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Case Study

Rachelle Harrigan

North Shields

BA (Hons) Artist Designer Maker: Glass and Ceramics

MA Visual Practice


Rachelle Harrigan found herself at a point in her life where she would regret not going to university, so decided to take the plunge and apply to study ceramics at Sunderland. Having graduated from BA (Hons) Artist Designer Maker: Glass and Ceramics, she is now studying MA Visual Practice and continuing to develop as an artist.

I was working as an Early Years Educator before coming to Sunderland. I found myself at a time in my life where I would regret not taking the plunge and applying to university. Choosing the University of Sunderland was easy because I wanted to do a ceramics course while still being close to home.

My favourite part of the BA (Hons) Artist Designer Maker: Glass and Ceramics course is the people, the workshop space, the knowledge and the idea sharing. The facilities are excellent, and the course enables you to really develop as an artist.

My advice to prospective Glass and Ceramics students? Absolutely come and study at Sunderland! I am from the North East so I am biased but studying here offers not only a great time on campus, but it’s also only a short distance to open spaces, beaches, other cities, shops and nightlife. What’s not to like?

I am currently enrolled on the MA Visual Practice course. Studying at the University of Sunderland is fabulous, it’s the best decision I have made in a long time.”

Published 29 September 2021

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