Access to Higher Education courses

Creative Media – Moving Image

Higher National Certificate (HNC) Higher National Diploma (HND)

Overview

This course will teach students with a passion for film to make films, write scripts, edit video and create motion graphics and effects. The Higher National Certificate has six core units and two optional that cover the creative media sector focusing on moving image. The Higher National Diploma has two core units and six optional that can be selected across a range of specialist pathways.

What you will learn

This course covers a broad range of topics including TV and film practices, narrative techniques, video recording and post-production, drama and factual production, concepts and contexts and multiplatform production. Each unit is assignment-based and involves a project designed to reflect those you would find in industry.

How you will be assessed

This course is assessed through internal assignments, which will be verified externally.

Where it can take you

Upon completion of year 1 and receiving your Higher National Certificate, you can continue studying for a second year to complete your Higher National Diploma. After this, you may choose to top-up your HND to a Bachelor’s degree by studying for a third year at university, or progress into employment.

Course duration 1 year (HNC) or 2 years (HND) Centre College Green Entry requirements Students will usually need: 56 UCAS points from relevant Level 3 qualifications We can consider applications from students with fewer UCAS points who can present a suitable portfolio or showreel at interview.

Fees Year 1 £6000, Year 2 £6000 Accredited by Pearson/Edexcel Apply Direct through City of Bristol College

FdA Film and Media Production

Level 4 & 5 Foundation Degree

Overview

This foundation degree is designed for those aspiring to work in the media industry. You will learn how to make your own films using industry-standard equipment, and learn to use new technologies. The FdA focuses on film and video making across genres and platforms to give students a sound understanding of the industry and a broad range of creative and professional skills.

What you will learn

Over the two years you will study topics including narrative techniques, video recording and post-production, drama production, factual production, concepts and contexts, and advanced video and audio techniques.

How you will be assessed

This course is assessed through practical work, presentations, group work and coursework

Where it can take you

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be prepared to progress into employment in the video production and broadcast media industry. Alternatively, you may be able to progress onto the final year of the BA (Hons) Media Arts degree at the University of Plymouth. Please note that there is a deadline for applications and places may be subject to availability.

Course duration 2 years full-time, 3 years part-time Centre College Green Entry requirements Students will usually need: 56 UCAS points from relevant Level 3 qualifications OR Access to Higher Education Diploma in an appropriate pathway Mature students with relevant experience and/or related qualifications are welcome to apply. You will need to be prepared for an interview.

Fees Year 1 £6000, Year 2 £6000 Awarded by University of Plymouth Apply UCAS code: P310

Graphic Design and Visual Arts

Higher National Certificate (HNC) Higher National Diploma (HND)

Overview

This course will teach students to develop visual design outcomes across a range of media and build professional and creative work that explores the broad subject of graphic communication. The Higher National Certificate has six core units and two optional that cover the graphics and visual arts sector focusing on creative design practices. The Higher National Diploma has two core units and six optional that can be selected across a range of specialist pathways.

What you will learn

This course covers a broad range of topics including graphics and visual design concepts, editorial design, advertising, visual branding, packaging and 3D design, typography and digital imagery. Each unit is assignment-based and involves a project designed to reflect those you would find in industry.

How you will be assessed

This course is assessed through internal assignments, which will be verified externally.

Where it can take you

Upon completion of year 1 and receiving your Higher National Certificate, you can continue studying for a second year to complete your Higher National Diploma. After this, you may choose to top-up your HND to a Bachelor’s degree by studying for a third year at university, or progress into employment in graphic design, advertising, motion graphic design and more.

Course duration 1 year (HNC) or 2 years (HND) Centre College Green Entry requirements Students will usually need: 56 UCAS points from relevant Level 3 qualifications We can consider applications from students with fewer UCAS points who can present a suitable portfolio or showreel at interview.

Fees Year 1 £6000, Year 2 £6000 Accredited by Pearson Apply Direct through City of Bristol College

FdA Graphic Design and Digital Arts

Level 4 & 5 Foundation Degree

Overview

This foundation degree explores creative and critical thinking, and develops skills across a range of media from traditional crafts to emerging technologies. Students work on an array of live and simulated briefs to develop portfolios with input from real clients and mentors from Bristol’s thriving creative industry.

What you will learn

This course explores a range of graphic design topics and skills, including brand identity, typography, advertising, editorial design, animation, and app development. The emphasis is on creative practical projects and beginning to build your design portfolio.

How you will be assessed

This course is assessed through coursework, group work, presentations and practical assignments and projects. Methods include group critique, presentations and peer discussions and evaluations.

Where it can take you

Upon completion of this course students will be prepared for employment within relevant industries e.g. graphic design, advertising, packaging design and development, internet design and motion graphics. Students completing the FdA may be able to progress on to the final year of the BA (Hons) Graphic Communication with Typography degree at the University of Plymouth, or apply to an alternative top-up year. Please note that there is a deadline for progression applications and places may be subject to availability.

Course duration 2 years full-time, 3 years part-time Centre College Green Entry requirements Students will usually need: 56 UCAS points from Level 3 qualifications in a relevant subject OR Access to Higher Education Diploma in an appropriate pathway Mature students with relevant experience or related qualifications are welcome to apply. You will need to be prepared for an interview

Fees Year 1 £6000, Year 2 £6000 Awarded by University of Plymouth Apply UCAS code W290