BTEC National Diploma in Art and Design

BTEC National Diploma in Art and Design(a new course for 2009)
This course is designed for students who have definitely decided to continue in Art and Design to a higher level qualification. It runs over two years and is equivalent to 3 A2 levels. You can include a further AS level or GCSE in your programme of study in year 1.
The course comprises of 18 modules over two years. These cover a full range of specialist practical areas such as Fine and Applied Arts, as well as developing your understanding of professional practice. You will develop a strong grounding in drawing and painting skills which will inform your work in all areas.

Course overview
There are 5 core modules which focus on your practical skills and general understanding of Art and Design issues, these are:
*Visual recording
*Materials and techniques
*Ideas and concepts
*Visual communication
*Contextual Influences
Alongside the core units you will also work in a number of specialist areas which may include:
*Photography Media, techniques and technology
*Graphics Media, techniques and technology
*Fashion Media
*Textiles techniques (including: felt making, embroidery and pattern repeat)
*Fine Art (including: painting, printmaking and sculpture)
You will also work on units which focus on your professional skills, these might include:
*Community Arts
*Design Principles in Art and Design
*Freelance work in Art and Design
*Professional Practice in Art and Design
*Computers in Art and Design

How is this course taught?
You will have 13½ hours of taught time each week. These will be timetabled sessions in the Art department. Depending on the unit you are working on from time to time you may work in different rooms. You will be expected to spend about 12 hrs a week on 'homework'- you can use workshops and Personal Study Period's to do this so you don't need to take large or awkward work home.

What are the entry requirements?
You need to have the equivalent of 4 GCSE's at grade C or above, this must include Art. Students wishing to enroll on this course can discuss it with department staff.

How is the work assessed?
The work will be assessed by your teachers; you can attain a Pass, Merit or Distinction. Each unit of work will last between two or three weeks, so it important that you enjoy working quickly and enjoy trying new media and methods. You will work in sketchbooks, as well as producing larger scale work. You will be expected to keep notes and document your development.

Will this course cost me anything?
There will be a contribution fee of £50 for this course which will cover all your materials such as sketchbooks, folders, paints and brushes. Specialist materials will be provided as you need them, for example fabrics and photographic paper.

Progression
From this course it is expected that students will apply for further study, training or professional employment in the arts sector. The Art Department gives guidance on interviews and portfolio building and this is supported by the college's careers support and tutorial system.

Applying to University
The overall grade you achieve will be equivalent to UCAS points, just as A' levels are. You can gain from 120 points for a Pass to 360 points for a top Distinction. Most art colleges will look at both your pass grade and a portfolio of your work which they will view at interview. UCAS applications are made during the second year of the course and your personal tutor will help you with this.