Study a Foundation course

Foundation student setting up a ceramics display

HCA's Foundation Diploma is designed to set you up with the skills and confidence to thrive on a creative degree course, and beyond. A one-year immersive programme, it will give you the opportunity to explore a wide range of disciplines and build a degree-level portfolio.

Channel your passion into a rewarding year of personal and creative development.

Explore a range of new processes, such as working with surface pattern, wood, ceramics, metals, print, photography and digital media. There will be opportunities to throw yourself into drawing, mark making and finding ways to record, understand and communicate the world around you.

Collage and painting of a man with cut out letters around him.

College staff inspire learners to aim high and succeed. As a result, a very high proportion of learners progress to their next steps, often progressing to study at prestigious institutions.

OFSTED, 2023

A qualification that is rooted in quality and excellence

UAL Awarding Body believes in transformative education. They design and award creative qualifications that empower and inspire educators to help students reach their potential. Their qualifications have high retention and achievement rates because they are flexible, responsive and relevant to industry needs, and facilitate student progression.

Join a community of amazing former students

HCA's Foundation course is one of the largest in the UK, and you will be studying alongside some incredible students from across the region in a dynamic studio environment.

 

You will also become part to a network of former students - from award-winning illustrators like Aysha Tengiz, to camera operators on Top Boy - who return to the college to provide insight and advice on stepping into the creative industries.

Industry standard workshops and studios

This is where you make your ideas happen. You will have access to up-to-the-minute software, and the professional kit and spaces you need to really master your craft and move between disciplines.

Workshops & Resources

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How to apply

Everything you need to know about applying to HCA - and starting the next stage of your journey as an artist

Apply now

Book an open day

Chat to students. Tour the campus. Drop in on some free workshops. Our Open Days are a great way to get a feel for what makes HCA special.

Book an open day

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