Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Art and Design

HNC is the first year of a two-year programme of study and is worth 120 Credits. During this year, Students will be able to develop their independent study skills, supported by workshops, seminars, and tutorials to enhance their individual art practice. Workshops will include printmaking, drawing, painting, textile, and 3D construction in all areas of art and design practice. 

The HNC consists of eight units that develop students critical thinking skills to a high standard. There are four core units which build and feed into the students experience per project, analysing visual language, through a philosophical exploration of the formal elements, unit three Is an individual project which is Pearson-set. There are two specialist mandatory units which build on practical skills in mediums and materials, which will equip student with important skills in a competitive industry. 

Alongside practical workshops, students will explore academic research, writing and referencing and will produce artists evaluations, statements and essays using terminology relevant to art industries. 

During the first year, students will build their portfolio, digitally and portfolio bound, to an industry standard. Students will learn to document and photograph their work, utilise work experience, and curate exhibitions as they journey through their first year. The first year provides students with the pathways to ensure a professional practice which will be consistently required as they refine their own working practice in study or employment.

Three A levels (one in a creative subject) or a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design (It is essential that you have achieved a grade 4 (C) in GCSE English and Maths to study this programme.)

You may be considered for this course without meeting some of the above entry requirements; however, this will be subject to an interview with the course leader. Please contact us to discuss your options.

*The applicant should bring a portfolio of creative work to show at the interview process.

The course is based around several projects throughout the year, and while we teach you the theory to give you a thorough understanding of the Art and Design industry you are assessed on your assignments and practical projects that you will undertake across the course of the year.

The course is delivered through a series of 8 units. Units that will be taught on this course are:

• Unit 1 – Professional Development
• Unit 2 – Contextual Studies
• Unit 3 – Individual Project (Pearson set)
• Unit 4 – Techniques and Processes
• Unit 15 – Media Practices
• Unit 16 – Material Practices
• Unit 28 – Communication in Art and Design
• Unit 30 – Surface Design

Students who pass this course may choose to progress onto university to top up to a degree in the Art and Design sector or go onto employment.

You will also have access to our Art Studio facilities reserved specially for our students studying our HNC/HND courses in Art and Design. You will be encouraged to access or facilities giving you time to work on personal projects and assessments.

Learners will have opportunities to develop their skills through collaborating with practitioners within the art industry. Learners will also be given the opportunity to attend exhibition and events through college trips.

Should you require any further information on this course please contact Nicola Newton at Nicola.newton@tynecoastcollege.ac.uk