University. Level Guide. Swindon College The largest provider of Higher Education in Swindon! ...study locally, save money!

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1 Swindon College The largest provider of Higher Education in Swindon! University Level Guide 2013/14...study locally, save money! Our University Partners are:

2 Welcome to Swindon College Welcome This new Interactive Guide will give you an insight into what it will be like to study at Swindon College, the range of university-level programmes on offer and the support which is available to all of our students. Our Higher Education programmes have been designed to meet the needs of a wide range of students including full and part time learners, those already in employment and those with other commitments. The College is noted for its excellent tutorial support and high success rates. Our industry links are excellent and student work on live briefs with employers. Many of our higher education courses also offer UK and international residential trips as part of the learning experience. Our industry standard facilities and highly experienced tutors mean that you will gain the right skills and qualifications for your chosen career path. We look forward to meeting you! Why not come and visit us on one of our open days, so that you can get a really good feel for the place, or just call us to make an appointment to suit you? Swindon College Graduation Ceremony 2011 In compiling this guide, Swindon College has taken care to be as accurate as possible. However, we are continually developing and refining our programmes and services making the details in this prospectus subject to change at any time and without notice. 2

3 Contents Why choose Higher Education at Swindon College? What is Higher Education Facilities at Swindon College UCAS Qualification Explained Finance Support Graduation Ceremony Open Evenings Tuesday 26th April 2012, 5-7pm Thursday 8th November 2012, 5-7pm Wednesday 7th February 2013, 5-7pm Swindon College Higher Education Video Life in Swindon Access to Higher Education University Level Courses 2013 Art, Design, Media & Producation Arts Business, IT & Management Engineering & Construction Contents Early Years, Social Care & Teaching Sport Therapy & Public Services Give us a call or come and visit us! For information about our Open Evening... Visit: studentservices@swindon-college.ac.uk Telephone: Please click here to view video Please click on the links below...

4 Why choose Higher Education at Swindon College? Why choose us? Qualifications designed with employment in mind The College works closely with regional employers to develop programmes which deliver the skills that industies need. Employability skills Develop the confidence and ability to effectively apply your subject knowledge within an industry setting. Affordable qualifications No upfront costs. All of our *HE programmes entitle you to a student loan which you only start to pay back when you are earning over 21,000 per year (see more details page 12). Degrees on your doorstep While we welcome students from all over the world many of our HE intake every year are from the local region. It makes economic sense to combine university level study with home and/or work commitments. Top quality degrees from the University of Bath and Oxford Brookes University Our degrees and Foundation Degrees are validated by our Higher Education Partners, meaning you study in Swindon but your qualification is with them. Small groups with dedicated tutors Allowing individual support and leading to high levels of success. * Applies to HNDs, Foundation Degrees and BAs and BScs. For others costs will apply please see individual sections. Small groups with Dedicated tutors 4

5 Higher Education What is Higher Education? Higher education encompasses a diverse range of courses and qualifications such as Masters and Honours degrees, Foundation degrees, Higher National Diplomas and Certificates as well as professional qualifications. The term higher education includes all university-level education at Level 4 or above and involves studying for a degree or similar advanced qualification. All courses at Level 3 or below are classed as further education. Higher education is open to learners usually aged over 18 there is no upper age limit! Higher Education: Will improve your career and earning potential, as well as allow you to gain specialist knowledge in an area which really interests you. Can offer a vocational programme that is directly related to particular work areas such as accountancy, sports science or teaching. Is essential for some careers, including chartered engineering and architecture. Will bring together students from a variety of backgrounds. This interaction can enrich the learning process through sharing experience and knowledge. Swindon College Swindon College is one of the largest higher education providers in Wiltshire and has successfully been delivering higher education qualifications in Swindon since Assured quality A recent review by the Quality Assurance Agency of the College s HE provision had an excellent outcome, showing full confidence in the College s academic standards and quality of learning opportunities. The report also noted many areas of good practice. quality Assured HE Provison 5

6 Facilities Dedicated HE centre All for you to use... Learning Resource Centre The campus boasts a stunning Learning Resource Centre (LRC). The centre is a great environment in which to study and incorporates a library, study centres and a quiet space with gallery. The library houses over 32,000 books as well as journals, newspapers, videos, DVDs and reference materials. Internet access and extensive online research resources are available on all LRC computers. Users with visual impairment and other specific needs will find a range of specialist software and equipment available. WiFi internet connectivity is also available across the campus. Dedicated HE Centre HE students can access the HE Student Centre at any time where they can study and socialise with their friends. The Centre has a 42 plasma TV in the chill-out area with comfy sofas and chairs to relax, a seating area for food and drinks with vending machines, internet café style-area with PCs, plus an adjoining computer suite. School of Art The nationally and internationally renowned School of Art offers state-of-the-art workshops and creative suites, as well as a photography studio with darkroom and printmaking facilities. View our online Facilities Gallery On campus On-campus facilities include a large refectory, an express food shop, a professional training restaurant, hairdressing and beauty therapy salons and a sports therapy clinic, all of which are available to students at reduced rates. We are located next door to the Oasis Leisure Centre which offers sports and activities in addition to the college s own programmes, including a lagoon swimming pool, gym, eight court sports hall, indoor bowling, four outdoor pitches, squash courts and a café bar, as well as being one of Swindon s main concert venues 6

7 Stunning learning resource Centre 7

8 UCAS How does it work? UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) centrally manages full time applications to higher education institutions in the UK. Full Time Courses Swindon College and its partner institutions Oxford Brookes University and the University of Bath process their full time HE applications for Swindon College through UCAS. UCAS Institution Codes: S98 Swindon College O66 Oxford Brookes University B16 University of Bath Postgraduate Courses Applications for Masters degrees should be made through UKPASS ( the postgraduate application service also owned by UCAS. Our postgraduate courses are listed under Oxford Brookes University. Application fee: 1 choice 11 or 2-5 choices 21. Application Deadlines Please check the UCAS website for the application deadline for applying for a course starting September 2013 at Part Time Courses For part time courses, please apply to Student Services at Swindon College. For further information contact Swindon College Student Services on or studentservices@swindon-college.ac.uk 8

9 A step-by-step guide to applying through UCAS: SteP 1 - Research Application Process Make sure that you have carefully researched the courses you want to apply for, so that you know the content matches what you want to learn and that you are likely to have the grades that you need to be considered. Step 2 - Application Submit your online application to UCAS, who will acknowledge receipt of it and allow you access to track the progress of your application online. UCAS will send your application to each institution you have applied to. Step 3 - Responses You will receive one of the following responses from each institution you apply to: An invitation to attend an interview A conditional or unconditional offer Notice that your application has been unsuccessful A request to provide an electronic portfolio. Some courses will only make an offer after an interview, some will make offers based on your application. Once you receive your offer(s) you need to choose a Firm offer and an Insurance offer (i.e. a first and second choice). You then need to log in regularly for updates and reply to your offers by the deadline given. Your Insurance choice would normally require a lower UCAS tariff. It is important to respond to your offers by the stated date, otherwise your choices will be cancelled. You will need to apply as early as possible for a Student Loan by going to See the next section of the prospectus entitled Student Finance Information and Advice for more details. Step 6 DSA Statement If you have a disability or currently access any form of learning support you will need to apply for a DSA (Disabled Students Allowance) statement, if you do not already have one, before the course starts to gain the maximum benefit. Please see the Learning Support for Students section for more information. Step 7 Conditional Offers If, for any reason, you do not achieve the grades specified in a conditional offer you have received from us, don t panic! Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your grades and options. Step 8 Enrolment & Induction You will be sent enrolment details and tuition fee information in the post. When you enrol please bring your Student Loan letter with you, if you have one, as it will confirm any fees you need to pay. If you have not applied for a student loan, you can choose to pay the lump sum or by instalments if you prefer. Extra If you have applied through UCAS, used all five choices on your application and don t get any offers, you might be able to apply through Extra for another course. In Extra, you can apply for any course with vacancies. Extra is open between the end of February and the end of June. Step 4 - Interviews If you are invited to an interview, you will be given plenty of notice. You may be asked to bring any certificates you have mentioned in your application and all art interviews must be supported by a portfolio. Step 5 Student Finance 9

10 Qualifications Answered How you could progress... Level Entry This chart shows what qualifications are available at each level Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) AS/A2 Level or International Baccalaureate BTEC Firsts Extended Diplomas Diploma Certificate BTEC HND Diploma BTEC HNC Diploma BTEC Nationals Extended Diplomas Diploma Subsidiary Diploma Certificate Higher Diplomas Year 2 Foundation Degree (FdA, FdSc) Year 1 Foundation Degree (FdA, FdSc) Advanced Diplomas Pre-Access Diploma Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Postgraduate Diploma (PGDiploma) Year 3 Honours Degree (BA/BSc) Year 2 Honours Degree (BA/BSc) Year 1 Honours Degree (BA/BSc) Access to HE Diploma Apprenticeship Advanced Apprenticeship Higher Apprenticeship Higher Apprenticeship Masters Degrees (MSc/MA) QCF NVQ / Other Level 3 quals QCF NVQ / GCSEs other Level 2 quals QCF NVQ / other Level 5 quals QCF NVQ / other Level 4 quals Relevant Experience Foundation Learning: a range of entry Level and Level 1 qualifications from Awarding bodies e.g Foundation Diploma (Level 1) Pre-Apprenticeship (Level 1) BTEC Vocational Qualifications (Entry and Level 1) English Baccalaureate If you d like advice, please ask for help from our Student Services Team Tel: (01793)

11 Plan your route through HE 11

12 Finance NO upfront costs... Your Finances... No upfront costs on HNDs, Foundation Degrees and Degrees You don t have to pay for your course yourself upfront if you are applying for one of the above courses You can get a loan to cover the cost of your tuition, which you only start to pay back when you are earning over 21,000 per year You repay 9% of your income above 21,000 only. So, for example, if your salary was 25,000, the 9% would only apply to 4,000, meaning you would repay 30 per month If your salary falls below 21,000 for example if you take a career break or are unemployed your repayments stop. Repayments only start again when you are earning over 21,000 If you have not repaid your loan after 30 years it is written off. Financial Information If you are an existing student and have not already applied for your Financial Support Package for 2012, you must do so as soon as possible by contacting your Local Authority. They will be able to give you information about your options. If you are a new student you need to visit the Student Finance government web site: This web site is also the best source of information for all student finance enquiries. Please contact Student Services for up-to-date tuition fee information on: Freephone or studentservices@swindon-college.ac.uk. Full Time Students If you re studying full time, the main sources of help are: Student loans and grants from the government Bursaries from your university or college. Student loans from the government All eligible students can get help with tuition fees and living costs through student loans. You ll be able to take out two student loans per academic year: A Tuition Fee Loan - to cover your annual tuition fees in full A Maintenance Loan - to help with accommodation and other living costs (how much you get will depend on your household income). When you are assessed for your fees you are automatically assessed for a Student Loan. If you are paying your own tuition fees, an instalment plan can be arranged by contacting Swindon College Student Finance on Tel: (01793) or studentfinance@swindon-college.ac.uk. 12

13 Your Finances... Bursaries & Scholarships Bursaries are in addition to student loans and do not have to be repaid. Institutions in England must offer at least a minimum bursary payment if you re paying maximum tuition fees and getting the full Maintenance Grant or Special Support Grant (which all students are eligible to apply for). Universities offer various Scholarships, see the Finance Contacts section below for web site and contact details. Extra help Students with child or adult dependants may qualify for an additional grant or allowance. Access to Learning Fund To apply to the Access to Learning Fund you must have applied for your full student loan. You will then be able to apply for help towards additional course-related costs. Any allocation will depend on your income and expenditure. Finance Part Time Students The main sources of financial help for part time students are usually different from those available to full time students. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to apply for part-time Tuition Fee and Course Grants. How much you can get depends on your household income and personal circumstances. Access to Learning Fund You can apply for help with childcare costs and exceptional travel costs. However, this is not available unless you have applied for the part time grant. For more information about finance for part time students follow the link for Finance for part time students - applying for the first time at or Tel: Full Time Students Follow the link for Finance for new full time students at or Tel: Talk to one of our student finance advisors Finance Contacts For more information on Bursaries and Scholarships: Swindon College Student Finance Tel: (01793) Web: studentfinance@swindon-college.ac.uk. Student Finance Tel: (01865) Web: finance-fees@brookes.ac.uk Student Services Tel: (01225) Web: studentservices@bath.ac.uk 13

14 Support How we support you We have a friendly and highly supportive environment at the College where students benefit from small group sizes and an effective personal tutorial system. All students have access to student and the college s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) where they can liaise with tutors and fellow students, as well as access work and lesson notes remotely. Accommodation If you need accommodation during your time at Swindon College, our Student Finance department can offer advice and information. We keep a list of privately-owned accommodation suitable for student occupation. The average price (based on academic year 2010/11) is 60/week for self-catering and 75/week for half-board. Swindon College does not inspect or specifically endorse any of the properties on the list but all student houses are regularly checked for health & safety standards by Swindon Borough Council and are not included unless they have passed regulation requirements. We do not have college halls of residence but we keep a list of privately-owned accommodation suitable for student occupation. The average price (based on academic year 2009/10) is 60/week for self-catering and 75/week for half-board. If you need help finding accommodation, contact Student Finance on: (01793) or studentfinance@swindon-college.ac.uk. International Students Students from outside the UK are welcomed at Swindon College. Some of our College s courses, such as the MA in Archaeological Illustration, attract the majority of their students from overseas. Please go to where you will find information on immigration and visas, as well as useful web links. Effective personal tutorial system 14

15 Small group sizes Contents Childcare Swindon College has its own nursery on-site for 0-5 year olds, for use by students, staff and the public. The Little Stars Nursery has recently been recognised as a Grade 1 Outstanding provider by Ofsted for the quality of its care and education. For more information, go to littlestars, nursery@swindon-college.ac.uk or Tel: (01793) National Union of Students (NUS) To sign up for the NUS card please go to for more information. Equality and Diversity Swindon College is committed to equality. This underpins everything we do with students, staff, the programmes we offer and the community. The college strives to treat everyone purely on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential. Learning Support We offer support to students with specific learning differences, including: Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyspraxia, Autistic Spectrum disorders, Sensory Impairments, Mental Health and Physical Disabilities. This support is funded through the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). To qualify for a DSA you will need an assessment that identifies a Specific Learning Difficulty. We can arrange this for you at the college. In the case of other impairments medical certificates are required. You will need to fill in the DSA form which can be downloaded from This is then posted to Student Finance England with supporting evidence. The DSA is not means-tested.if agreed a Needs Assessment will identify what supportive technology and learning support is recommended. How can we help? We can offer support in the following areas: DSA advice and assistance technology Study skills Research Text interpretation Essay planning Organisation Proof-reading Mobility support Communication support Support with mental health issues...and lots more We recognise that every learner has individual needs and we endeavour to provide the right support to help you succeed in your studies. For further information please contact: The Learning Support Team on: (01793) /

16 Welcome Graduation to Ceremony Swindon College Swindon College Graduation Ceremony Video The Graduation Ceremony in October is the highlight of the higher education year when hundreds of our students graduate from the college after successfully completing their programmes of study. The day is formal but enjoyable and students process through the town in gowns and mortar boards to the ceremony in a local church. The event is attended by the Mayor and other local dignitaries and ends with an afternoon of entertainment, food and drink with family, friends and college staff. 16

17 Graduation Ceremony Contents 17

18 T: > Life in... Swindon Nightlife Swindon s nightlife is diverse and lively with a wide choice of clubs offering a variety of music styles to suit all tastes. There are plenty of bars in the town centre as well as more traditional pubs in the surrounding towns and villages. A vast array of restaurants offer a wealth of menus from many cultures. Sport and Leisure Swindon has several leisure centres and gyms offering many activities including rock climbing, ten pin bowling and ice skating as well as a professional tennis centre, indoor karting track and golf courses. If you use these facilities regularly, you can apply for a Swindon Card to receive extra discounts. Swindon Town Football Club and Swindon Speedway provide spectator opportunities and you can also watch greyhound racing at the Abbey Stadium. Useful Links Park life You can chill out in one of the many parks and outdoor areas in Swindon including Coate Water Country Park, Lydiard Park, Queens Park and the Old Town Gardens while the more adventurous can visit the nearby Cotswold Water Park for water skiing, wind surfing and jet skiing. For a more cultural experience visit local historic towns such as Cirencester and Marlborough, the World Heritage site at Avebury or the ancient sites at Barbury Castle and Silbury Hill. The Ridgeway, a National Trail described as Britain s oldest road, is an 85 mile track which starts close to Swindon and runs along the downs to Buckinghamshire. The trail is popular for hiking, mountain/trail biking and horse riding. Shop till you drop The shopping experience is good in Swindon with many leading high street shops in the town centre and at the renowned Designer Outlet Village, as well as at several large out-of-town shopping centres. Culture Cultural facilities include a new purpose-built three storey library in the town centre, two multiplex cinemas, the Wyvern Theatre which attracts top national performers, Old Town Arts Centre, Swindon Museum and Gallery, Steam Museum and the National Monuments Record Centre. 18

19 Stunning Landscapes! Great Art Galleries & Museums! NEW Town Centre Redevelopments Festivals FOR ALL! NEW MUSIC VENUE Buzzing Social Scene! 19 19

20 Access to Higher Education Welcome to Swindon College MA ACCESS Archaeological Illustration This programme is awarded by Oxford Brookes and delivered by Swindon College Swindon College Programme length: The course can be taken full-time over one year. 2 ½ days a week. Programme location: Swindon College, North Star campus Year of entry: Sep 2013 Applications: Please contact Swindon College Interview required: Yes What is Access to Higher Education? The Access to Higher Education course is for adults over the age of 19 years who would like to progress on to degree level courses but do not have the academic qualifications required. Successful completion of the course will provide you with a qualification that is nationally recognised by universities as an entry route into Higher Education. The course also helps you build on your past experiences and develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to study at degree or diploma level at college or university. About the course The content of the course will be matched as closely as possible to the HE route you wish to pursue. You will work towards credits and levels to reach the learner achievement standards set across all Open College Network, Oxford, Thames and Chiltern (OCNOTC) accredited programmes. Assessment Your progress is monitored by assessment throughout the year. Assessments vary and will include short and long essays, reports, project work, posters, presentations, individual research and group work. Students are encouraged to evaluate themselves and their progress and to participate in discussions with fellow students. Assessment is built around achieving credits at different levels within the units, which make up each module or subject. Students must achieve at least 60 credits, of which 45 must be at Level 3 in order to achieve the Access Diploma. This course can be studied over one year. You will have the same holidays as schools when you study this course. Upon completion, Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) recognised Diploma and OCNOTC credits are awarded. 20

21 Course Cost Fees, which include tuition and entry to examinations, are reviewed annually. Please contact Student Services for current details. Entry Requirements: Candidates will be over the age of 19 with few or no academic qualifications, or have not studied for several years but wish to proceed to university or professional training. The Access programme takes the place of a Level 3 programme for entry to higher education, but please be aware that many degree programmes will also require you to have at least a GCSE grade C in English and/or maths as well. All potential students are offered an advisory interview and asked to complete a screening exercise. Candidates may apply at any time of the year. This course is based at Swindon College where you will benefit from expert tuition. All necessary library and learning resources are available to enable you to successfully complete the course. Further Information If you would like any more information about the Access to HE courses, go to our web site call Student Services on Freephone or studentservices@swindon-college.ac.uk. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and can put you in touch with Access tutors for an informal chat. Progression Opportunities: Higher Education Swindon College welcomes applications from all members of the community. We seek to provide for the individual needs of all of our students. Studying Access at Swindon College There are several pathways students may choose, depending on their career plans: Art & Design Health Care Professions (leading to Higher Education courses in Midwifery, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy) Combined Studies (leading to Higher Education courses in Social Work and general degrees such as Law, English and Primary Teacher Training) Study skills and Information Technology skills are core components of the Access course and are studied by all students. Depending on the selected pathway, students study three subjects from the following: Psychology, Sociology, Law, English Literature and Human Biology. Students also have the opportunity to study equivalence courses in GCSE English language and maths alongside the course if they do not have a GCSE Grade C or above in these subjects. 21

22 University Level Courses starting September 2013 Swindon College Postgraduate Degrees MA / PG Dip Archaeological Illustration MA Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice Honours Degrees BA (Hons) Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice BA (Hons) Graphic Design BA (Hons) Illustration: Narrative and Sequential One Year Top-up Honours Programmes BA (Hons) Business, Management & Communications (Work-based Learning) BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies (Work-based Learning) BSc (Hons) Engineering Systems (Work-based Learning) BSc (Hons) Sport (Sports Therapy) (Work-based Learning) BA (Hons) Education and Lifelong Learning (Work-based Learning) HND/C Programmes HND Interactive Media Fashion and Textiles (Enterprise) HND Computing and Systems Development HND Hair and Beauty Management HND Public Services HND Specialist Make-up (Film & TV) HND Photography HNC/D in Construction and the Built Environment HNC/D Civil Engineering Professional Qualifications PGCE Professional Graduate Certificate in Education Technician Stage (NVQ 4) Association of Accounting Technicians Level 5 Additional Diploma in Teaching English (Literacy) in the Lifelong Learning Sector. Foundation Degrees Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care Foundation Degree in Business, Management & Communications Foundation Degree in Early Years Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems Foundation Degree in Sport (Sports Therapy) Foundation Degree in Support for Learning Our University Partners: 22

23 Please click here to view video Contents Contents Why choose Higher Education at Swindon College 4 Qualification Explained 4 Facilities at Swindon College 4 Why choose Higher Education at Swindon College 4 Our small class size means we have great interaction with each other and the tutors Cristín Ní Ghiobúin MA Archaeological Illustration Art, Design, Media & Production Arts University Level Courses Masters Degrees MA / PG Dip Archaeological Illustration MA Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice Honours Degrees BA (Hons) Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice BA (Hons) Illustration: Narrative and Sequential BA (Hons) Graphic Design HND/C Programmes HND Photography HNC Photography HND Performing Arts (Production) - Media Make-up NEW HND Fashion and Textiles NEW HND Interactive Media Swindon College 23

24 University Level Courses Welcome to Swindon College MA PG Dip Archaeological Illustration Swindon College This programme is awarded by Oxford Brookes University and delivered by Swindon College Programme length: Full Time 45 weeks Part Time 90 weeks Programme location: Swindon College, North Star campus Year of entry: Sep 2013 Applications: (listed under Oxford Brookes) UKPASS institution code: O66 UKPASS course code: Portfolio required: Yes Interview required: Yes Entry Requirements: A good honours degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Archaeology, Art & Design) or equivalent qualification in a related discipline. Those without formal academic qualifications may be considered with evidence of relevant experience appropriate to the academic demands of the programme. Admissions tutors will select based on the candidate s ability to benefit from the programme. Applicants must be able to prove an academic fluency with the English language (this will normally be a recognised EFL qualification for overseas candidates). Course Information: The programme has been developed in close collaboration with the Association of Archaeological Illustrators and Surveyors (AAI&S) and provides a unique Masters level qualification respected by the industry. It develops visual, creative and technical skills together with strong academic research and works in co-operation with professional or academic concerns e.g. the Oxford and Wessex Archaeological Units, English Heritage, the National Monuments Record Centre, the AAI&S and the Learning and Teaching Support Network (History, Classics & Archaeology) and can assist the student in finding appropriate partners for research. 24

25 Course Content: Core modules: Visual Studies and Research Studies. Optional modules for part one: Recording Studies; Reconstruction Studies; Digital Applications; Information Graphics. Optional modules for part two: Dissertation or Material Practice. Part one: A practical, experientially-oriented programme based on assignment-led project work. Distinctive features of the first part of this programme are the use of projects as a vehicle for learning and the group or individual critical session, where students present and critically discuss their work with peers and tutors. Interrelated modules emphasise the holistic nature of the learning and coherence is maintained by the continuous assessment methods together with the academic guidance of tutorial backup. experimental and theoretical sectors of archaeological practice Research, curatorial and museum display, academic research and/or publishing Archaeological Unit management Employment status as Scientific Officers (Civil Service), Archaeological Illustrators (Archaeological Units), Graphic Artists, Designers, Model-makers, Art Editors Consultancy within Archaeological academic research Postgraduate teacher training Postgraduate research in Illustration, Fine Art or Archaeology. Cristín Ní Ghiobúin MA Archaeological Illustration Part two: A research-based programme of independent study which can take the form of either a dissertation on an appropriate topic within archaeological illustration research, part of which could be visual equivalents of textual discourse, or a prepared body of original illustrative work which should be negotiated with an external source within archaeological practice. Students can elect to study part one only as a PG Dip, but must signify this intention at the commencement of studies. Progression Opportunities: Freelance practice as self-employed Archaeological and/or Historical Illustrator Wide range of employment or progression within the excavation or post-excavation, Cristín had previously completed both a diploma in Art and a degree in Archaeology in Ireland, so she decided to combine both of her passions to study for a Masters in Archaeological Illustration. Cristín says, It made sense to combine both of my interests and this unique Masters degree seemed like the perfect choice for me. The course is fantastic I really like recording artefacts and learning about the different techniques that artists use. Our small class size also means we have great interaction with each other and the tutors. When I finish my Masters I am hoping to work in a museum, specialising in reconstruction drawings. 25 Course Information:

26 University Level Courses Welcome to Swindon College MA Fine Art: Drawing For Fine Art Practice Swindon College This programme is awarded by Oxford Brookes University and delivered by Swindon College Programme length: Full Time 45 weeks Part Time 90 weeks Programme location: Swindon College, North Star campus Year of entry: Sep 2013 Applications: (listed under Oxford Brookes) UKPASS institution code: O66 UKPASS course code: Portfolio required: Yes Interview required: Yes Entry Requirements: A good honours degree in Fine Art or an equivalent qualification in a related discipline. Those without formal Academic qualifications may be considered with evidence of relevant experience appropriate to the academic demands of the programme. Admissions tutors will select based on the candidate s ability to benefit from the programme. Applicants must be able to prove an academic fluency with the English language (this will normally be a recognised EFL qualification for overseas candidates). Course Information: The programme aims to make a contribution to the strengthening position of Fine Art Drawing as a major component of visual art production, promoting the language of drawing as a broad, experimental code that underpins much of contemporary Fine Art practice and research. Research focuses on individual study proposals and studio practice, and invites investigation into the boundaries between drawing and a broad range of Fine Art disciplines from traditional media to digital technologies. Study culminates in a major body of work at the end of year show. 26

27 The Fine Art department offers an expansive cultural studies programme, enjoying opportunities to travel both nationally and internationally. The department makes particular use of its proximity to galleries in London, Oxford and Bristol. The department has research links to Rabley Contemporary Drawing Centre near Marlborough in Wiltshire, and the ICIA (Institute of Contemporary Interdisciplinary Arts) at the University of Bath. Assessment Information Assessment methods involve formative and summative strategies leading to a positive learning methodology with written feedback on all assessed work. Progression Opportunities: Fine Art Practitioner Employment within the creative industries Further study at doctorate level Teacher Training. Recent student successes have included selections for the Jerwood Drawing Prize, work bought by the British Museum and Arts Council England, an Arts Council award and an Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) bursary. Course Content: The programme involves three practice-based modules, all assessed by exhibition or presentation: Practice and context Fine Art drawing practice Advanced studio practice. Two research modules: Research methodologies (linked to practice) assessed by journal/presentation Research paper assessed by a written essay. I really liked the combination of research and practical work that was offered. George Ciora MA Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice After completing his Art degree in Romania, George decided to move to the UK to complete his Masters degree. George says, I chose to come to Swindon College to study my Masters as I really liked the combination of research and practical work that was offered. I like the fact that my degree will be from Oxford Brookes but I m studying in Swindon. Swindon is a great town as it s not too big but has a lot to do. It s really easy to travel to places like London, Bath or Oxford and is much cheaper than living in a large city. When I finish my Masters I will stay in the art trade, hopefully exhibiting my work as an artist. 27

28 University Level Courses Welcome to Swindon College BA (Hons) Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice Swindon College This programme is awarded by Oxford Brookes University and delivered by Swindon College Programme length: 3 years Programme location: Swindon College, North Star campus Year of entry: Sep 2013 Applications: Via (listed under Oxford Brookes) UCAS institution code: O66 UCAS course code: W110 Portfolio required: Yes Interview required: Yes Entry Requirements: To be considered for admission a candidate must have: Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art & Design), Access to Art & Design, AVCE (Double Award) in Art & Design, National Diploma in Design or two A Levels in subjects appropriate to the degree and five GCSEs at grade C or above, which should include English. Entry into Year 2 may be considered for those students with a Higher National Diploma or Certificate in a subject appropriate to the degree, with merit passes in at least three final year units, one of which should be in the Contextual Studies area. Other equivalent qualifications or experience, for example: Mature students without formal qualifications, but with evidence of relevant industrial experience will be considered. Course Information: As perhaps the oldest form of communication, drawing has remained a form of invention and revaluation. You will explore its relevance as a contemporary medium and the boundaries between drawing and other Fine Art disciplines; from traditional works on paper or canvas, to video and new technologies. 28

29 Distinctive features of the programme are the use of projects as a vehicle for learning, and critical sessions where students discuss their work and the assessment becomes a learning strategy. Lecture and seminar-based modules with theoretical, cultural, historical and/or professional and business components provide academic rigour and a context for the practical work. We provide excellent resources with large, spacious studios, course specific IT and specialist equipment, a life room, a print workshop, a photographic studio with darkroom, technician support, library and learning resource centre. The Fine Art department offers an expansive cultural studies programme enjoying opportunities to travel both nationally and internationally. The department makes particular use of its proximity to galleries in London, Oxford and Bristol. Contextual studies 2 Studio practice 2. Year 3 Studio practice 3 Dissertation Major project and degree show Fine Art professional practice 2. Progression Opportunities: Further study at post-graduate level: Swindon College offers Masters degrees in Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice & Archaeological Illustration Fine Art Practitioners Employment within the creative industries Teacher training. Jake Stark BA Fine Art: Drawing for Fine Art Practice The department has research links to Rabley Contemporary Drawing Centre near Marlborough in Wiltshire, and the ICIA (Institute of Contemporary Interdisciplinary Arts) at the University of Bath. Recent student successes have included selections for the Jerwood Drawing Prize, work bought by the British Museum and Arts Council England, an Arts Council award and an AHRC (Arts and Humanities Research Council) bursary. Course Content: Core modules: Year 1 Life drawing Site specific drawing Contextual studies 1 Studio practice 1 Drawing into printmaking 3D studies. Year 2 Process, surface, abstraction Related drawing practice Fine Art professional practice 1 After leaving college, Jake began working in the retail sector but soon realised that it wasn t going to give him the career he wanted. Jake says, I have always had a passion for art, so I decided that returning to study was the right choice for me. I originally spent a year at a large university, but found I didn t like it as the year group was too big and there was very little tutorial time. I knew that the learning style was very different at Swindon College, with small class sizes and a lot of one-toone interaction with the tutors. The course is great I really like how much scope we re given to explore the different areas of art, and the tutors are really supportive of our ideas and are widely experienced and inspiring. When I finish my degree, I would like to progress on to study a Masters before beginning a career in the Art sector. 29

30 University Level Courses Welcome to Swindon College BA (Hons) Illustration: Narrative & Sequential Swindon College This programme is awarded by Oxford Brookes University and delivered by Swindon College Programme length: 3 years Programme location: Swindon College, North Star campus Year of entry: Sep 2013 Applications: (listed under Oxford Brookes) UCAS institution code: O66 UCAS course code: W22O Portfolio required: Yes Interview required: Yes Entry Requirements: Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art & Design), Access to Art & Design, AVCE (Double Award) in Art & Design, National Diploma in Design or two A Levels at Grade C or above in appropriate subjects and five GCSEs grade C or a bove, including English. Entry into Year 2 will be considered for students with an HND/C in an appropriate subject. Mature students without formal qualifications, but with evidence of relevant industrial experience, will be considered. Course Information: This unique course is aimed at students who wish to enter the marketplace as illustrators specialising in narrative and sequential work. This includes the comic or cartoon strip, or Bande Dessinée ; the graphic novel; film / TV / theatre / animation storyboarding; instructional diagrams; some forms of storybook illustration; characterisation and figure study through to web graphical illustration, to name just a few areas. The teaching staff offer a wide range of academic and industrial experience for the benefit of students, who graduate familiar with the latest technology and create innovative illustration outcomes in an industry which is continually moving forwards. The course places great emphasis on developing an ability to survive and prosper in a business environment. Self-motivation, personal confidence and marketing skills are all fostered to enable the student to win commissions in a fiercely competitive field. 30

31 Graduates also exhibit their work to a variety of creative industry representatives during their final year exhibition held in Swindon, as the School of Art maintains strong links with regional employers in the creative industries. Course Content: Each year comprises of interrelated modules emphasising approaches to making narrative images with creative flair and consistency. Progression Opportunities: Freelance practitioners or staff artists in the publishing or broadcasting industries as either freelance practitioners or staff artists. Sequential specialists within the electronic publishing sector (e.g. computer gaming web design) Further study at post-graduate level such as Illustration Practice, Animation or Film Studies Teacher Training. Year One: Visual studies Illustration techniques 2D animation techniques Figure drawing Narrative formats and language Historical & contextual studies. Rebecca Gault BA (Hons) Illustration: Narrative and Sequential Year Two: Drawing studies Sequential illustration Design approaches Personal style and directions Creative writing Contextual studies. Year Three: Visual process Business practice and exhibition Devised creative assignments Dissertation. The tutors are so friendly and helpful, and we get a lot of tuition time. Rebecca studied the Access to Higher Education course at Swindon College before deciding to progress on to the BA Illustration course. Rebecca says, I really enjoyed the Access course it enabled me to apply for the degree course I had always wanted. The tutors are so friendly and helpful, and we get a lot of tuition time as the class sizes are so small which is great. I really like the practical side to the course we do a lot of exploration and experimentation within our illustration which is brilliant. When I finish the course I am hoping to become a full-time illustrator. 31

32 University Level Courses Welcome to Swindon College BA (Hons) Graphic Design Swindon College This programme is awarded by Oxford Brookes University and delivered by Swindon College Programme length: 3 years Programme location: Swindon College, North Star campus Year of entry: Sep 2013 Applications: (listed under Oxford Brookes) UCAS institution code: O66 UCAS course code: W210 Portfolio required: Yes Interview required: Yes Entry Requirements: Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art & Design), Access to Art & Design, AVCE (Double Award) in Art & Design, National Diploma in Design or two A Levels in appropriate subjects at grade C or above and five GCSEs grade C or above, including English. Entry into Year 2 will be considered for students with an HND/C in an appropriate subject. Mature students without formal qualifications, but with evidence of relevant industrial experience will be considered. Course Information: This course is designed for students wishing to pursue a career as a creative designer with a comprehensive understanding of commercial, environmental and social issues. It involves extensive research with stimulating intellectual and practical challenges. The contextual studies modules underpin the programme by enabling students to appreciate the roles that graphic design, advertising, marketing and branding play in the development and maintenance of contemporary consumer society, 32

33 alongside further developing students research, analysis and communication skills. Studio practice modules focus on conceptual problem-solving whilst fostering creativity and innovative approaches to communicating effectively with a range of potential audiences and target markets. They also focus on developing the practical skills necessary to produce effective graphic design solutions to a professional standard. Recent Swindon College BA (Hons) Graphic Design student achievements and successes include awards from the Starpack Student Competition, New Designers Exhibition, Design Against Fur and the Young Creatives Network. Annually, selected graduates also exhibit work in London. Progression Opportunities: Freelance practitioners or staff artists in the publishing or broadcasting industries as either freelance practitioners or staff artists Sequential specialists within the electronic publishing sector (e.g. computer gaming web design). Further study at post-graduate level such as Illustration Practice, Animation or Film Studies Teacher Training. Eamon Martin BA (Hons) Graphic Design Course Content: The programme takes a practical and analytical approach to problem-solving. Creative studies are also supported by studies in Business and Marketing. Modules: Visual studies Design studies Graphic design Web design Historical and contextual studies Visual practice Design practice Motion graphics Contextual studies Major projects Dissertation Professional practice Exhibition. Eamon had been working in the financial industry, but decided it wasn t the right career for him. He had always been interested in art and had done some design work before, so he decided to study the BA Graphic Design to enable him to change his career. Eamon says, I wanted to change my career to do something creative, and Graphic Design has proved to be a great choice. The course is really stimulating and the tutors are brilliant; we can interact and bounce ideas off them, and they give great advice. When I finish my degree I m aiming to work in a design agency, using everything I have learned here at the School of Art to progress my career. 33

34 University Level Courses Welcome to Swindon College HND Photography This programme is awarded by Edexcel and delivered by Swindon College Swindon College Programme length: Full Time: HNC 1 or 2 years HND 2 years Top up Programme location: Swindon College, North Star campus Year of entry: Sep 2013 Applications: (listed under Swindon College) UCAS institution code: S98 UCAS course code: W22O Portfolio required: Yes Interview required: Yes Entry Requirements: A Foundation Diploma, Edexcel National Diploma/Extended Diploma, (MPP) AVCE or an Access to Higher Education course (UCAS tariff 120 credits). Mature students without formal qualifications, but with relevant industrial experience and a portfolio of work will be considered. Course Information: This course develops students as practitioners in the challenging field of photography, from the traditional areas of black and white darkroom-based images to digital photography and computerised image manipulation. The first year relates to the development of photographic techniques and studio practice. Darkroom practice and professional studies keep students up-to-date in all areas of photographic production. The second year encourages students to build on their critical thinking and analysis skills. Units are interlinked with: Practitioner visits, live projects, exhibition set-up and professional practice. 34