HNCPearson BTEC Higher National Certificate
Fine Art
You'll study critical studies, technical excellence, professional practice and individual project. A Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate: Level 4, 120 credits. It is also the first year of the HND.
Full title: Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Fine Art
- Level
- Level 4Higher National Certificate
- Size
- 120credits
- Units
- 5 mandatoryplus 3 optional listed
- For
- School leavers and adults
01What you'll study
Four areas of study.
-
Critical Studies
Discover the historical and theoretical frameworks of fine art and their application to contemporary practice.
-
Technical Excellence
Master advanced techniques in painting, sculpture, and mixed media through rigorous workshop-based learning.
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Professional Practice
Develop your professional identity, learn to curate exhibitions, and prepare for career opportunities.
-
Individual Project
Apply your skills to a significant, self-directed creative project that reflects your artistic vision.
Where you learn
In Lisbon, or wherever you are.
The same Pearson qualification, whichever way you study.
02The units
What's on the course.
Mandatory units, plus optional units. Your final set of optional units is confirmed with your academic team.
- Mandatory
- 5
- Optional listed
- 3
- PSA units
- 1
- Unit 1 Contextual Studies 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 2 Ideas Development 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 3 Communication in Art & Design 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 14 Professional Practice 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 15 Fine Art SpecialistPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 8 Painting 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 9 Sculpture 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 10 Printmaking 15 Credits Optional
PSA Pearson Set Assignment: a unit assessed through an assignment that Pearson sets.
03How you're assessed
Assessed through assignments.
Assignment-based, with a Pearson-set assignment unit.
Assessment at a glance
- PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
Skills you build
- Technical excellence in painting, sculpture, and mixed media
- Critical analysis, art history, and theoretical frameworks
- Exhibition curation and professional portfolio development
- Creative project management and self-directed practice
04Where it leads
Every level opens the next.
The HNC is the first year of the HND (Level 5).
- L3 Art and Design Level 3
- HNC Fine Art This course
- HND Fine Art HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
What is the difference between an HNC and an HND?
An HNC is a Level 4 qualification worth 120 credits. An HND is a Level 5 qualification worth 240 credits: the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
How is it assessed?
Through assignments (coursework). Higher Nationals include a Pearson-set assignment unit at each level.
Can an HND lead to a degree?
HND graduates can apply to top up to a bachelor's degree, usually entering the final year, at universities that accept HNDs. Entry is subject to each university's own requirements.
What does it cost?
Fees are set by level, with and without boarding. The HNC (Level 4) figures are on the fees page. See the fees.
How do I apply?
Send us an enquiry with the subject and level you are interested in. We'll get back to you to talk through your options and the next steps.
06Start here
Where will you start?
Tell us about yourself, what you'd like to study and whether you'd rather join us in Lisbon or online. We'll suggest a starting level and talk you through your options.