Study here and you’ll be taught by highly skilled tutors and supported by expert technicians. Our commitment to our students is second to none, in workshops, studios and beyond. Our tutors won’t just set assignments and leave you to get on with it. Open and approachable, they’re committed and involved in the whole college community, living and breathing art.
As artists, they know how important it is to trial ideas and share expertise. They understand what it takes to develop a portfolio or prepare for an exhibition. They also know it’s essential to be able to think practically as well as creatively. Our course leaders arrange for industry to set and assess real-life briefs, helping students to understand how to succeed in business – without compromising creativity or integrity. Our college has strong links with the wider community. We run a busy national and international programme of visiting artists, exhibitions, public events and partnership activities. As a student here you’ll be making connections with artists, industry and potential employers from day one.
High-quality education for life in contemporary arts practice, as the creative catalyst for personal, professional and cultural transformation. As an independent specialist Art College since 1856 is to provide a distinctive, innovative and supportive learning community in contemporary arts practice; to add value to the cultural, social and economic life of Plymouth and the South West region; and to develop our distinctive profile of our work nationally and internationally.
We believe in the centrality of the arts to social value, culture, community, welfare, and prosperity; We uphold the primary significance of learning through practice and participation for individual development, transformation and fulfilment; We see our College as a crucible, or laboratory, for artistic experiment, exchange, entrepreneurship and innovation, and for new thinking, in the service of our wider communities; We value and invite purposeful, mutual partnership; We celebrate social and cultural diversity, and encourage engagement with the community and cross-cultural dimensions of learning in local, regional, national and international contexts;We respect our environment, and have a strong commitment to sustainable practice; We aspire to the highest standards of contemporary art practice and achievement.
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Just loved my time here. Best years ever. Great tutors and fabulous mix of people. You are just accepted for who you are. I'd willingly do it all again!
By Lucie Birch (Aug, 2018) |
“My time at Plymouth College of Art was spent studying BA fashion. Over the last three years I have enjoyed every moment of not only the fashion course but the whole college experience. I have collaborated with fellow students from multiple disciplines across the college and being part of many exciting opportunities, one of them being a part of the college wide brand campaign. Opportunities such as being involved in big events such as Graduate Fashion week catwalk, promotional content with SIZE and filming with the BBC were all most exciting and beneficial experiences to top off my final year at PCA”
By Amy Bray (Aug, 2018) |
Fab hub of creativity. Great courses and top rate facilities. The training and courses I have attended have been of the highest standard. I particularly enjoyed the ceramics course I attended. The glass blowing looked amazing as well. If you get a chance pop into the temporary exhibition space, there is often an interesting show on.
By tim welbourne (Jul, 2018) |
I've been here for the past 3 years studying graphic design and can't really complain too much. At this level of education it is expected that if you have a problem you should speak up and sort it out, however I feel too many people in the uni education system still expect lectures to come round and make sure you are happy. The 3rd year I must sat did feel a little disorganised however there has been nothing but support from all the lectures over the past 3 years. The course is definitely still relevant compared to what other graphic design courses offer and I'd honestly say it's probably one of the better courses to take.
By James Russell (Jun, 2018) |
Really disappointing!! Be careful to research your degree course well as it doesn't always do what it says on the label!! Daughter enrolled to study Jewellery degree and a year later is very disappointed that compared to extremely well established degrees around the country PCA have failed to deliver the strong technical skills required to compete in the Jewellery industry despite assurances in their literature to the contrary and several discussions with staff along the way. There seems to be no accountability - once they have their money there is no comeback for the student when they don't receive the goods that they signed up for!!!
By Shirley Thomas (Sep, 2017) |
I studied here for a total of 5 years, I really can't stress enough on the strong support network the pre degree and undergraduate courses have to offer. The opportunities are endless and I never felt held back. Great facilities such as the ERC where you are able to be inducted on all kinds of state of the art equipment and rent them out to further assist you with your study. Not only this, you're also always able to access any equipment or facilities even if they aren't something that's typical of your chosen subject area. I particularly enjoyed having the opportunity to always be able to experiment with innovative creative techniques as well as more traditional ones. During my time studying I was always encouraged to cross-collaborate with students on other courses which allowed me to learn and develop a wide range of skills. My favourite part of my time studying here was being able to showcase our work to professionals, friends and family and the general public which was great for networking - particularly when in the third year when building professional relationships was crucial. Would recommend to anyone.
By Jasminne Gwalter (Aug, 2017) |
A wonderfully inspiring place to study - I love the creative buzz here. I have spent many years learning at Plymouth College of Art, from taking part in Saturday arts club with my schoolmates to doing short courses and evening courses - each time i have found the college to be a welcoming, exciting, creative place where I have truly enjoyed learning and spending time. A definite asset to the creative landscape in the South West.
By Woah Mama (Aug, 2017) |
Completed my Level 3 Extended Diploma in Film and Television in 2015. Great college! Tutors are encouraging and inspiring. Fully enjoyed my time here!
By Lauren Petherbridge (Mar, 2017) |
I loved studying at Plymouth College of Art... I studied Ba (Hons) Fine Art and there was never a moment I didn't feel inspired. The staff are really helpful and encouraging so I gained loads of confidence in both my art practice and personally. The college really got behind me and pushed me to apply for some really adventurous opportunities... one of my pieces was recently selected to be shown at UK Young Artists National Festival in Derby! Thank you PCA!
By Elena Brake (Sep, 2016) |
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Plymouth College of Art has been a transformative experience for my daughter, with inspiring faculty who truly invest in every student's growth and creativity.
By Benjamin Parker (Sep, 2024) |