Art & Design

From drawing, painting and photography to textiles, printmaking and 3D work, our courses are hands-on, project-based and designed around your interests. 

Art & Design overview

The creative industries contribute over £108 billion a year to the UK economy, employing more than 2.3 million people – with around 58,000 in the North East.  

Choose from full-time Art & Design programmes for 16–18s and adults, or part-time courses for adult learners. 

View all Art & Design courses by visiting the course finder.

What you'll study

You’ll learn in a dedicated creative environment where traditional techniques are combined with modern digital tools. Depending on your level and pathway, you’ll cover: 

• drawing, painting and mixed media
• textiles, printmaking and 3D modelling
• digital photography and image editing
• visual communication and design principles
• creative project work and idea development
• how the creative industries work and the opportunities within them 

How you'll study

Taught by practising artists, photographers and designers, learning is project-based and shaped around your interests and chosen pathway. You’ll build a portfolio of work throughout your course. 

As part of your studies, you’ll also: 

• build confidence presenting your ideas to others
• work to real creative briefs
• visit galleries including the Baltic Centre and Laing Art Gallery
• learn from visiting industry professionals
• access specialist careers guidance and one-to-one tutor support 

Where it could lead

Past students have exhibited in regional shows, designed for fashion events, and visited the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam as part of their course. 

Depending on your level of study, an art and design qualification can lead to roles including graphic designer, illustrator, photographer, costume designer, craft artist or freelance creative. 

Many of our Level 3 students progress to a BA (Hons) in Art and Design, a Foundation Year, or our own Level 4 Creative Enterprise course.

Fees & funding

Course fees vary by level. Full-time courses are free for 16 to 18-year-olds. Adult students may also be eligible for funding depending on circumstances. 

To find out more, check our Course Fees & Funding page.