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Design and Visual Arts

Design and Visual Arts

Welcome to Design and Visual Arts

Sheffield is full of creativity and studying at The Sheffield College provides you with lots of opportunities for you to learn and exhibit work on your doorstep. Because the sector is so diverse, we work with you to develop your own style in design, fine art, fashion and whichever other creative areas you're interested in!

As one of our students, you will get the opportunity to work on live design projects set by local businesses to prepare you for the world of work – something employers love to see on your CV.

No matter which programme you choose, your opportunities will include:

  • Peer reviews and critiques of your work
  • Working on design or project briefs that have been set by actual employers from the local area
  • Entering competitions
  • Obtaining a work experience placement with a local company
Design and Visual Arts

“When I came to The Sheffield College I didn’t really know what to do with myself but my tutor inspired me. Working independently on projects has really helped me to grow up and learn to manage my time, it’s given me some skills that I’ll never forget.”

Sasha Bushnell, Art and Design student

Which programme is right for me?

Picking the right course is the first step in your design and visual arts career. Whether you choose a full-time study programme and pick your own specialism, or apply to study a university level programme, we have something that'll suit you and your learning style.

University level courses

Looking to continue your design and visual arts studies up to degree level? Our career-focused courses are just what you're looking for! Click on the links below to find out more:

KEY SKILLS YOU WILL LEARN

All of our design and visual arts tutors are passionate about their specialisms, most of them have worked in their chosen industries for many years, which means they have the experience required to offer you the best support and guidance when it comes to careers. 

Across our diverse range of study programmes, some of the key skills and units you will study include:

  • Developing a creative process
  • Working to a set brief
  • Developing specialist technical skills

You’ll also get to showcase your work in our end of year show, visited by design agencies and other local employers – the perfect opportunity to land yourself that job or university place.

WHO WE WORK WITH

Our students have fantastic opportunities to work and learn from some of the best employers in the region, including:

  • Field Studio
  • UAL
  • Showroom Workstation
  • Sheffield Site Gallery

HOW WILL YOU BE PREPARED FOR THE WORLD OF WORK?

As a student at The Sheffield College, you will be encouraged to spend time with an employer in a real-life working environment as part of your study programme. This could be work experience or an industry placement, depending on what kind of course you are studying.

At The Sheffield College, we go further to ensure that you get the best learning and cultural experiences possible to enhance your time with us. We do this through visits to local art exhibitions and museums, having guest speakers come in to demonstrate their knowledge and skills, or through visiting major industry leaders so you can see how they go further in the real world.

Facilities

All of our Design & Visual Arts programmes are based at Hillsborough Campus, our creative hub, housing our custom-built facilities, including Mac design suites, art studios, industry-standard games design software and workshops where you can try your hand at screen-printing, metalwork and pottery!

 

 

What can I do once I finish my studies?

At The Sheffield College, we know that work experience is key to making you stand out from the crowd when it comes to applying for jobs, however it's important to remember that a lot of people in this sector are also self-employed. According to local data there are set to be a total of 6,900 jobs in the local South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority by 2026!

CAREERS ADVICE AND SUPPORT TO HELP YOU GO FURTHER

Choosing a career path when you've only just left school can seem like a daunting prospect, but our experienced Careers Advice Team are on hand to offer you the best impartial and informed careers guidance going.

We want your experience to be as enjoyable as possible. We don’t think you should have to worry about much so you can concentrate on having a great time and doing well on your course. That’s why we have a fantastic Student Support Team, who are always on hand to help you with any questions, concerns, or problems that you might face whilst at college, including, study support, finances, childcare, and mental health and well-being.

Example careers

Ever wondered how much an accountant is South Yorkshire earns? Or what skills you need to become a developer?

Graphic Designer

Starting Salary
£8.50/hour

Average Salary
£17.00/hour

High-end Salary
£26.00/hour

Product Designer

Starting Salary
£10.00/hour

Average Salary
£17.50/hour

High-end Salary
£26.00/hour

Animator

Starting Salary
£7.00/hour

Average Salary
£13.00/hour

High-end Salary
£18.50/hour

What Courses are available

Design and Visual Arts icon

Art and Design

Hillsborough Campus
Level 2

More info