Lines now open
- Click here to Speak to a course adviser now
or call us on 01202 006 464

How to Start a Creative Degree Without A-Levels

SHARE THIS PAGE
21st June 26

Are you someone who has always had a passion for creativity and has big dreams of becoming a Fashion Designer, Cinematographer, Graphic Designer, Animator, or pursuing another creative field? If so, keep reading!

photographs and sketches on worktopIntroducing the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design). This is the perfect first step for you to achieve your goals and launch an exciting and fulfilling career in the creative industry. With this diploma, you can gain the knowledge, skills, and qualifications necessary to kick-start your journey towards higher education and ultimately your dream career.

You may have come across some obstacles on your journey towards your dream career, such as not knowing how to get started or not meeting the entry requirements for a university-level qualification. However, don't worry because all is not lost!

The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design) is designed specifically for individuals who have a passion for creativity but may not have the necessary qualifications or experience to enrol in a university-level programme.

During the course, you'll have the opportunity to study a range of subjects and develop essential skills. Your new-found knowledge and skills will not only help you succeed in your studies but also in your future career.

So, if you're someone who has a dream career but is unsure where to start, the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design) could be your answer.

Download our FREE art and design course and career factsheet

What is The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Arts and Design)?

So, what exactly is the Access to Higher Education Diploma, and how can it help you

pursue a creative career? Firstly, the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design) meets the entry requirements for many universities and gives you the relevant skills and qualifications you need to enrol on a university course without needing A-levels.

That’s right! You don’t need A-levels to pursue your creative passion.

The learndirect Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design) is specifically created to prepare students for higher education in creative subjects. It covers 16 expertly developed and supported units spanning a range of topics such as drawing, painting, 3D designs, graphic design, illustration, and much more.

This diploma will even allow you to create your portfolio before opening the door to studying university-level courses.

multicoloured notebook with label reading creativityModules included in the learndirect Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design):

  • Module 1: Academic Writing Skills
  • Module 2: Reading and Note Making
  • Module 3: Colour Theory in Art and Design
  • Module 4: Perspectives in Art and Design
  • Module 5: Fundamentals of Drawing
  • Module 6: Visual Language and the Sketchbook
  • Module 7: Historical Context of Art and Design
  • Module 8: Media and Materials Research
  • Module 9: Mixed Media in Art and Design
  • Module 10: Designing Symbols and Signs
  • Module 11: Digital Photography
  • Module 12: Idea Exploration and Development
  • Module 13: Producing 3D Realisation from a Brief
  • Module 14: Art and Design Project Development and Delivery
  • Module 15: Portfolio Building in Art and Design

Do I Need Any Qualifications To Study for The Access to HE Diploma (Art and Design)?

You might be wondering; can I enrol on the Access to HE (Art and Design) without GCSEs or A-Levels? The answer is yes! However, whilst there are no specific qualifications required to enrol on the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design), please note that each university will have its own set of entry criteria which must be met, such as grade C/4 or higher GCSEs in Maths and English or an equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills. Therefore, it’s essential to check with your chosen university to see their entry requirements and confirm that an Access to Higher Education Diploma will meet these requirements.

Creating Your Portfolio

One of the most significant benefits of the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design) is that it will allow you to build a portfolio of work, which is a requirement for many universities.

A strong, diverse portfolio is essential in creative fields. Most universities now request digital portfolios showcasing a mix of physical and digital artwork, design progression, and sketchbook ideas. This diploma is designed specifically to help you gather, refine, and present the necessary coursework to stand out during the university selection process.

paint palette and brushes on tableWhat Is The Access to HE Diploma Equivalent To, And How Long Does It Take To Complete?

Simply put, the diploma is equivalent to 3 A-Levels and takes, on average, 12 months to complete due to the level of artwork required; however, when studying through learndirect, you are given 24 months to complete the course.

Can I Study for The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design) Online?

You may be wondering if you will need to attend live classes or if you will be able to complete the Access to HE course from the comfort of your home. The answer is yes! Flexibility is key to our learning delivery, and it’s important to us that our learners have the ability to study online at their convenience.

Your online learning portal will give you the freedom to log in from almost anywhere and become qualified at your own speed.

 

What University Courses Can You Study With An Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design)?

By achieving the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design), you will open the door to studying a number of creative degrees that would have otherwise been inaccessible to individuals without A-Levels.

The options available for further education upon completion of the diploma are wide and varied, with many universities using different titles for a lot of their course, however, some of the most popular university courses lead to careers in:

  • Interior design
  • Fashion design
  • Graphic design
  • Motion Design
  • Animation
  • Cinematography
  • Fine art
  • Photography and much more

Getting Started On The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design)

If you feel like you are finally ready to take a big step towards achieving the qualifications you need for your dream career, we can help.

If you’re ready to reach the next stage of your career through university-level study, our team are happy to help you start your learning journey.

Learn more today by speaking with one of our Course Advisors. They’re happy to answer any other questions and guide you through the process of becoming an online student and getting university ready with learndirect.

Call us now on 01202 006 464 or speak with us online, or to find out more, click below to download our FREE Access to Higher Education Diploma faculty brochure!

start your journey today cta

Free career quizFree quiz 1 to 2 minutes1-2 min Personalised reportCareer report

Reading up on courses? Cut to the chase.

Our 90-second quiz recommends the right course based on your goal, time, and budget.

Find my course match

Rated by our learners

Rated Excellent by our learners

4.5 out of 5

Based on 32,258 Trustpilot reviews

Read all reviews →
Verified

Jordan has been incredibly helpful !

These courses are wonderful and easy to access, even easier to apply for! Jordan was absolutely the most helpful person I have spoken to. He was very understanding, kind and made sure I understood everything to do with the courses. I could not express how grateful I am to him as he had gone out of his way to research different course paths for my career and helped me chose the best one. Honestly, give this man a raise because he has gone above and beyond in the name of customer service.

Ashley M. 25 Sep 2026
Verified

I was assisted by Edina

I was assisted by Edina, who helped me with all matters related to my course. She was kind and respectful, verified everything I needed, handled the situation professionally, and offered solutions.

Ana H. 25 Sep 2026
Verified

Top Notch Customer Support

Edina (Customer Service Advisor) gave much appreciated assistance in amending my extension to the correct date. Friendly, efficient and a pleasure to deal with.

Natalie C. 25 Sep 2026
Verified

Thank you Peter

I just want to say a big thank you to Peter for not giving up and still getting in contact after the call cut and convincing me to do this course when I get into university it will be because of you thank you

queen A. 25 Sep 2026
Verified

Good customer service

I was not too sure whether I wanted to join the course now or a bit later, Dan made a call and l was not reachable, he made another attempt where he explained the course requirements and content. I was then hesitant to make a payment straight away but Dan was patient and explained further. Great job!! I have now enrolled

Kudzie 25 Sep 2026
Verified

Excellent service and support.

I signed up for my Level 5 course today and had such a positive experience. The gentleman Wesley Maraise helped me was friendly, professional, patient and extremely helpful throughout the whole process. I'm really excited to start my Level 5 and feel reassured knowing I've had such great support from the very beginning. Thank you for making the first step of this journey such a positive one. Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Wendy 25 Sep 2026
Ready when you are

Take the next step in your learning journey

Course tips, career advice and exclusive offers, straight to your inbox. No spam, just guidance.

Accredited & trusted

Working with the UK's leading awarding bodies

Call us
today