfolio. Applicants applying with a BTEC Extended Diploma are expected to achieve an overall Merit grade (Merit, Merit, Merit).
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
For more information see page 30. All candidates are interviewed and selected primarily on their creative ability.
studio and basic principles of digital imaging. As you progress to Year 2 you will develop a detailed knowledge of major theories relating to photographic practice, and a deeper awareness of social and ethical implications for the photographic industry. You will negotiate activities with tutors, and be able to analyse, synthesise and evaluate work more independently. Studio modules offer tutorialled project work and incorporate professional workshop sessions led by industry practitioners. Visiting lecture and master class programme speakers have included Ian Teh, Kathryn Faulkner, Donald Maclellan, Andy Sewell, Gina Lundy and Carol Sachs. At 3rd year level you will become more confident in identifying and defining complex visual solutions and have the freedom to define your own area of practice. You will apply appropriate knowledge and practical skills to produce your own body of work. You will be able to initiate, manage and critically evaluate your
work and that of others, and demonstrate an informed knowledge of contemporary professional practice and the issues and debates that provide a context. The year ends with a public exhibition of portfolio work Throughout the course you will explore the subject’s contextual framework through Historical and Critical Studies modules and gain industry awareness through Professional Context modules. Careers Students graduating from this course can find employment and self employment in the following career paths: photo journalism; fashion photography; product photography; portrait photography; photo editor; editorial design; advertising; moving image; curator; art direction; marketing, studio management and teaching.
Student PROFILE marc Le galle — “ Studying Photography has massively widened my knowledge and understanding of photography and art in general. The tutors at Bath Spa University have supported and inspired me in my time here. I have made many friends for life along with industry connections. This has been an experience of a lifetime that I will never forget.”
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HISTORY OF ART AND DESIGN BA (Hons) UCAS code: W200 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Sion Hill campus Length: 3 years full-time: part-time available AVAILABLE AS COMBINED: Creative Computing: 11V3 English Literature: Q3V3 Heritage: V7V3 Publishing: V3P4
Why choose this course? This course is right for you if you want a career in the art and design and allied sectors, a career that capitalises upon a strong understanding of the historical and theoretical context to art and design. Located in the World Heritage City of Bath, the course draws upon the rich cultural heritage available locally and regionally as well as excellent travel connections to London. We make full use of our extensive contacts with cultural organisations in the area as well as the Wunderkammer Press, the School of Art and Design’s own publishing imprint to support your professional development with appropriate experience. During the later stages of the course there are opportunities for specialisation with an emphasis on developing you as an independent, skilled researcher and worker in the field. The modular nature of the programme allows you to tailor your study of the subject to your particular interests and needs while having opportunities to experience work in the art and design sector. It gives you a strong historical background and context to the subject alongside the methodological tools that you will need to become a motivated, agile professional in a related career. About the course The course structure balances a firm historical foundation in the history of art and design alongside opportunities to take optional modules that reflect your interests. Alongside these will be opportunities to undertake work experiences and to take part in visits that will enrich your study. The structure of the course is such that you will increasingly work independently on research projects that represent your interests and experience, acquiring skills that reflect those needed for careers in the creative industries sector. During Year 1 you will learn about the foundations of methodology in art and design history alongside a historical
Tuition fee (2014): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Material and Study Visits Contribution Fee (2013): £145 (subject to review). See page 28
Typical offers: 280–320 UCAS Tariff points including A-level English at grade B minimum
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk artdesign.bathspa.ac.uk @artbathspa
During Year 3 you will combine a significant amount of self-directed and researched study with a continuing core that reflects upon the world of art and design since 1945 in detail. The emphasis in your professional contexts work will be on honing your career choices. You will also have the opportunity for personal research in the form of a dissertation.
Careers Graduates of BA History of Art and Design are employed in a variety of fields including: museum and art gallery curatorship, art and design publishing, marketing and advertising, librarianship, broadcasting (film and television), travel services, teaching, journalism, arts administration, public relations and design management.
Assessment: The course is assessed by coursework including essays, portfolios and dissertations, individual and group presentations, and seen and unseen examinations.
context that spans the period from the renaissance to the early 19th century. You will begin your journey to a career in an area related to the subject by undertaking the first of three professional contexts modules, and you will begin to acquire the skills necessary to research and learn independently. During Year 2 you will find that you have increasing options and choice in the direction that you choose for your study alongside a continuing core of history, theory and context in the subject that spans the period from the mid nineteenth century through to the late twentieth century. Your professional contexts study during this year emphasises experiences in publishing for art and design and working in museums and galleries in a number of contexts.
MODULES
The course is structured around core and optional modules that explore the various contexts and discourses of the subject from the Renaissance onwards. Study and research skills are developed in specific modules across all three years. Other modules explore the world of work, offering you specific experience in areas such as publishing and curatorial practice.
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
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EDUCATION (PRIMARY TEACHING PATHWAY) BA (HONS) UCAS code: Specialised Education (Primary Teaching Pathway) X301 Specialised Early Years Education (Primary Teaching Pathway) X311 Specialised International Education (Primary Teaching Pathway) X390
AVAILABLE AS COMBINED: Popular combinations include: Specialised Education with: Art XW11; Biology XC11; Creative Writing XW18; Dance XW15; Drama XW14; English Literature XQ13; Geography XF18; History XV11; Music XW13; Psychology XC18; Sociology XL13; Study of Religions XV16; Textiles XWC2
INstitution Code: B20
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points GCSE or equivalent Grade C or above in English language, mathematics and science. There is no interview for admission to this course, but your personal statement must indicate clearly at least two weeks of recent experience of observing or working in a primary school. Please be aware that you will be required to complete a new Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced Application through Bath Spa University as part of the admissions process for this course.
Location: Newton Park Campus for the first three years, Hartham Park in Year 4 Length: Three years plus progression to the one year PGCE Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Through coursework and work in schools. FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
See page 30.
opportunities to develop your understanding of the fundamentals of education, explore new ideas and understand topical issues. It is a very flexible route, there is a wide range of modules for you to choose from which explore education from many perspectives. The specialised Education award can be taken as a single honours in Education Studies, Early Years Education or International Education. It can also be taken as part of a Combined Award by studying a second subject to achieve a joint honours degree.
The specialised awards in Education Studies are ideal if you intend to qualify as a primary school teacher. They are known as our ‘3 +1’ courses: a three year honours degree followed by one year of teacher training Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Primary and Early Years at Bath Spa which leads to recommendation for qualified teacher status (QTS). This is subject to availability (see note below). The course will also prepare you to continue onto another route into teacher training, such as ‘School Direct’. Why choose this course? Bath Spa University has had a national reputation in education and teacher training for many years. We are a leading university in the field of Education Studies, providing a broad and flexible range of awards that enable you to discover the latest ideas about the world of education and education around the world. You will be taught by a very experienced and well qualified team of more than 50 tutors with different backgrounds as qualified teachers, academics, authors and researchers. This award gives you an introduction to education in schools and beyond schooling. It has a focus on primary education, but also gives you
About the course Throughout the course we encourage you to broaden your knowledge and make the most of a range of opportunities. There are compulsory placements in primary schools in each year (one day per week over eight to ten weeks). We have excellent partnerships with schools and early years settings and we make all arrangements for placements. In school you can further develop your understanding of the nature of teaching and learning, building on knowledge and skills developed through university study. In Year 1, core modules introduce key concepts and skills that underpin the subject of education. The compulsory module for the specialised award is Introduction to Primary Schools which includes the school placement. In addition there are modules that enable you to explore your interests in, for example: Learning through Life, Early Years Education, Adolescence and International Education. If you are not taking a combined honours award, you are also required to take a second subject in year one – this could be a national curriculum subject such as history, geography, a science, English or Studies of Religion. Other subjects and a range of open (interdisciplinary) modules are also available. In Years 2 and 3 you will consider more deeply the current issues in
education. In Year 2, the core module includes an assessed placement in a primary school where you will research into an area of learning or teaching that interests you. This could be developed into the focus of your Education Dissertation; the core module in Year 3 The compulsory module in Year 2 offers an in-depth look at the world of the classroom. In Year 3 we support your transition into teacher training through the compulsory module ‘Teaching and Professionalism’. The many optional modules available will allow you to think critically about teaching, diversity, inclusion and educational policy and to explore global and international perspectives in education. There are opportunities to carry out international study visits (e.g. to Spain or Zambia), and develop special interests in selected areas – e.g. inclusion, the arts, the early years. Assessment of Education Studies is through coursework and work in schools. SAMPLE MODULES INCLUDE: Education for Change, Introduction to Primary Schools, Introduction to Early Years Education(Year 1): Issues in Education Studies; Understanding Classrooms; Education and Development (Year 2): Teaching and Professionalism (Year 3). Careers Students on these Specialised Awards all intend to enter the teaching profession – these are three-year degrees with an option to continue onto the Primary or Early Years PGCE course, subject to meeting course requirements. These will require you to demonstrate your suitability for teaching on a compulsory school placement, to successfully complete the QTS Professional Skills tests and fulfil other entry specifications such as interviews, and pass designated compulsory modules during your undergraduate programme of study. The Bath Spa University PGCE is one
of the best in the country, rated by Ofsted as ‘outstanding’. There is also flexibility to opt out of the 4th year, for example you may wish to pursue a career in secondary teaching and apply instead for the relevant PGCE at Bath Spa. (The Department of Education Studies is currently exploring the possibility of creating a 3 +1 Secondary pathway onto the Bath Spa Secondary PGCE for those students studying Ed Studies combined with another curriculum subject). Please note – the format and entry requirements for the 4th year of this programme (the PGCE year) are likely to change. The government is currently implementing major changes to teaching training entry requirements and modes of training. While the offer of a place on our PGCE course is made in good faith we cannot guarantee it for the year 2018-19. You will be advised of any changes during the degree and we will ensure you are supported through these changes to enable you to achieve your goal.
graduate PROFILE Fintan Lynn GRADUATED 2014 — “ I enjoyed everything during my time at Bath Spa. Making friends with students and staff of all different ages and backgrounds. Being able to develop my critical evaluation and creative literacy skills in order to challenge myself academically. The teaching staff were very approachable, the campus was beautiful and the workload was manageable. The modular scheme enabled me to choose areas which interested me and this made reading for assignments easy because I was genuinely interested in the subjects. I have had a great time at Bath Spa and been very successful with my grades. I put this down to the teaching staff and the relaxed and friendly atmosphere that I experienced on campus.”
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EDUCATION STUDIES EDUCATION, INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION, EARLY YEARS EDUCATION, YOUTH AND COMMUNITY STUDIES BA (Hons) UCAS code: Education Studies: X300 Early Years Education: X312 International Education: X392 Youth and Community Studies: L590 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Newton Park campus
Education Studies will give you an in-depth understanding of formal and informal education in the UK and around the globe. We believe that through education, we can change the world for the better. If you believe this too, then this may be the course for you. Why choose this course? Bath Spa is a leading university in the field of Education Studies, and you’ll be taught by a very experienced and well qualified team of more than 50 tutors with different professional backgrounds as qualified teachers, academics, authors and researchers. The course is ideal if you want to understand the importance of education to our society and work professionally within a field of education in the future. You’ll gain the knowledge, critical understanding and skills needed to explore the nature and functions of education in a rapidly changing world, and we will help you prepare for a range of professional employment possibilities. From the moment you begin your undergraduate programme we will encourage you to maximise your opportunities. You can select from a wide range of specialist modules, make study visits, undertake placements and progress to postgraduate options that will support your particular employment interests. You are also required to take a second subject in year one – this will be selected during Welcome Week from a range of subjects including creative writing, history, geography, a science, English literature sociology or psychology. Other subjects and a range of open (interdisciplinary) modules are also available. If, however, you know at this stage that you would like to study a second subject alongside Education for all three years of your course (perhaps because your goal is to become a secondary teacher of that subject) you should look at Option 5 below – Education as part of a Combined Award.
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Through coursework and work on placements; currently there are no examinations.
AVAILABLE AS COMBINED: Education as part of a Combined Award (option 5 under ‘About the Course’) Popular combinations include:
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
English Literature: XQ33 Psychology: XC38 Sociology: XL33 Biology: CX13 For a full list of courses to combine with Education, see page 99.
About the course Education Studies is a large subject at Bath Spa University so we are able to offer you five study options, explained below. 1. E ducation Studies (single honours award) 2. I nternational Education (single honours award) These two routes allow you to concentrate your study on either Education, (with a sociological, philosophical and political focus) or International Education (with a focus on education around the world and globalisation). They give you a broad outlook on Education and its many related topics. During the course you will have the opportunity to find out about careers in teaching and other less formal education settings such as museum education, charities, education support, consultancy services or Local Authorities. See International Education opposite. You can also choose from two courses that are more directly linked to possible employment options; 3. E arly Years Education (a single honours award ) 4. Youth and Community Studies (a single honours award) These awards offer you opportunities to both follow your academic programme and engage directly with professional practice in the relevant field, which may lead to an additional vocational qualification. You have a wide range of choices that will be directly related to the specialism you have chosen (either Early Years or Youth and Community work) in order to prepare you for careers in these professions. There will be some compulsory modules which you must follow on both these Awards which will be linked to possible professional occupations in either Early Years or Youth and Community.
See ‘Youth and Community’ opposite. There will be opportunities to undertake some professional practice in your area of interest and your third year dissertation will be linked to your degree focus. As part of the Early Years Education award, you will have the opportunity to gain a professional accreditation called the Early Years Educator. This is a recognised Level 3 professional qualification. You may also decide to go on to do the post-graduate Early Years Teacher Status qualification (equivalent to Qualified Teacher Status). More information will be available at open days and on our website. 5. E ducation as part of a Combined Award (with a second subject) Education as part of a Combined Award (with a second subject) This award allows you to take two subjects throughout your three years and you can choose from a wide range of modules in both subjects. Your study can either be divided 50:50 (Joint honours) or 60:40 (Major/minor options). It is a suitable route for students who may wish to progress to a career as a teacher in a secondary school (for this you would need to apply to start an Initial Teacher Education course, such as a Secondary PGCE once you have completed your degree). Whichever route you decide on, there are wide range of relevant modules for you to choose from, along with some compulsory modules. For all the above options, in Year 1, a core module introduces you to key concepts and skills that underpin the subject. For options 1-4 there is also a compulsory module which defines your single honours specialism. There are also optional modules in, for example: working with young people, early years education, adolescence, primary schools and international education . In Years 2 and 3 you will consider
more deeply the current issues in education and how they relate to your particular course. You will think critically about teaching, diversity, inclusion, social and educational policy and explore global and international perspectives in education. There are opportunities to carry out original research and pursue your own interests in these areas. You will undertake a placement in a relevant educational setting. We have an excellent partnership with schools, early years settings and other employers. We make all the arrangements for school placements and assist you in sourcing informal education settings locally. Your placement experience helps you develop professional and academic skills. There are also other modules which give you further chances to work in schools and alternative educational contexts either locally or in other countries. Assessment is through coursework, including some based on placements. There are no examinations in education studies. SAMPLE MODULES: Education for Change; Introduction to Early Years Education; Young People’s Identity and Sub-cultures, Education and Development. CAREERS Education Studies will provide the basis for you to work with learners – young people and older people – in different organisations: children’s centres, youth organisations and community organisations. You may choose to work in educational and training advisory roles in a range of organisations including community organisations, youth clubs, businesses, local authorities, non-government organisations, museums, art galleries and libraries. You will also be able to apply for an Initial Teacher Education course e.g a PGCE , however if you know at this stage that you want to be a primary teacher you should consider our specialised ‘3+1’ course on page 49.
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STUDENT PROFILE Amy Lamborn YEAR 3 — “ Every tutor I have had the privilege to meet and be taught by is very passionate about their field and has been very supportive during my studies. I love how Bath Spa has a community feel and I have a strong sense of belonging here. Newton Park campus is beautiful and everyone who studies, works or teaches here is very friendly.”
BA International Education This is an exciting and distinctive degree programme that allows you to study education from international and global perspectives. You will have the opportunity to explore education systems around the world while also developing a strong understanding of education here in the UK. You will develop skills and knowledge to help you understand how education changes and the role that education can play in shaping societies in Africa, Asia, America and Europe. As part of this course, you will have opportunities to complete placements abroad and in the UK.
BA YOUTH AND COMMUNITY STUDIES The programme is taught by active researchers in international and comparative education. They will support you to develop knowledge and skills that are transferable to a range of careers, including in education and international work. This degree can also lead to a career in primary teaching – see course X390 on page 49.
This new and innovative degree programme will appeal to those interested in working in a broad range of careers with children, young people, families and communities. As well as gaining an important background in Education Studies, you will develop relevant knowledge and skills preparing you for work in informal and community based settings.
There are a number of opportunities to gain hands-on work experience through placements offered in youth and community work organisations. The course has a strong emphasis on social justice, as well as the participation and empowerment of oppressed groups. With the support of experienced youth and community work practitioners, you will be encouraged to follow your own interests and develop your specialism in this field.
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SCHOOL OF humanities and cultural industries
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CREATIVE MEDIA Practice BA (HONS) UCAS code: WP93 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Newton Park campus
Assessment: Includes creation of original content, essays, research reports, micro and small group projects, reflective learning diaries. There are no written exams.
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points. Offers may be subject to interview and portfolio.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Sample modules Year 1: Media Today, Digital Practice, Ideation and Creative ProblemSolving, Programming for Media. Year 2: Working in the Media, Digital Production, Experimental Media. Year 3: Professional Practice, Practice-based Dissertation, Creative Enterprise Project.
A new course for the digital age. Why choose this course? BA Creative Media Practice combines state-of-the-art facilities with expert tuition. You will learn how to enhance your ideation and creative problemsolving skills and develop key technical and production-based knowledge. About the course The degree is will develop creativity, innovation and enterprise knowledge in addition to working practices in a range of media disciplines. The course is alert to the needs of industry and developed in collaboration with several partners. It will enhance your creative potential through a curriculum that fosters individual expression in a context of professional practice. Creative Media Practice offers opportunities to work in both educational and professional contexts with the final year of the course being focused on your interests and skills; with the modules designed to allow maximum flexibility for you to develop a showreel of work as you graduate. The course is structured around a core that helps you develop your creativity, critical and
entrepreneurship skills, while optional modules allow you to develop both contextual and practice-based skills in a range of different fields of media production and for a variety of different platforms. In your final year you will work on individual and client-based projects and develop a portfolio of work as part of your journey to become a media professional. The programme is designed to help you become a more socially aware, culturally grounded, and technologically proficient media practitioner while preparing you for work in a variety of creative media industry roles. Your blend of technical and creative skills, aesthetic appreciation, storytelling and other abilities will be an asset in a range of commercial, broadcast and not-forprofit environments. The degree will encourage you to become a creative media producer able to identify opportunities, assemble and manage teams, access networks, and deliver successful projects. The course has links with Columbia College, Chicago, USA and there is potential to visit and work with media students at Columbia College on collaborative projects.
Careers During the course you will have the chance to study and experience a variety of media roles. You will work with industry mentors and the University careers service to plan your future – be it progression to further study or seeking opportunities in the workplace. You will have a detailed understanding of key areas of employment which draw on creative media skills. You will develop an understanding of the opportunities associated with freelance work and the process of establishing your own business. By equipping you with this range of critical and practice-based skills, the degree will provide a firm foundation for work in a rapidly expanding and changing media sector in which multi-skilling, creativity and agility are increasingly essential.
“This is an exciting course that combines media-making skills with creative thinking and business acumen. Creative Media Practice draws upon the university’s strengths in offering you innovative course design and state-of-the-art facilities along with opportunities to develop creative collaborations and entrepreneurship” Prof. James Newman, Subject Leader; Film, Media and Creative Computing
graduate PROFILE Jessie Barstow Graduated 2011 — “I am working as an Account Executive for a Bath based PR company that specialises in creative industries PR for agencies and corporate PR for enterprising business. Bath Spa suited me perfectly. I was given space to enjoy my education and push boundaries. I felt supported and encouraged but able to make mistakes and learn through trial and error. I found that invaluable. Also being surrounded by students studying other creative disciplines was inspiring and often very useful. During the final year we took on real briefs from real clients. This has meant that I have entered the workplace as someone who can claim to have done a year’s worth of work; albeit facilitated by lecturers and based in a learning environment. The course encouraged personal creativity but championed teamwork and drove us to become creative problem solvers. These skills certainly made me an attractive candidate for my current employer and will surely prove important throughout my career. I feel that the lecturers had a genuine interest in our careers, not just our education.”
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CREATIVE computing BSc (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: Creative Computing (Software Development): 8GD3 Creative Computing (Animation): T6M2 Creative Computing (Gaming): 6T3D
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include:
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Includes project reports, essays and a dissertation, portfolios of practical work, case studies.
Typical offers: Applicants are considered on an individual basis also taking into account skills and experience which may not be reflected in your A-level scores. The most important consideration is for applicants to have the qualities and potential to succeed in this exciting new area of study.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
can have a positive impact globally and locally. You will also start to apply these skills, creatively, to real-world problems and products – and explore social and ethical issues.
SAMPLE Modules Year 1: Computing I, Interaction Design, Ideation and Creative Problem Solving; Year 2: Computing II, Web and Mobile Application Development, Social Enterprise; Pathways: Digital Animation, Games Design; Year 3: Emergent Technologies and Dissertation, Software Project Management, Professional Practice with Industry Placements; Pathways: Advanced Animation, Advanced Design.
Business and Management: A2Y6 History: 4CV5 Media Communications: 672N Publishing: R2Y6
An innovative new course that combines technology with creativity to offer an excellent grounding in computing for creative students. Specialist options are available in animation, games and software development. Why choose this course? This course offers arts and humanities students a route to gaining computing skills and learning how to apply these in the real world. This course is for those students who would like to understand computing, software development and programming at a deeper level than that offered within digital media courses. We aim to deliver a new generation of individuals who are superbly adapted to the digital environment. The course is industry and research-informed and combines the attainment of important technical skills with the experience of applying these within new product development and social enterprise contexts. Students will develop into graduates who can work in the new world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics): skilled in digital technologies, socially and ethically aware, with an understanding of user-experience, and able to approach problems methodically and creatively.
“In order to break into new technologies, technical expertise needs to become more rounded, with multiple specialisms needed.” UKCES : Technology and Skills in the Digital Industries (2013)
The BSc in Creative Computing is designed to appeal to those A Level or BTEC students who are excited by the possibilities of digital and who want to combine technical skills and knowledge with creative approaches. For these students, a Computer Science undergraduate course would be too focused on the technical side of things, while other media courses might not go into the technical side in enough depth and breadth.
We are looking for innovative students who don’t necessarily fit the moulds of degree subjects developed before the digital age – we are charting new territory. Students might have a combination of A-levels in Languages, Arts, Humanities with Maths, IT, Science. About the course The course takes advantage of the specialist facilities at our Newton Park campus, including gameauthoring machines, hardware hacking tools, and a range of novel devices such as brainwave readers. In your first year you will be introduced to the history and context of computing development as well as learning the basics of software and programming and the process of ideas development and testing. You will also examine interaction design and the visual aspects of new product development. Your second year builds on this to develop further your programming skills, adding mobile technologies and project management into the mix. A project module introduces social enterprise as a space where digital technology
You will spend your final year on student-devised projects or placements with enterprise partners, and a dissertation on an aspect of emergent technologies. Topics covered this year include big data, information systems and asset management, and commercial applications such as emerging micro-scale and crowd-sourced models. Games or animation modules are offered in the second and third year for those following a specialist pathway.
Careers This course is designed to address industry needs and the course has a programme of industry placements. Graduates might develop their own start-ups or decide to work within an existing technology company. The range of career opportunities is vast, from public service to commercial sector, from gaming to finance, from Green IT to health.
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CREATIVE WRITING BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: W800
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Drama: (as part of Creative Arts – see page 35) Education: WX83 English Literature: WQ93 Publishing: WP84
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Typical offers: Minimum 280–340 UCAS Tariff points. Due to the popularity of this course, candidates may be asked to provide samples of creative writing
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Assessment: Coursework only. There are no written exams.
For a full list of courses you can combine with Creative Writing, see page 99
One of the leading courses in the country – highly acclaimed lecturers, highly successful students. Why choose this course? Our programme is challenging, exciting and versatile. You may want to be a published writer, you may want to study literature in a new way, you may want to understand the study of writing to help you as a teacher, or you may simply have a passion for writing. Our course caters for all these aspirations. You can expect a professional level of tuition – and we expect a professional level of commitment and achievement from you. About the course Our Creative Writing course has three main components: – Your own development as a writer – Your awareness of other writing and how your work relates to it – Your critical awareness of the markets for creative writing and how you can get your work “out there”.
Media facility at the Paintworks development in Bristol. As you move through the programme you push yourself and your work as far as you can, taking it (where appropriate) into the world outside the university. Hence our Enterprise Projects, where you can do just about anything writing-related. Students have (among many other things) organised the Bristol Betjeman centenary exhibition; written and performed plays for youth clubs and schools; promoted a European Fussball championship; made promotional videos for local charities; set up poetry readings, slams and improvised script events; and organised our end of year Showcase for all student work. Sample modules: Writers’ Workshop; Poetry; Short Stories; Planning and Making a Film; Writing for New Media; Feature Journalism; Writing for Theatre; Writing for Young People; Lifewriting; Writing a Novel; Enterprise Project.
CAREERS: “Employability and industry We believe that you need to develop engagement are two of the areas in each of these elements in order to which the writing programme at BSU achieve your full potential both as excels so dramatically... To my a writer and a student of writing. knowledge, no other institution in the Therefore throughout the course country offers such a range of directly you will be expected to: applicable modules. These modules produce writers who can develop and – Write, rewrite, and rewrite again adapt their work, who can locate areas in order to become a sensitive and in which to use their skills, organise efficient editor of your own work community events, found their own – Read extensively, learning how companies, and sell their work to writers do things, so that you can agents and publishers. It really is do them yourself remarkable. At BSU writing is not a – Find out how books get published, solitary or ‘rarefied’ endeavour; it is how films get made, so that your one that is important to the world of own work is informed and enriched business, culture, society and art. It is by an awareness of past and full of energy and direction, and is current practice. about ‘making a difference’ at every level. The projects and external The state-of-the-art equipment in connections I have viewed over the our Artswork Broadcast and Publishing last two years are almost humbling: labs is at your disposal to help you these are students who will go on to make your dreams a reality. For those believe in themselves and in art in all with a technical bent there is also the its incarnations, and we need them.” opportunity to work in our Artswork External examiner, 2013
Typically, our graduates are communicators. They can talk, they can listen, and they can persuade. They are confident. They can manage projects through from initial idea to successful completion. They can work alone or as part of a team. That’s why recent graduates have found jobs with the BBC, other broadcast businesses large and small; they’ve gone into publishing, journalism, teaching, social work, marketing – in fact, just about any career that requires a good humanities degree.
Graduate Profiles Rosie Mercer — “Since graduating I’ve set up my own review site. I now review books, television and audiobooks.”
Ivan Matsumoto — “Bath Spa recognizes the importance of work placements and will do their best to provide support and guidance. Now I feel even more confident that I have the education and relevant work experience to back up my degree.”
Victoria Knowles — “The lecturers were really encouraging, and regularly informed me of new writing competitions and other opportunities to get my work published.”
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ENGLISH LITERATURE BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: Q300
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: History: QV31 Media Communications: QP39 Publishing: PQ43 Creative Writing: WQ93 Drama: QW3L
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points including A-level English Literature at grade B minimum.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Assessment: By coursework assignments (including essays, study journals and reviews), presentations, and seen and unseen examination.
For a full list of courses you can combine with English Literature, see page 99
A dynamic subject offering a broad and stimulating approach to literary studies. Why choose this course? Here at Bath Spa we welcome students who share our passion for the written word. English staff are all active researchers, writing scholarly books and articles and engaged in debate on literary and critical issues. We have specialists in the Gothic, writing and the environment, Renaissance literature, women’s writing and modern and contemporary culture. We are also passionate about teaching: we encourage our students to bring their own literary loves into the seminar room and we aim to foster a supportive atmosphere of lively, interactive debate. In the 2014 National Student Survey (NSS) English scored 97% for overall satisfaction – 7th out of 107 universities. Lectures and seminars offer plenty of opportunities for involvement and debate. Throughout your study you can experiment with new ideas and new perspectives, both critically and creatively. A current student describes the course as ‘enlightening, eyeopening and endlessly entertaining’. A recent graduate writes: “Without exception, the English Literature tutors all possessed great enthusiasm… Their choice of set texts and teaching style provoked engagement and involvement and I always looked forward to their classes… Studying English Literature at Bath Spa University was an enlightening, enriching, and a very rewarding experience. I will miss it greatly and remember it fondly.” About the course The English programme is large and varied and offers you plenty of choice. It is designed to balance the study of canonical writers – such as Shakespeare, Wordsworth, James Joyce, Charlotte Brontë – with texts and writers who may be less familiar to you. English modules are taught via
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seminars, lectures, individual tutorials, “The English Literature department is and IT workshops. We are keen to bring brilliant; I have loved every aspect of the course. The staff who teach the course literature to life, and the course are friendly, approachable, and have a features options that include field genuine passion for what they teach.” trips to London, Oxford, Krakow and Auschwitz, and Berlin, amongst others. Sample modules The modules range from those Enlightenment to Victorianism, on specific authors (Shakespeare, 1750–1890; From Decadence to Ian McEwan, or Virginia Woolf, for the Naughties, 1890–the present; instance), to topic-based subjects Theatre, Sex and Power in Early (Writing and the Environment, Modern England; Gothic Origins and Post-Colonial Literatures, or Literary Innovations; Adaptations; Writing London), to period-based study America: Identity, Ethnicity, (Gender and Eighteenth-Century Nationhood; Brontë and Dickens; Fiction or Gothic Origins and Margaret Atwood; Literature & Evil; Innovations). You will be encouraged to Empire & Identity in the Eighteenth explore diverse areas of literature and Century; Caribbean Writings; to investigate issues that matter to you. Literary London. Although most English modules are optional, there are core modules Careers in Years 1 and 2 which provide a You’ll have access to cutting-edge common framework to explore central resources in the areas of publishing issues and aspects of literary study. and broadcast media to prepare you The course is structured to allow an for careers or for self-employment in extended independent project or the media and creative industries. Our dissertation in Year 3. students also go on to higher degrees, English students have expressed to teaching, journalism and marketing, their views on the course through and to other careers where excellent National Student Survey (NSS) communication skills and analytical feedback: abilities are valued. “I think the tutors in the English Department have surpassed expectation in all areas from teaching to general happiness to help. I always know I can get help if needed, and more importantly, I know I can go to the ‘specialist’ member of staff and they are happy to help even if they’ve never taught me’.”
Graduate PROFILE Cathy Poole — “The incredible breadth and depth of knowledge of the course tutors made every lecture or seminar interesting and exciting. I loved the fact that you could learn about such a huge range of things within your subject, as well as being able to focus narrowly on something you’re really interested in. Bath Spa is an incredibly friendly university, and your time there will be unforgettable! My course in English Literature completely made me the teacher I am now, and the passion of my lecturers has really inspired me to go on and inspire others in the same way.”
01 English Literature field trip
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FILM, television and digital production BA (Hons) UCAS code: 38V4 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Newton Park campus
Assessment: Includes some essays, research reports, contextual reports, practice-based work, presentations, and viewing of student work. There are no written exams.
Typical offers: 280–320 UCAS Tariff points
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
This programme is designed to appeal to students who want to study both the craft of film and TV and its contextual formats and cultural meanings. Exposure to industry-standard equipment will allow you to develop the highest level technical skills, underpinned with contextual understanding.
Sample Modules include Introduction to Production; Studio Production; The Moving Image; Digital Practice; Advanced Studio Production (BBC input); Popular Cinema; Digital Cultures ,3D Animation; Major Creative Project; Post-production and Portfolio Development (BBC); Practice-based Project (involving Media Mentors).
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Why choose this course? This programme aims to provide a realistic progression into the arena of film, television and digital production. This will be achieved by offering opportunities to develop creative, technical and communication skills, whilst exposing students to the realities of working in the industry. In choosing to study this programme you will gain practical ‘hands-on’ experience, develop contextual awareness, and work closely with BBC Training Academy practitioners. About the course This programme will enable you to develop practical projects highlighting your technical and craft skills, while developing a critical and theoretical underpinning to your ideas. You will graduate with the ability to understand film and television forms showcased through your projects, while being able to justify decisions made in your creative work and output. You will be expected to justify your work in relation to film and media contexts and theory. While the course consists of a structured programme, there is significant opportunity for you to work on group and individual projects in developing your skills and creative ideas. In particular, the final year proposes a model of practice-based projects where you will be able to critically engage with a topic of your choosing and develop a practical piece of work that is informed by context and theory.
Careers Employers in film and television sectors value technical skills and contextual references that underpin the film and television making process. Therefore, the main aim of the programme is to teach industry practices combined with a strong contextual emphasis to enable graduates to present their work with creative-flare and have the tools to make content (craft-based) and deconstruct (contextually) their work. The programme also aims to provide the industry with graduates who have relevant skills and who are creative, imaginative, innovative and enterprising. Involving the BBC Training Academy in the development and delivery of this programme, means that graduates stand the very best chance of employment after graduation in film, television or creative sectors.
STAFF PROFILE Dr Nigel Newbutt Senior Lecturer — “The Film, Television and Digital Production programme has focused aims, while providing a flexible route with specialisms throughout. It offers a range of practice-based projects with theoretically and contextually relevant material. With modern studio and post-production facilities on campus, the programme is superbly equipped to ensure industry tools are used to creative effect. I am confident that this programme will provide graduates with a great start to their career.”
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FILM AND SCREEN STUDIES BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: W620
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Media Communications: WP6H English Literature: QWH6 Creative Writing: WW86 Drama: WW46
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk See some of our filmmaking students at work here: www.youtube.com/user/Broadcastlab
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Work from our Planning and Making a Film module can be viewed here: http://tinyurl.com/cmgv426
Assessment: Includes essays, research reports, group presentations and examinations. There are no written exams.
For a full list of courses you can combine with Film and Screen Studies, see page 99
effectively about film. The second core Studies graduates is the creative and cultural industries in the UK. These module is Understanding Hollywood, which offers an advanced investigation industries include advertising, journalism, publishing, film and of key theoretical and methodological film-related employments, television, issues involved in the study of cinema, radio and the heritage sector. and explores film as a commercial, However, there are also employment cultural and aesthetic institution. opportunities in local and central In Years 2 and 3 you can design government and the voluntary sector. your programme from a range of exciting modules including film theory, Hollywood cinema, video games, film “The academic support from tutors has and national identity, stardom and been very good and the enthusiasm of celebrity, European cinema, film tutors is really great. The willingness genres such as westerns and horror, and friendliness of the staff are such young people and the new media, a benefit.” Student statement in the planning a film and making a film, and National Student Survey documentary filmmaking. You can also take part in organising LineUP, the annual Student Film Festival at Bath Spa University. STAFF PROFILE Film and Screen Studies aims to Dr Rebecca Feasey produce graduates who have an Senior Lecturer informed, critical and creative — approach to both understanding film “Film and Screen Studies is a wonderfully and screen in contemporary society diverse programme that gives students and to their own forms of critical, the flexibility and choice to look at a reflective and communicative practice. wide range of cinematic genres, from You will develop intellectual, a number of fascinating theories, analytical, research and creative skills perspectives and historical periods. that will help you to prepare for I am passionate about teaching at employment and have the Bath Spa because the students are always curious, motivated and interested opportunity to engage in practical to learn. Furthermore, because of the filmmaking projects if you wish. This course offers an exciting route into the study and appreciation of film and screen and their industries together with the opportunity for some practical and creative work in filmmaking. Why choose this course? We want to enable you to develop a critical understanding of film and screen theory and criticism and to appreciate the relationship between film, media and culture. But we also want to provide you with the conceptual tools for understanding how society and culture is mediated by cinematic, televisual and electronic images. In choosing this course you will be starting on a journey of critical understanding of the institutions of film and screen production,
distribution and exhibition. As part of this we will develop your understanding of reception and consumption practices in film and screen. About the course Film and Screen Studies comprises an exciting opportunity for you to study film and screen alongside aspects of the new media, together with some optional work in film planning and production. In the first year there are two cores modules. The first is Introduction to Film in which you will investigate film as a specific academic discipline and how meaning is conveyed through film form and content. As part of your work you will analyse how films are constructed and be introduced to ways of writing
Sample Modules include Introduction to Film; Silent Cinema; Single Camera Production (Practical); Understanding Hollywood; Television, Representation and Gender; Digital Generation: Young People and New Media; Commissioning and Work in the Media (Work Placement), Making a Film (Practical); World Cinema; Stardom and Celebrity; Film and Philosophy, European Cinema; Power, Pleasure and Feminist Film Criticism; Bollywood, and Documentary Filmmaking (Practical). Careers Employers welcome the high level of subject-based, generic and personal skills which are embedded in our programmes. The main focus of interest for our Film and Screen
small scale of the campus, it is possible to foster genuinely supportive relationships with students.”
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HERITAGE BA / BSC COMBINED AWARD
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: See page 99 INstitution Code: B20
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
You will need to choose another subject to study with Heritage.
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Assessment: Includes formal examinations, written essays, industry reports, market research assignments, mock funding applications to the Heritage Lottery Fund, group projects and presentations.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
Popular combinations include: History: VV71 Media Communications: VP93 English Literature: QV37 Geography: FV87 History of Art and Design: V7V3 Publishing 3HDI For a full list of courses you can combine with Heritage see page 99
“Heritage is not a luxury or a pleasant recreational past-time, but an integral part of our future” Dame Jenny Abramsky, Chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund Why choose this course? Our collaboration with museums, galleries and heritage sites in Bath and the local region has created an exciting course that offers you the unique opportunity to be taught by heritage sector professionals and by academics who research and write about heritage and public history. The City of Bath, a city of international historical and cultural significance, was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. It attracts over four million visitors a year and plays a major role in an industry that contributes billions to the UK economy. It is also a city that provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the meaning and uses of heritage in the past and now, and for considering the issues and debates that will shape our engagement with heritage in the future. We live our lives in the midst of the historic buildings, landscapes, and material objects of our past. But heritage is about more than just physical remains – it is about people’s memories, how they make sense of their past and how they understand their culture. Heritage is crucial to building our sense of identity – as an individual, as part of a community, as a nation, and as a part of the wider world. Heritage at Bath Spa University challenges you to put the past into perspective in order to discover how it shapes the future. About the course You will take Heritage with another subject as part of a Combined Award. This course is designed to complement traditional academic disciplines like History, English, Business and Management, Media Communications, Geography Publishing, and History of Art and
Design, so you graduate with a solid academic and research foundation combined with specific knowledge about, and practical experience in, the heritage sector and in other cultural and creative industries. In each year you will take a core module and option modules in Heritage, and a range of modules from your other subject. SAMPLE Modules Heritage and Public History; Heritage in Practice; Heritage at Work (Summer Placement); Heritage Placement and Project; Public History, Heritage and Global Politics. Teaching and learning The course uses the rich historic environment of the three Bath Spa University campuses, the City of Bath World Heritage Site, and Bath, Bristol and the South West’s extensive collection of museums, galleries and heritage sites as places to learn in and to learn from. It introduces you to the concepts and realities of heritage through lectures, seminars, workshops, field trips to heritage sites, as well as through real-life heritage projects and work placements. On this course you are taught by academics who are experts in heritage and public history, but you are also taught by – and work closely with – professionals who work in heritage and in a range of creative and cultural industries regionally and nationally. In addition to project-based work experience and dedicated work placements within the context of specific modules, you will also have enhanced volunteering opportunities at the range of heritage sites and museums in the local area – volunteer experience is increasingly vital, no matter what you want to do after university. Students taking Heritage at Bath Spa University have volunteered with, held placements with, and been involved in public projects with just some of the following: Roman Baths; Fashion Museum; No.1 Royal Crescent;
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Holburne Museum; Victoria Art Gallery; Museum of Bath at Work; American Museum; Bath Abbey; SS Great Britain; National Railway Museum (York); MShed Bristol; National Portrait Gallery; RAF Museum (Hendon); Bath Preservation Trust; Churches Conservation Trust; Wiltshire & Swindon History Centre; National Trust; English Heritage. The opportunities offered to you studying Heritage here provide you with invaluable hands-on work experience throughout your degree, and help you make important professional contacts for your future after graduation.
01 Legacy of Icons at Dryham 02 Volunteering with Bath Preservation Trust
Careers Heritage at Bath Spa University prepares you for a variety of future careers both within the heritage sector and creative and cultural industries, but also beyond. In addition to acquiring knowledge and understanding of heritage and public history, and gaining practical experience in a range of heritage contexts, on this course you will develop skills that are highly valued in a diverse range of careers. The emphasis throughout the course on experiential learning, student-led ‘real world’ projects, placements and volunteering enables you to demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary skills, experience and, perhaps most crucially, determination to persevere in your chosen career no matter what the circumstances.
GRADUATE PROFILE Tristan Faith HERITAGE Graduate, 2012 — “I enjoyed many things about my time at Bath Spa: the inspirational historic campus, and Capability Brown landscape; the Heritage department, and the passionate team within that helped me clarify my aspirations; the community spirit on campus, and the feeling of inclusiveness. I think the course prepared me extremely well for your present career – I have completed my MSc in Architectural Conservation, whilst also working as a historic building Conservator helping preserve some of Britain’s most valuable historic assets. Without the industry links, and contacts, that I was able to make through my Heritage modules, I would not be in the position I am today. BSU gave me the footing to grow both academically, and professionally, in a safe and well nurtured environment.”
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HISTORY BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: V100
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include:
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Assessment: Includes project work, examinations, essays, research papers, timed analysis of documents, seminar presentation
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
Sociology: VL13 Education: XV31 Heritage: VV71 For a full list of courses you can combine with History, see page 99
History provides a challenging, thought-provoking and enjoyable study of the past, covering a wide range of periods from the medieval era through to the modern world.
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GRADUATE PROFILE Emma Gatehouse History BA (2011) and Heritage Management MA (2012)
Why choose this course? In today’s world, history arguably remains the most challenging of disciplines. Its ability to deal with profound questions and to provide many answers can help in the understanding of people’s lives, beliefs and problems in the present day. You’ll be able to explore a diverse range of sources, periods and themes, and you’ll develop a wide variety of employment skills that will be useful in your future working life. You’ll be taught by a well-qualified, and dedicated staff who are frequently seen in the media, and who have innovative approaches in learning and teaching using new technology, and their own historical research. About the course The course is designed to enable you to select and explore those aspects of history that most interest you as well as acquiring knowledge and understanding of history as a scholarly discipline. Each year we offer a wide range of modules in terms of periods, places and persons in history, and different kinds of history (social, religious political, cultural, local, women’s, literary), which you’ll view from a heritage, gender or British and international perspective. There is a core (compulsory) module in each year of study, and a wide range of optional modules. Placements are available during your course. Some of the recent student placements on the course were with Bath Central Library Local Studies; Bath Record Office; Museum of Bath at Work; The Building of Bath Collection; The American Museum in Britain; Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre; Radstock Museum; ss Great 01 Medieval studies
Britain. Overseas study trips and exchange programmes are also available. SAMPLE MODULES INCLUDE: Year 1: Medieval and Renaissance Worlds, The Age of the People: Modern Europe, Changing Histories: London C1660 –1960, Bath: Town, Country and Culture c.1535–1901 Years 2 and 3: Making History: Theories, Sources, Methods, The Third Reich, Immigration and Race in Twentieth Century Europe Plots and Propaganda, Secret Service: British Intelligence and Espionage, Memory, Slavery and Social Cohesion, Ships, Slaves and Sugar: Britain and France in the Atlantic Trade. Careers Employers welcome the analytical and problem-solving skills and the flexible approach to learning that history students acquire. You’ll gain knowledge and understanding of history as a scholarly discipline, but
you’ll also develop a multitude of skills that will be useful in your future working life. As a result history students find employment in a wide variety of careers such as: teaching (subject to PGCE); administration and management; lecturing; commerce and banking; media and tourism; museums / heritage; librarianship; police; law and public relations. There are also opportunities to undertake postgraduate work at Masters and doctorate level.
— “I am currently working for the National Trust as a Conservation and Engagement Assistant at Saltram in Devon and Antony in Cornwall. Bath Spa University offered the perfect environment to study history and heritage. The historic settings of Newton Park Campus and the city of Bath, as well as the expertise and dedication of the teaching staff, are invaluable sources of inspiration and motivation. Studying at Bath Spa University enabled me to feel confident and equipped when I entered the workforce. Emphasis was placed on the importance of gaining practical experience in the sector to compliment the theoretical aspects of the course. The course provided placements and volunteering opportunities at some of the leading heritage organisations in the South West, including Brunel’s ss Great Britain and The Roman Baths, in addition to access to some of the key figures in the sector both regionally and nationally. I meet new challenges with a belief in my knowledge of the sector and my ability to succeed.”
recent GRADUATEs — “Studying History at Bath Spa University has proved an excellent foundation for my future academic pursuits. Prior to studying History at Bath Spa I had no real sense of my future career plans. However, the course has provided me with the inspiration, enthusiasm and skills to pursue postgraduate study. The course has also provided me with transferable skills should my projected career plans change.” — “I have found studying History at Bath Spa University immensely enjoyable and rewarding. The History faculty has been supportive, knowledgeable and approachable. I found the course offered real value to my professional and personal development.”
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: P390
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Film and Screen Studies: VW9P Education: XP39 Sociology: PL93 Business and Management: NP19 For a full list of courses you can combine with Media Communications, see page 99
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: By coursework only, including media journal, applied media study, group presentations, individual presentations, essays and the dissertation. There are no examinations.
“The lecturing was absolutely fantastic. Having a team who were passionate about each of their sectors within the media industry really helped when studying.” Student statement in the National Student Survey 2012
“The modules represent a healthy variety of issues related to the study of communications, culture and the media and the material taught is stimulating.” External Examiner
The media is all-pervasive. It affects, influences, reflects and analyses every aspect of our lives. Why choose this course? In the 21st century our knowledge of major political, social and cultural happenings in the UK and across the world is routinely shaped by the media. We need therefore to understand and ask fundamental questions about the media, its organisation, representations, audiences and possible impacts and influences. Media Communications at Bath Spa examines and explores a diverse range of traditional and contemporary media forms including newspapers, television, videogames, and virtual reality. About the course Our degree will equip you with the essential critical toolkit for understanding and analysing the media and conducting media research. This will involve you looking at issues such as media technologies, media influence, media ownership and regulatory issues, globalisation and media representation, together with some practical media-making work.
Media Communications will also introduce you to some of the key methods in media research through a series of case studies including war journalism, television audiences, news reporting and celebrity culture. You will be asked to explore issues of media power and the everyday, examining, for example, the influence of media messages and the ways media are embedded in the daily lives of audiences. You will explore newer forms such as videogames and social media considering their role in leisure and communication and will research the magazine and popular music industries. At various points in the course, you have the opportunity to engage in media production projects and to undertake work placement and volunteering opportunities. SAMPLE MODULES INCLUDE: Media Today; Popular Media Culture; Digital Natives; Media Power and Audiences; Media 2.0; Music Cultures, Media and Markets; Commissioning and Work in the Media; Journalism and Citizenship; Media Fandom; Media, Technology and Change; Community Media and Digital Cultures.
Careers The main focus of interest for Media Communications graduates is the creative and cultural industries, which is one of the largest sectors of employment in the UK. These industries include advertising, journalism, publishing, film and film-related employments, television, radio and the heritage sector. There are also employment opportunities in local and central government and the voluntary sector.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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PUBLISHING BA / BSC COMBINED AWARD
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: See page 99
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 You will need to choose another subject to study with Publishing. Popular combinations include: Creative Writing: WP84 English Literature: PQ43 History: VP14 History of Art and Design: V3P4 Media Communication: PP34
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Through coursework. There are no written exams.
For a full list of courses you can combine with Publishing, see page 99
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Publishing is one of the UK’s largest creative industries and needs digital-savvy creatives who can make innovative and engaging books, websites, apps, and magazines, and reach readers through imaginative approaches to social media. This is where graduates of our unique studio-based course come in.
“BSU Publishing students have an ability to mix their innate creativity with digital making skills and an understanding of audience and discoverability.” David Maher Roberts, (Digital tech CEO; Founder, TechSpark UK)
Publishing involves the application of creativity, imagination and critical judgement to the conceptualising, shaping and creative production of exciting books and magazines; multimedia websites, tablets and mobile apps; ebooks and social media.
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the process. Project management and collaborative working skills are crucial in this, in order to become an effective maker. Students work on a wide range of live projects with organisations such as Quadrille Publishers, Bath Digital Festival, TEDxYouthBath, and National Trust. They also run the student digital magazine, Milk. Why choose this course? This is a unique opportunity to add a practical, industry-focused dimension to your study and to acquire the skills, knowledge and expertise wanted by creative industry employers. Staff are experienced publishers and continue to practice, enabling continuous course updating and access to industry networks.
“A vibrant learning experience for students, who produce work of professional industry standard.” External Examiner, 2013-14
This course shows you how to bring together text, image and video; and ideas, stories and information in a meaningful way that appeals to a particular audience. You will experiment with the handmade and print, as well as new forms of multiplatform digital publishing. User experience and audience will inform
About the course Available as a Major, Joint or Minor subject (e.g. with English Literature, Creative Writing, Creative Computing, History of Art and Design). A wide range of topics are covered over the three years, including: editing
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and shaping text, commissioning, illustrated books, design and layout, digital multimedia content (photography and video), developing websites and mobile apps, and social media marketing. You learn through guided research and project work, workshops, tutorials, and lectures. Core digital skills in Adobe InDesign and Photoshop, XML, HTML5, epub Digital Publishing Suite, are taught in our state-of-the-art Publishing Lab CAREERS You will gain a wide range of transferable skills, experience working with industry, confidence in your ability, and a knock-out digital portfolio – all of which enhance your employability, helping you build an interesting career. GRADUATE INTERNSHIP SCHEME: PARRAGON BOOKS Publishing students can apply for fully-paid editorial or digital graduate internships at the Bath office of this international publisher.
GRADUATE PROFILES Nina Camacho DIGITAL EDITOR, FUTURE PUBLISHING Graduated 2012 — “The course allows you to select creative projects to gain the experience you need to land that dream job. Very supportive tutors; three years well spent!”
Dulcie Carey Development Manager Creative Bath Graduated 2013 — “Thanks to the support I was given and the connections I made, I landed a magazine Web Editor job straight out of university.”
Laura Haynes Digital Marketing, Sadler’s Wells Graduated 2014 — “It taught me industry relevant skills and gave me the opportunity to tailor my learning to suit my theatrical interests.”
01 Milk web show 02 Social media experiment project 03 Publishing research
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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RELIGIONS, PHILOSOPHIES AND ETHICS BA (Hons) UCAS code: VV65 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Newton Park campus Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
Assessment: Mainly by coursework such as essays, reports, projects, presentations, on-line discussion board participation, or even the production of a short film. There are also some timed elements such as critical analyses or examinations.
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
This course is designed to explore responses to ultimate questions and crucial issues facing humanity, drawing upon the disciplines of Religious Studies, Philosophy and Ethics. The approach taken is global, contemporary and applied. Religions, Philosophies and Ethics is offered as a specialised award, which does not require combination with another subject. Alternatively, you may study either Philosophy and Ethics or Study of Religions as part of a Combined degree in combination with other subjects – see following pages. WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE? The religious traditions studied are diverse, including major traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam or Christianity, and the less well known such as newer religious movements. Included in the programme are contemporary developments such as Paganism and Goddess spirituality. We range from the local, such as religions in Bath and Glastonbury, to the global, such as Japanese religions. Crucial to the study of religions is direct encounter and experiential learning, and the course includes visits and a one-week placement in a religious community. Philosophies studied include South and East Asian traditions as well as Western approaches. Gender and sexuality are important issues in both religion and philosophy. Within ethics the emphasis is on applied ethics, addressing contemporary concerns such as the environment, war and conflict and medical ethics. Ethical issues are explored from both religious and secular / humanist perspectives. There are opportunities to follow up your own interests or career plans in a variety of special projects, employment related placements and a dissertation. We offer excellent teaching with attention to individuals, and staff are active in research and scholarship in their specialist areas. We welcome non-traditional entrants and mature students.
ABOUT THE COURSE In Year 1, we offer two core modules. One introduces philosophical and ethical enquiry, providing you with the tools of argument and analysis, and critically examining core concepts in epistemology, metaphysics and ethics. The other explores the meaning of religion and spiritualities, and illustrates these from a number of contemporary traditions, from Druidry to the Bahá’í faith. There is also a field visit to Glastonbury. One optional module in global religions and philosophies looks at major traditions, movements and key thinkers, another looks at the impact of religious traditions on civilisations and cultures, both historically and today, and a third optional module examines key debates in the philosophy of religion. The core module in the second year focuses on philosophy in Indian and Chinese traditions. Optional modules include ethics within religious and humanist traditions (on topics such as medical ethics, and social justice); philosophy, religions and the environment (on topics such as ecological degradation and nonhuman rights); atheism and unbelief (on the non-existence of God); and in-depth study of major religious traditions including Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism. In the third year, students undertake a fieldwork placement with a religious community such as a Buddhist monastery, a Christian convent, the Hare Krishnas or the Salvation Army. For further details see our website www.livingreligion.co.uk. Other options include a philosophical module on the meaning of human life (encompassing such topics as absurdity, existentialism, mortality and purpose); a module on religion, philosophy and gender that features feminist and queer perspectives; advanced study of Pagan, new and alternative religions; and modules studying, for example. religion and education internationally and religion, culture and society in Japan.
Graduate PROFILE abigail angus graduated 2011
There are also opportunities for independent work which could involve participation in a summer school in another country such as China. The Dissertation allows for in-depth concentration on a topic of your choice. In addition, there are possibilities to undertake employment-related projects. CAREERS A popular career for our students is teaching Religious Education and/or Citizenship in secondary or primary schools. The combination of studying religions and philosophy is particularly good preparation for this, and one module is specially designed as preparation for a career in education. Others have gone on to further academic study and university teaching. It is increasingly important for people in a wide range of careers to be able to mix with people from different religious and cultural backgrounds, for example past students have had careers in the police, hospital administration, social work, and journalism. Study of Religions comes in useful when working overseas whether in tourism or other businesses. Philosophy and Ethics develops many skills valued by employers such as clarity and precision in thinking, the ability to recognise unnoticed assumptions, the expertise to present a strong case, and to see the ethical issues involved in everyday decisions. Graduate careers for which Philosophy is good preparation include: law, civil service, local government, journalism, financial institutions, management, and IT.
— “The community feeling amongst my cohort and the faculty within which I studied was a huge source of support throughout my time at Bath Spa. The teaching was exemplary, and I thoroughly enjoyed every module that I took – of which there were a wide range of equally interesting options available. The support provided by the lecturers was outstanding, and made my experience at Bath Spa one of the most fulfilling and rewarding educational experiences I have so far enjoyed. Moreover, the support I received enabled me to succeed at a high level, fulfil my potential and realise my true abilities, giving me the confidence to pursue further higher education and feel well-equipped and ready for the independent learning required at postgraduate level.”
student PROFILE SEAN SPAIN RELIGIONS, PHILOSOPHIES AND ETHICS, YEAR 3 — “I decided to study RPE as it is a course which, uniquely, afforded me a chance to explore a wide range of world views whilst developing my own perspectives. With religion and philosophy largely being the foundation of contemporary cultures, my studies have provided me an insight to issues ranging from: politics, applied ethics, culture, language, argumentation and logic. The syllabus has enriched my personal development and contributed to my decision to take part in the ‘Humanistic Buddhist Monastic Life Program’, an international scholarship programme organised for graduate students to experience monastic life first hand. This was a programme highlighted to us by the faculty and is just one example of the support provided, both in and outside the academic environment.”
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS BA / BSC (HONS) Combined award
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: See page 99
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 You will need to choose another subject to study with Philosophy and Ethics. Popular combinations include: History: VV15 English: QV3M Creative Writing: WV85 Sociology: LV53 Psychology: VC58 Education: XV35
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Mainly by coursework such as essays, reports, projects, presentations, on- line discussion board participation. There are also some timed elements such as critical analyses or examinations.
This course is concerned with pursuing and answering questions of truth, knowledge, meaning and reality and exploring crucial ethical issues facing humanity. The approach taken is global, contemporary and applied, and enables you to develop as an analytical, critical and systematic thinker. Philosophy and Ethics is offered as a Major, Joint or Minor component of a Combined degree. If you want to combine it with Study of Religions you should take the Religions, Philosophies and Ethics specialised award (see page 63). Why choose this course? The study of Philosophy and Ethics at Bath Spa is distinctive in taking a global approach. Philosophies studied include South and East Asian traditions as well as Western approaches. We stress ‘doing philosophy’ and developing your own abilities to argue a case and analyse appropriate evidence. We apply philosophical and ethical thinking to address contemporary concerns such as gender and sexuality, the environment, war and conflict and medical ethics. There are opportunities to follow up your own interests or career plans in a variety of special projects, employment related placements and a dissertation. We offer excellent teaching with attention to individuals, and staff are active in research and scholarship in their specialist areas. We welcome non-traditional entrants and mature students. About the course In Year 1 we offer a core module which introduces philosophical and ethical enquiry, providing you with the tools of philosophical and ethical analysis, and critically examining core concepts in epistemology, metaphysics and ethics. There are optional modules in global religions and philosophies, looking at major movements, traditions and key thinkers, and God
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
student PROFILE Jessica Milton Year 2
and reason, examining key debates in the philosophy of religion. The core module in Year 2 focuses on philosophy in Indian and Chinese traditions. Optional modules include ethics within religious and humanist traditions (on topics such as medical ethics and social justice); philosophy, religions and the environment (on topics such as ecological degradation and nonhuman rights); and atheism and unbelief (on the non-existence of God). In the third year, options include a philosophical module on the meaning of human life (encompassing such topics as absurdity, existentialism, mortality and purpose); and a module on religion, philosophy and gender that features feminist and queer perspectives. There are also opportunities for independent work which could involve participation in a summer school in another country such as China or focus on applied philosophical and ethical projects. The Dissertation allows for in-depth concentration on a topic of your choice. Recent dissertations and projects have addressed issues as
diverse as ethical vegetarianism, feminist utopianism, Kropotkin’s anarchism, Carnap’s critique of metaphysics, Kant’s defence of capital punishment and Zizek’s analysis of consciousness. In addition, there are possibilities to undertake employment-related projects. Careers Philosophy and Ethics develops many skills valued by employers such as clarity and precision in thinking, the ability to recognise unnoticed assumptions, the expertise to present a strong case, and to see the ethical issues involved in everyday decisions. Graduate careers for which Philosophy is good preparation include: law, civil service, local government, journalism, financial institutions, management, and IT. Some of our students have gone on to teach Religious Education, Philosophy and/or Citizenship in secondary or primary schools, where there is a shortage of specialists. Others have gone on to further academic study.
— “The Philosophy and Ethics course at Bath Spa covers a wide range of material in the first year in order to give an overview of different approaches and theories, which I found useful, having never studied Philosophy before. In the second year, we have the opportunity to specialise to a greater degree. Philosophy has the potential to change the way you think, and the way you live! Through the Philosophy course at Bath Spa, I had the opportunity to live as a Buddhist monastic in China for a month, learning about the history of Chinese culture and Buddhist tradition, and practising meditation. It was probably one of the most valuable and memorable experiences of my life! Bath Spa is a great place to discover new pathways, through both trips abroad and by staying on campus. The course at Bath Spa is one of a kind, and the lecturers are always open to suggestions. With the Student Rep system, there is an easy communication of ideas from student to teacher; they really want the course to work for you. The lecturers are really friendly and helpful, and (especially in 2nd and 3rd years) are open to your suggestions for essay topics you want to write on. The students’ opinions are really valued and acted on. And of course, the campus is beautiful. With the new Commons building and Student Union, Bath Spa University is an even nicer place to learn and relax. The lake and surrounding fields are the perfect place for a walk to clear your head after a busy day.“
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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STUDY OF RELIGIONS BA / BSC (HONS) Combined awarD
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: See page 99
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 You will need to choose another subject to study with Study of Religions. Popular combinations include: History: VV16 English: QV36 Creative Writing: WV96 Sociology: LV36 Psychology: CV86 Education: XV36
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Mainly by coursework such as essays, reports, projects, presentations, on-line discussion board participation. There are also some timed elements such as critical analyses or examinations.
This course explores a wide range of religious traditions, from Buddhism to Christianity to Paganism, with a focus on living traditions. The approach taken is open and exploratory, with an emphasis on direct first-hand experience of religious communities.
your own interests or career plans in a variety of special projects, employment related placements and a dissertation. We offer excellent teaching with attention to individuals, and staff are active in research and scholarship in their specialist areas. We welcome non-traditional entrants and mature students.
Why choose this course? Study of Religions is offered as a Major, Joint or Minor component of a Combined degree. If you want to combine it with Philosophy and Ethics you should take the Religions, Philosophies and Ethics specialised award (see page 63).
ABOUT THE COURSE In Year 1 we offer a core module which explores the meaning of religion and spirituality, examines a variety of methods of studying religions and spiritualities, and illustrates these from a number of contemporary traditions, from Druidry to the Bahá’í faith. There is also a field visit to Glastonbury. One optional module in global religions and philosophies looks at major traditions and movements, and key thinkers, and another looks at the impact of religious traditions on civilisations and cultures both historically and today. The core module in Year 2 focuses on philosophies and religious or non-religious world views in Indian and Chinese traditions. Optional modules include philosophy, religions and the environment (on topics such as ecological degradation and nonhuman rights); and in depth study of major religious traditions including Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Buddhism.
WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE? The religious traditions studied are diverse, including major traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam or Christianity, and the less well known such as newer religious movements. Included in the programme are contemporary developments such as Paganism and Goddess spirituality. We range from the local, such as religions in Bath and Glastonbury, to the global, such as Japanese religions. Crucial to the study of religions is direct encounter and experiential learning, and the course includes visits and a one-week placement in a religious community. There are opportunities to follow up
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
In the third year, as part of a core module on religion in the contemporary world, you will undertake a fieldwork placement with a religious community such as a Buddhist monastery, a Christian convent, the Hare Krishnas or the Salvation Army. For further details see our website www. livingreligion.co.uk. Optional modules include religion, philosophy and gender that features feminist and queer perspectives; advanced study of Pagan, new and alternative religions; and modules studying, for example, religion and education internationally and religion, culture and society in Japan. There are also opportunities for independent work which could involve participation in a summer school in another country such as China. The Dissertation allows for in-depth concentration on a topic of your choice. Recent dissertations and projects have addressed subjects as diverse as the film Jai Santoshi Maa and women’s empowerment, Anton LaVey and Satanism, sound system culture and Reggae, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, new Christian churches in Bath and Islam in the media. In addition, there are possibilities to undertake employment-related projects. CAREERS A popular career for our students is teaching Religious Education and/or Citizenship in secondary or primary schools, where there is a shortage of specialists. One module is specially designed as preparation for a career in education. Others have gone on to further academic study and university teaching. It is increasingly important for people in a wide range of careers to be able to mix with people from different religious and cultural backgrounds, for example past students have had careers in the police, hospital administration, social work, and journalism. Study of Religions comes in useful when working overseas whether in tourism or other businesses.
graduate PROFILE Francesca hillier, Graduated 2011 — “ I really enjoyed the wide variety of modules that were on offer within the Study of Religions and the depth of knowledge that lecturers were able to share. I loved learning about the diversity of opinion within religions and there were great opportunities to visit religious communities and investigate them first hand. Having the opportunity to learn directly from followers of religion really helped to bring the course to life. The class sizes were small so you got to build strong working relationships with fellow students and the staff. The lecturers were very supportive, not just academically but from a pastoral perspective as well. They really cared about my success; this definitely made me more determined to succeed. After my BA I completed my PGCE and I now teach 11-18 year olds RE and Philosophy and Ethics.”
graduate PROFILE Sara Rahmani, Graduated 2012 — “ I loved the friendly environment at Bath Spa University and having the chance to study with and learn from, some of the finest academics in Britain. I enjoyed the diversity of the modules and the meaningful balance each module had between theory, method and content. Moreover, I appreciate the numerous fieldtrips and fieldwork opportunities that enabled us students to engage in real life situations and effectively learn through practice. The wide range of assignments have helped in developing crucial analytical skills for my postgraduate studies. My lecturers’ sophisticated teaching methods not only enabled me to think critically, but also encouraged me to pursue a career within academia. I’m now a PhD candidate in Study of Religions at University of Otago, New Zealand.”
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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ACTING BA (HONS) UCAS code: W410 INstitution Code: B20
Assessment: Through coursework, including rehearsal, performance, journals and essays. No written exams.
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points including two A-levels at minimum BB (one in drama or theatre studies). Entry is by audition only.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Location: Newton Park campus Length: 3 years full-time Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
At the end of the course, graduates will be fully equipped for a portfolio career in the industry. Careers Graduates go on to work as actors, theatre makers, writers, directors, teachers, workshop leaders and arts officers, for employers such as Warner Bros, Euro Disney, Endemol, BBC, Channel 4, The Unicorn Theatre and The Theatre Royal (Bath). Others have established theatre companies and have secured work in theatre film and television, including C4’s Skins and work on Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows.
STUDENT PROFILE AMY VICKERS YEAR 3
This actor-training programme is for students who want to act, write or direct in theatre, radio, film and television. Acting at Bath Spa University provides you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in an innovative and exciting artistic environment. The training is highly practical, intensive and professionally focused. You will explore in depth, a range of skills, processes and job roles to prepare you for the demands of a portfolio career in the industry, both as an actor interpreter and creator. The course works closely with professional writers and practitioners in theatre and recorded media, innovative theatre companies and with established regional and national theatre venues. Our professionally active and experienced staff foster creative approaches to performance and encourage the development of entrepreneurialism; to create work, not just seek it!
Why choose this course? The Acting programme explores a process-driven approach to acting in both text-based and devised performance, across live and recorded media. In looking at how acting interconnects with scriptwriting and directing, the course aims to produce a physically and vocally versatile, creative, intellectually alive and curious artist. Over three years, you will work in a variety of genres and repertoires from classical to contemporary. About the course Year 1 is an introduction to acting: Skills classes develop professionally focused vocal and physical skills. Context classes examine theatre history to place modern performers within an ancient tradition. Process classes explore the range of ‘acting tools’ required for a professional career. Form and Composition classes consider how to make new work.
Year 2 develops and expands on acting, directing, writing and devising processes. Skills classes include stage combat and production management skills. Performance Projects include: – Writing – Directing – Comedy/ American Drama – Devised Theatre – Foundation Film Project – The Actor/Creator – Shakespeare and his Contemporaries Year 3 is an apprentice year of preparation for the business and entrepreneurial demands of the industry. Students work across a range of professional live and recorded media projects: − Sitcom − Graduate Film, − Acting for the Microphone − Directed plays − Rehearsed play readings − Making Projects
— “I chose this course because it offers a comprehensive study of many different aspects of acting including theatre, recorded media, and devising and performing stand-up comedy. Having this variety allows the individuals to create their own path within the industry. The support received from staff and fellow peers ensures a safe environment to explore and create work. We are really lucky to be able to create in such beautiful surroundings and have the use of an outdoor amphitheatre, built this year. There are also close links with The Egg and Theatre Royal, Bath.”
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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COMMERCIAL MUSIC INTEGRATED MASTERS and BA (HONS) UCAS code: W304: 3 year BA course W385: 4 year Integrated Masters INstitution Code: B20
Assessment: Live performance, audio productions, songs, promotional material, website design, written work and business management, seminars and presentations. There are no formal examinations.
Location: Newton Park campus
Typical offers: For the BA course 280–340 UCAS Tariff points.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Candidates without standard qualifications but with music industry experience considered. Candidates for the Integrated Masters course will need to achieve the equivalent of ABB or higher at Level 3.
Length: 3 years full-time for the BA course; 4 years full-time for the Integrated Masters
For both the BA and the MA routes you will also need: high level of performance, lyrical and composition skills (assessed via MP3s of your three best original tracks); music technology experience; performance experience.
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Shortlisted candidates will be auditioned.
A vocational course for original songwriters and musicians. Why choose this course? If you have a flair for writing original music, then Commercial Music can take you on a creative journey to inspire and define a lifelong career. Commercial Music at Bath Spa University is all about creation: songs, projects, bands and entrepreneurial ideas. In writing, performing, promoting, and touring your creative material you will acquire a wide range of skills with which to broaden your future career choices. Commercial Music’s focus on songwriting is unique in UK higher education and Bath Spa University is host to the annual UK Songwriting Festival. All of the teaching team are active musicians, songwriters and composers with a portfolio of recorded and published work. About the course Commercial Music is available either as a three year (BA Hons) or a four year Integrated Masters (MA). Both BA and MA Commercial Music students follow the same study pattern for the first two years. Year one begins with original songs and projects and models the developmental stage of a record deal, with its focus on songwriting, performance, production and digital skills: this is the raw material which will define the launch and release cycle of your second year. You also develop journalistic and promotional skills and engage with critical thinking on a broad range of issues. As a performer you are encouraged to work and collaborate in various projects which lead towards three live showcase events. You are always encouraged to gig and play as widely as possible in the local music scene. Year Two asks you to write, produce, and record your own original material in our recording studios, and develop your visual and branding assets towards a greater visibility in this crowded marketplace. Our yearly
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Music Think Tank series features keynote speakers from the music business who will deliver fresh insight into contemporary practice and your understanding of the UK’s £3.8 billion music business. You create, design and edit your own promotional video to showcase your internet presence. With this as your promotional launch pad, you will book and play your own national tour. As a returning BA year three student, you can choose to develop either your Performance or Production skills or pursue a pathway in Music for Media. You also complete a Research dissertation on a topic of your choice and develop your entrepreneurial flair and business skills with Creative Enterprise. As an Integrated Masters student on the MA course you add two Level 7 modules in your third year to go with Creative Enterprise, and in your fourth year you work entirely at Masters level pursuing one of three specialisms: songwriting; music production; or music business. SAMPLE MODULES Year 1: Performance; Production – Audio Production and The Studio; The Music Workstation and the Studio; Songwriting and Music Journalism; Culture, Context and Criticism (business and academic writing, sociological and cultural studies).
Year 2: Audio Visual and Branding; Staging, Video and Live; Web Promotion and Tour; Music Business Skills. Year 3 (Masters students only) Creative Enterprise; Skills module Context and Methodology. Year 4 (Masters students only): Collaboration; Skills module; Major Project. CAREERS Graduates go on to work as songwriters, composers, musicians, recording artists, record company and music publishing personnel, engineers, promoters, agents, journalists, graphic designers, live crew and any number of other roles within the music and entertainment business. Please take a look at Commercial Music’s Alumni site for a comprehensive view of the range of career destinations of our graduates: http://cmgrads.wordpress.com/ Watch this YouTube video to hear graduates in their own words: http://youtube/jKLQrNM3hLA
graduate PROFILE GULLIVER ‘GULLY’ TRIM YEAR 1 — “This was the only course in the country that offered me exactly what I wanted. It allowed me to choose my own bandmates and perform the songs of our choice. I’ve yet to wake up to day thinking, “oh, I wish I was studying something else today”… as long as I’m studying Commercial Music, I doubt I ever will! The campus is breathtakingly beautiful and for me the wonderful natural ambience aids me strongly in my songwriting and with my artistic work. I intend on being a household name, enthralling the masses of the 02 and Wembley arenas with songs that undulate through the minds of my listeners…!”
STUDENT PROFILE Abz Irwin YEAR 3 — “I chose this course because I love writing songs, and I have always loved performing. This course brings those passions together and gives me the tools to make a successful career from them. I like how broad this course is, we learn about the music business from many different perspectives. Commercial Music is a very practical, focused course for those who wish to pursue a career in the music business. It’s also a lot of fun! I love how beautiful the campus is, I find it really inspiring to work in such a gorgeous place. I also like that it is quite a small university as there is a great community feel about it.”
01–02 Band Practice, James Loudon
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CREATIVE MUSIC TECHNOLOGY BA (HONS) UCAS code: J931 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Newton Park campus Length: 3 years full-time
Assessment: Largely through coursework, such as portfolios of creative and practical work supported by some written evaluation. Some timed or multiple choice examinations.
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points including A-level Music Technology at minimum grade B or equivalent award in Music Technology or a closely related subject.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
If your application supports the above criteria you are likely to be invited to interview. Your interview will require you to permit access to your audio portfolio to demonstrate current experience and suggest future potential. See page 32.
STUDENT PROFILE FINN Kelvin-Evans YEAR 3
Creative Music Technology fuses composition and the creative exploration and use of audio technologies alongside a wider view of digital media. Our programme seeks to extend your individual creative voice, your technical knowledge and develop a range of skills required by the creative industries. Why choose this course? Our programme is clearly focused on the creative application of technology within a wide range of music, sound, broadcast and multimedia contexts. Our students enthusiastically share a common commitment to exploring and harnessing personal creative outcomes and to developing innovative approaches to their work. You’ll no doubt be obsessively interested in music technology. You’ll work and learn with students who share your commitment, and be taught by staff team with very high levels of specialist professional practice and expertise. You will have access to superb resources and facilities, and benefit from being part of a vibrant community of students and staff collaborating across subject boundaries.
About the course Current and emerging techniques and technologies are studied within the context of their creative applications. Intended primarily for aspiring creative users of these technologies, the programme is ear-led. We do not describe music in ‘traditional notation’ terms. Though many students will have high levels of instrumental skills and accompanying theory, others will view software and hardware as their ‘instrument’. You will be encouraged to question assumptions, work across media, formulate independent judgement in an environment that supports and values personal creative development. In the first two years the modules are compulsory and create a shared content from which to navigate the final year. Year 3 offers several pathways from which you may select a specialised route, and you will be supported in managing a larger scale project of your choice. Across a three-year trajectory, you will acquire a rich understanding of both music technology and interdisciplinary multimedia.
SAMPLE MODULES: Year 1: Synthesis and Sampling; Creative Practice; Critical Theory; Sound Design for Moving Image. Year 2: Digital Audio Techniques; Sonic Art; Digital Signal Processing; Multimedia Studio; Professional Development. Year 3; Devised Project, Game Audio, Audio Programming, Interactive Multimedia in Performance, Composer Project, Composition for Broadcast Media, Production Techniques, Audio Post for Moving Image, Sonic Performance. Careers We aim to develop creative and technically skilled graduates for employment within the composition, recording, entertainment and new media industries. We don’t consider ourselves a programme of ‘training’, but we encourage students to be clearly focused on developing a wide range of employability skills. Employment possibilities include production, performance, composition, recording, software development, game, mobile and web technologies, specialist publishing, education… it’s a long and ever changing range of opportunities relevant to a mobile employment landscape in which self-employment and entrepreneurship are likely to feature strongly.
— “The thing I like best about my course is the diversity, you can come from any musical background or be heading in any direction and the course and its lecturers will be able to help and nurture your approach. The approach is to enrich your musical outlook as well as input and it has helped me reach areas of music and art that I don’t think I would have found without the environment and guidance the course brings.”
STUDENT PROFILE FRANCIS PADDOCK YEAR 2 — “Creative Music Technology at Bath Spa was my first choice. I find the course engaging and inspirational, and it covers a broad range of subjects. Most importantly I’ve found the skills that I’ve developed are directly applicable to my own practice, which encourages me to keep learning even more. And the staff are incredibly approachable and supportive. CMT is equipping me with the skills that will hopefully make me employable in a range of technological professions. The campus is such a beautiful, inspiring place. The addition of Commons building is fantastic…it’s somewhere I actually want to go to and work in.”
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DANCE BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: W500
Length: 3 years full-time
INstitution Code: B20
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Film and Screen Studies: VW9P Drama (as part of Creative Arts – See page 35): WW5K Music (as part of Creative Arts – See page 35): WW53 Creative Writing (as part of Creative Arts – See page 35): WW95 Education: WX53
Assessment: Includes practical projects (choreography and performance), essays, portfolios and seminar presentations.
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points with min 80 points from Dance or Performing Arts preferred;
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk @bathspadance
Or dance experience outside education. Eligible candidates will be asked to audition.
For a full list of courses you can combine with Dance, see page 99
Studying Dance provides you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in an exciting and challenging artistic environment. The course is focused on helping you build the skills you need to become a versatile, creative and articulate dance professional. Why choose this course? The course has a strong practical focus and will suit creative individuals who are looking for a dance training programme that is both physically and intellectually challenging. You will have regular opportunities to present your work in a variety of different performance projects and lots of chances to work alongside professional dance companies and artists. In addition to your studies you will undertake a work placement that will prepare you for the dance related industries and also enable you to investigate an area of specific interest. About the course At the heart of the course is the study of creativity and performance and your practical investigations are underpinned and enhanced by your theoretical studies. Our aim is to give you the skills you need to be able to engage in a wide range of creative dance practices. The programme has specialist modules in Digital Performance Practice and Somatics and it is this breadth of creative opportunities that provides the course with its distinctive focus. You will work alongside highly skilled dance professionals who are committed to helping you to get the most out of the course. Each member of staff within the Department brings a wide range of professional experience to the course to create a student experience that is both unique and challenging (there’s also an exciting schedule of visiting choreographers and artists). Our current areas of research includes film, somatics, creativity and performance. We see you, the student, as an empowered partner in these
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GRADUATE PROFILES Leanne Oddy Graduated in 2013 and now performing with Transitions Dance Company — “I would highly recommend the dance course at Bath Spa; I have learnt so much over my three years and came out a completely changed dancer, for the better! The course helped me clearly recognise the career path I wanted to take as a performer within my dance career. I really benefited from having an opportunity to work alongside a range of professional guest artists who featured strongly throughout the three years. This helped me in terms of being able to adapt to different practices which was useful in the audition processes and aided me in being open to fully commit to whatever different approaches I am introduced to. The course is very versatile to meet the needs of different individuals, whilst encouraging students to expand their own ideas in whatever they might be.“
investigations. The dance staff will foster your individual choreographic and performance style and will help you to build the imagination and confidence you need to apply your creative skills in a wide range of employment contexts. www.bathspa.ac.uk/schools/ music-and-performance-arts/courses/ undergraduates/dance Careers Typically, dance graduates from Bath Spa go on to work in a wide range of careers as choreographers, performers, community dance practitioners, film makers, teachers (primary / secondary education subject to PGCE) and dance therapists. Many students also take the opportunity to further their studies at postgraduate level. The course gives you the chance to make important professional connections and after graduation you can take advantage of our Graduate Mentoring Scheme that provides help and advice as you embark upon your career.
STUDENT PROFILE Charlotte Belotti year 3 student — “The dance course at Bath Spa University has given me the opportunity to gain experience and skills in a range of areas, particularly choreography and performance. The course is great for gaining professional dance contacts and for being able to really put yourself at the heart of your own work; both of these aspects contribute hugely towards being confident as an adaptable graduate. By working alongside professional artists and learning about their experiences, it enables their world to be brought to you; this provides you with a well-informed transition from university to the work.”
01 Amy Osborne graduated with a first class honours degree in dance and began a five month performance contract in France
Charlotte Newman Graduated in 2012 and now working as a community dance practitioner. — “I chose the course because of the range of subjects available. We not only expanded our technique as dancers, but we also built on our somatic, film, choreographic, production and marketing skills. The tutors were very approachable in helping us grow as artists, allowing us to find our own journey in the style of work that suits us best. Since graduating from Bath Spa University, I have been working for Dance South Gloucestershire and B&NES Youth Dance Company, developing my teaching and choreographic skills within a community setting. My solo choreographic work, ‘Stuff’ was premiered at Bath Fringe festival in 2014 after being supported by BSU graduate support scheme Pilot. I have also performed with Luca Silvestrini’s Protein Dance Company in ‘(in)visible Dancing’.”
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DRAMA BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: W400
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Dance (as part of Creative Arts – See page 35) WW5K Creative Writing (as part of Creative Arts – See page 35) WW4Y Education XW34 English Literature QW3L
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points including A-Level Drama, Performance Studies or Theatre Studies at min grade B.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Assessment: Includes essays, dissertations and tests. Practical work is assessed through a variety of presentations, performances, group work and reflective journals.
For a full list of courses you can combine with Drama, see page 99
SAMPLE MODULES Year 1: From Page to Stage, Theatre History 1 Year 2: Making Performance, Applied Theatre Year 3: Dissertation, Performance Project.
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Careers Drama equips you with writing, presentational, communication, and collaborative skills invaluable in many professional and vocational areas. Following graduation, some students choose to pursue their interests further into postgraduate study (especially in teaching) or vocational training. Others use the knowledge gained to launch careers working with theatre companies or go on to find employment in media. Drama offers students an exciting introduction to the world of theatre and performance. Through critical investigation, practical workshops and textual study, students explore the ways in which theatre today, and through the ages, has contributed to cultural discourse. Why choose this course? Drama provides you with a range of exciting modules to choose from. These explore drama from the perspectives of making theatre and performance, text study and applied theatre. This academic study of drama draws on practical workshops to bring theoretical ideas to life. Specialist facilities include the purpose-built University Theatre building, incorporating a fully equipped theatre and three studios as well as a black box studio space. The teaching staff are all distinguished academics who are practising theatre and performance artists.
01 Drama student Natasha Cook in costume for an outdoor assessment
About the course In your first year, you will study processes involved in taking text from page to stage. You will explore the relationship between theatre and society through the ages, examining ideas underlying dramatic texts, performance conventions and scenography. And you will attend and critique plays and other kinds of performance as well as undertake skills classes (specialised students). In Year 2, in theatre companies, inspired by your studies of key theatre directors and companies, you will create your own work. You may also lead workshops and otherwise apply drama in community settings. And you may choose from a range of studies within Exploration modules. These studies may include musical theatre, physical theatre, stand-up comedy, American acting and so on. As a third year student, you will research and write a dissertation on a drama topic of your choice and undertake a performance project (specialised students). Again, you may choose from a range of projects within Specialist Study modules, for instance experimental performance, staging Shakespeare and site-specific performance.
graduate PROFILEs KATY MUIR — “Drama at Bath Spa provided me a world of knowledge, confidence and new friends. The diverse nature of the course acted as platform for countless ways to express myself and to learn from my tutors and peers.“
NATASHA COOK — “The variety given in the second and third year of Drama really helped me to create a course that I could take ownership of. The knowledge and support from all lecturers and fellow students encouraged me to develop both the skills I already had and those I gained during my time at Bath Spa. I would recommend this course to anyone interested in Drama.“
LUCY PLANT Student PROFILE Charlotte stroud Year 3
— “ I absolutely loved my time at Bath Spa on the Drama course. I made so many friends and had so much fun… the highlight for me was getting the chance to direct a full scale production. Also, the staff are friendly and approachable. I was very sad to leave.“
— “ My interest in the subject has only been fuelled by the passion and knowledge that every tutor I have come across displays for it. I think that there is a great mix of performance and theory within this LUKE DAVIES course, that will give you an excellent — grounding within the subject for whichever field you go into – whether that “ The Drama course at Bath Spa is perfect for developing a comprehensive and be teaching, performing, directing etc. in-depth knowledge for drama teachers. There are so many opportunities What I learnt on the course has really available to us here at Bath Spa: to made me stand out in terms of my perform theatre, to watch it, and even knowledge of drama.“ to hear from industry professionals, (in the talks put on by the Bath Spa Career hub). The Department of Music & Performing Arts is always buzzing with the noise of students rehearsing, dancing, and singing, sometimes late into the evening, and that – alongside the beautiful views on campus – means you can’t help but be inspired.“
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Music BA (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: W300
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Dance (as part of Creative Arts – see page 35): WW53 Drama (as part of Creative Arts – see page 35): WW3K Education: XW33
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Includes essays, dissertations, performances, group work.
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points preferably including Music at minimum grade B, plus a good standard of practical instrumental / vocal performance at Grade 8 (ABRSM) or equivalent.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Single Hons applicants will be interviewed.
For a full list of courses you can combine with Music, see page 99
Ensembles include choir, chamber choir, orchestra, wind band, string orchestra, big band, experimental music group and gamelan.
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A highly practical course emphasising creativity through performance and composition, with opportunities in classical, jazz, musical theatre, opera and world music. Why choose this course? There is a strong practical element to the course. Every week a day is dedicated to ensemble performance and related activities for students in all years – these include choirs, orchestras, wind band, big bands and gamelan. There are also numerous other ensembles throughout the week including brass, wind and string groups, new music and experimental music, small jazz groups, folk group and four smaller choirs. Each year there are student performances ranging from large works for choir and orchestra (such as Fauré’s Requiem, Stravinsky’s Symphony of Psalms and Will Todd’s Mass in Blue) through to opera and musical theatre productions (including Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Glass’s Satyagraha Sondheim’s Company and Weill’s Threepenny Opera). There are regular opportunities for students to perform in prestigious venues off campus as well as in the purpose-built concert hall on campus, the Michael Tippett Centre. Recent venues have included the Assembly Rooms, Guildhall, Bath Abbey, Wells Cathedral,
Bath Pump Room, Oxford’s Holywell Room and Bristol’s St George’s Brandon Hill. Facilities on campus are superb. In addition to the Michael Tippett Centre there is a suite of soundproofed practice rooms, a wide range of specialist instruments (including three Steinway grand pianos), networked music technology labs, digital recording studios, band rehearsal rooms and a well-stocked music library. You will be taught by distinguished full-time staff who are all practising performers, composers and musicologists, as well as by visiting staff (many with international reputations). Recent visiting performers and composers have included Peter Donohoe, Mark-Anthony Turnage, Judith Weir, Jason Rebello, Joanna MacGregor, Tim Hugh, Graham Fitkin, Iain Ballamy and Rosa Mannion. ABOUT THE COURSE In your first year you will concentrate on three main areas: Performance Studies, Creative Forum, and Music in the West and Global Musical Styles. Performance Studies consists of one-to-one instrumental or vocal lessons, with workshops on performance techniques, aural awareness, and conducting. Students can opt for classical or jazz performance.
CAREERS During the course you will explore the constantly changing needs of the employment market, and you will undertake a placement in Year 2. Recent placements have included the Bath International Music Festival, Bath Philharmonia, the BBC Proms, Welsh National Opera, BBC Music Magazine, Dorling Kindersley and Real World. Career possibilities include performing and teaching, music in the community, composing for concert, screen, stage and education, arts management, music promotion and publishing.
Creative Forum is a composition skills module which includes free composition while focusing on a range of compositional techniques, notation, arranging, orchestration, and the use of music technology. graduate PROFILE Music in the West and Global JOE GATLEY Musical Styles include study and research skills for musicians, analytical — “ Music at Bath Spa appealed to me skills and the close study of landmark because of its strong emphasis on musical works and genres from performance, and also being part of a medieval to pop, with a series of vibrant School of Music and Performing seminars around cultural and Arts. This has allowed me to work and musicological issues in music today. socialise with students from related As you progress to Year 2 you will courses such as Drama, Performing Arts continue to develop your musical skills, and Commercial Music. Every year the music department stages Opera and and increasingly you will specialise in areas of particular strength and interest Music Theatre productions to a very high standard, which is something that really – for example in performance, interests me. There are a large number composition or musicology in classical of ensembles to take part in, and also or jazz styles. There is a wide choice of the support and facilities to start your modules, ranging from Performance own if you wanted to. Through these to Music Analysis. ensembles the music department puts on In Year 3 you have the freedom for concerts throughout the year, with many opportunities for solo performances.” creative output in specialisms such as performance or composition together with the choice of a wide range of supporting modules, from the Opera Project to Music Psychology and Music in Action (which is a community music module). Practical workshops in performance and composition are a key feature of the course, and there is a large amount of ensemble performance and related activities for students in all years. 01 University choir and orchestra
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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THEATRE PRODUCTION BA (Hons) UCAS code: W431 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Newton Park campus, Theatre Royal Bath, Theatre Production Centre, Burdalls Yard Arts Centre.
Assessment: Largely by coursework including practical work, presentations, evaluations, group projects, individual reports and written assignments. There are currently no written exams.
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points plus a demonstrable interest in an area of theatre production.
This professional theatre training course for a variety of backstage career opportunities is delivered in association with industry – and specifically with our partners at Theatre Royal Bath and Salisbury Playhouse.
also undertaking practical workshops, seminars and directed study. There are no exams! All lecturers are leading specialist theatre production practitioners, ensuring that your learning is to current industry standard. The strong interaction with the professional theatre industry culminates in an industry work placement of at least four weeks duration in Year 3. Professional placements are available at both Salisbury Playhouse and Theatre Royal Bath, amongst many many other leading organisations throughout Britain.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk www.youtube.com watch?v=IQ4lJAaDt9Q Theatre Production at Bath Spa University
Length: 3 years full-time Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Why choose this course? Do you want a career in the exciting and diverse world of theatre production? Any discipline that you see being practiced backstage in a theatre can be learned on this programme. Subject areas include stage lighting, sound, costume, stage management, production management, scenic design, scenic construction, scenic art and prop making. This highly practical programme gives you the chance to study in a professional environment, underpinned by very strong links with the theatre industry. About the course Unlike many programmes, we don’t ask you to specialise in a particular area before you embark on your studies. You will learn about each discipline in Year 1, work on productions in a variety of roles and follow chosen discipline pathways in Year 2. Then when you do fully specialise in Year 3, you are making an informed decision rather than a best guess. In the final year you will assume Head of Department responsibility, allowing you to provide leadership on a variety of productions and projects in areas that you wish to specialise in. We have magnificent and superbly equipped facilities. These include our modern University Theatre, brand new television studio, an amphitheatre and our Theatre Production Centre facility. Theatre Production Centre houses a very large scenic workshop, prop making and costume-making facilities, in addition to a digital suite and production office. We also have an Arts Centre, Burdall’s Yard in Bath city centre. Particular emphasis is on project and production work, with students
SAMPLE Modules Year 1: Stage Management and Production Process; Introduction to Stage Lighting, Sound and AV; Stagecraft; Introduction to Scenic and Costume Design Year 2: Intermediate Production Practice, Intermediate Production Skills, Research Project Year 3: Advanced Production Practice, Meeting Industry, Research and Professionalisation. CAREERS Career opportunities include production and / or technical roles in either the theatre or the wider entertainment industry: scenic design, costume design, stage management, scenic construction, prop making, lighting technician, lighting design, sound technician, sound design and costume technician.
GRADUATE PROFILE Aaron Gouldthorpe Graduated 2014 — “The Theatre Production course at Bath Spa University gave me the opportunity to learn and develop skills in a hands-on environment. I benefited from a fantastic wealth of knowledge that the lecturers and staff provided through years of industry experience. We not only learned current practices and processes of all things theatre, but were taught and encouraged to excel in our chosen individual specialisms. I now work as a carpenter for Cardiff Theatrical Services – the in-house workshops of the Welsh National Opera. As well as making sets for all WNO productions, we also build sets and scenery for many other organisations and events, including Royal Opera House, English National Opera and BBC’s Doctor Who. I was introduced to CTS by my lecturer and undertook a work placement as part of my degree, from which I was offered a full-time place in the carpentry department.”
GRADUATE PROFILE Kezia Beament Graduated 2012 — “ I’m working as a freelance Stage Manager, and felt thoroughly prepared for my present career, thanks to the course having a high practical content, which followed the processes and practices of a professional theatre environment. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Bath Spa. It involved all students assisting on productions from the first term, and there is no substitute for getting involved and getting practical experience. It was an ideal environment to try things out while learning, and to develop skills across all the different departments before deciding where to specialise. The staff on the course were always supportive and since graduating continue to be a source of information and encouragement.”
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
SCHOOL OF SOCIETY, ENTERPRISE AND ENVIRONMENT
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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CRIMINOLOGY BSc (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus,
UCAS code: 382M
Length: 3 years full-time
INstitution Code: B20
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Geography: 3W19 Media Communications: 6N1G Psychology: UN28 Sociology: D32M
Why choose this course? Students of criminology explore the causes and motivations underlying criminal conduct and the social conditions and problems which are associated with criminality. The criminal justice system is also a key aspect of your studies and you will critically investigate and scrutinise the policies, processes and practices of criminal justice and punishment at local, national and global levels of society. Not only do the central questions of Criminology reflect some of the fundamental issues of social science concerning human behaviour, they also tap into some of the key cultural and political debates about the kind of societies we live in and how we would like them to be. A degree in Criminology will also provide you with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in one of a number of areas of criminal justice including policing, crime prevention, working in courts and legal services, youth justice and the penal system. About the course The BSU Criminology programme draws on staff expertise in a number of fields enabling you to look at the problem of crime from different angles.
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
through study of contemporary debates in criminology and criminal justice, the psychology of crime and via training in research methods and crime mapping techniques. You can select from a number of modules to put together your programme according to your personal interests, such as investigating the ecology of crime, delving more deeply into the social divisions that are linked to crime or exploring crime in the media and popular culture. In your final year of study, you will undertake an original piece of criminological research in an area which interests you and comparative study of criminal justice and penalty in global context. Again, you can design your final programme with your own selections from a range of modules, a number of which also highlight the global dimensions of crime and justice. There are also opportunities to undertake a voluntary placement in an organisation that works within the criminal justice sector.
– Identities and Inequality – Crime Fiction in the Contemporary World – Gender: Mind, Body and Cultures – Community Engagement – Migration, Diversity and Racism – Mobility, Risks and Environmental Justice
Assessment: Assessment varies, including essays, book reviews, exams, portfolios, online proposals, presentations, individual and group projects.
At the core of the programme is a suite of modules that will give you a foundational knowledge of the main issues, theories and debates of criminology and criminal justice that are grounded in the traditions of social science. Criminological research has had an impact on public policy, but criminologists also have a responsibility to analyse and question forms of governance and social control. You will interrogate the balancing act that criminology plays between contributing to government policies that control and punish crime and critical exploration of them. In your first year of study you will learn about the theoretical and research traditions of criminology and be introduced to key concepts, theories and issues through investigation of different types of crime such as property crime, sexual and violent crime, corporate crime, anti-social behaviour and drug use. You will also be introduced to criminal law and criminal justice institutions and agencies. The remainder of your programme will consist of optional modules of your choice, including a complementary subject (such as psychology, sociology or geography). In your second year of study you will develop your knowledge and skills
MODULES Year 1: Criminology: An Introduction * ** – Visualising Society – Global Development Year 2: Contemporary and Critical Issues in Crime and Justice * ** – Researching People and Organisations* – Criminological and Investigative Psychology* – Social Diversity and Divisions – Crime Fiction – Film Noir – Growing up and Living in Communities – Climate Change and Sustainability – Work Placement Year 3: – Criminology Dissertation* – Punishment and Penology in Global Context* – Young People, Identity and Subcultures
* Compulsory modules for Single Honours Awards ** Compulsory modules for Combined Honours Awards CAREERS A qualification in Criminology will prepare you for a career in a variety of fields in criminal justice and associated social and welfare professions including: – Policing – Crime prevention and security – Law – Offender management and interventions – Prisons – Probation – Youth justice As a social sciences degree, it will also furnish you with a range of transferable skills which could take you into a career in other sectors. The programme also provides opportunities for work experience and placements.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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BIOLOGY BSC (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: Biology: C100 Biology (Conservation Biology): 86T4 Biology (Human Biology): N3K2
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20
Tuition fee (2015): ÂŁ9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Available as combined: Popular combinations include: Geography: CF18 Psychology: CC18 For a full list of courses you can combine with Biology, see page 99
Assessment: Assessment varies between modules. Some modules have a 50:50 split between coursework and examination, while others, including all Year 3 modules, are wholly coursework. Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points with minimum 80 points from a relevant science subject such as biology, chemistry, human biology, environmental science or social biology.
epidemiology, food and environmental sustainability. In your final year of study in addition to the research dissertation you have the opportunity to specialise in specific topics such as animal behaviour, marine biology, human health, environmental consultancy and plant biology. For those with other specialised interests we offer modules in Science Publishing, Abnormal Psychology, Marketing and Sociology. This enables you to create a degree incorporating your own special interests. Many assignments also have a major element of choice, enabling you to further specialise in topics of your own choice. Biology is a wide ranging programme allowing you to study the subject in breadth or specialise in aspects which particularly interest you, such as human biology or conservation biology. Why choose this course? This course covers all the core aspects of biology while still allowing you to develop expertise in our specialist pathways in human biology and conservation biology. Biology has a strong practical element and you will have plenty of opportunities to study plants, humans and other animals in laboratory and wild settings. Our staff are friendly and enthusiastic with expertise in many areas of biology from occupational diseases to wildlife conservation. By the end of your degree you will be particularly well equipped for a career in biology but you will also have a broad range of transferable skills and the versatility to succeed in many other careers. There is also the opportunity for you to gain work experience in a relevant organisation as part of your degree programme. Our campus is particularly well suited to the study of biology, boasting many interesting habitats including woodland, farmland, a lake, ponds and a stream.
We also have well-equipped laboratories for those interested in studying aspects of human anatomy and physiology, microbiology and cell biology where you can develop important skills. Our facilities include digital hardware for investigating human physiology and behaviour, a wildlife video recording system and a range of other specialist equipment and software for biological studies. In brief, we can provide everything you need to make your biological studies relevant, interesting and applicable to a rewarding career as a professional biologist. About the course In your first year you will study the core module, Biology: The Living World. This allows you to develop your understanding of the fundamentals of biology from cell biology and genetics to characteristics of plant and animal communities. You may also choose to study additional modules in human biology, biodiversity, biochemistry or food. In the second year you will investigate the biology of plants, animals and humans in greater depth and be able to study additional topics that particularly interest you, such as microbiology, ecology, human pathophysiology, biodiversity,
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
SAMPLE MODULES Year 1: Introduction to Biological Sciences (compulsory), Human Biology, Biodiversity & Conservation, Biochemistry, Food, Nutrition and Health. Year 2: Biology: The Science of Life (compulsory), Research Skills (compulsory), Applied Microbiology, Biodiversity Tools & Techniques, Ecology, Environmental Sustainability, Epidemiology & Public Health, Human Pathophysiology & Nutrition, Work Placement. Year 3: Biology dissertation (compulsory), Animal Behaviour, Digital Imaging, Environmental Consultancy, Food Safety, Marine Biology, Medical Biology, Nature Conservation in Context, Nutrition & Exercise Science, Plants & People. HUMAN BIOLOGY PATHWAY The Human Biology pathway (UCAS code N3K2) at Bath Spa will allow you to explore the human body in terms of its biochemistry, cell biology, and physiology and to apply this knowledge in the areas of health and disease, nutrition and exercise. With modules focusing on microbiology, pathophysiology and medical biology, you will develop a range of practical skills including physiological measurements and histological
techniques, which will equip you for a future career in life sciences. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY PATHWAY The Conservation Biology pathway (UCAS code 86T4) focuses on biodiversity, ecology and nature conservation. This is a highly practical degree with many opportunities to develop a range of field skills including identification, habitat surveying, sampling techniques and experimental design. You may combine these traditional ecology skills with the latest technological advances in digital imaging and automated data collection. This pathway will appeal to those considering a career in ecological consultancy, wildlife conservation or research. Careers We realise that having a degree relevant to employers is crucial if you are going to find a job at the end of your studies. We are particularly aware of skills employers need and this is reflected in the content and structure of modules. Our work placement module allows you to gain valuable relevant experience that also gives you academic credit towards your degree. Our graduates are successful and many take further qualifications such as PGCE, Masters or doctorates. Others have been employed in both public and private organisations such as ecological consultancies, water companies, the National Health Service, environmental health, wildlife trusts, teaching and government agencies such as the Environment Agency.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
graduate PROFILE LIZA STANLEY graduated 2013 — “ Studying Biology at Bath Spa University enabled me to undertake my MSc in Virology with more confidence. I was taught all the tools to become a great scientist but there were so many, it’s hard to know what to highlight. I was given practical lab skills and the ability to understand statistics (which I would have never believed). However for me the best skill I was taught in biology was how to write scientifically and to look at the world around me with a critical eye! The biology staff give you room to develop and explore biology. Biology at Bath Spa is amazing because no matter what your interest you are actively encouraged to pursue it. Overall, Biology at Bath Spa University has been invaluable. I will use the skills and knowledge taught to me for years to come and never forget how amazing the staff campus and community are.”
graduate PROFILE Stuart Cannon graduated 2014 — “ The thing I enjoyed most about my time at Bath Spa would have to be the space, greenery and overall serene surroundings that are accessible no matter where you are on the Newton Park campus. The course itself was excellent, offering a broad curriculum that led to an understanding of many biological topics. More importantly I believe the process of achieving the learning outcomes provided the skills, such as independent learning, to study in depth about whatever career I ventured into. In terms of my present role, this is essential as I am to facilitate my own learning with minimal supervision. After graduation I was accepted onto the coveted National Health Service Scientist Training Programme (STP) to train as a Clinical Bioinformatician specialising in Genomics.”
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT BA (HONS UCAS code: Business and Management: NN12 Business and Management (Human Resource Management): N600 Business and Management (Marketing): N500 Business and Management (Tourism Management): N832 Business and Management (Accounting): N400 Business and Management (International Business): OT6Y INstitution Code: B20
This course will equip you with the business knowledge and management skills to work in a range of business settings and sectors. This could be in an organisation in the private or public sector, a charity or your own business. WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE? You can take our BA (Hons) Business and Management or if you wanted to specialise you may prefer to choose a pathway through the programme in Marketing, Human Resource Management, Tourism Management, International Business or Accounting. You’ll be given personal support in your study – staff are committed to helping students to achieve their goals. Business and Management has good student satisfaction ratings (88% in NSS 2014, 93% in NSS 2013).
Available as Combined: Popular combinations include: Publishing: NP14 Sociology: NL13 For a full list of courses you can combine with Business and Management, see page 99
Assessment: Assessment varies, including essays, reports, presentations, examinations, projects, group work, computer based tests and podcasts.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
Location: Newton Park campus Length: 3 years full-time; 4 years full-time (with year placement); part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
ABOUT THE COURSE Year 1 ensures that you have a broad and grounded knowledge of business today, giving a platform to develop specialised knowledge as you progress through the course. You will gain a good grasp of what business is all about, the environment within which business operates, key activities at the centre of organisations, an understanding of economic thinking and an appreciation of the role of data and information in business. In Year 2 you’ll get to know about the functions of a business and how these functions relate to each other. You will have the opportunity to work on projects and to use business techniques to solve problems, and you’ll start to develop your employability skills before seeking a placement at the end of this study year. There is a compulsory module on financial accounting, and a range of
other modules related to business and management functions. At the end of your second year you have the option to choose a ten month business placement or a shorter ten week placement during the summer break. This is an invaluable chance to apply your knowledge and skills in the real world, making you even more attractive to employers. In your final year, when you finish your placement, you will practice, develop, challenge and explore all your business learning, and examine management as an integrating activity. You will undertake a business-related dissertation, exploring in depth a topic of business that really interests you. You’ll also have the opportunity to work individually or with colleagues to develop and set up a business. A choice of modules allows you to pursue specialist areas.
SAMPLE MODULES Year 1: Organisations and the Business Environment; Economics and Globalisation; Managing Data. Year 2: Creativity and Innovation in the Workplace; Financial Accounting; Human Resource Management, Marketing, Information and Operations Management; International Business; Destination Management. Year 3: Business and Management Research Project; Managing Sustainability; Business Strategy; Enterprise; Strategic Human Resource Management, Cross Cultural Management in International Business; Marketing for Managers; Management Accounting; New Trends in Management; Tourism: Contemporary Issues. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PATHWAY Through this pathway (UCAS code N600) you will select modules that will prepare you for a human resource management specialism. In your second year, you will study ‘Human Resource Management’ and in your final year ‘Strategic Human Resource Management’ where you will take on projects which have been set by real organisations. You will gain an understanding of different strategic approaches to HRM, related to people resources, learning & development, reward or employee relations. In your final year dissertation, you’ll explore in depth an area of human resource management that really interests you. The optional ten month business placement or shorter ten week placement at the end of Year 2 is an invaluable chance to apply your HR knowledge and skills in the real world, making you even more attractive to employers. Graduates from this pathway may progress to a professional qualification such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD).
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
MARKETING PATHWAY The Marketing pathway (UCAS code N500) offers a programme that will equip you with the business skills to work in a range of marketing areas. You will specialise in a second year module ‘The Marketing Business’ and in your final year you will take ‘Marketing for Managers’. Your study will include services marketing, retail marketing and related competitive issues, communication planning including public relations. You will explore the identification of customer needs; strategies for meeting and satisfying customer needs; marketing and business strategy; and a critical assessment of the impact of marketing on society and the natural environment. At the end of Year 2 you have the option to choose a ten month business placement or a shorter ten week placement during the summer break. This is an invaluable chance to apply your marketing knowledge and skills in the real world, making you even more attractive to employers. In your final year, when you finish your placement you’ll undertake research for your dissertation and explore in depth an area of marketing that really interests you. Graduates from this pathway may progress to a professional qualification such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing (for which you can use your degree to claim some exemptions). TOURISM MANAGEMENT PATHWAY The Tourism Management pathway (UCAS code N832) offers a programme that will equip you with the business skills to work in tourism management. You will specialise in a second year module ‘Destination Management’ and in your final year you will take ‘Tourism: Contemporary Issues’. At the end of your second year you have the option to choose a ten month business placement or a shorter ten week placement during the summer. This is an invaluable chance to apply
your tourism management skills in the real world, making you even more attractive to employers. Your study will include planning for tourism, information needs in the tourism decision-making process, sustainability, stakeholder groups, research activities in a tourist destination, tourism management issues, analysis and interpretation. Contemporary manifestations of heritage, culture, sustainability and ethics within tourism are analysed, alongside discussions of the implications of climate change and the growth in ICT for tourism practice. In your final year you’ll practice, develop, challenge and explore all your business learning, and examine management as an integrating activity. In your tourism management related dissertation you’ll explore in depth an area of tourism that really interests you. ACCOUNTING PATHWAY Through the Accounting pathway (UCAS code N400) you will select modules that provide specialist knowledge in accounting practices and principles, whilst equipping you with wider business skills to work in a range of business sectors. You will specialise in a second year ‘Financial Accounting’ module and in your final year you will study ‘Management Accounting’. You will understand the financial information provided to management by a robust accounting system. You will cover both financial and management accounting, along with more academic subjects like social responsibility, accounting scandals and environmental accounting. At the end of your second year you have the option to choose a ten month business placement or a shorter ten week placement during the summer break in an accounting role or working for a firm of accountants. This is an invaluable chance to apply your knowledge and skills in the real world, making you even more attractive to employers.
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In your accounting related dissertation you’ll explore in depth an area of accounting that really interests you.
graduate PROFILE ZARA EASTON GRADUATED 2012 —
“ The Business & Management course gives INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS you a great understanding of all aspects of The International Business pathway business. It also helps push those who are (UCAS code OT6Y) offers a entrepreneurial. The enterprise module programme that will equip you with helps you to think of new creative ideas. the international business skills to In my interview this is something that work in a global business. You will they were most interested in. The course specialise in a second year module helps you think creatively and logically ‘International Business’ and in your and this is something that I believe helped final year you will study ’Cross Cultural me to gain employment within the magazine sector and enhance my career. Management in International I now have a job working for a company Business’. called Frontline, which is one of the largest At the end of your second year you magazine distribution companies in the have the option to choose a ten month UK. My title is a Newstrade Marketing business placement or a shorter ten Executive and I work with the publishers week placement during the summer to help plan and organise promotional – either abroad or in an international activity within retailers for each of the business. This is an invaluable chance titles. If you want to learn all aspects of the business world, have constant support to apply your international business and build strong relationships then I would skills in the real world, making you highly recommend the Business and even more attractive to employers. Management course.” Your study will commence with an introduction to international business environment, internationalisation and will progress to developing international strategy. It will include international financial management and HR management. You’ll develop global management skills and will explore culture, values and worldviews. There will be a focus on communication across cultures in the context of international business. In your dissertation, you’ll explore in depth an area of International Business that really interests you.
CAREERS During your degree programme you’ll have many opportunities to explore your career aspirations, helped by visiting speakers who will encourage you to look at work placements and internships. You’ll also work alongside businesses on project based assignments, giving you useful insights to a range of businesses and possible career choices.
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ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE BSC (Hons) UCAS code: F900 INstitution Code: B20
Assessment: Generally a mixture of coursework and examination.
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points, with minimum 80 points from a science or geography-related subject preferred.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Location: Newton Park campus Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
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organisations (such as the Soil Association). Many graduates have gone on to postgraduate programmes at Bath Spa and elsewhere, leading to a teaching qualification (PGCE), MSc or PhD.
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Graduate PROFILE Ewan gibson GRADUATED 2014
Climate change, pollution impacts, conservation of biodiversity, environmental management, energy use, wastes management, sustainability, and protection of natural systems are amongst the planet’s most pressing issues. Whilst we can’t guarantee that this course will enable you to solve all of them, we can promise that you will be taught by an enthusiastic, committed and supportive team of professionals who will help you to understand these issues and develop the skills to do something about them. Why choose this course? For many reasons; starting with a comment from a recent review of teaching. “We were impressed with the range and scope of field-based teaching and the extent to which this expertise benefits student learning.” (Internal Review comment). Class sizes are small – typically 25; staff and students are on first name terms, and each student is assigned a Personal Tutor from day one. All this helps to create an excellent learning environment. Expect to ‘get yourhands dirty’; we get you out of the classroom and into the environment as much as possible. Employers greatly value the practical skills you develop.
About the course Environmental Science is a vast subject embracing many disciplines; at Bath Spa it is studied from two related perspectives – biological and geographical. Whilst some topics, such as ecology and environmental management/sustainability are compulsory, there are many optional topics to choose from, e.g. marine biology, climatology, river and coastal management, environmental hazards, sustainability, wildlife conservation, and environmental consultancy. The course is flexible and you will design a programme of study to suit your interests and career aspirations. Along with flexibility is the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of environmental science; for example aquatic environments, environmental protection and conservation, science communication, or earth systems. Alternatively, you can maintain a broader interest in the subject; at Bath Spa the choice is yours. Throughout the course there is an emphasis on practical work: in our well-equipped laboratories, on campus – with its rich variety of terrestrial and aquatic environments – and further afield in the UK and abroad (though we are mindful of our carbon footprints in selecting locations).
SAMPLE MODULE S Year 1: Introduction to Biological Sciences (compulsory); Foundations in Geography (compulsory); Biodiversity and Conservation (compulsory); Global Food Issues; Investigating Earth Environments; Global Development. Year 2: Environmental Science (compulsory); Research Skills (compulsory); Applied Microbiology; Biodiversity Tools and Techniques; River and Coastal Systems; Environmental Hazards; Geographical Fieldwork; Climate Change and Sustainability; Work Placement. Year 3: Dissertation (compulsory); Environmental Consultancy; Nature Conservation in Context; Climatology; Coastal and River Management; Development and Disasters; Advanced Geographical Fieldwork; Managing Sustainability; Enterprise: Creating your Own Business. Careers The knowledge and skills that you develop during the course are valued by employers and our graduates have gained employment in a wide variety of organisations. Examples include: environmental consultancies, water companies, public sector bodies (for example the Environment Agency, Office for National Statistics, Natural Environment Research Council [NERC]), and not-for-profit
— “I loved my time at Bath Spa. The size of the uni made it really easy for a close-knit community to develop, so that by the time I came to finish I felt as familiar with the staff of the department as with my fellow students. Having the opportunity to get involved as a Student Course Representative and Student Ambassador widened my experiences, and participating in societies such as the samba drumming group really put the icing on the cake. The campus was perfect for an Environmental Science course, as the natural world was just on the doorstep! I am now a part-time research consultant with a small consultancy in Devon, working on waste characterisation in relation the decommissioning of oil and gas rigs in the North Sea and I’m also working as a seasonal volunteer ranger at a Council-run SSSI. Thanks to my course, I could not have been better prepared to take on this role. I am using skills which were developed though research-based assignments, in addition to the interpersonal skills encouraged throughout the course. For my voluntary ranger work, I am also well prepared since I now have a strong understanding of the principles behind the work undertaken; I am also utilising survey skills gained through a number of modules. Besides this, I achieved the ranger post as a direct result of the Work Experience module in my second year.”
01 Sampling soil and vegetation in Ecology 02 Marine Biology trip to plankton trawl site
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FOOD WITH NUTRITION BSC (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: D6B4
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20
The primary focus of this course is the food chain and the nutritional and safety issues that are of importance to consumers. Why choose this course? The course was designed for students who have an interest in pursuing a career in food and nutrition but who do not have a traditional science background. You do not need a traditional science A-level to apply – applied science is introduced into the programme where appropriate. The course is accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), the professional body for food scientists and technologists in the UK, for its membership purposes. In the 2014 National Student Survey (NSS) the Food and Nutrition courses at Bath Spa University scored an excellent 90% for overall satisfaction. We were ranked 9th out of a total of 21 institutions offering food and nutrition courses. This course will enable you to develop an appreciation of the complexities of the food chain, the needs and demands of consumers and the controls that exist to ensure that the food we eat is nutritious and safe. Our specialist facilities provide you with access to some of the latest technologies and learning resources, including a wide range of industry standard specialist food and nutrition software. About the course In Year 1, the core module provides the initial science base for the course and introduces some fundamental concepts of human biology, microbiology, anatomy and physiology that are necessary for the understanding of food science and nutrition. You will be introduced to consumer perceptions of the food supply chain with particular reference to nutritional, environmental and ethical issues, and develop your practical, study and ICT skills. In Year 2, the core module (Advanced Food and Nutrition) further
Assessment: Approximately 50/50 split between coursework / presentations and exams.
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
develops the themes covered in the first year and relates this to the food industry. A compulsory research skills module lays the foundations for the Year 3 dissertation. In Year 2 the compulsory food product development module requires you to develop an affordable standard range healthy option convenient food. You also have the option to choose a Work Placement module. Modules in Year 2 also investigate the role of diet in normal health and as a risk factor in health disorders. Food quality and new food product development are explored in the context of food production, the consumer and the law. Optional modules explore the biochemical and physiological links between common pathological states and the role of nutrition in prevention and treatment, and factors that affect food choice and eating habits. In your final year you will critically evaluate the national and international concepts of risk assessment and their application at all stages of the food system. You will also evaluate issues and concerns over food provision. A primary research investigation is an important part of your studies in Year 3. Other themes include contemporary food issues, current issues in nutrition and nutrition for optimal health and sports performance. An optional module allows you to carry out an independent project in collaboration with an organisation in the food and nutrition sector, such as a food business. Examples of projects undertaken include developing recipe cards for Heart UK; working with local NHS to develop a tool for analysing weight loss phone apps and healthy eating resources for dietitians; developing a tea biscuit; developing a botanical biscuit; developing a salsa product (now on supermarket shelves) and developing hygiene guidance for home catering businesses with the local authority Environmental Health Department (now in use across South West England).
Sample Modules Year 1: Introduction to Biological Sciences; Food, Nutrition and Health; Global Food Issues; Discovering Science; Organisations and the Business Environment; Sustainability in Life and Work. Year 2: Advanced Food and Nutrition; Research Skills; Food Product Development; Applied Microbiology; Epidemiology and Public Health; Work placement; The Marketing Business. Year 3: Dissertation; Food Safety; Future Food – Food and Nutrition in the 21st century; Global Trends in Food, Preservation and Packaging; Food and Nutrition in Practice (Work based module); Nutrition and Exercise Science; Enterprise: Creating your Own Business; Individuals Health and Society. Careers We have an excellent record in graduate employment – employers value the knowledge and professional skills developed by our graduates. The food industry, consumer organisations and enforcement agencies need graduates who have a balanced and informed view of food provision. Eighty six percent of the graduates in Food with Nutrition who graduated in 2013 were in employment and/or further study, six months after graduation. Of these graduates, 75% were in graduate level jobs or freelance/ self-employment. Average salary was £21,000. You will be qualified for a variety of careers such as manufacturing (particularly product development), quality assurance and food safety, nutritional adviser, retailing, local and national government and many more. Postgraduate study is another option – you could train to be a teacher (PGCE), do an MSc, PhD or a specialised professional qualification.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
STUDENT PROFILE ELIZABETH LAMBERT YEAR 2 — “ I chose the Food with Nutrition course at Bath Spa as I do not have a traditional science background. Bath Spa enabled me to choose a subject I love and want to pursue a career in without having to re-do my A-Levels to include science. The flexible programme at Bath Spa allows me to choose the modules I want to take in each year, meaning I can tailor the course to my particular areas of interest. I chose Bath Spa University as I felt like I would be a name and not just a number to my tutors and lectures. The campus at Bath Spa is another amazing aspect, where you can get the best education within the most beautiful scenery. If you ever feel stressed or need a break from work then there is nothing better than going for a walk around the lake.”
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GEOGRAPHY BSC (HONS) UCAS CODE: F800 INSTITUTION CODE: B20 AVAILABLE AS COMBINED: Popular combinations include: Biology: CF18 Sociology: FL83 For a full list of courses you can combine with Geography, see page 99
LENGTH: 3 years full-time; part-time available TUITION FEE (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) ASSESSMENT: Assessment varies between modules. Modules typically have a blend of coursework and examination, though many of our modules are assessed entirely through coursework.
TYPICAL OFFERS: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points with minimum 80 points from geography or a related subject such as science, sociology, economics.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
LOCATION: Newton Park campus
Studying Geography is ‘the best of both worlds’ as the subject combines academic knowledge and applied skills that uniquely bridge the gap between the earth and social sciences. We think this helps Geographers to be more adaptable in the world of work. Why choose this course? Geography is clearly important in understanding today’s pressing global and local issues from climate change to sustainable development. At Bath Spa you learn geographical concepts, theories and knowledge and also gain skills that can improve your career prospects. Geography graduates are valued by employers for this unique combination. Good teaching is important to us and our graduates consistently rate the quality of teaching on the course highly. In our friendly department you will benefit from small classes, specialist expertise, and up-to-date technologies, including Arc GIS, GPS survey instruments, campus river gauging and digital ‘met’ stations. Our rural site is a superb ‘natural laboratory’.
About the course The course allows you to do both physical and human Geography or to specialise in one or the other after Year 1. Fieldwork is an integral part of your learning and underpins our commitment to a relevant, interesting and useful degree. There are various field days during modules, as well as residential fieldwork options in the UK and overseas in Years 2 and 3. Current destinations include the English Lake District, Spain and Northern India. An important feature of our course is the opportunity to undertake work-based and voluntary placements, which count toward your degree; you can gain valuable experience whilst demonstrating the value of Geography to employers. In your first year you take a core module combining ‘foundation’ knowledge, concepts and skills. The rest is up to you! You can begin to specialise by choosing options that interest you, such as in physical landscapes or development and sustainability. In Years 2 and 3 you develop research and survey skills
preparing for dissertation work and a future career. The themes of sustainability, development and geo-information skills add further dimensions to your learning and employability. SAMPLE MODULES Year 1: Environment, People and Place, Investigating Earth Environments, Global Development. Year 2: The Enterprising Geographer, Climate Change and Sustainability, Environmental Hazards, River and Coastal Systems, Global Cities. Year 3: Dissertation or Extended Work Placement, Climatology, Development and Disasters, Identities and Inequalities, Advanced Geographical Fieldwork. CAREERS With a wide skills base, geographers take many career paths: the environment sector, utilities, planning, housing management, leisure, logistics and a wide variety of other businesses. Many geographers also undertake further study or research, or enter teaching as a career.
GRADUATE PROFILE PETER BRIDGE GRADUATED 2013 — “ Studying at Bath Spa was a great re-introduction to academic life. The atmosphere at BSU provided me with just the right resources and qualifications to achieve the results I wanted as well as giving me opportunity and direction for future development. My course provided a firm grounding in geographical and geological techniques, knowledge which I have found invaluable as a solid base for further academic progression. My current career aim is to work in geotechnical consultancy. The experience and lessons learnt from lecturers with industrial experience has proved particularly valuable in this regard. Enthusiastic lecturers provided inspiration. Graduation day in the beautiful Bath Abbey was a particularly special and gratifying moment of course. Besides all this I had fun doing the course and made some very good friends.”
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GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY BSC (HONS) UCAS code: LF81 INstitution Code: B20
Assessment: Varied assessment methods – mostly through coursework but with some written exams.
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS tariff points with a minimum of 80 points in Geography or a related subject.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Location: Newton Park campus Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Careers There are various career opportunities available to BSc GDS graduates from careers in the development charity sector, humanitarian relief, natural resource management, disaster management, development planning and public service provision, to careers in business, education, tourism, marketing, retail and further study. This course aims to give you the theoretical knowledge, practical training, and vocational and problem based learning to give you the best chance of securing a good career.
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STUDENT PROFILE POLLY THOMPSON YEAR 2
If you care about the world we live in, and wish to learn more about the environmental, social, economic and geopolitical issues facing peoples and environments of both developed and developing countries, then this course will be of interest to you. Why choose this course? This course explores the main themes and issues of development and sustainability, focusing on how we can ensure quality of life for all while also maintaining the quality of the environment. It offers an ideal training for students intending to pursue a career in the development sector or employment related to environmental sustainability. About the course This course will enable you to understand contemporary environmental and development challenges and their potential solutions. It approaches development through the underpinning of geographical concepts and the application of geographical methods and techniques to the study and
solving of real-world development problems. The opportunities throughout the course will enable you to gain the knowledge, skills, understanding and training that will be valued by employers, particularly in the third sector. During the course you will study geographical concepts and principles in both Physical and human geography strands in all three years of your degree to allow you to gain the knowledge, skills and understanding of the fundamentals of thinking and working spatially. In Year 2 you will participate in a work placement with a relevant organisation and you will have the opportunity to undertake residential fieldwork overseas. In Year 3 you will take more responsibility for your own learning through the dissertation or extended work placement. A community engagement module is also optional in the third year, and involves a period of volunteering with your chosen organisation. Field work is central to the Bath Spa learning experience and most modules have a field day. In Year 2, overseas field experience is gained
in Northern India, where we explore a variety of issues including urbanisation and modernisation, hazards and vulnerability, water management, consumption and identities. The optional modules at all levels enable you to personalise your own degree and specialise further in areas in which you are particularly interested. SAMPLE MODULES Year 1: Global Development, Economics and Globalisation Year 2: Work Placement, Environmental Hazards, Education and Development, Climate Change and Sustainability, Year 3: Dissertation or Extended Work Placement, Development and Disasters, Globalisation and work, Community Engagement.
— “ What I have particularly enjoyed about Bath Spa is the freedom to be creative within the work we are set. Sciences are not generally seen as very ‘creative’ subjects, but I have really appreciated the opportunity to think differently, something that has been actively encouraged here. Even though I joined as a mature student I was still a little unsure as to where I wanted to go after I graduated. After signing up for an international education module, I am now looking at working within that sector, perhaps as an educational officer in a museum, so I can go on and share my love for all things Geography with others.”
01 Exploring dynamic and vulnerable environments through a field trip to Northern India
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HUMAN NUTRITION BSC (Hons) UCAS code: B400 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Newton Park campus
Assessment: A variety of methods including, reports, case studies, essays, seminar presentations, examinations, group work and literature reviews.
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Typical offers: Typical offer range for UK / EU applicants 260–300 UCAS Tariff points, with minimum 160 points from at least two science based subjects (Biology preferred plus a related science subject e.g. Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Physical Education or Food Technology) at A-level or equivalent. Psychology can also be considered as a second science based subject but any offer made would also stipulate a B grade in Biology in this instance. An Access course that includes biosciences and numeracy.
By studying human nutrition you will understand the scientific principles underlying nutritional requirements throughout life, in health and disease. This is a stimulating and provocative programme that will challenge some of your own views and opinions and will answer many misconceptions. Why choose this course? This course is accredited by The Association for Nutrition. This means that graduates of this degree will be eligible for direct entry registration at Associate level on the UK voluntary register of nutritionists, with Associate Nutritionist status. It is a specialised award, meaning that most of the modules are compulsory. However, in order for students to tailor their degree towards future career aspirations or interests there are some module options, and a research project in Year 3. Students are also encouraged to undertake relevant work experience. Students have personal oncampus access to dietary analysis software, which is used frequently in lectures and seminars. We have excellent specialist facilities that include a food workshop and biology and microbiology laboratories. About the course You will be taught by a core lecturing team and we have a number of visiting expert lecturers who take both lectures and seminars on their areas of expertise. In Year 1: core modules in the biological sciences and food and nutrition provide you with introductory information on global food issues, nutrition and dietary analysis; human biology; biochemistry; and public health. In Year 2 a core Advanced Food and Nutrition module will develop themes covered in the first year. Other themes include pathophysiology and nutrition; research skills and epidemiology
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
STUDENT PROFILE Vanessa Dmello YEAR 2 — “ My course in one word would be “amazing”! I chose this course as it is accredited by the Association for Nutrition and because of the emphasis on employability and transferable skills that prepares its graduates for employment. I loved the fact that the course is very much student centred and that the tutors involve the students in decision making. Having lecturers from the industry and their experiences is very beneficial and makes the course much more professional and gives us the skills required in an actual work setting. Bath Spa has offered me opportunities that I don’t think I would have got from anywhere else. I’ve worked as a Student Ambassador and a peer mentor and was encouraged by my tutor to continue my work as a Health Care Assistant alongside my course. This will further my chances in securing a place for my master’s degree in Dietetics. I love the beautiful setting of my university and that is what brought me here in the first place. The setting is incredible and in my opinion it has a very homely feel to it, especially for someone like me who had never been away from home.”
and public health. Importantly you gain an understanding of the ethical and professional framework you will work within as a graduate of a human nutrition degree. In your final year you will critically explore the complex nature of issues related to dietary intake and physical activity and how these choices impact on health. You will also have the opportunity to take optional modules to help tailor your degree, which includes a workbased project set by an external organisation. The primary research investigation is an important part of your studies in Year 3 and this will enable you to integrate the practical and theoretical aspects of diet, nutrition and ethics.
Careers There is a growing interest in human nutrition and its effect on health. There is an increasing demand for multi-skilled graduates with knowledge of nutrition and health who will be able to find employment in both the public and private sector. Private sector careers include development of new food products; food safety and compliance with nutritional claims; marketing; public relations; and medical food companies. Public sector careers include local or national government in health or food departments; public health; health science in schools, colleges or universities. Graduates of the BSc Human Nutrition degree may go on to do postgraduate study, such as dietetics, or research, such as MPhil or PhD.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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PSYCHOLOGY BSC (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: C800
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 available as combined: Popular combinations include:
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase)
Assessment: Assessment varies and includes essays, research reports, group presentations and examinations.
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Typical offers: 280–340 UCAS Tariff points
Biology: CC18 Sociology: CL83 Education: XC38 For a full list of courses you can combine with Psychology, see page 99
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GRADUATE PROFILE Madeleine Carter GRADUATED 2014
SAMPLE MODULES Criminological and Investigative Psychology; Research Methods; Psychology of Health; Neuropsychology, the Social Psychology of Peace and Conflict; Counselling Psychology; Cyberpsychology, Online Behaviour, and Social Networking .
Psychology is the scientific study of the how the mind works and how our behaviour is shaped. It allows us to understand and explain everything from our dayto-day thoughts and behaviours to the acts of those who are seen as different, exceptional or shocking. Why choose this course? Psychology at Bath Spa examines the science behind what makes people tick. This science involves developing a critical understanding of the various theories that have been applied to our species (and where appropriate to other species). In order to do this students will learn how we observe people, how we conduct surveys and experiments and how we apply statistical procedures to the evidence that we have gathered. Psychology should not be seen as a ‘cold science’ however, as there is plenty of room for discussion and at Bath Spa our emphasis is on the real world approach to understanding people. The National Student Survey data for 2013-14 showed that Psychology students rated their experience very highly.
Indeed, with 98% overall student satisfaction, BSU Psychology was ranked 2nd out of 115 universities. About the course In the first year you will take a module that introduces you to the main psychological approaches – social, cognitive, developmental, individual differences and biological psychology. You will also take a module in research methods including survey work and experimentation. A module in individual differences (the study of personality and intelligence) is also offered. When you progress to Years 2 and 3 these main areas are studied in greater depth as individual modules are devoted to them. For those taking Psychology as a Major or Single Honours course, there will also be a dissertation involving working one-to-one with a member of staff on an original research project in Psychology.
CAREERS Psychologists work in a variety of fields from health, clinical and counselling to occupational, educational and research. Recent figures show that approximately 20% of psychology graduates become professional psychologists (following postgraduate training). A large proportion of graduates work in related areas such as teaching and social work where they take their skills. Students graduating with Single Honours in Psychology and Major Psychology (accredited route) (both accredited by the British Psychological Society) can apply directly for postgraduate training in order to become a professional psychologist. Those taking a combined award (Major nonaccredited, joint and minor) will need to take a further year’s ‘top-up’ conversion course should they wish to apply for postgraduate training in psychology.
— “The best thing about Bath Spa is that everyone really cares about you as an individual. The lecturers and tutors always go the extra mile to make sure that you get the most out of your degree, and the amount of contact time we had with them was brilliant. Their enthusiasm for psychology was really contagious! It was clear that they felt passionate about their subject and as a result their lectures were inspirational. In short, Bath Spa is a really friendly, caring place which is never content to ‘rest on its laurels’ but constantly evaluates the way it works in order to give you the best experience. I’ve just finished a six-week internship with the National Skills Academy for Social Care. The research project I was involved in during my internship here required me to work independently and to be confident in this, and I could not have done this without the knowledge and skills I had developed through studying psychology at Bath Spa. I drew on what I had learnt through the research methods modules and my dissertation by gathering data, analysing this and then collating my findings into a report. Employers seem to be very interested in the way that Bath Spa’s psychology course focuses on the applications of the field in real world settings. This also makes the leap between university and a career much smoother!”
01 Psychology experiment
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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SOCIOLOGY BSc (Hons)
Location: Newton Park campus
UCAS code: L300
Length: 3 years full-time; part-time available
INstitution Code: B20 AVAILABLE AS COMBINED: Popular combinations include: Psychology: CL83 Business and Management: NL13 Education: XL33 Geography: FL83
Typical offers: 260–320 UCAS Tariff points
FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk
Tuition fee (2015): £9,000 per year (subject to annual inflationary increase) Assessment: Assessment varies and includes essays, research reports, group presentations and examinations, (seen and unseen).
For a full list of courses you can combine with Sociology, see page 99
Sociology is the study of societies, culture and groups.
STUDENT PROFILE Rachael Dewhurst YEAR 1
Sociology helps us to understand how society is organised, how it works and how we can change it for the better in the future – at work and at home, in our communities and in the wider world. Why choose this course? Do you care about the world and do you want to make a difference to it? Are you concerned about inequalities? Do you enjoy learning about different points of view? Do you want to work in professions that seek to improve people’s lives, protect the environment, enhance communities or make people happier, safer and healthier? If you answer yes to any of the above questions, you will enjoying studying sociology. Sociology at Bath Spa provides you with choice about what and how you learn within a flexible structure that includes a range of modules on important sociological topics such as health, crime, identity, culture, ethnicities, gender, work, globalisation, the environment and popular culture. We know that if you are studying topics that interest you, you are far more likely to perform well. This is why we also work hard to ensure that you are assessed in ways that enable you to demonstrate your skills and your abilities to your best advantage. About the course We work hard to make sociology relevant and interesting in our fast-changing world. It will help you make sense of the world around you and the information that we are all bombarded with – to become better informed and better able to make your way in the future as a global citizen of the world. We provide you with supportive and varied learning that can be tailored to your individual needs. We make a large part of our lecture and other useful teaching materials available on-line to help you
— “ Because society is so interesting and complex, I want to understand it and be able to critique it with an educated mind. I also love theories and debate and this course definitely offers a lot of that! Bath Spa has a very nice community feel. Everyone, staff and students, are very friendly and willing to help.”
STUDENT PROFILE Kirsty Taylor YEAR 1
with your learning. As well as learning about sociology, you will be able to enhance your skills – the sorts of skills that you will need when you begin work or start on your professional career. We invite employers and local professionals as well as recent graduates to speak to you about the relevance of sociology to your work and your professional life. In the first year we focus on the concept of identity and you will learn more about yourself and others. We also introduce you to the concept of policy-making and international social and economic changes. The second year builds on the first and allows you to begin to specialise in more specific areas of sociology such as education, popular culture, urbanisation, crime and social theories. We also provide practical training in research skills – essential for your final year project work and valuable in the workplace. In the final year you can concentrate on an aspect of sociology that most interests you in a dissertation – a longer research-based project – with the support of a member of staff as a supervisor. You can also focus on more detailed subjects such as globalisation, the environment, work, gender, ethnicity or health.
In your second or third year you can do a work placement or work as a volunteer locally alongside your studies to improve your employability. You can also study sociology abroad with our international partners. SAMPLE MODULES Discovering Sociology, Sociology: Perspectives and Debates, Researching People and Organisations, Global Development Society and Welfare, Social Diversity and Social Divisions, Criminology, Criminal Justice, Sociology of Education, Stardom and Celebrity Culture, Global Cities, Health and Society, Community Engagement, Globalisation and Work, Migration, Diversity and Racism. Careers A Sociology degree is useful for any career that involves working with people. Typically people with sociology in their degree will go on to work in management or administration in the public or private sector; human resource management or marketing; media or journalism; social work; health education or nursing; law; the police; penal institutions; probation and working with offenders; work in the voluntary sector; or social research.
— “ I chose this subject because the structures of the systems and customs of our culture today often go unnoticed or are misunderstood. Sociology helps me piece things together and see the world how it really is. The campus at Bath Spa is beautiful! It’s a really peaceful place to think and the lecturers are passionate about what they teach.”
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
foundation degrees WITH OUR PARTNERS IN EDUCATION
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
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Gloucester Oxford
Swindon Circomedia
Cardiff
Bristol
New College, Swindon
City of Bath College
Bath Weston-super-Mare Weston College Wiltshire College
Salisbury
Southampton
Exeter
Many students can study vocationally-based Foundation Degrees at their local FE college or at one of our specialist education partners. Foundation Degree students are based in the colleges with access to all the facilities and resources available there, but are Bath Spa University students and will have access to the University facilities too. Many students who are taking Foundation Degrees apply to progress to the third year of an appropriate Honours degree at Bath Spa when they complete their Foundation Degree (subject to places being available). In the event of insufficient places being available to accommodate all foundation degree students who wish to progress, applicants will be subject to a selection process.
City of Bath College UCAS campus code E — Avon Street, Bath, BA1 1UP Tel: (01225) 312191 Email: courses@citybathcoll.ac.uk www.citybathcoll.ac.uk FdA Fashion and Textile Design Skills FdA Music Production and Artist Development Tuition Fees (2015 fee, subject to annual review) £7,500
Circomedia UCAS campus code H — Britannia Road Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 8DB Tel: 0117 9477288 Email: info@circomedia.com www.circomedia.com FdA Contemporary Circus and Physical Performance BA(Hons) Top Up Contemporary Circus and Physical Performance Tuition Fees (2015 fee, subject to annual review) £9,000
New College, Swindon UCAS campus code L — New College Drive, Swindon, SN3 1AH Tel: (01793) 611470 Email: he@newcollege.ac.uk www.newcollege.ac.uk FdA Early Years Tuition Fees (2015 fee, subject to annual review) £7,500
Wiltshire College UCAS campus code D — Wiltshire College Salisbury Southampton Road, Salisbury Wiltshire, SP1 2LW Tel: (01722) 344344 Email: info@wiltshire.ac.uk FdA Education Studies for Teaching Assistants Tuition Fees (2015 fee, subject to annual review)
Weston College UCAS campus code C — Knightstone Road Weston-super-Mare BS23 2AL Tel: (01934) 411411 Email: he.unit@weston.ac.uk www.weston.ac.uk FdA Early Childhood Studies FdA Contemporary Art and Professional Studies FdA Early Years FdA Performing Arts FdA Graphic Design FdA Popular Music FdA Music Production FdA Musical Theatre BA(Hons) Creative Industries: Graphic Design (Work-based) ‘top-up’ year BA(Hons) Top Up Contemporary Art and Professional Studies BA(Hons) Early Years Education (Work-based) ‘top-up’ year BA(Hons) Top Up Musical Theatre BA(Hons) Top Up Performing Arts Tuition Fees (2015 fee, subject to annual review) £7,500
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
CONTEMPORARY ART AND PROFESSIONAL studies UCAS CODE: WV44 INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: 180–220 UCAS Tariff points from art, design or media preferred. Location: Weston College, Westonsuper-Mare (UCAS Campus code C) Length: 2 years full-time; part-time available Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.weston.ac.uk he.unit@weston.ac.uk
Work-based learning and placements form the focus and ethos of this course, preparing you for a career as an art and design practitioner. Why choose this course? This Foundation Degree will develop your 2D and 3D skills covering the breadth of applied arts practice including painting, sculpture, ceramics, print making, surface manipulation, creative lens and time-based media. Whilst you develop these skills you will also study business practice, communication and ICT, professional practice and contextual studies. As the course progresses you will develop your 2D or 3D specialisms, and work-based learning will continue to play a pivotal role.
About the course The course is based at Weston College. You are also classed as a Bath Spa Student and will have access to the University facilities. But you will be classed as a Bath Spa student and will have access to the University facilities. There’s a strong emphasis on the applied nature of art and design, so that you will be well prepared to move directly into employment or art practice. The vocational focus of the course includes ‘live’ projects from the creative industries and businesses, outside placements in studios, galleries, museums, foundries and animation companies, and work placements alongside art / design practitioners. Modules range from ‘The Creative Industries’ to ‘Practical Skills Development’ and ‘Practical Studio Realisation’. Taught sessions will include lectures, seminars, workshops, demonstrations, tutorials and critiques. Work-based learning alongside art practitioners will take place through a range of external placements, and will help prepare you for employment in the creative industries. You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways, including 2D and 3D finished artwork and preparation work (including sketchbooks); essays; seminar presentations; seminar reports, journals and case studies; and practice in the workplace. Careers This course leads to employment in the creative industries: self employment as an artist / designer / crafts person; gallery / museum administration; community-based art work; prop making for theatre, television or animation companies. If you successfully complete this course you can apply to progress to the third year of an honours degree at Bath Spa University (subject to places being available, and there may be a selection process). Alternatively you can apply to the BA (Hons) Contemporary Art and Professional Studies at Weston College.
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CONTEMPORARY CIRCUS AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE UCAS CODE: W900 INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: 180 –220 UCAS Tariff points with minimum 80 points from drama, dance or theatre studies. Entry is by audition only. Location: Circomedia in Bristol (UCAS Campus code H) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.circomedia.com info@circomedia.com
A specialist innovative qualification, focused upon producing professional, multidisciplinary performance pioneers. Why choose this course? This two year, full-time course is taught at the internationally renowned circus-theatre school, Circomedia, located in the vibrant city of Bristol. The course uses circus and theatre techniques to create new forms of physical performance. About the course With a central emphasis on practical creativity and breadth of styles rather than intense specialisation, you will locate circus disciplines in their historical and contemporary contexts. You will also learn how to manage yourself as a professional, you’ll promote your own work and perform in a range of formats and professional environments. The course is comprised of five main areas: – S pecialist Choices (Acrobatics, Aerial, Equilibristics and Manipulation or Physical Theatre) – P erformance, Movement, Voice and Creative Studies –B ody Training –C omplementary Studies – including Practical, Technical and Academic Theory – P ractice and Evaluations.
In Year 1 you’ll discover and develop a solid technical foundation in your chosen skill area. You will explore your own optimum performance range, developing choreographic skills along with an understanding of the cultural and commercial contexts of contemporary circus practice. In Year 2 you will broaden your range of styles, techniques and understanding. You will reinterpret work through different mediums and for different audiences, building up a diverse portfolio of work and creating a specific act or piece of work over an extended period. The course will also develop and professionalise your understanding of the performing arts sector. Upon graduation, you will be well equipped with the industry specific skills necessary to promote and stage your own work and to manage yourselves in a variety of industry contexts. If you successfully complete this course you can apply to progress to the third year of a full honours degree at our Newton Park campus (this is subject to places being available, and there may be a selection process). Careers Circomedia has a high success rate of individuals finding professional work. Students have gone on to work solo, set up their own schools and companies, perform on TV and film, and into teaching. If you successfully complete this course you can apply to progress to a Year 3 ‘top-up’ in Contemporary Circus and Physical Performance.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES
UCAS code: X315 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Taught at Weston College, Weston-super-Mare (UCAS Campus code C) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 Typical offers: UCAS tariff of 180–220 points or more gained from at least one of the following: BTEC National or Diploma / Certificate / Award in Childcare or a related subject BTEC Extended Diploma in Childcare or a related area Two or more A-Levels Access to Higher Education course. If you do not possess the relevant entry requirements, other qualifications and experience may be taken into account. Applicants will be assessed on an individual basis. Please be aware that you will be required to complete a new Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced Application through Bath Spa University as part of the admissions process for this course. More information: www.bathspa.ac.uk www.weston.ac.uk he.unit@weston.ac.uk
This new course is an exciting opportunity for anyone wishing to work with young children in any setting, from nursery to reception class. Why choose this course? The course provides the theory and practice to enable you to become an effective practitioner, in line with government recognition of the importance of high level practitioners in early years development. The course provides extensive placements to ensure that you have a good knowledge of many different types of childcare. The course is taught at Weston College in Weston-superMare so this is where you would be based. However you would be classed as a Bath Spa University student and have access to the University facilities. About the course This two-year course includes study skills to provide you with the competences needed for effective academic work. The modules provide a mixture of theory and principles that underpin good practice, and explore current issues around children and how to make the best provision for children from birth to five.
MODULES All the modules studied will enable you to consider your current practice in light of research and policy and will support you to reflect and develop and make changes to your practice. Year 1: Child and Childhoods; Choices on Theory and Practice; The Learning Environment; Celebrating Diversity. Year 2: Holistic Development and Learning; Protecting Children; Working with the Family and Carers; Issues in Early Years. On successful completion of this course you will be able to enter the early years profession in a variety of roles and work in children’s centres, nurseries and schools. You may also have the opportunity to continue on to the work-based Early Years Education Honours top-up at Weston College. You can enter the early years sector at this point, or after completing the Honours top-up apply to progress onto an initial teacher training course to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or onto an Early Years Teacher course. If you wish to do this you will need a Science GCSE at C or above as well as Maths and English. You will be assessed in a variety of ways including written essays, presentations, portfolios and a research project. CAREERS The course is designed to provide you with the professional knowledge and skills to develop your professional role in an early years setting. You will be prepared to work in early years and childcare settings to actively support the national agenda for childcare.
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EARLY YEARS
UCAS code: X310 INstitution Code: B20 Location: Taught at New College Swindon (UCAS Campus code L); Weston College, Weston-super-Mare (UCAS Campus code C) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 Assessment: By written papers and presentations. There are no written exams. Typical offers: Appropriate accredited Level 3 qualification (for example A-levels or vocational qualifications) in Early Years, Childcare or Playwork (or equivalent).PLUS, Experienced practitioners currently working in the sector. Candidates will be assessed on an individual basis. Please be aware that you will be required to complete a new Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced Application through Bath Spa University as part of the admissions process for this course. FIND OUT MORE: www.bathspa.ac.uk www.newcollege.ac.uk www.weston.ac.uk
This course is part of the national and local drive to improve the career pathways and expertise of practitioners in the early years sector.
The Reflective Practitioner – The Environment and Celebrating Diversity: Through a process of analysis and recommendation, you will reflect upon your own workbased environment and consider aspects that are crucial in providing an effective learning environment for all children. Working Together: You will explore the issues and skills required for effective partnership work across the current early years sector to ensure high quality provision and outcomes for young children and their families. Research in the Early Years Setting: In your second year you will take a research module in which you will be able to investigate an area of interest chosen by you. We use variety of teaching and learning methods including lectures, group seminars and discussions, visits and specialist speakers and a range of assessment methods. Throughout the degree, you will be supported individually by your college lecturers and by a work-based mentor. CAREERS AND PROGRESSION The course is designed to provide you with the professional knowledge and skills to help you develop your role in an early years setting as a leader, manager, trainer, or Early Years Teacher. Many students progress further in their academic study.
Why choose this course? Early Years practitioners have a crucial role in supporting families and in the development and learning of young children. This course considers in depth current issues for the early years sector and will enable WHAT DO STUDENTS SAY? you to develop your career. “I’d thoroughly recommend this It is a work-based course for Foundation Degree, not only as those who are working in an early a valuable learning tool for your years setting or in a supporting role current career but as a way of in a mainstream classroom (with up-skilling your whole life. It makes children up to the age of eight). your brain think in creative ways and you begin to look at everything About the course differently. This is a two-year degree in which The course content was varied work-place learning is central so that you will study alongside your current and interesting. I really enjoyed the assignments and getting my teeth role in an early years setting. You will into new ways of thinking and then be supported to reflect on your putting them into practice at work.” academic and professional experiences and to maintain this reflective BA (HONS) EDUCATION STUDIES approach for your future career. OR EARLY YEARS EDUCATION The programme will enhance your Following your Foundation degree, understanding of children, childhood you can apply to progress to the and child development by focusing third year of the BA (Hons) Education on the child, as a competent learner at Bath Spa (see page 49). This is and as a member of the community. subject to places being available and there may be a selection process. SAMPLE MODULES Successful completion of the BA The Child and Childhoods: You will Hons allows you to apply to progress explore the views and experiences of onto an initial teacher training children and childhoods both locally course to gain Qualified Teacher and globally and develop a breadth Status (QTS) or to an Early Years of knowledge and understanding of Teacher course. the historical, sociological and global perspectives of childhood.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
EDUCATION STUDIES FOR TEACHING ASSISTANTS UCAS CODE: X900 Typical offers: Appropriate accredited Level 3 qualifications (For example A-levels or vocational qualifications) Plus Working as a teaching assistant with some experience of the role. Candidates will be assessed on an individual basis. Please be aware that you will be required to complete a new Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced Application through Bath Spa University as part of the admissions process for this course. Location: Wiltshire College Salisbury (UCAS Campus code D) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.wiltshire.ac.uk info@wiltshire.ac.uk
This course is for teaching assistants or those employed in intervention work who want to progress in their career by improving their qualifications along with deepening their knowledge and understanding of how best to support learning. Why choose this course? Teaching assistants have a crucial role in supporting successful learning for children and young learners. This course gives you the opportunity to consider in depth current aspects of supporting learning in educational environments and will help you develop your career. About the course This is a two-year degree in which work-place learning is central so that you will study alongside your current work. The course is underpinned by enabling you to develop your skills and understanding through personal and professional reflection.
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FASHION AND TEXTILE DESIGN SKILLS
MODULES Year 1: Curriculum Foundation Stage to End of Secondary – Inclusion – Learning, Theory and Practice – The Reflective Practitioner – The Inclusive Environment Year 2: Working in Partnership – The Curriculum in Action – The Reflective Practitioner – Supporting Individuals and Groups – Reflective Practitioner – Research in the Educational Workplace
UCAS CODE: W232
Through studying these modules, you will be able to explore the ways in which children and adults learn, effective teaching methods and the curriculum and will find out about supporting learners with special needs and social, emotional and behaviour issues. You will also investigate working in teams and partnerships along with the social and cultural contexts of learning. In your second year research module you will be supported to explore an area of interest chosen by you. We use a variety of teaching and learning methods including lectures, group seminars and discussions, visits and specialist speakers and a range of assessment methods. The course is taught in each of our partner colleges: Norton Radstock College and Wiltshire College Salisbury. It is taught for one day per week so that you are able to continue in employment You can apply to the college which is most convenient for you to attend but will also be a Bath Spa University student which includes having access to the University library and online teaching and learning facilities.
Tuition fee: See page 89
CAREERS AND PROGRESSION The course is designed to provide you with the professional knowledge and skills to develop your role and can provide you with a route into teaching or for other careers in education. Many students progress further in their academic study. BA (HONS) EDUCATION STUDIES Following your Foundation degree, you can apply to progress to the third year of the BA (Hons) Education at Bath Spa (see page 50). This is subject to places being available and there may be a selection process. Successful completion of the BA Hons allows you to apply to progress onto an initial teacher training course to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: 180–220 UCAS Tariff points with minimum 80 points from Art or Design, Textiles or related subject. OR Art Foundation course. All applicants will be interviewed. See page 30 Location: City of Bath College (UCAS Campus code E) Length: 2 years full-time; 4 years part-time More information: www.citybathcoll.ac.uk courses@citybathcoll.ac.uk
The course covers both fashion and textiles in equal measure, providing the opportunity to follow your chosen path in the fashion and textile industry. Why choose this course? The course aims to train students primarily through experience of practice in designing and making, giving a sound practical skills base. You’ll be based at City of Bath College, but you are able to use Bath Spa University’s facilities such as the specialist Art and Design library and attend the visiting speaker programme. On successful completion of your Foundation Degree you can apply to progress to Year 3 of an associated Honours Degree course at this, or another, university. At Bath Spa you would apply to the BA Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors course (see page 42) or BA Fashion Design course (see page 41), subject to places being available, interview and submission of a clear proposal of final study in Historical and Critical Studies.
About the course The course is run at the City of Bath College in the centre of Bath and provides a lively and demanding introduction to the basics of fashion and textiles with the emphasis on innovation, skills and creativity. Throughout the course you will be given a wide range of skills and experiences, both technical and creative, supported by an understanding of cultural, social and business skills. In Year 1 you are introduced to technical and design processes in fashion and textile including: drawing, visual research, digital media, fashion Illustration, fashion design skills, pattern cutting, sewing / construction skills, stand modelling, knit, embroidery / fabric manipulation, print, plus historical and cultural understanding of fashion and textiles. There are also opportunities for study visits in the UK and overseas and a visiting lecturer series. In Year 2 the emphasis is to develop creatively and professionally, working more as independent learners. Further fashion and textile design skills are developed including digital design for fashion and textiles (both CAD and CAM), fashion illustration, flats and specs, sewing / construction skills, pattern cutting. The practice-based work is supported by historical and critical studies and professional practice. This year also provides opportunities for work placements and live industry projects. You will create a portfolio of work and create a final collection either as a fashion collection with textiles or a textiles collection for fashion. The final collection will be displayed as a static exhibition. Careers Professional practice and entrepreneurial skills are embedded within the course to help you prepare for your future career. This course offers graduates a broad career route, which includes in-house designer, freelance fashion designer, freelance textile designer for fashion, embroiderer, pattern cutter, manufacturing / production assistant, quality control assistant, buying and merchandising.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
GRAPHIC DESIGN
UCAS CODE: W210 INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: Two subjects at A-level with one in Art or a design-related subject. OR BTEC National Diploma in Art and Design or other design-based subject. OR Art Foundation course. See page 30. Location: Weston College, Westonsuper-Mare (UCAS Campus code C) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.weston.ac.uk he.unit@weston.ac.uk
A skills-based course with strong commercial links to the creative industries, focusing on professional and practical skills development and design studio work. Why choose this course? This two-year full-time course is taught at our FE partner college, Weston College. It aims to equip you with a relevant, thorough and up-to-date knowledge of the design industry. The ‘Design Studio’ will be the central hub and ethos of the course, providing an introduction to the working studio culture and providing you with an insight into the day-to-day running of a commercial studio. You’ll work on live projects, working to briefs set in collaboration with various industries, so that you gain a real understanding of commercial design.
About the course You will work on projects from concept stage through to implementation, developing skills both for print and digital disciplines. You’ll become expert in the use of industry-standard software, working in state-of-the-art Graphic Design Studios and Digital Media Suites at Weston College’s University Campus. Work-based learning is central to the course, allowing you to develop a portfolio of work and skills for your future career development. You will be allocated a mentor to support your work-based learning. In each of the two years of the course you will study six modules, ranging from practical design skills in print and screen, to design in context, and business and enterprise skills. You will attend scheduled teaching over four days per 15 week semester. Throughout the course the emphasis will be on developing the skills necessary to work in the design and media industry. You’ll be taught by enthusiastic lecturers who have extensive experience in the design industry. Careers Graduates from this course will be prepared to work in the graphic design and digital media industries. Possible career areas include: graphic designer; art director; web designer; interactive designer; studio assistant; production designer. On successful completion of the Foundation Degree you can also apply to progress to the third year of the BA (Hons) Graphic Communication degree at Bath Spa University’s Sion Hill campus (this is subject to places being available and there may be a selection process). Alternatively you can apply to the BA (Hons) Creative Industries: Graphic Design (Work-based). This programme, which is based at Weston College, is available either full-time (one year) or part-time. It allows you to progress from the Foundation Degree to Honours level using the workplace as a learning environment, and you will develop research and project management skills by undertaking a work-based project.
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MUSIC PRODUCTION/ MUSIC PRODUCTION AND ARTIST DEVELOPMENT UCAS CODE: Music Production: J930 Music Production and Artist Development: WV38 INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: 180–220 UCAS Tariff points with at least 80 points from a music-related qualification (including BTEC Music Practice / Music Technology Performing Arts. OR A-level Popular Music, Music Technology or Music. Candidates who do not have the standard qualifications but who are over 21 and have music industry experience will be considered. In addition you will need a portfolio of music production recordings, music technology experience and hardware / software knowledge. See page 30 Location: Music Production Weston College, Weston-super-Mare (UCAS Campus code C) Music Production and Artist Development City of Bath College (UCAS Campus code E) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.weston.ac.uk he.unit@weston.ac.uk www.citybathcoll.ac.uk courses@citybathcoll.ac.uk
You will develop skills and a specialised understanding of music and audio production techniques relating to commercial trends and current technologies.
About the course The curriculum covers three broad areas of learning – practical / professional skills development; recording and production activities; and core academic skills, incorporating aural awareness, acoustics and music industry studies. The course aims to equip you with a broad-based set of skills relating to music production, including software literacy, studio production techniques and live sound. These subject-based skills are developed through practical assignments which include studio projects, front-of-house mixing for other students’ performances and work placements with local music industry employers. Over the two year course you will study modules covering advanced audio software skills; studio techniques; aural awareness; acoustics; sound design; live sound techniques; and marketing. You will also explore the music industry through a Professional Studies module, and you will undertake industry-based projects. Some modules are shared with Popular Music (page 95), so you will have opportunities to collaborate with performing musicians from this course if you are based at Weston College.
Careers Graduates from this course will be prepared to work in many aspects of the music production industry including live sound, the music industry Why choose this course? superstructure, and events management. This two-year full-time course is If you successfully complete this taught at our FE partner colleges, Weston College and City of Bath College. course you can apply to progress to the third year of a full honours degree You don’t need to be a performing at our Newton Park campus (this is musician to apply for this course, but subject to places being available, and you will need a high standard of music there may be a selection process). technology literacy and you’ll be expected to demonstrate a body of recorded work that shows your music production skills. You’ll have access to industrystandard equipment throughout the course. You’ll be working in fullyequipped digital recording studios, running Pro Tools HD and Logic Pro on Apple Macs. Apple Mac labs support class teaching, including Logic Pro, Pro Tools and Reason. Live sound modules are supported by large-scale PA systems, which for some projects are provided by local employers and venues.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
MUSICAL THEATRE
UCAS CODE: WW34 INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: 180–220 UCAS Tariff points including 80 points in related subject /s such as: BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts, Dance, Drama or Theatre; A-level Drama and Theatre Studies; A-level Performing Arts; A-level Dance; A-Level Music; Grade 8 in voice. See page 30 Alternative qualifications and non-traditional entry applications will be considered. Group and / or individual auditions will be held. Location: Wessex Academy of Performing Arts, Weston College, Weston-super-Mare (UCAS Campus code C) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.weston.ac.uk he.unit@weston.ac.uk
This is a practical, performer-based course in which you will develop Musical Theatre performance skills in acting, singing and dance. Why choose this course? Industry awareness is a key feature of this programme and as well as gaining a practical and theoretical understanding of Musical Theatre as an art form, you will develop the necessary skills and industrial awareness to prepare you for work in a broad range of employment fields. You will develop an understanding of the American and European Musical Theatre repertoire in its historical and cultural context. About the course Students on this two-year full-time course are based at The Wessex Academy of Performing Arts at Weston College, Weston-super-Mare. The delivery of the programme is based on the concept of the ‘intelligent performer’ who combines technical accomplishments, contextual understanding and the necessary business skills to generate work for themselves within a broad range of employment fields. You will undertake weekly skills classes in acting, singing and dance and will learn how to apply both practical skills and contextual awareness through a series of process-driven, skills-based practical projects that will explore the relationship between the disciplines of acting, singing and dance. Industry awareness is a key feature of this course and will be delivered through classes with visiting industry lecturers, employment-related workshops in Year 1 and a professional work placement in Year 2.
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PERFORMING ARTS
Modules Year 1: Skills Workshop 1 (acting, singing technique and dance-ballet, jazz and tap), Performance Workshop (Musical Theatre repertoire), Professional Studies 1 (audition technique, professional website / self promotion), Musical Theatre in Context 1 (academic research into history of Musical Theatre) Year 2: Skills Workshop 2, Performance Project (including a self directed and a professional major musical theatre production), Musical Theatre in Context 2, Professional Studies 2 (including work experience). There may be opportunities for you to undertake work placements in other countries, such as Germany and Switzerland, which have flourishing Musical Theatre industries. Whether undertaken locally or abroad, the aim of work placements will be to serve both as an educational resource and as a way of increasing your employability in your chosen field. On successful completion of the Foundation Degree, you can apply to progress to the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre at Weston College in Year 3 (subject to places being available). Entry to Year 3 will be by interview and audition and is normally restricted to applicants who have completed the Foundation Degree in full. Building on the integration of theory and practice in the FdA Musical Theatre, the third year BA encourages increased student autonomy in the application of skills and knowledge. Careers The course aims to prepare you for careers in musical theatre, music, theatre and media industries, community arts and teaching.
UCAS CODE: W492 INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: 180–220 UCAS Tariff points with minimum 80 points from Drama, Dance or Theatre Studies. Entry Criteria: Entry is by audition only. See page 30 Location: Wessex Academy of Performing Arts, Weston College, Weston-super-Mare, (UCAS Campus code C) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.weston.ac.uk he.unit@weston.ac.uk
An ensemble-based training course that carries with it a strong accent of team work in performance. Why choose this course? The Foundation Degree in Performing Arts is a practical actor training course: it will develop your vocal, physical, emotional and technical skills, allowing you to build these essentials in workshops and sessions and then channel this learning into rehearsal and production practice. The course is based at Weston College in Westonsuper-Mare, where you will be based. About the course The approach is one of ‘theatre-asplaying’ in an ensemble or company context. In play we are the most creative and great emphasis is placed upon exploration of the self and the world around us. Throughout the course, you will engage in all aspects of performance making. The course is practice based and makes extensive use of visiting industry professionals as a means of instilling professional rigour in your training. You will be taught by a highly experienced body of staff practitioners. The company is unique in its fusion of professional actors and undergraduates working together in the creation of event. Recently, the course has developed working partnerships with the Brewhouse Theatre in Taunton, the Tobacco Factory Theatre in Bristol and the Bike Shed Theatre in Exeter. Partnerships are also currently being established with theatres and universities in Poland, Greece and America. Previous productions have earned a 5 star review by the prestigious British Theatre Guide when appearing at The Edinburgh Fringe and excited audiences with a site-specific performance on the Somerset coastline. In Year 1, modules in Acting will introduce you to the ‘art of playing’ as
an overarching framework for gaining and practicing performance skills and for understanding performance. In Year 2 you will concentrate on production and performance. You will develop your understanding of performance both through theoretical research and through practical engagement, and you will produce more challenging and innovative work. You will work with visiting specialists and tutors in the application of performance skills for the creation of multi-faceted theatre. Recent visiting practitioners: Steven Berkoff, Forkbeard Fantasy Theatre Company & Candoco Company. Careers As a graduating student you will have the skills and knowledge to begin to work in theatre in one of its many forms. During your second year you will begin to investigate professional pathways in the industry and gain the necessary tools to enter into the wider profession. At the end of Year 2 you may apply to progress to the third year of the BA (Hons) Acting course at Bath Spa University. This is subject to places being available, and entry is subject to an interview/audition. You may also apply to progress to the Year 3 ‘top-up’ in Performing Arts at Weston College.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
POPULAR MUSIC
UCAS CODE: W340 INstitution Code: B20 Typical offers: 180-220 UCAS Tariff points with at least 80 points from a music-related qualification (including BTEC Music Practice / Music Technology / Performing Arts or A-level Popular Music, Music Technology or Music. Grade V111 Rockschool (guitar, keyboard, bass, drums, voice) accepted in lieu of one A-level. Portfolio of music recordings required (assessed via CD demo and audition). High level of performance skills, e.g. voice, guitar, bass, keyboard, drums. Candidates who do not have the standard qualifications but are over 21 and have music industry experience will be considered. See page 30 Location: Weston College, Westonsuper-Mare, (UCAS Campus code C) Length: 2 years full-time Tuition fee: See page 89 More information: www.weston.ac.uk he.unit@weston.ac.uk
You will develop musical performance and analysis skills in parallel with an understanding of the music industry. Why choose this course? This two-year full-time course is taught at our FE partner college, Weston College, in Weston-superMare. You will need to be a performing musician to apply for this course (some of the modules are performance based) and you will need to demonstrate a high standard of instrumental or vocal proficiency at interview / audition. As the course progresses your musical performance and analysis skills will develop and you will gain a sound understanding of the music industry, particularly local commercial trends. You have access to industry standard equipment, including fully-equipped band rehearsal and instrumental teaching spaces; facilities also include digital recording studios, running Pro Tools HD and Logic Pro on Apple Macs. Live sound modules are supported by large-scale PA systems, which for some projects are provided by local employers and venues.
About the course The curriculum covers three broad areas of learning – practical / professional skills development; performance and composition; and core academic skills, incorporating music theory, popular musicology and music industry studies. The course aims to equip you with a broad-based set of skills relating to popular music, including instrumental proficiency, music theory and live performance. These subject-based skills are developed through practical assignments which include studio projects, live band-based gigs (see the ‘Music Production’ sister programme on page 93) and work placements with local music industry employers. You receive instrumental lessons as part of the course. Over the two-year course you will study modules covering performance; studio techniques; music theory; live sound techniques; and marketing. You will also explore the music industry through a Professional Studies module, and you will undertake industry-based projects. Some modules are shared with Music Production (page 93), so you will have opportunities to collaborate with music producers from this course. Careers Graduates from this course will be prepared to work in many areas of the music industry. Typical career destinations include performance, instrumental teaching, promotion and events management. If you successfully complete this course you can apply to progress to the third year of a full honours degree at our Newton Park campus (this is subject to places being available, and there may be a selection process).
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98
99
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
100
CourseS and combinations Single / Specialised Awards – BA / BSc (Hons)
Single / Specialised Awards – BA / BSc (Hons)
Page
Course Title
UCAS Code
Award
Page
Course Title
UCAS Code
Award
40
WW2R
BA (Hons) – Specialised
81
Food with Nutrition
D6B4
BSc (Hons) – Single
58
Film and Screen Studies
W620
BA (Hons) – Single
67
Three Dimensional Design: Idea Material Object Acting
W41O
BA (Hons) – Specialised
57
38V4
BA (Hons) – Specialised
76
Biology
C100
BSc (Hons) – Single
76
Biology (Conservation Biology)
86T4
BSc (Hons) – Single
82
Film, Television and Digital Production Geography
F800
BSc (Hons) – Single
76
Biology (Human Biology)
N3K2
BSc (Hons) – Single
83
LF81
BSc (Hons) – Specialised
78
Business and Management
NN12
BA (Hons) – Single
78
Business and Management (Human Resource Management) Business and Management (Marketing) Business and Management (Tourism Management) Business and Management (Accounting) Business and Management (International Business) Commercial Music
N600
BA (Hons) – Single
44
Global Development and Sustainability Graphic Communication
W200
BA (Hons) – Specialised
60
History
V100
BA (Hons) – Single
46
History of Art and Design
R327
BA (Hons) – Single
84
Human Nutrition
B400
BSc (Hons) – Specialised
61
Media Communications
P390
BA (Hons) – Single
72
Music
W300
BA (Hons) – Specialised
45
Photography
WPQ3
BA (Hons) – Specialised
85
Psychology
C800
BSc (Hons) – Single
63
Religions, Philosophies and Ethics
VV65
BA (Hons) – Single
W304
BA (Hons) – Specialised
86
Sociology
L300
BSc (Hons) – Single
W385
MA
42
BA (Hons) – Specialised
W190
BA (Hons) – Specialised
42
W231
MA
35
Creative Arts
(Below)
BA (Hons) – Specialised
54
Creative Computing (Animation)
T6M2
BSc (Hons) – Specialised
Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors Textile Design for Fashion and Interiors – Integrated Masters Theatre Production
WW27
39
Commercial Music – Integrated Masters Contemporary Arts Practice
W431
BA (Hons) – Specialised
54
Creative Computing (Gaming)
6T3D
BSc (Hons) – Specialised
54
8GD3
BSc (Hons) – Specialised
Creative Arts – BA (Hons)
53
Creative Computing (Software Development) Creative Media Practice
WP93
BA (Hons) – Specialised
Page
55
Creative Writing
W800
BA (Hons) – Single
Course Title
75
Criminology
382M
BSc (Hons) – Specialised
70
Dance
W500
BA (Hons) – Single
36
Art
71
Drama
W400
BA (Hons) – Single
36
50
Education Studies
X300
BA (Hons) – Single
50
Education – Early Years
X312
BA (Hons) – Specialised
50
X392
BA (Hons) – Single
56
Education – International Education Education – Youth and Community Studies Education (Primary Teaching Pathway) Education, Early Years (Primary Teaching Pathway) Education (Primary Teaching Pathway with a second subject:) Art Biology Business and Management Creative Writing Dance Drama English Literature Geography History Media Communications Mixed Media Textiles Music Psychology Sociology Study of Religions English Literature
XW11 XC11 XN11 XW18 XW15 XW14 XQ13 XF18 XV11 XP13 XWC2 XW13 XC18 XL13 XV16 Q300
BA (Hons) – Single
80
Environmental Science
F900
BSc (Hons) – Specialised
41
Fashion Design
W233
BA (Hons) – Specialised
38
Fine Art
W101
BA (Hons) – Specialised
78 78 78 78 68 68
50 49 49 49
N500 N832
BA (Hons) – Single BA (Hons) – Single
N400
BA (Hons) – Single
OT6Y
BA (Hons) – Single
L590
BA (Hons) – Specialised
X301
BA (Hons) – Specialised
X311
BA (Hons) – Specialised
73
Ceramics and Sculpture WW1G
Creative Writing
Dance
Drama
Music
Textiles
Graphic Arts
WW19
WW15
WW1L
WW13
WW12
WWCF
-
WW28
WW2M WW2L
WW2H
W290
W294
WW28
-
WW95
WW4Y
WW93
WWX2
WW82
70
Ceramics and Sculpture Creative Writing Dance
WW2M
WW95
-
WW5K
WW53
WW52
WW5F
71
Drama
WW2L
WW4Y
WW5K
-
WW3K
WW2K
WW42
72
Music
WW2H
WW93
WW53
WW3K
-
WWH2
WW32
37
Mixed Media Textiles
W290
WWX2
WW52
WW2K
WWH2
-
W295
37
Graphic Arts
W294
WW82
WW5F
WW42
WW32
W295
-
55
BA / BSc (Hons) – Specialised
Foundation Degrees Page
Course Title
UCAS Code
Award
90
Contemporary Art and Professional Studies
WV44
FdA
90
Contemporary Circus and Physical Performance
W900
FdA
91
Early Childhood Studies
X315
FdA
91
Early Years
X310
FdA
92
Education Studies for Teaching Assistants
X900
FdA
92
Fashion and Textile Design Skills
W232
FdA
93
Graphic Design
W210
FdA
93
Music Production
J930
FdA
93
Music Production and Artist Development
WV38
FdA
94
Musical Theatre
WW34
FdA
94
Performing Arts
W492
FdA
95
Popular Music
W340
FdA
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
101
Combined Awards
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NC11
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–
Business and Management Page 78
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NC11
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–
AY26
Contemporary Arts Practice Page 39
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–
–
–
W1I1
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–
–
–
Creative Computing Page 54
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AY26
W1I1
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78G3
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–
–
WC91 WC51 CW1L
CX13
NW19 NW15 NW1L NX13
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–
I1V3
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See P.98
See P.98
CF18
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CV11
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CP19
–
CW13 CV1M
NV17
NV11
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NP19
–
NW13 NV1M NC18
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–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
39G5
4CV5
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672N
–
–
–
CQ13 CW16
–
–
NW16 NF18
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7Y54 M53W
Graphic Arts
–
–
Study of Religions
Biology Page 76
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Sociology
–
Publishing
–
Psychology
English Literature
See P.98
Philosophy and Ethics
Education Studies
See P.98
Music
Drama
See P.98
Mixed Media Textiles
Dance
–
Media Communications
Creative Writing
–
History of Art
Creative Computing
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History
Contemporary Arts Practice
–
Heritage
Business and Management
–
Geography
Biology
Art Page 36
Film and Screen Studies
Art
Degree codes – BA / BSc (For * See Creative Arts on page 98)
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–
–
–
–
See P.98
CC18
–
CL13
CV16
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NP14
NL13
NV16
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
R2Y6
–
–
–
Creative Writing Page 55
See P.98
WC91 NW19
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78G3
–
See P.98
See P.98
WX83 WQ93 WW86 WF98
–
WV91
–
WP99
See P.98
See P.98
WV85 WC88 WP84 WL93 WV96
See P.98
Dance Page 70
See P.98
WC51 NW15
–
–
See P.98
–
See P.98
WX53 WQ53 WW56 WF58
–
WV51
–
WP49
See P.98
See P.98
WV55 WC58
–
WV56
See P.98
Drama Page 71
See P.98
CW1L NW1L
–
–
See P.98
See P.98
–
XW34 QW3L WW46 WL49
–
VW1L
–
WP4H
See P.98
See P.98
WV45 CW8L
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WL4H WV46
See P.98
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XV31
–
XP39
–
XW33
XV35
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XL33
XV36
–
QV37 QV31
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QP39
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QW33 QV3M QC38
PQ43
QL33
QV36
–
WL63 WV66
–
Education Studies Page 50
–
CX13
NX13
–
–
English Literature Page 56
–
CQ13
–
–
7Y54
Film and Screen Studies Page 58
–
CW16 NW16
–
Geography Page 82
–
CF18
NF18
–
–
Heritage Page 59
–
–
NV17
–
39G5
History Page 60
–
CV11
NV11
–
4CV5
History of Art Page 46
–
–
–
–
I1V3
Media Communications Page 61
–
CP19
NP19
–
672N
Mixed Media Textiles Page 37
See P.98
–
–
–
–
See P.98
See P.98
See P.98
Music Page 72
See P.98
CW13 NW13
–
–
See P.98
See P.98
See P.98
Philosophy and Ethics Page 64
–
CV1M NV1M
–
–
Publishing Page 62
–
–
R2Y6
WP84
Psychology Page 85
–
CC18 NC18
–
–
Sociology Page 86
–
CL13 NL13
–
WL93
Study of Religions Page 65
–
CV16 NV16
–
WV96 WV56 WV46 XV36 QV36 WV66
Graphic Arts Page 37
See P.98
–
–
NP14
–
WX83 WX53 XW34
–
WQ93 WQ53 QW3L XQ33
XQ33 XW36 –
M53W WW86 WW56 WW46 XW36 QWH6
WF98 WF58 WL49 –
–
–
WV91 WV51 VW1L –
–
–
WP99 WP49 WP4H
WV85 WV55 WV45
See P.98
–
–
XF38
QWH6 QF38
–
WL67
–
–
–
WP6H
–
WW63
–
WC68
PP3K
XF38
QF38
WL67
–
FV87
FV81
–
–
–
FW83
LV75
FC88
–
FL83
–
–
–
QV37
–
FV87
–
VV71
–
VP93
–
–
–
–
3HD1
–
–
–
XV31
QV31
P3V1
FV81
VV71
–
–
VP19
–
VC18
VP14
VL13
VV16
–
–
Q3V3
–
–
V7V3
–
–
–
–
–
V3P4
–
–
–
–
VP93
VP19
–
–
–
PC98
PP34
PL93
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
See P.98
See P.98
–
–
–
–
See P.98
XW33 QW33 WW63 FW83
–
VW13
–
PW93
–
–
XV35 QV3M
XP39
–
–
QP39 WP6H
–
PQ43
–
See P.98
–
–
–
–
PW93 PV3M
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WV3M WC38
–
WL33 WV36
See P.98
LV75
–
VV15
–
PV3M
–
WV3M
–
VC58
–
VL53
VV56
–
PP3K
–
3HD1
VP14
–
PP34
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
VC18
PC98
–
WC38 VC58
–
–
–
VL13
PL93
–
WL33 VL53 CL83
–
–
LV36
–
–
–
VV16
–
–
WV36 VV56 CV86
–
LV36
–
–
–
–
–
–
See P.98
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–
–
–
WL4H XL33 QL33 WL63 FL83
See P.98
VW13 VV15
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WC58 CW8L XC38 QC38 WC68 FC88 –
XC38
–
–
See P.98
–
–
CL83 CV86
–
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY PROSPECTUS / COURSES
102
VISIT US
Liverpool Nottingham
Birmingham
One of the best ways of finding out about Bath Spa University and what it would be like to be a student here is to visit us. – Find out about student life and support for students – Meet the staff and students – Attend presentations and workshops – Take a tour of the campus – View the student accommodation
How to book You will need to book a place on these Open Days please visit:
Cardiff
Bristol
www.bathspa.ac.uk/ study-with-us/open-days Or for further info email: opendays@bathspa.ac.uk
Oxford
London
Bath
Exeter Plymouth
Please note – if you are thinking about applying to a course based at one of our partner colleges, you would be advised to attend an Open Day or Evening at the college itself in order to talk to the teaching staff there and view the facilities.
Open Day Dates for the diary
SATURDAY june
SATURDAY October
Saturday october
november Saturday
november SATURDAY
december saturday
6
17
24
7
21
5
All subjects, both campuses
All subjects, both campuses
In addition to our main Open Days there are a number of opportunities to visit us. Partner College Open Days for Foundation Degree students Each of our partner colleges holds Open Days for students interested in Foundation Degrees taught at the colleges. Please check the colleges’ websites for dates and booking arrangements (see page 89). Campus tours Throughout the year there are regular tours of the campus, led by our student ambassadors, giving visitors the opportunity to look around the University (including halls of residence) on a normal working day and get a ‘feel’ for life at Bath Spa. For dates and online bookings see: www.bathspa.ac.uk/prospectus/open Individual visits We are happy for visitors to come and visit on an individual basis at most times (the exception would be when there are particular events on campus such as Freshers’ Week or Graduation). We ask visitors to report to main reception at either campus, where they will be given information to enable them to take a ‘self-guided’ tour of the campus. Please note that there is permit parking only at the Newton Park campus. Permits can be obtained from the Security Lodge at the entrance to the campus.
School of Music and Performing Arts: Bath School of Art and Design only
All subjects, both campuses
Mature and Access learners (Who are thinking about returning to education after a break from studying) Advisors who are experienced in supporting mature students and Access learners are available for consultation in a dedicated drop-in centre on our main Open Days. The drop-in centre is the place to find out more about issues of particular concern to mature students and Access learners and provides an opportunity to meet current mature undergraduates and undergraduates who come to study at the University through the Access to Higher Education route. Annual Access Conference: Learners on Access to Higher Education courses in further education colleges are also invited to attend our annual one-day Access Conference held in January. The Access Conference brings together Access learners to take part in a day of motivational activities. Activities for young people Each year our widening participation team organises a programme of events for younger students from schools and colleges to raise awareness of, and aspirations to higher education. A range of activity days are held on campus and give younger students a taste of university life. We also run a programme of activities with our Academic Schools, including a range of Sixth Form Conferences, to help raise attainment and provide students with an insight into how subjects are studied at university level.
All subjects, both campuses
Sion Hill campus only: Bath School of Art and Design subjects
Visits to schools and colleges Widening participation staff and specially trained student ambassadors visit schools and colleges to give talks, attend careers events and parent evenings. Post application visits If you apply to us and are offered a place you will have another opportunity to visit us, so don’t worry if you don’t have the chance to visit us before making your application. For most courses applicants will be invited to special Applicant Visit Days, usually between February and April. These are for applicants only, and are designed to help you make up your mind whether or not to accept any offer made to you. Some courses require auditions and / or interviews, and visit arrangements are therefore slightly different. Details of the application process are on page 32. Contact us For information on general Open Days and visits contact our Recruitment and Events team: email opendays@bathspa.ac.uk. Tel 01225 875831. For information on activities for young people, mature student and Access learner drop-in sessions on main Open Days and the Access to Higher Education Conference contact our Widening Participation and Access Manager on 01225 876223, email: s.griffin@bathspa.ac.uk