Prime School Logo ISO 9001 Logo SGS Logo
HNC (Level 4)

BTEC Fine Art

Advanced fine art practice, critical theory, and professional development. A one-year Higher National Certificate (HNC) providing 120 credits towards degree-level study.

Ages 18+

Ages 18+

Higher Education

5 Mandatory Units

5 Mandatory Units

Core & Specialist

120 Credits

120 Credits

One-Year Programme

HNC Qualification

HNC

Level 4 Certificate

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Advanced Fine Art Practice

Prime School's HNC in Fine Art builds on Level 3 foundations to develop advanced skills in fine art practice, critical theory, and professional development. Learners engage with real art projects and prepare for professional roles or progression to HND and degree study.

Critical Studies

Critical Studies

Discover the historical and theoretical frameworks of fine art and their application to contemporary practice.

Technical Excellence

Technical Excellence

Master advanced techniques in painting, sculpture, and mixed media through rigorous workshop-based learning.

Professional Practice

Professional Practice

Develop your professional identity, learn to curate exhibitions, and prepare for career opportunities.

Individual Project

Individual Project

Apply your skills to a significant, self-directed creative project that reflects your artistic vision.

CURRICULUM

Specification

The HNC (120 credits) provides a creative foundation in contextual studies and ideas development, alongside specialist professional practice in fine art.

PSA = Pearson Set Assignment Mandatory Optional Credits = Credit Value
Unit Title Credits Type
1 Contextual Studies 15 Mandatory
2 Ideas Development 15 Mandatory
3 Communication in Art & Design 15 Mandatory
14 Professional Practice 15 Mandatory
15 Fine Art Specialist PSA 15 Mandatory
8 Painting 15 Optional
9 Sculpture 15 Optional
10 Printmaking 15 Optional
Aligned with Pearson BTEC International Level 4 Art & Design (Fine Art) Specification
ASSESSMENT & SUPPORT

How You'll Excel at HNC Level

Professional-level assignments, strategic projects, and industry mentorship — designed to build confident, career-ready graduates.

Assessment at a Glance

  • Professional reports, strategic plans, financial analyses, and business proposals.
  • PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
  • Real-world business scenarios and case study analysis.

Mentoring & Progression

  • Industry mentorship and professional development workshops.
  • Pathway planning for HND (Level 5) and degree progression.
  • Career coaching, networking opportunities, and internship support.
CAREER PATHWAYS

Progression & Recognition

HNC graduates progress to senior roles, HND study, or direct entry to degree programmes.

Professional Skills

  • 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

University & Career

  • Progression to HND (Level 5) or direct entry to fine art degree programmes
  • UK, EU, and international universities with credit recognition
  • Professional artist, exhibition curator, or art gallery manager
  • Careers in art education, community arts, or creative consultancy

BTEC PATHWAY

Refine your artistic voice and critical practice—develop advanced techniques, conceptual thinking, and professional exhibition skills for a flourishing fine art career.

Art & Design (Level 3) Fine Art (Level 4) Fine Art (Level 5)

Art & Design (Level 3) --> Fine Art (Level 4) --> Fine Art (Level 5)

Ready to Refine Your Artistic Practice?

Elevate your fine art practice from HNC to HND and develop advanced creative techniques, critical theory, and professional exhibition skills.

Rolling Admissions
Scholarships Available
Entry Tests

Get Started

Talk to Admissions Start Application

+351 21 923 54 96