Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography

This course is primarily designed for students who have completed their GCSEs and are intent on pursuing a career in photography. During the first year students will take a broad approach to art and design and experiment with different media. The course will include written assignments and research through active learning, both in class and through independent learning demonstrations, group and individual tutorials. Depending on your grades on entry, you will study GCSEs English and Maths.

You will be introduced to a range of photographic approaches and techniques that will allow you to find personal areas of interest (such as portraiture, advertising, documentary or fine art photography) which you will explore and refine. The work of key historical and contemporary practitioners is introduced and discussed, and individual research in and around photography will back up your practical skills. A professional portfolio is produced, preparing you for degree level study or employment.

A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, preferably including English Language, or Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design at Merit level and a portfolio of art and design work. No previous photographic qualification is required. It is advantageous to own a DSLR camera, although we do have a limited number available for overnight loans.

This course is brilliant if you’re looking to develop your interest and skills in photography. You’ll have the freedom to be creative, access fantastic equipment to aid your studies, and you’ll be supported and guided by expert teachers. You will have opportunities to visit galleries and other collections of photography work to inspire the development of your photographic portfolio that you will showcase at the end-of-year art show.

The 18 different projects will enable you to develop a broad range of photographic skills, from studio work, fashion, location, documentary to landscape, some traditional silver-based technology and digital imaging. You will need to complete practical work such as photographic shoots and sketchbook work independently.

You’ll be required to complete 18 units of coursework over two years which are equally weighted and graded at the end of each assignment, subject to internal and external moderation processes. Summative assessment at the end of the course is verified by an external examiner.

You will need a digital SLR camera to take part in this course, there will be additional costs when printing images and producing sketchbook work.

You can progress to higher education institutions or universities. Alternatively, you can go onto full-time employment in the fashion and photography industries. This is an ideal route for university or careers in the photographic area or other related creative fields. You could progress into fields such as lens-based media or film production.

We visit appropriate galleries and photography shows and your teachers will advise and support you in building a portfolio.

You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button. You can also apply for a second, alternative programme of study such as A Levels via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Open Evenings, ring Admissions on 01743 653111 or email admissions@scg.ac.uk