Level: Undergraduate
Study Mode: Full-time / Part-time
Duration: 2 years (full-time)4 years (part-time)
Application: to UCAS (full-time)Direct to the College (part-time)
Application Deadline: Route A 15 Jan 09 Route B 24 Mar 09
UCAS Course Code: Route A W791
Route B E791
Institution Code: H18
Validated By: The University Of Wales
This exciting vocational course has developed from the outstanding reputation of teaching innovative craft-based practice at Hereford. It builds on the long tradition of highly individual designing and making in a wide range of media and materials through the former Design Crafts degree, with a greater focus on advanced materials-led and skills-based development. The approach is broad based in terms of materials, processes and outcomes, while always remaining practice-based and highly focused on the needs and development of each individual.
This degree is validated and awarded by the University of Wales. For further details regarding the University and its validation services, please log on to www.wales.ac.uk/validation or email validation@wales.ac.uk
Contemporary Applied Arts has an approach firmly based in design methodology and visual studies. This approach integrates problem solving, ideas development founded on sound research, hand and machine making skills, understanding of materials and above all, critical awareness and judgement. Experimentation and risk-taking are encouraged, and issues such as sustainability and design for need are confronted throughout the course.
Students can experience a wide range of disciplines and acquire technical skills in ceramics, textiles, wood, metal and jewellery, complemented by additional workshops including print-making and photography. Mixed media working and non-traditional approaches and techniques are encouraged where appropriate. Uniquely all students have individual dedicated personal design studios along with access to all of the creatively vibrant workshops.
Outcomes will range from one-off artefacts and batch production to prototype designs for industry. The established strength of an integrated approach to professional studies will continue to prepare students for work as self-employed designer-makers or for employment as designers with the skills to sustain their practice. Alternatively, it will qualify you for progression onto Year Three of our BA (Hons) Contemporary Applied Arts course.
A unique feature of this course is its well established links with the Creative Industries, with regular marketing and promotional sessions with gallery owners and regional crafts and arts officers which often lead to exhibitions, sales and valuable professional contracts. . The unique initiative of establishing liaisons with potential employers culminates in each graduating student having the opportunity and experience, of engaging in approximately 10 different appointments with the representatives from the Creative Industries. This is undertaken alongside the student’s individual exhibition, prior to their Foundation Degree Show opening.
The first level of the course introduces you to the workshop and studio-based activity, supported by design development and visual studies. You will have the opportunity to creatively explore the properties and characteristics associated with wood, small metals, ceramics and textiles. Following the period of materials exploration you are free to make an informed choice to specialise in one medium or to combine media to develop your ideas. Worked based learning will give you the opportunity to meet representatives from the Creative Industries and will usually involve responding to a ‘live’ brief set by a gallery owner. A broad programme of Cultural and Professional Studies complements practice by introducing you to study skills and research related to varying aspects of 20th and 21st Century culture.
The second level of the course focuses on applying practical and design skills to achieve a range of high quality object/artefacts that reflect your strengths, interests and professional intentions. At this stage you will have the opportunity to create a personal identity, which will be developed through craft practice. Supporting studies will address the importance of marketing and product presentation in readiness for establishing contact with representatives from the Creative Industries. A continuing programme of Cultural and Professional Studies provides an opportunity to analyse and debate practice within a cultural and historical context.
The majority of students who complete the Foundation Degree choose to progress onto the third year of our BA (Hons) Contemporary Applied Arts course. However, should you choose to complete your studies at this stage you may consider applying your skills to become a self-employed designer maker or become employed as a designer, within the Creative Industries
Minimum age 18
Successful portfolio interview
160 - 200 UCAS Tariff Points
Mature Students with related experience
English as a second language: IELTS score 6.0 or equivalent on enrolment
All applications to our Full Time Higher Education courses should be made via UCAS – for more details on how to apply, click here
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