Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma
in Photography & Digital
Imaging

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Great photography has the power to transform our thinking about almost anything. Achieving this takes talent and visual awareness, both of which are central to this course.

Style and versatility are crucial in forging a career as a photographer, so this course covers all of the key fields; documentary, fine art, editorial, advertising and fashion.

This course is industry driven, packed with live briefs that will provide you with the contemporary skills needed to prepare you for a career in an engaging and evolving industry.

  • Entry Criteria

    4 GCSEs (A*–C/9-4), including English or maths, or a Level 2 Diploma in Media or Art and Design. You'll also need a portfolio of work.

  • What will I study?

    Activity centres on practical assignments set to reflect this nationally-recognised qualification. Classroom theory plays its part but you’ll be spending a lot of time in computer suites, studios and darkrooms.

    Classroom theory plays its part but you’ll be spending a lot of time in computer suites, studios and darkrooms. You’ll study the following units in the first year:


    • Introduction to visual language in art and design
    • Introduction to research skills in art and design
    • Introduction to critical and contextual awareness in art and design
    • Introduction to materials, processes and technical skills in art and design
    • An integrated approach to 2D problem solving in art and design
    • An integrated approach to 3D problem solving in art and design
    • An integrated approach to time-based problem solving in art and design
    • Developing an art and design project
    • Opportunities for progression in art and design

    In the second year, you’ll study:


    • Characteristics and contexts in art and design
    • Preparation for progression in art and design
    • Engaging with an audience in art and design
    • Project proposal and realisation in art and design

    Trips and visits to professional photographic practices will provide inspiration and give you the opportunity to gain invaluable insight into the world of photography. You’ll also work on live projects here at college.

    You will study towards the Level 3 Diploma (90 credits) in your first year, and progress on to the Extended Diploma (180 credits) in your second year.

  • Future Prospects

    Successful students progress to study futher studies at college or university across a range of photographic and media subjects. Careers include photographic work for thearts and media industries, plus specialisms in portraits, events, fashion, documentary, editorial and post production.

    For more information visit the National Careers Service.