| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Hartlepool Campus: This campus focuses on higher education, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs in creative disciplines.
Middlesbrough Campus: This campus specializes in further education, offering foundation-level courses, diplomas, and preparatory programs for aspiring creatives.
Specialist Institution: Unlike many general universities, The Northern School of Art exclusively focuses on art and design subjects, creating a tailored environment for creative students.
Wide Range of Courses: It offers a variety of courses, including fine art, illustration, graphic design, photography, textiles, filmmaking, animation, production design, acting, costume, and visual effects.
Small Class Sizes: Students benefit from personalized attention and close interaction with tutors and industry professionals.
Strong Industry Links: The school collaborates with industry partners to provide students with work experience, live projects, and networking opportunities. These connections help graduates build successful careers in creative industries.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Both campuses are equipped with specialized facilities such as studios, workshops, and equipment for areas like animation, 3D modeling, and printmaking.
The Northern School of Art was founded in 1874, originally as The Cleveland School of Art. Over time, it evolved to meet the changing needs of the creative industries, earning a reputation as a leading center for creative education in the UK.
Creative Community: Students join a vibrant, supportive community of artists and designers who share a passion for creativity.
High Graduate Employment Rate: The school has a strong track record of preparing students for careers in competitive creative industries.
Accessible and Affordable: Tuition fees are competitive compared to larger universities, and the school is well-regarded for its inclusivity and supportive approach to education.
The Northern School of Art boasts a range of successful alumni working in diverse creative industries, from fine art to filmmaking and design.
These courses, primarily offered at the Middlesbrough campus, are aimed at students aged 16+ and those looking to build a strong foundation in art and design.
UAL Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design
A beginner-level course for students who want to explore creative techniques and develop their skills.
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design
A more advanced course that prepares students for higher education or work in creative fields.
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography
Focused on developing skills in photography, including both traditional and digital techniques.
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Graphic Design
Covers the principles of graphic design and visual communication.
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Illustration & Animation
Designed for students interested in storytelling, illustration, and 2D/3D animation.
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Textiles & Fashion
A creative course exploring textiles, garment design, and the fashion industry.
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Film & TV Production
A practical course for students interested in filmmaking and television production techniques.
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games Design
Covers the fundamentals of game design, 3D modeling, and storytelling for gaming.
UAL Level 4 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design
A one-year preparatory course that helps students refine their portfolios and prepare for higher education in art and design.
The FE campus offers pathways tailored to specific disciplines, such as fine art, 3D design, digital arts, and more, giving students flexibility to specialize.
The Hartlepool campus focuses on undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses designed for students pursuing careers in the creative industries.
Animation
Focuses on 2D and 3D animation, storytelling, and character design.
Illustration for Commercial Application
A course specializing in creative visual communication and illustration for industries such as publishing, advertising, and branding.
Graphic Design
Covers branding, advertising, and digital design techniques to prepare students for a range of design careers.
Photography
Explores contemporary and traditional photography, including digital imaging and post-production.
Fine Art
Emphasizes creative expression and professional development as a practicing artist.
Film, TV & Theatre Production Design
A unique course focusing on set design, prop making, and creating immersive environments for screen and stage.
Costume Interpretation with Design
A specialist course for those interested in designing and creating costumes for stage, film, and TV productions.
Acting for Stage & Screen
Prepares students for acting careers, covering both stage performance and on-camera techniques.
Textiles & Surface Design
A course for aspiring designers working in textiles, print, and pattern for fashion or interiors.
Visual Effects (VFX)
Specializes in post-production visual effects for film, TV, and games, including 3D modeling and compositing.
Production Design for Stage & Screen
Combines technical and creative skills to design for theater productions and film/TV sets.
Master’s in Creative Arts (MA)
A flexible postgraduate program designed for artists and designers to refine their practice and explore new creative directions.
The Northern School of Art also offers short courses, workshops, and professional development programs, tailored to support lifelong learning and skill-building for creative professionals.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Animation |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Illustration for Commercial Application |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Graphic Design |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Photography |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Fine Art |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Film, TV & Theatre Production Design |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Costume Interpretation with Design |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Acting for Stage & Screen |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Textiles & Surface Design |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Visual Effects (VFX) |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
|
Production Design for Stage & Screen |
3 Years |
$16,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master’s in Creative Arts (MA) |
1 Year |
$16,000 |
As one of the UK’s leading specialist schools for creative education, The Northern School of Art is uniquely focused on preparing students for careers in creative industries.
The school provides hands-on, practical training combined with industry-focused learning.
International students can enroll in undergraduate (BA Hons) and postgraduate (MA) courses.
Popular courses include Animation, Graphic Design, Film, TV & Theatre Production Design, Fine Art, and Costume Interpretation with Design.
Foundation diploma programs are also available for those needing preparation before entering a degree program.
Undergraduate and postgraduate course fees for international students are approximately £12,000 per year, which is around $16,000 USD (depending on exchange rates).
Tuition fees are lower compared to many UK universities, making it an affordable option for international students pursuing a creative education.
The Northern School of Art offers limited scholarships or financial support for international students. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, such as Chevening Scholarships or local funding bodies in their home country.
Applications for undergraduate programs are submitted via UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
For postgraduate programs, students can apply directly through The Northern School of Art's website.
A strong portfolio of creative work is typically required as part of the application process.
International students need a Student Visa (formerly known as Tier 4 Visa) to study in the UK.
The school provides guidance on the visa application process once students are accepted.
The Northern School of Art has a dedicated team to assist international students with pre-arrival, visa, and enrollment guidance.
Ongoing support is available for academic, personal, and cultural adjustment needs.
Located in the Northeast of England, the cost of living is lower compared to larger cities like London or Manchester.
Accommodation, food, and other expenses are affordable, making it an attractive option for international students.
The school provides recommendations for local student accommodation near the Hartlepool Campus (higher education) or Middlesbrough Campus (further education).
Private housing and shared accommodation are also widely available.
The Northeast of England is a welcoming, culturally diverse, and vibrant region. Students will experience the local culture while studying alongside peers from different backgrounds.
Proximity to historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and the coastline adds to the experience.
Review the undergraduate courses offered by the school (e.g., Animation, Graphic Design, Fine Art) and choose the one that aligns with your interests.
Applications for undergraduate programs are made through the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) portal.
Visit to start your application.
The Northern School of Art's UCAS institution code is C71.
You will need to include the following:
Personal details
Academic qualifications
A personal statement explaining your interest in the course and your creative background.
A reference (e.g., from a teacher or employer).
Applicants must submit a portfolio of creative work showcasing their skills, ideas, and interest in the chosen subject area.
The portfolio should include examples of relevant creative projects such as drawings, designs, photography, or digital media (depending on the course).
Guidance on portfolio preparation is available on the school’s website or can be provided by their admissions team.
After submitting your application, you may be invited to an interview or portfolio review.
For international students, this can often be conducted online.
For UK and international students, the main UCAS deadline is January 31 of the academic year before the course begins.
Applications may still be accepted after this date, but early submission is recommended.
Currently, The Northern School of Art offers the MA in Creative Arts. Decide if this program aligns with your creative and career aspirations.
Postgraduate applications are submitted directly via The Northern School of Art's website.
You will need to complete an online application form, which typically asks for:
Personal details
Academic qualifications (e.g., Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject)
A statement of intent or project proposal explaining your creative goals and reasons for pursuing the MA.
A reference or recommendation letter.
Submit a portfolio of work showcasing your creative achievements, skills, and the type of work you wish to pursue during the Master's program.
You may be invited for an interview to discuss your portfolio, academic background, and project ideas. This may also be conducted online for international applicants.
Postgraduate applications typically have rolling deadlines, but early applications are encouraged.
Explore the range of Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas, as well as the Foundation Diploma in Art & Design, offered for students aged 16+.
Apply directly to The Northern School of Art via their official website.
Provide personal details, academic history, and a brief statement about your creative interests.
Include a portfolio of your creative work as part of the application. For foundation-level courses, the portfolio does not need to be highly advanced but should show interest and enthusiasm in creative arts.
Applicants may be invited for an informal interview to discuss their goals and review their portfolio.
Main Intake: September (Autumn/Fall intake)
Most degree programs start in September each academic year.
Applications should ideally be submitted well in advance (by January 31 for undergraduate courses via UCAS).
Late applications may still be considered, depending on availability.
Main Intake: September
Courses such as the UAL Foundation Diploma in Art & Design and Level 3 Diplomas also begin in September.
In some cases, rolling admissions may apply for postgraduate programs (e.g., MA in Creative Arts), allowing flexible start dates.
It’s best to confirm specific deadlines with the admissions office for postgraduate courses or international applicants.
Applicants must have one of the following:
A-Levels: Typically a minimum of 2 A-Levels or equivalent qualifications.
BTEC Level 3 Diplomas: Pass grades are usually accepted (relevant to art and design subjects).
International Qualifications: Equivalent secondary school qualifications are accepted (e.g., high school diploma, IB Diploma, etc.).
A portfolio of creative work is required for all undergraduate applications.
The portfolio should demonstrate artistic skills, creativity, and passion for the chosen subject.
Guidance on preparing a portfolio is available on the school’s website.
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following tests:
IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 (no section below 5.5).
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 72.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 51.
Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the time they begin the course.
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, such as art, design, or a related creative discipline.
Applicants with professional experience in creative fields may be considered, even if they lack a formal degree.
A portfolio of creative work is required, showcasing your skills, artistic journey, and ideas for postgraduate study.
Non-native English speakers must meet the same English proficiency requirements as undergraduate students:
IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 (no section below 5.5).
Equivalent tests (TOEFL, PTE Academic) are also accepted.
Applicants must typically be at least 21 years old.
Scholarship/Funding Name |
Eligibility |
Amount/Benefits |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Access Scholarship |
- Available for UK undergraduate students from low-income households. |
(based on financial need). |
Automatically assessed upon application. |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students. |
Partial tuition fee reduction or financial support. |
Application required (contact admissions). |
|
Northern Art Bursary |
- Available to students from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds. |
depending on individual circumstances. |
Application required; supporting documents needed. |
|
International Student Scholarship |
- Open to international undergraduate and postgraduate students. |
Partial tuition fee waiver (varies). |
Application required during admission process. |
|
Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) |
- Available to UK students with disabilities or specific learning needs. |
Financial assistance for support services and equipment. |
Apply through Student Finance England. |
|
Chevening Scholarship |
- Open to international postgraduate students from eligible countries. |
Full funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel. |
Apply through the Chevening website. |
|
External Scholarships (Creative Arts) |
- Open to international and domestic students. |
depending on the provider. |
Research and apply directly to providers. |
Campus Name |
Location |
Facilities |
Accommodation Options |
Cost of Accommodation (Per Week) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hartlepool Campus |
Hartlepool, England (Higher Education campus for undergraduate and postgraduate programs). |
- Specialized facilities for creative programs, including studios, workshops, and technical equipment. |
- Hartlepool has several privately-owned student accommodations within walking distance of the campus. |
$90 - $140 per week (£70 - £110 per week) |
|
Middlesbrough Campus |
Middlesbrough, England (Further Education campus for foundation and diploma programs). |
- Workshops and classrooms for diploma-level courses in art and design. |
- Middlesbrough also offers affordable housing options, including shared flats, private houses, and nearby student halls. |
$75 - $125 per week (£60 - £100 per week) |
Accommodation Options:
Private rented housing and purpose-built student accommodations are available.
Many students choose shared houses, which are highly affordable and located within walking distance of the campus.
Cost Range: $90 - $140 per week (approximately £70 - £110).
Examples of Accommodation:
Crown House: A private student hall offering en-suite rooms and shared kitchens.
Cleveland Halls: Provides self-catered accommodation with modern amenities.
Shared flats or houses in Hartlepool are another popular option for students.
Accommodation Options:
While no on-campus accommodation is available, Middlesbrough has affordable housing options close to the campus.
Students often choose shared houses or private rentals near the city center.
Cost Range: $75 - $125 per week (approximately £60 - £100).
Examples of Accommodation:
Central Park: Affordable and close to the Middlesbrough campus.
Private landlords also rent out shared accommodations for groups of students.
Specialist Institution: Being a small and specialist art and design school, students benefit from close interactions with tutors, smaller class sizes, and access to industry-standard facilities.
Community Feel: The school fosters a welcoming and inclusive community where students can collaborate, share ideas, and build lifelong friendships.
Industry Connections: Regular workshops, guest lectures, and live projects connect students with professionals in the creative industries.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Both campuses (Hartlepool and Middlesbrough) are equipped with:
Studios for fine art, illustration, and graphic design.
Workshops for textiles, costume design, and prop-making.
Digital labs for animation, VFX, and film production.
Libraries with a rich collection of books, journals, and digital resources.
Exhibition Spaces: Students have the opportunity to showcase their work in dedicated gallery spaces and participate in public exhibitions.
Creative Opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in various exhibitions, live briefs, and competitions to gain real-world experience.
Social Events: The school organizes regular events, such as:
Art and design festivals.
Film screenings and performances.
End-of-year degree shows to showcase student work.
Clubs and Societies: While smaller than larger universities, students often organize informal interest groups related to film, photography, illustration, and more.
Trips and Visits: Educational trips to galleries, museums, film studios, and industry events across the UK and internationally.
Affordable Living Costs: The Northeast of England is one of the most affordable regions in the UK. Students enjoy lower rent, food, and transport costs compared to larger cities like London or Manchester.
Proximity to Culture and Nature:
Hartlepool and Middlesbrough are close to stunning beaches, countryside, and historical sites.
Students can explore nearby cultural hubs like Newcastle and Durham.
Student-Friendly Cities: Both towns offer a mix of restaurants, pubs, theaters, cinemas, and shopping centers.
Student Support Services: The Northern School of Art provides comprehensive support to students, including:
Academic support and tutoring.
Wellbeing and mental health services.
Disability and learning support.
Career Guidance: A dedicated careers team helps students with:
Building portfolios and resumes.
Networking with industry professionals.
Securing internships and placements.
International Student Support: For international students, the school offers guidance on visas, accommodation, and settling into life in the UK.
Part-Time Work: Many students take on part-time jobs in Hartlepool or Middlesbrough to support themselves financially. The cost of living is affordable, making this manageable.
Cultural Integration: International students are encouraged to participate in cultural activities to explore British culture while also sharing their own.
Creative Focus: Students appreciate the specialized focus on creative disciplines and the individual attention they receive.
Friendly Atmosphere: Many students describe the school as supportive, friendly, and inspiring.
Industry Connections: Alumni have praised the live projects, work placements, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Students are encouraged to engage with the school’s active presence on social media platforms to stay updated on events, news, and student life.
The Northern School of Art also ensures students have a voice in shaping their experience through feedback and student representatives.
A typical day might involve:
Morning: Studio-based learning, such as sketching, painting, or digital design.
Afternoon: Attending a workshop or lecture delivered by industry professionals.
Evening: Collaborating on projects with classmates or socializing at a local cafe or pub.
Work Placements and Internships
Students are encouraged to undertake work placements and internships during their studies to gain real-world experience.
Courses such as Film, TV & Theatre Production Design, Costume Interpretation, and Graphic Design often integrate live industry projects or placements with organizations in the creative sector.
Industry Projects and Live Briefs
Students regularly work on live briefs set by industry partners, giving them the chance to apply their skills to real-world challenges.
These projects often lead to networking opportunities and potential employment after graduation.
Creative Partnerships
The school collaborates with key players in the creative industries, including studios, production companies, fashion brands, and art organizations, to provide placement and project opportunities.
Degree Showcases
Annual degree shows allow students to showcase their work to industry professionals, employers, and the public. These events are a significant opportunity for networking and job offers.
The Northern School of Art provides comprehensive career services to help students transition into the professional world:
Career Advisors
Dedicated career advisors assist students with building CVs, portfolios, and showreels to present their work professionally.
Workshops and Training
Regular career workshops focus on interview preparation, freelancing, personal branding, and job search strategies.
Creative Enterprise
The school supports students who wish to set up their own creative businesses or work as freelancers by offering advice on funding, networking, and developing a business plan.
Alumni Network
The school has an active alumni network that connects current students with graduates working in creative industries. Alumni often return to give talks, offer advice, and share industry insights.
The Northern School of Art has partnerships and connections with various creative organizations, studios, and companies, including:
BBC
ITV
Disney
Pinewood Studios
Amazon Studios
Local and regional creative businesses in the northeast of England.
These connections provide students with placement opportunities and insight into working within the industry.
High Employability Rates
Many graduates find employment in their chosen creative fields within 6 months of graduation.
The school’s practical approach to learning ensures students graduate with industry-relevant skills and experience.
Creative Career Paths
Graduates work in diverse roles, such as:
Film and TV production designers
Graphic designers
Animators
Fashion designers
Fine artists
Costume designers
Illustrators
Photographers
VFX artists
Some alumni also pursue postgraduate studies or research in creative fields.
Notable Alumni Success
Graduates from The Northern School of Art have gone on to work with major studios, production houses, and creative agencies, or establish their own successful businesses.
Students from Film, TV & Theatre Production Design have worked on major TV shows and films with companies like Netflix, BBC, and ITV.
Graduates of Costume Interpretation with Design have secured placements in top fashion brands and theatrical productions.
Graphic Design and Illustration students often secure internships with design agencies and advertising firms.
Many students at The Northern School of Art pursue freelance careers or launch their own businesses.
Courses emphasize entrepreneurial skills, and the school offers guidance on navigating the freelance market, including how to secure clients and manage finances.
International students benefit from the same placement and career services, with additional guidance on working in the UK after graduation.
The school helps international students understand post-study work visa options, such as the Graduate Route, which allows them to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years after completing their degree.
For international students:
The Graduate Route Visa allows students to work or look for work in the UK for 2 years after completing their degree.
The Northern School of Art provides support to help students transition into professional roles and navigate visa requirements.
While The Northern School of Art is welcoming to applicants, acceptance is portfolio-based and focuses on the following factors:
Portfolio Quality:
A strong portfolio of creative work is one of the most important factors in the admissions process. Applicants must demonstrate creativity, originality, and enthusiasm for their chosen discipline.
Academic Qualifications:
Applicants must meet the academic requirements for their course level (e.g., A-Levels for undergraduate degrees or a Bachelor’s degree for postgraduate programs). However, the school values talent and potential more than strict academic grades.
Passion and Commitment:
The school looks for applicants who are genuinely passionate about art and design. A well-written personal statement can help highlight your commitment.
Interview Performance:
Applicants are often invited to attend an interview (either in person or online). This is an opportunity to discuss their portfolio and creative aspirations.
Purpose: This campus is dedicated to undergraduate (BA Hons) and postgraduate (MA) degree programs.
Location: 1 Church Street, Hartlepool, TS24 7DR, United Kingdom
Specialization:
Home to the degree programs in animation, illustration, fine art, graphic design, film production design, textiles, acting, VFX, and other creative disciplines.
Offers state-of-the-art facilities such as studios, digital labs, and workshops tailored to creative courses.
Nearby Landmarks:
The Hartlepool Marina and Historic Quay are within walking distance.
Close to the town center, with shops, restaurants, and transport links.
Transport:
Easily accessible via Hartlepool Railway Station (5-minute walk).
Well-connected to nearby cities like Middlesbrough, Durham, and Newcastle by road and public transport.
Purpose: This campus focuses on further education, offering foundation diplomas, Level 3 diplomas, and pre-degree courses.
Location: Green Lane, Middlesbrough, TS5 7RJ, United Kingdom
Specialization:
Provides programs such as the UAL Foundation Diploma in Art & Design and Extended Diplomas in areas like photography, textiles, graphic design, and game design.
Equipped with workshops, studios, and exhibition spaces for practical and creative learning.
Nearby Landmarks:
Located in a leafy suburb of Middlesbrough, providing a peaceful environment for students.
A short distance from Middlesbrough town center, with cultural attractions like the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA).
Transport:
Accessible by bus and car, with free on-campus parking.
Middlesbrough Railway Station is approximately 10 minutes away by car.
