Photography Level 3 Extended Diploma

Explore a number of photographic genres including portraits, landscapes, advertising and image manipulation with the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography. You will work with both silver-based equipment and digital technology. The programme includes drawing, design, creative use of information technology, and historical and contextual understanding.

You study 18 units over 2 years. Topics covered include:

- Visual Recording
- Materials, Techniques and Processes
- Ideas and Concepts
- Communication through Art and Design
- Contextual Influences in Art and Design
- Application, Exploration and Realisation
- Personal and Professional Practice
- Computers in Art and Design
- Studio Photography
- Darkroom Practice
- Experimental Imagery in Photography
- Lens-Based Image Making
- Location Photography

Learning activities include specialist workshops and practical sessions as well as talks and discussions. You will be set practical assignments to complete that reflect professional practice. Emphasis is placed on working and learning with others. You also need to be able to work independently and take responsibility for your own learning. Throughout the course you are also required to complete additional tasks, including research, on your home study days.

All units are internally assessed by specialist tutors, and assessments take place throughout the course. Grades are verified internally and externally to ensure that national standards are met.

You gain a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography. It generates up to 360 UCAS points.

By working on a variety of different projects, delivered through a combination of practical project work, specialist workshops and lectures, you gain plenty of experience. You also develop professional skills in presentation techniques.

You need to have:
- at least 4 GCSEs at grade C or above (including some subjects related to the proposed area of study) and/or a completed Level 2 art award
- examples of art and/or design work
- a satisfactory reference from a school or employer

Mature students without formal qualifications may be accepted through Accreditation of Prior Learning and/or experience, plus a portfolio of relevant art or design work.

The course leads on to higher education or directly into employment as a studio assistant.

Students who have studied photography can gain employment in a variety of work situations including working at a photography studio, wedding photography or studio assistants. Employment opportunities are also available in a range of other creative jobs, such as advertising and editorial work.

All students who apply for a place are interviewed. Full details of topics to be discussed will be included with the letter of invitation for interview.