1// Get started this September
Applications are still open on all our degree courses for a September 2023 start.
Making an application is straightforward, and you can get started today.
To make it even easier you can now apply directly to HCA if we are the only institution you are applying to.
Download Application Form
CLEARING IS NOW OPEN: if you want to apply for a place at HCA through Clearing, contact us directly at registry@hca.ac.uk or call/DM us on 01432 802878 / @herefordarts Mon-Fri, 9-4
“ Once I knew HCA was for me, I applied direct, I think it took 4 weeks between me clicking submit and sitting in my first lecture.
2// Why you should apply to HCA
HCA is a true specialist arts school that gives you a platform into a creative career, and a place where you can invest in yourself, and your own practice.
We are a community where you can feel safe to explore your own creativity, to make things you never thought you could, and to develop who you are as an artist, a maker, a designer or a performer.
You can also chat to a student ambassador using the green button in the corner of your screen!
3// How to apply
And what happens next?
If you know HCA is the only institution you want to apply to, download the form here and send your application to registry@hca.ac.uk
Or head to UCAS, choose the course you’re interested in and apply using the code H18.
Once you’ve done this we will be in touch to organise your interview either in person or remotely.
Once you’ve completed the initial application process, we can help support you with finance and accommodation.
Mature students
If you are over 21 when starting your undergraduate degree, you will fall into this category.
Tom Hancock – Contemporary Design Crafts
“I knew I was creative but I left school and really just pursued a career, after a while I just began to struggle with the corporate lifestyle so took the plunge. Applied to HCA and started on Contemporary Design Crafts.”
Tom went on to win the “colour in design” award at New Designers London and has now exhibited his work internationally in galleries such as Maison D’object
“
In 2021/22 alone, UK universities saw 237,000 mature undergraduate entrants, accounting for 36% of all undergraduate entrants.
Start your creative career.
Whether you’re looking to advance your career or explore new passions, we are committed to providing the support you need. We recognize the value of qualifications and experience gained outside of formal education.
At Hereford College of Arts, we consider a range of factors in our admissions process, including your life experience and creative portfolio. Contact our admissions team for more specific information on entry requirements for mature students.
Contact our registry team
Funding
Many mature students are funded at the same level as other full-time undergraduate students despite many mature students having extra financial responsibilities.
Entry Qualifications
Mature students enter higher education with a wider variety of qualifications than younger students and we are more flexible when it comes to admissions criteria.
Study Part Time
We offer part time courses, spreading a typical 3 year course over 6 years. It offers more flexibility to those with prior commitments.
Support
We run talks specifically for mature students during our induction week, providing a platform for questions and answers.
“It's nice doing this at my age, because you've got so much more confidence in yourself and experience. So as daunting as this is, the course has made me feel like I have absolute confidence in what I'm doing.
Caroline Allen, BA Fine Art Alumni, Owner and Curator of Ridgebank Gallery
Clearing...
If you need to know what clearing is, how to apply, when to apply, what to apply for, when the deadline is? Check out the FAQ’s at the bottom of this page, alternatively fill out the form and one of our team will be in touch to support you through the process.
Our Degrees
Take a look at our 11 BA Degree Level courses. If you’re interested in more than one. Get in touch, we can organise tours tailored to you.
View our courses
Accommodation
We still have places available, use the button below to check out all the details and book your room for 2023.
Clearing FAQ's
Clearing is your chance to get a place at university for 2023/24. It takes place between July and October each year.
It’s a great opportunity if you’ve missed the conditions of your offer, are applying for the first time, or had a change of heart about the university you want to go to or course you want to study.
There are still plenty of opportunities to visit our campus throughout the year. Get a taste of student life at Hereford College of Arts at our open days or on a personal tour.
We will help you to find accommodation, whether that’s in our new purpose built student accommodation or in a shared house in Hereford.
After starting your journey into higher education, you may discover that the university you’re studying at is not what you expected.
This is not uncommon and can be for a variety of reasons. Don’t worry, you can continue with your undergraduate studies with us at Hereford College of Arts.
Personal Tours
Our personal tours are a great way to learn about us. You are welcome to book a tour even if you have already applied!
You’ll be guided around the campus and will have the opportunity to chat with our graduate ambassadors about life at HCA.