Mapping provision and participation in postgraduate creative arts and design

The overall aim of this research study by the Institute for Employment Studies (IES) was to provide the National Arts Learning Network (NALN) with a statistical analysis of the provision of postgraduate study in creative arts and design (CAD) subjects across the UK, and participation in such study by learners from different backgrounds. It also explored progression from undergraduate to postgraduate study and beyond, and the perceptions of potential postgraduate students. It complements the more qualitative research on experience and understanding of work and study pathways of actual and potential CAD postgraduate students from a range of backgrounds, being undertaken by researchers at the Open University.

About NALN

The National Arts Learning Network was a project funded by HEFCE, which ran from 2005 to 2009. The network consisted of all the specialist arts, design and performing arts institutions across England. Its aim was to support students from low income backgrounds in progressing to higher education in art, design, performing arts and communication. Over the four years of the project, NALN supported over 1,800 students in progressing to higher education. The network of Progression Managers and institutions continues to work together.

In 2009, NALN became the Widening Participation component of the UK Arts and Design Institutions’ Association – see www.ukadia.ac.uk.

• Organisation