Curious about studying Creative Practice - NAat University of Staffordshire? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Foundation Degree in Arts - FdA
Burton and South Derbyshire College
Full Time
Sep 2026
2 Year
In partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College, we're offering you the chance to pursue a foundation degree in Creative Practice This vocational course is designed to meet the needs of the creative and cultural industries and includes the practical skills, knowledge and expertise required to succeed in the sector. You will have the opportunity to explore a range of different approaches to creative practice and discover subject specialism that appeals to you most. So you may choose to develop your practice in a range of medium and approach. For example, photography, fine art, or textiles - the choice is yours. You will experience regular engagement with industry practice and have the opportunity to explore and interact with real world situations that are typical of the sector. You will be expected to develop your skills through a range of activities that typically includes most, if not all of the following activities: Live briefs Competitions Exhibiting and selling work Private commissions Creative enterprise activities in teams and/or individually Working on creative projects with charities, the voluntary sector and other organisations On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: FdA Contemporary Creative Practice
How do today's art practitioners navigate practical constraints and ethical considerations? In this module, youll explore a case study relevant to your field, analysing key factors and presenting your findings to an audience. Youll gain insights into the challenges of reaching audiences, the role of legislation, and ethical requirements. You'll also plan an event or activity, reflecting on your progress and considering how to expand your skills for future academic or vocational goals. This module bridges theory with real-world application, preparing you for a career in the creative industries.
How do contemporary practitioners navigate the dynamic landscape of the creative industries? In this module, you'll delve into a success story within your field, evaluating its achievements and presenting your findings. You will explore how historical influences, legislation, and ethics shape current trends, and consider future developments in design. By reflecting on the social and political contexts of your work, you will enhance your understanding of cultural expectations and refine your analytical skills. This module bridges design theory with practical application, preparing you for professional projects that address real-world needs in diverse creative settings.
In this module, youll experiment with various mark-making techniques and explore the language of visual arts. Youll learn to communicate your understanding of formal elements and concepts through diverse methods. Youll also consider how trends, technology, and financial factors influence your work. By sharing and discussing ideas with peers and tutors, youll develop a personal style and gain confidence in presenting visual concepts. This module equips you with the skills to navigate and contribute to the dynamic field of visual arts.
In this module, youll experiment with both new and traditional media, exploring various mark-making techniques. Youll delve into the language of visual arts, learning to analyse and communicate your understanding of formal elements and concepts. Youll also examine how trends in the creative industries, as well as technological and financial influences, impact your work. Through collaborative idea sharing with peers and tutors, youll develop a unique personal style and the ability to effectively present visual ideas. This module prepares you for a dynamic career in the visual arts by enhancing your creative and analytical skills.
In this module, youll delve into professional responsibilities, teamwork, and strategic planning. Reflect on how your skills have evolved throughout your Foundation degree and plan the next steps to achieve your personal aspirations. A key component of this module is working collaboratively to organise an activity or event that showcases your accomplishments to a broader audience. Youll navigate professional considerations such as health and safety, permissions, funding, and information dissemination, equipping you with essential skills for a successful career in the creative industries.
In this module, youll undertake a major brief that showcases your understanding of how arts practitioners achieve success within national and international contexts. Youll work independently to identify projects that fulfil a specific need or aspiration, which could range from industry-directed tasks to significant academic research. Potential projects include revitalising a cultural venue, organising a major event, or conducting in-depth research on a cultural subject. Youll be responsible for managing all aspects of your project, including client engagement, creative execution, and professional considerations like financial management, legal requirements, and ethical standards. This module prepares you for a successful career by developing your project management skills and your ability to work independently in the creative industries.
This module empowers you to create a project tailored to your career or academic aspirations. Youll develop a comprehensive proposal for an industry-related or academic project, conducting detailed research on relevant opportunities, costs, and potential funding. Your project should include a realistic timeline, defined outcomes, and demonstrate how it will impact your professional growth. By aligning your work with industry standards, youll enhance your prospects for further study or a successful career in the Creative Arts, supported by guidance from academic and industry experts.
In this module, youll develop a diverse portfolio that includes annotated examples of your work across different contexts and purposes, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively within your chosen specialism. Youll also write a 1,000-word report analysing a key movement, designer, artist, or practitioner who has influenced your field. This report will highlight how their work has shaped contemporary practices and its relevance to your projects. By the end of this module, youll have a compelling portfolio and a deep understanding of influential elements within your specialism, enhancing your readiness for a professional career or further study in the creative industries.
4.2
