Jewellery Making Degrees

For some people, jewellery is something that they wear everyday, and holds a special meaning for them. For others, jewellery is a form of expression, allowing them to exhibit their individuality through various small and large pieces. Studying a degree in jewellery making will allow you to explore the process of creating jewellery, starting from the concept and design, right through to the physical creation of the piece. You will study a range of techniques, and will use a variety of materials in your designs and creations, meaning that you will be able to develop your skills across all elements.

About Jewellery Making

Accreditation

The accreditation of your degree will depend on where you choose to study. It will also be influenced by your level of study. At undergraduate level, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA), or a Bachelor of Design (BDes).

Duration

Generally, an undergraduate degree will take three to four years to complete, depending on where you choose to study.

Your institution may offer part-time study options, which usually means that your degree will take four to six years. You may also be able to take a foundation programme, which is useful if you do not meet the entry requirements for your degree.

Fees

Annual tuition fees for UK students are capped by the UK government. For the 2019/20 academic year, they are £9,250. This is subject to change each year, and will be updated on your institution website.

The fees displayed below are an example of typical annual tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate jewellery making degrees. Actual tuition fees can be found on the institution webpages.

Typical Annual Tuition Fees

  • Undergraduate - £9,250

Topics Covered

Undergraduate

An undergraduate degree in jewellery making will build a good foundation of knowledge in the area. You might study modules on stone setting, silver jewellery, gemmology, diamonds and diamond grading, wax carving, and fine jewellery techniques. The majority of undergraduate degrees will be designed to suit students who do not have a great deal of experience with jewellery making, as well as challenging those who have previously worked within or studied in the area. Your degree will be delivered through lectures and tutorials, as well as practical and workshop sessions. Assessment methods might include written work, practical projects, and a dissertation or final design and creation project.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for a jewellery making degree will depend on where you choose to study. It will also depend on the level for which you are applying. An undergraduate degree might require you to have previously studied an art and design subject. If you do not have a strong background in this area, but can prove that you are passionate about jewellery making, some universities might still consider your application.

Typical Entry Requirements

Undergraduate

  • A Level Grades - ABB-BCC
  • UCAS Points - 128-104 UCAS points
  • Required/Desired Subjects - Art, Product Design, Design and Technology
  • Other Entry Requirements - if you do not meet the academic entry requirements, but have equivalent work experience, your application may still be considered

Career Prospects

Graduates of a jewellery making degree will find that there are a wide range of career opportunities available to them. If you choose to work in a role directly related to your degree, jobs could include jewellery maker, jewellery designer, or teaching.