Access to HE diploma: creative studies

This course gives you the chance to combine academic study and creative work. You will take literature, film studies and study skills together with creative writing and drama. Two days' attendance a week with substantial study at home. THIS COURSE IS CLOSED FOR 2011-2012.

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Key course information

Dates
19/09/11 - 23/05/12

Day(s)
Mon+Wed

Duration
29 weeks

Time
09:30 - 16:00

Fees
Full fee: £943
Senior fee: £591
Concession: £136

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
AA400*

Availability
Contact department

This course has started

It may still be possible to enrol on this course - please call 020 7831 7831 to discuss. Please note that you will have missed some course content and it may not be possible for the tutor to fully cover missed content with you. Please be advised that the published course fees will apply.

Course outline

What is the course about?

This one-year access course offers you the chance to make a fresh start in education or to build on skills and interests you already possess. It is designed to be used as a preparation for study at university by adults who lack the necessary formal qualifications, such as A levels, and leads to award of the Access to HE Diploma in Combined Studies, accredited by the Open College Network - London Region (OCNLR). The Access Diploma is recognised by universities as an entry qualification. You will combine study skills with a compulsory core of two academic and two creative subjects. It sets out to meet individual study needs and includes small group and regular one-to-one tutorials.

What topics will we cover?

Literature: This is an introduction to the study of novels, poetry and drama, exploring different approaches and interpretations, and relating texts to their wider historical and cultural contexts.
Film Studies: The module sets out to provide you with a framework through which to make critical interpretations of contemporary film. It will introduce you to key aspects of film form and different kinds of cinema.
Creative Writing: This aims to develop your confidence in writing prose, poetry, dramatic pieces and non-fiction or journalism both through experimentation in short exercises and the development of a piece of writing from an initial idea to a polished final product.
Introduction to Drama: This module introduces you to the discipline of performance. It underpins the academic study of performance in Film Studies and Literature and helps with dramatic writing in the Creative Writing course. You will practise naturalistic acting techniques and use them in the performance of scenes.
Study Skills: This sets out to increase your understanding of how you learn and to help you to learn effectively. There will be practice in note-taking, essay writing, reading, research skills and exam skills.
You will also have a personal tutor, with whom you will meet regularly on an individual basis.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- understand what advanced academic study involves
- read and discuss a wide range of texts with confidence and understanding
- think analytically and critically, and relate and interpret different kinds of material
- tackle study tasks (e.g. researching a topic, writing an essay, making a seminar presentation, independent
projects, sitting an exam) with confidence, understanding and skill
- express yourself confidently and in an academic style, both orally and on paper
- learn more effectively and with greater independence
- gain OCNLR credits and an Access to HE Diploma.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Access courses are intended for adults who wish to prepare for degree courses, but have few or no formal qualifications, or have been out of education for some time. They are recognised by universities as equivalent in standard to 'A' level. There are no formal entry requirements for this access course but, as it involves substantial reading and essay writing, you will need to be able to read and respond to a range of texts (fiction and non-fiction), and to communicate information and ideas clearly and effectively in writing. You should also be prepared to contribute to discussion and be able to work in a group.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Classes will consist of a mixture of tutor input, discussion, small group work and student presentations. Homework is substantial and compulsory. You will be asked to read in preparation for all sessions and regular written assignments will be set in all subjects which will contribute to your final result. To gain your diploma you will need to spend at least 15 hours a week on reading and written work at home as well as attending all the classes.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

A substantial amount of course material will be available in photocopied handouts but you will need to buy copies of some course set books. The Library keeps copies of all set texts but there are not enough for all students.
You will also need a supply of A4 paper, pens and a ring binder.
If you are on a low income, you may be able to apply to the Access Fund for help with the costs of the course (e.g. Fares, books, materials). Help with childcare costs is also available. Phone the City Lit Information and Advice Shop on 0207 492 2610 for more information.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

Yes. Before you can enrol on this course, you need to have an advisory interview with the relevant department. Without this the enrolment team will be unable to process your enrolment. Please contact the department to arrange your interview, or to find out about drop-in sessions. Please contact the department to find out if places are available.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. You will also be able to discuss your progress on a one-to-one basis with your personal tutor every two or three weeks. The work you complete during the year - both oral and written assignments - will be assessed in detail and you will gain credits which count towards your Access Diploma.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Students on this course typically progress to degrees which require a combination of academic and practical creative work: e.g. English or Film Studies and Drama; Literature and Creative Writing; Writing and Media; Journalism and Communications. Single honours degrees in Film, English, Journalism, Cultural Studies, Creative Writing. Support with your H.E. application is included in the course.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2610

freshhorizons@citylit.ac.uk

Contact us

Access to higher education

Tel: 020 7492 2610

freshhorizons@citylit.ac.uk

Access to higher education

An Access course is the ideal stepping stone if you want to apply for a university course but are lacking the necessary qualifications