BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Blackpool. Classes run at Blackpool and The Fylde College University Centre Campus, part-time during the day. This is an intensive fast-track programme covering software, design, and media skills for the creative industries. The course runs over 20 weeks and blends practical skill-building with conceptual exploration. You'll need a Level 2 qualification or relevant industry experience, plus GCSE grade 4 or above in both Maths and English (or a Level 2 equivalent).
Who this course is for
This intensive adult fast-track programme is your gateway to mastering the essential software, design and media skills needed to thrive in the creative industries - and to confidently progress into Higher Education or a career in the media and design industries. Whether you're returning to education, switching careers or accelerating your creative ambitions, this course offers a dynamic and immersive experience that blends practical skill-building with conceptual exploration. Moving through key software in the Adobe Creative Cloud, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere, and Lightroom to name just a few, you will explore design and media principles and develop the academic skills needed to progress to higher level study. You will learn how to design inspirational layouts, create innovative content, develop post-production photographic techniques and edit videos to a professional standard, all to help you build an exciting portfolio of creative work to demonstrate your newly acquired skills set. With like-minded adult learners, in focused, evening sessions, you will, with the support of an expert tutor, develop the confidence and abilities you need to chase your dream career in the creative industries.
Entry requirements
Applicants to this programme will have the following qualifications: A L2 qualification in a relevant discipline, or Industry experience in a relevant discipline As well as Grade 4/C in both GCSE Maths and English, or L2 equivalent, along with the following: A successful interview with a tutor; The ability to study independently; A genuine interest in the subject; Good communication skills; Hardworking approach towards the industry.
What you will learn
You'll develop core design software skills used across the creative industries.
You'll explore media production techniques and visual communication.
You'll build a portfolio of practical creative work.
You'll study conceptual approaches alongside hands-on design practice.
You'll develop the independent study skills needed for Higher Education or professional work.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Blackpool and The Fylde College University Centre Campus. The programme is immersive and practical, combining studio-style work with tutor-led instruction. Assessment is through coursework and portfolio submissions, in line with the Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Certificate framework. You'll be expected to study independently between sessions.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Blackpool and The Fylde College University Centre Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: create visual content for brands and media
Digital media producer: produce content across online and broadcast platforms
Illustrator: develop artwork for publishing, advertising, or games
Visual merchandiser: design in-store displays and retail environments
Junior art director: support creative direction in agencies or studios
Multimedia artist: work across animation, video, and digital design
What you could study next
HNC in Art and Design (Level 4): a natural next step into Higher Education, building on your BTEC National Certificate.
Foundation Degree in Graphic Design or Media (Level 5): combines academic study with vocational practice, often available at the same college.
BA (Hons) in Art and Design (Level 6): a full undergraduate degree for those aiming for senior creative roles or specialist practice.
