Access to Higher Education Diploma: Art and Design

• We understand that you may have been out of education for a long time, so we'll ease you in gently and provide you with all the support you need
• When you've successfully completed this course, you'll have a nationally recognised qualification to apply to university
• You will choose two or three other subjects to study depending on the degree you want to go on to study
• Your classes will fit around school holidays, and classes start at 10am

If you successfully complete this course, you'll gain a nationally recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma. The course consists of Study Skills and two or three main subjects. The Diploma you choose will depend on which degree you plan to go on to. Our courses are run by the University of Derby.

To book your place at our next Access Information Event, click below

• Information Event Buxton Campus and Leek Campus

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

You’ll need to be over 19 years of age. Ideally you will have achieved Mathematics and English Functional Skills Level 2 or GCSEs at grade C (new grading 4). However, students will be considered on an individual basis. Please contact the Access team for further details. You’ll also need to demonstrate a commitment and ability to study, and take a literacy/numeracy assessment.

2021/22

The cost will be between £3,000-£4,000 depending on the diploma.

Advanced Learner Loan

The Advanced Learner Loan Bursary is a discretionary and limited source of financial help for students who are aged 19 and over and are experiencing hardship.

The loan is open to anyone aged over 19 studying a level 3 qualification or equivalent and it is not means tested or subject to credit checks and you only start to pay it back when you are earning over £25,725 per year (correct as of July 2020). The loan is subject to residency checks.

If you successfully complete your Access to HE course, progress onto and complete an undergraduate degree level programme, you will not have to pay back your Advanced Learner Loan.

For all students studying on our access programmes and in need of additional financial support, you may be eligible for a bursary.

More information on funding, bursaries and loans

Our intake for this programme is in September each year, and the application process for these courses opens in January.

Make an application

If you're interested in studying Access Art and Design at Buxton and Leek College you may wish to come along to our next Open Day. 

Book your place at our next Open Day

Contact us

If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.

Additional information about your studies

Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.